Aorere College was established in 1964 to serve the community of the Mangere East and Papatoetoe West district.
The school was originally named “Papatoetoe West Post Primary School” before the foundation Principal, Mr Charlie Herbert adopted the inspirational name “Aorere” in the second year of the College.
The name Aorere is derived from the Maori “Ao” (clouds or sky) and “Rere” (to fly) representing a school which expects its students to rise up and climb to the greatest heights in every aspect of their learning and achievements.
The school’s Latin motto was also added in the early years:
‘Virtus Caelum Recludit” – “Character Opens the Way to the Heavens”
and it again implores our students to build strong character as a way of underpinning all success.
Aorere College currently has approximately 1500 students and provides a broad learning environment with a clear focus on academic achievement. The co-educational, multi-cultural context creates a rich learning environment for the student community. All students are expected to move on to University or other learning at the end of their schooling.
Students are also offered the highest quality Music and Performing Arts programmes along with opportunities to compete in over 40 different sporting codes. Cultural identity and diversity is celebrated among the many performing cultural groups in the school.
Parents are a highly valued part of our community and the school works closely with family and whanau to ensure they are fully involved in the education of their sons and daughters.
Aorere College Vision
“Working closely with our community to grow high-achieving young men and women with the character, confidence and qualifications for future success.”