He Mahi Tahi: Acorn to Oaks
An Impact Initiative by Kaitiaki Kindergartens & Acorn Neurodiversity

In Aotearoa, we recognise that the early years shape the future. Yet for too many tamariki, the transition from early learning into school is marked not by possibility, but by exclusion—barriers created not by who they are, but by the systems around them.

At Kaitiaki Kindergartens, we believe every child deserves to step into school with confidence, dignity, and a sense of belonging. That’s why we’ve partnered with Acorn Neurodiversity to launch He Mahi Tahi: Acorn to Oaks—a cross-sector initiative designed to strengthen transitions for tamariki to move successfully into school.

Though still in its early stages, this initiative represents a bold commitment to building a more inclusive and coordinated education system—one where collaboration is not the exception, but the norm.

Rooted in Shared Values

At the heart of Acorn to Oaks is a belief that inclusion is not a service for some—it’s a mindset for all. It requires a whole-system approach: kaiako, school leaders, whānau, and specialist services working together with shared purpose. This kaupapa affirms that when we centre the rights, identities, and aspirations of tamariki and their whānau, transitions become more than just smooth—they become transformational.

This initiative directly responds to the call for action outlined in ERO’s recent publication, A Great Start, including the need to:

• Strengthen kaiako capability through reflective, collaborative practice
• Improve coordination between early learning services, schools, and agencies
• Empower whānau with knowledge of their rights and pathways
• Embed proactive, cross-agency support that is timely, effective, and sustainable

Planting the Seeds for Change

Acorn to Oaks is not just a project—it is a learning system in action. Together, we are identifying where transitions currently succeed and where systemic gaps exist. This insight is driving targeted, locally-informed solutions that uphold the mana of every child. Already, we are seeing the difference that intentional collaboration can make:

• Schools are receiving clearer, earlier information to support incoming learners
• Whānau are more connected and empowered in decision-making
• Kaiako are building confidence through shared tools and professional learning
• Tamariki are entering school with their identities affirmed and needs understood

A Vision for the Future

This work is still unfolding, but the vision is bold and clear: when we collaborate early and centre the voices of tamariki and whānau, we don’t just ease transitions—we reshape them. We move from reactive fixes to proactive, purpose-driven practice.

This is inclusion in motion.
This is what equity looks like when we plant the seeds together—Acorns to Oaks, one partnership at a time.