It’s A-OK at the PAC

Amazing activity and aroha – life in the PAC.

Travelling along Masters Avenue in Hillcrest, Kirikiriroa, you can’t help but notice Hillcrest High School on your left. Out the front, a rather nondescript 1980’s prefab sits to the left of the Administration block.

Should you stop in front of the building and take a closer look, you’ll see a mural on the outside wall with two tui, their beaks touching, and the word “Aroha”.

This is the Physical Assistance Centre, or PAC, as it is affectionately known and this is where aroha happens.

The staff, led by Julie-Anne Richardson, provide support and help to members of the disabled community at Hillcrest High School. Their mantra is “see the person first”- rather than the condition that they have.

 “We aim to be a very safe and inclusive space which has a strong sense of belonging,” Julie-Anne said. She also said, “I feel like every day, I have the opportunity to make someone’s life better”

Her comment was reinforced by two current students, Ryan Inglis and Elly Studer who said that the PAC definitely gives them a sense of belonging. Ryan said, “I enjoy the social side of the PAC the most.”

In common with all of the students, Ryan’s timetable has been tailored to incorporate life skills, his interests and goals for life after school. An example is the Production in Film course he is currently taking through SIT ( Southern Institute Of Technology) which he is able to complete at the PAC.

Mealtimes in the PAC help build the culture of manaakitanga. The students and staff gather around  the lunch tables. Lunchtimes are loud! From the ping of the microwave to friendly banter and shouts, the hubbub of noise reflects the spirit of this little community. It is in this space that the PAC community gather to eat, to celebrate birthdays, to farewell staff and students who are moving on, or to express grief: it is a reality that some students have life limiting conditions and it is important to celebrate and acknowledge their lives and contribution to the PAC whanau.

The PAC conveys aroha and a sense of belonging to all of the students who are lucky enough to be or have been through its doors. Next time you drive up Masters Ave, I hope you take a second look at this nondescript building,  where aroha and manaakitanga reside.