Welcome to Whakatane Teen Parents Unit, a unique and supportive educational environment nestled in the heart of Thornton within Bay of Plenty—a region known for its vibrant community spirit and natural beauty. As one of only two teen parent units operating nationwide under state school authority, our establishment is dedicated to empowering young parents through education while providing a nurturing space that respects the diverse needs of both mothers-to-be and fathers-to-be in their educational journey.
Our principal, Martyn Knapton, brings over 15 years of experience from various state schools across New Zealand to guide our students with compassionate leadership as they navigate through life's challenges while pursuing education alongside raising young ones under the best possible conditions for both themselves and their children.
The Whakatane Teen Parents Unit caters exclusively to teen parents, offering a safe haven where approximately 30 students from various year levels can come together as equals in this shared experience of motherhood or fatherhood—an aspect that fosters an inclusive atmosphere within our co-educational setting.
With the support and guidance provided by Martyn Knapton alongside dedicated staff, we ensure a holistic approach to education encompassing academic achievement while simultaneously offering personalized learning experiences tailored specifically for teen parents in Whakatane Bay of