StandTall

Material poverty means going without adequate food and material goods. However, the really long-lasting damage is caused by poverty of aspirations and achievement. So as well as taking care of kids basic physical needs, KidsCan StandTall aims to equip children with the skills, inspiration and opportunities to become successful at whatever they do. The result is our StandTall programme. It is a capability enhancement programme for New Zealand children in low decile schools who show great potential but have perceived limited choices. By reaching out to children when they have the greatest potential to learn, we can help them break free of the cycle of low expectations and open their eyes to a world of opportunity.

StandTall takes Year 7 and 8 children from KidsCan StandTall partner schools on inspirational and challenging excursions, underpinned by goal setting, basic skills and core values. The programme is delivered over a 24-month period and the participants must earn their right to be in the programme by following the StandTall Code of Conduct.

StandTall is designed to help children learn about themselves, start setting goals and experience the world beyond their street. Over a two-year period they are mentored by well-known, successful New Zealanders and start learning how to make the most of the opportunities New Zealand offers. Beyond this initial period, there are scholarships and the StandTall Club to gain momentum. In the long term, the aim is for past participants to get involved with the next generation of learners as role models and a lifelong support network.

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