Experiential learning fosters growth for both the participants and the student coaches by creating a dynamic environment where individuals actively engage in real-world challenges, encouraging personal development, collaboration, and shared insight that enhances leadership and learning outcomes alike. For the past seven years, Sport and Exercise Science students at the Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT), Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand have partnered annually with Flaxmere Primary school to co-design, consult on and deliver a four-week physical activity programme tailored to the needs of local tamariki (children). Flaxmere Primary School is a vibrant., multicultural learning environment, serving approximately 450 ākonga (students) from Years 1 to 8. Over two-thirds identify as Māori, with a further 23% of Pacific heritage including Sāmoan, Cook Island Māori, Tongan, Kiribati, and Tuvaluan backgrounds. The school also reflects broader global diversity, with children from the Philippines, Nigeria, Korea, Australia, and Europe. Whānau (family) can choose from four culturally responsive learning pathways—Rumaki (Māori immersion), Reorua (Māori bilingual), Auraki (English medium), and Vasega ole Gagana Sāmoa (Sāmoan language medium). These pathways support the school’s commitment to empowering tamariki to be their best, be well, and embrace lifelong learning.

This authentic, community-based experience is mutually enriching: Flaxmere ākonga engage with positive role models in a fun, supportive setting that nurtures physical literacy and resilience, while reinforcing their school values—Kia Toa (be your best), Kia Ora (be well), and Kia Ako (be a learner). Meanwhile, student coaches refine their coaching and leadership pedagogies, build meaningful relationships, and deepen their understanding of inclusive practice and community well-being.

The long-standing partnership between Eastern Institute of Technology Sport and Exercise Science students and Flaxmere Primary School continues to generate meaningful outcomes for all involved. Tamariki benefit through increased school attendance, enhanced physical activity participation, and greater resilience, including improved coping with disappointment, progress that aligns with the school’s core values. EIT ākonga gain hands-on experience in applying values in action, developing key communication strategies, group management skills, and culturally responsive practices through interactions with traditional games and community engagement. Teachers at Flaxmere report noticeable improvements in classroom behaviour and focus, reflecting the positive ripple effects of a socially and physically engaging environment. Meanwhile, EIT academic staff have used these insights to adapt and enrich the curriculum, embedding tikanga Māori and broadening understandings of sport and physical activity. Collectively, these results highlight the transformative potential of experiential learning as a catalyst for educational innovation, personal development, and strengthened community connection.

This enduring collaboration powerfully illustrates how experiential learning bridges theory and practice in ways that are genuinely transformative for all involved.

Keywords: Experiential learning.