Distinguished by its innovative layout, P.A.S.S transcends conventional education, offering a unique experience for both students and families.   

In addition to acquiring a standard secondary education, students (often referred to as 'talavou') gain a wealth of enriching cultural knowledge and experience during their time with P.A.S.S. 

The school's foundation is built upon a 'kāinga' (family) framework, fostering a unique atmosphere and a strong connection between students and staff, as affirmed by Jeanie Hansell, the Executive Administrator.  

Co-principal Parehuia Enari says that by building the schools foundations based on this unique styled family structure, students are able to feel at home. 

“Our approach to the kāinga structure is based on holistic living. We aim to provide our students with every need they have. You walk into our school and are instantly greeted with the smell of hot food. Students are welcomed by the kaimahi who look like them. 

“As staff, we take on the roles of the household figures based on a whānau model so we are often referred to as the mother or aunty, uncle, mama or papa.”   

For families who are looking to enrol their children at P.A.S.S, an initial interview takes place where the kaimahi emphasises the need for commitment between the families and the school.   

“Parents need to have full understanding that by enrolling their children with us here at P.A.S.S they are committing to the kāinga structure. We need their full permission to embrace their children as a member of the family," says Hansell. 

The partnership between Pasifika Futures (PFL) and Pacific Advance Secondary School holds great significance. PFL provides crucial funding to support students' well-being and financial hardships faced by families.  

Amidst the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, PFL is proud to have assisted in addressing urgent needs that ranged from sustenance to practical expenses like fuel and utility bills.  

“Everything has been free for about eight years for students and this is a huge relief for the families financially.  

"Through Covid, PFL were able to support us with addressing high priority needs in and amongst our families, from food to financial support in the practical living areas such as petrol and bills.” 

Despite not having direct on-site healthcare facilities, Enari emphasises that the goals for P.A.S.S are inclusive of having healthcare more accessible, not only for students but also for their families.   

"Our immediate objective is to establish pathways for accessible primary care. We aspire to address barriers such as providing reading glasses or hearing aids to students, but these efforts require professional medical guidance. 

“Some of our students who were in their final year of school had never been to see a doctor so one of our current needs and visions is to have access to primary care." 

Hansell and Enari share that there are rewards that come with their daily work.  

“Changing lives and seeing how that change plays out for both students and their families is the greatest reward and I feel all our staff would say and feel the same," shares Hansell. 

“For me, transformation in a human being and being in a position every single day to empower people is the greatest reward in this space that we are so lucky to serve in," says Enari.   

For those seeking to explore P.A.S.S as an education option, in-depth information including the enrolment process can be found on their website.