Back to school: supporting our local ākonga (learners) together
Published on 21 January 2025
As the summer holidays wind down, we transition from long days by the river, exploring our neighbourhood or visiting new places, to busy schedules and back-to-school routine.
It’s a real change of pace for lots of families and whānau.
Parents, caregivers, and teachers prep for a fresh term. New entrants wonder about their first day at school and kura. Kids make the big move from primary to intermediate education, while college students look ahead at future opportunities.
We know the start of the school year brings both excitement and challenges to our community.
Make the library part of your back-to-school planning! We have compiled a handy list of free library resources, services, and programmes with a focus on supporting you, tamariki (kids), and rangatahi (teens).
Lunch box ideas, book recommendations, and even direct support for when you have concerns about your young person’s learning and wellbeing: it’s all here at Upper Hutt Libraries.
'Back to School' titles on Pinterest
Easy weeknight dinners, healthy lunches, books for reading together, and much more. Browse our curated Pinterest board with titles available for you to borrow from our collections.
Any Questions | from Friday, 7 February 2025
Online homework help, just a click away! Any Questions is a free chat service staffed by librarians from across New Zealand (including the Upper Hutt Libraries team). Let us help guide your ākonga (learners) to trusted information and resources, turning homework time into learning success.
UHub | from Monday, 10 February 2025
Concerned about your child’s wellbeing? Need learning support or advice? UHub brings together resources, services, and a wonderful team of qualified local professionals who can share information and guidance to help you and your family thrive.
STEM Explorers | starts on Tuesday, 18 February 2025
Our monthly after-school session to spark curiosity and a love of learning. Come along for cardboard construction, fun play with tech, and an opportunity to meet others who are keen to dive into the world of STEM.
Fiero Code
Coding is for everyone! Fiero Code’s fun tutorials and challenges are the perfect intro to coding, and your library membership gives you free access to their kete (basket) of learning resources.
givME (part of Generosity New Zealand)
Looking for funding to support tertiary study or a special learning opportunity? Search givME for scholarships and grants that bring your young person’s dreams closer to reach.
Teens Resources
Our dedicated page for rangatahi is packed with book recommendations and useful links to let them grow into themselves on their own terms.
Looking ahead: sign up for our U-PLAY newsletter
Time flies when you’re busy, and the next school holidays will arrive soon enough! Get our quarterly U-PLAY newsletter delivered straight to your inbox and join us for lots of family fun across Upper Hutt.