Rutherford College Community Education celebrated over 50 years of adult education this year, marking decades of enriching lives through lifelong learning in West Auckland. Since its beginnings in the early 1970s, the College has been a trailblazer in bringing learning opportunities beyond the classroom and into the heart of the community.

The journey began in 1972 when the Principal of Rutherford College, Eric Clark, returned from visits to Canada, the USA, and Europe, inspired by international models of community use of school facilities. In his prize-giving address that year, Clark presented a visionary idea that schools should serve not only young students, but also the wider community.

By 1973, a school-wide survey led by staff and senior students revealed a strong appetite among locals for adult and continuing education. The following year, Rutherford College became one of four schools nationally to pilot the “community school” model supported by the Ministry of Education.

The initiative provided dedicated funding and staffing, including the appointment of a Director of Community Education. The first to hold that role was John Wise, who led the early programme from 1974 to 1976, setting the foundations for the centre that exists today.

By 1985, Rutherford College was offering around 175 courses, many developed in collaboration with local organisations.

Fifty years on, Rutherford College Community Education continues to be a centre of lifelong learning in Te Atatū and surrounding areas. The programme now offers more than 200 courses, welcoming over 2,200 adult learners each year.

From arts, crafts, and languages to technology, wellness, and business skills, the range reflects the diversity and creativity of the West Auckland community. The courses remain affordable and accessible, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to personal or professional growth.

Ramona Toth, Community Education Director, says the ethos of community partnership remains at the heart of the programme.

“We’re proud to continue Eric Clark’s vision by working closely with local organisations. Our goal is not only to teach new skills but to empower people, strengthen families, and support wellbeing across the community.”

Over the years, Rutherford College has developed strong partnerships that extend learning well beyond the classroom walls. One of those collaborations is with the Department of Corrections, where for the past seven years the College has delivered first aid courses to both staff and offenders across Tāmaki Makaurau.

For many participants, earning a first aid certificate is a milestone achievement.

“For some of these learners, it’s the first formal certificate they’ve ever received. It becomes a taonga, something they’re deeply proud of. We’ve even heard stories of graduates using their new skills to save lives at home,” says Ramona.

Building on that success, Rutherford has also introduced food hygiene courses for Corrections staff across the North Island, improving the quality of meals prepared within prisons and community hubs. The initiative not only supports workplace upskilling but promotes wellbeing and dignity through access to good food.

Another recent partnership involves barista training for women nearing the end of their community service. Delivered over two Saturdays, these courses provide practical skills, confidence, and pathways into employment.

“It’s not always easy to bring offenders into a school environment,” says Ramona. “But with the right planning and support, it’s possible. We treat them as learners, not labelling them in any way, and every one of the eight women from our first intake went on to find work afterwards.”

Rutherford also works with the Ranui Action Group, offering learner and restricted driver licence programmes for rangatahi in West Auckland. These initiatives remove key barriers to employment and independence for young people who might not otherwise have the means or support to achieve their driver’s licence.

The journey of Rutherford College within the ACE sector has not always been smooth, and Ramona is the first to highlight some of their issues, which are generally focused on financial viability. “Several times we have been on the brink of closure due to financial issues but there has always been that strong desire to keep the doors open, whatever it takes. I think this is at the heart of our success. We deliver a very real benefit to adult learners in our community, and we have a dedicated and professional team who are prepared to do what it takes to remain viable”. Sometimes that has meant personal sacrifice for the team, but witnessing the life-changing results they deliver makes that worthwhile.

A Golden Celebration of Lifelong Learning
To mark its 50-year milestone, Rutherford College hosted its first-ever Open Evening on 10 September.

The event featured kōrero from:

• Hannah Pia Baral, CEO of ACE Aotearoa
• Erihapeti Ngata-Aerengamate, Kaitiaki of Te Kotuku Marae and Deputy Chair of the Board of Trustees
• Gary Moore, Principal of Rutherford College

Their reflections honoured the past while looking to the future of community education.

A highlight of the evening was the Awards Ceremony, recognising the achievements of outstanding adult learners and tutors, a celebration of perseverance, growth, and mentorship. Guests also took part in free workshops and the quintessential community sausage sizzle.

Rutherford College Community Education remains a beacon of opportunity in West Auckland. Its success is built on strong partnerships, a belief in the power of learning, and a deep commitment to community.

“Lifelong learning isn’t just about gaining qualifications,” says Ramona. “It’s about building confidence, connection, and purpose. That’s what makes this work so meaningful, and why, 50 years on, we’re still as passionate about it as ever.”