Papakura
Central School
Illustrated Values
When Papakura Central School approached us, they had a clear set of written school values but wanted a visual way to bring them to life for students, staff, and the wider school community. The goal was to create something engaging, memorable, and easy to recognise across a range of school materials and environments.
Working closely with the key themes and ideas behind each value, we developed a series of four illustrated emblems that transformed the written concepts into distinctive visual icons. Each emblem was carefully designed to incorporate meaningful elements that reflected the spirit of the value while remaining cohesive as part of a wider set.
The result was a collection of school value icons that provided a stronger visual connection to the school's culture, helping communicate important messages in a way that was both accessible and engaging for learners of all ages.
Manaakitanga is about building meaningful relationships through care, kindness, and respect. It encourages us to strengthen connections with our whānau and community while taking pride in who we are and where we come from.
To visually represent this value, green reflects patience, compassion, and encouragement. Qualities that help foster strong relationships and a sense of belonging. The marae symbolises tūrangawaewae, a place of identity and connection, while the kererū represents guardianship and respect for the diverse beliefs, cultures, and perspectives within our community.
Aroha brings joy to learning, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and courage both inside and outside the classroom. It celebrates individual strengths, passions, and the confidence to grow.
To visually represent this value, pink was chosen to reflect the nurturing and compassionate environment that allows learners to thrive. The heart symbolises care and connection, while the koru represents personal growth, new beginnings, and the ongoing journey of learning.
Ngākau Pono is about being honest, trustworthy, and dependable. It encourages us to act with integrity, take responsibility for our actions, and face challenges with determination, resilience, and perseverance.
To visually represent this value, blue was chosen to symbolise stability, trust, and reliability. The tūī represents confidence and self-reflection, acknowledging the personal growth that comes from overcoming challenges. The Hei Matau (fish hook) reinforces themes of strength, resilience, and prosperity, reflecting the perseverance at the heart of Ngākau Pono.
Atawhai is about showing kindness and compassion through our actions. It encourages us to support and uplift others, be considerate of their thoughts and feelings, and believe in our ability to do our best in every situation.
To visually represent this value, purple was chosen to reflect encouragement, trust, and the confidence to overcome challenges. The frangipani symbolises devotion, affection, and resilience, representing the ability to flourish and reach our potential even in difficult circumstances.
Ready to GET THINGS FLOWING?
Contact us
No obligation, no complicated process…Just a simple chat to understand how we can bring your creative project to life. Whether you’ve got a clear idea or you’re still in early stages, get in contact with The Current Flow team and let’s get things flowing.