Tauranga Special School

Welcome to Tauranga Special School, the leading provider of education for students with special educational needs in the Western Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. Located in the beautiful Avenues of Tauranga, our school has been serving students from the age of 5 to 21 since its establishment in 1965.

At Tauranga Special School, we understand that our students have unique characteristics and require a specialized curriculum to meet their individual needs. Our learners and dreamers, who may have intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, physical and sensory impairments, or associated health issues, are accepted, valued, and celebrated. We provide a safe and inclusive environment where they can develop their confidence, independence, and academic goals.

With our dedicated staff and superb facilities, including our own heated swimming pool, we ensure that our students receive the best possible education. Our staff regularly undergo professional development to stay up to date with current practices in special needs education, school curriculum, and key competencies. We believe in providing our students with the resources and support they need to reach their full potential.

As advocates for students and their families with special needs, we have extensive knowledge of the options available in the wider Bay of Plenty region. We are committed to providing excellent therapists, individualized programs, and an education that best meets the needs of our students.

At Tauranga Special School, we believe in the importance of parental choice. Our school provides parents with an authentic education choice within the Bay of Plenty region. Students may seamlessly transition through different levels within our school or move to their mainstream school, depending on their individual needs.

We also acknowledge the significance of the Treaty of Waitangi as the founding document of New Zealand. We embrace our Maori community through formal and informal consultation, ensuring that we are sensitive to cultural beliefs and needs. We value and respect Te Reo Maori and Tikanga Maori, incorporating these into our teaching and learning programs.

Our school community is diverse, and we celebrate and embrace cultural diversity. We work closely with families to understand their cultural needs and incorporate them into our students' daily programs and care.

At Tauranga Special School, our vision is to provide opportunities for each student to access learning at their level and develop to their full potential as learners and members of their community in New Zealand. Join us in creating a bright future for our students, where the sky is the limit.