Our Vision and Values

Sommerville is more than a place of learning. It is a community grounded in shared purpose, where every action is guided by care, commitment, and collective responsibility.

Our identity goes beyond a logo or programmes. It is reflected in how we work together. Educators, therapists, support staff, whānau, and learners bringing diverse strengths, perspectives, and experiences to create a rich and responsive learning environment.

At Sommerville, we are united by a clear focus: to enhance the learning, wellbeing, and future pathways of children and young people with additional needs.

Our specialist teachers, therapists, and support staff work in transdisciplinary teams, designing personalised approaches that recognise each learner’s strengths, identity, and aspirations. We believe in removing barriers, building capability, and creating opportunities for every learner to thrive.

Together, we are committed to supporting each learner to realise their potential. Through responsive teaching, integrated therapy, and authentic community connections, we foster meaningful participation in everyday life – at school, at home, and in the wider community.

Sommerville is a place where diversity is valued and individuality is celebrated. Our learning environments are intentionally designed to be safe, structured, and inclusive, supporting learners to develop regulation, communication, social connection, and academic growth.

We support our learners to:

• Be themselves, with a strong sense of identity and belonging
• Grow as curious, engaged, and confident learners
• Develop the skills and strategies needed to navigate the world in ways that work for them
• Experience success in ways that are meaningful and personalised

As a specialist school, we are proud to provide an environment where every learner is known, supported, and empowered to participate fully in life.

At Sommerville School, our values guide everything we do, shaping a supportive and inspiring environment for our akonga, staff, and whānau.

Kia Māia / Courageous means trying new things, being brave, and believing in ourselves. We support our akonga to be strong, to love learning, and to embrace challenges with confidence.

Kia Hono / Connected means building relationships, feeling a sense of belonging, and knowing that we matter. We create spaces where akonga, families, and staff feel valued and respected.

Through Kia Māia and Kia Hono values, we create a school where every individual is supported to thrive, learn, and shine.