Work with Steph
CREATIVE IN SCHOOLS
Empowering students through creativity, culture & connection
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Ki Uta Ki Tai – From the Mountains to the Sea
A curriculum designed to reconnect young people to themselves, their communities, and the living world around them.
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What is Creative in Schools?
Creative in Schools is a program developed by Steph Mac that uses art, storytelling, and embodiment practices to empower students and help them express their identity, culture, and vision for the future.
At the heart of the program is Ki Uta Ki Tai (From the Mountains to the Sea), a unique creative curriculum with an interactive student workbook that guides each participant on a personal and collective journey of discovery.
The Journey: Ki Uta Ki Tai
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Cultural Grounding: Students explore their heritage, values, and connection to the land.
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Creative Expression: Through guided art, writing, and movement, they express their unique voice and story.
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Creative Education: Through gaining perspective, expressing what is within and using imagination, children are able to become free thinkers.
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Community Connection: Activities are designed to build empathy, collaboration, and leadership skills.
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Future Visioning: Students imagine and map the impact they want to have in the world, learning how to turn vision into action.
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Their place in the world: Students find a unique place of belonging when they understand the greater connection: the water within them and the water around them, the inner mountain and inner ocean, and how they relate to the environment outside of them.
What Students Receive:
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A beautiful interactive workbook to record their journey (reflective exercises, prompts, and creative space)
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Guided sessions (in-person or online) led by Steph Mac, an experienced artist and mentor
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A personalized mural for the school or education centre (optional)
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Tools for self-awareness, resilience, and confident self-expression
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Connection to local culture, whenua (land), and community
Why it Matters:
Creative in Schools helps students:
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Build confidence in who they are and where they come from
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Learn to express their feelings and ideas through art and storytelling
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Strengthen resilience and emotional wellbeing
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Connect to the values of whakapapa (lineage) and kaitiakitanga (guardianship)
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Understand their potential to create positive change in their lives and communities
Delivery Options
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In-Person Workshops: Steph Mac visits schools to facilitate the program over 1–5 days, or 1-4 months.
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Online Program: Schools receive the curriculum and student workbooks with virtual facilitation and guidance.
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Tailored for early childhood, intermediate and secondary school students, with flexible delivery options.
About the Facilitator, Steph Mac
Steph Mac is an experienced artist, curriculum creator, and mentor who has held multiple workshops for adult and children, who weaves creativity, cultural awareness, and emotional intelligence into all her programs. Her passion is helping young people remember who they are and discover the power of their voice.
How to Bring Creativity to your School:
Email: steph@stephmac.org
“When students are connected to their identity, they rise with confidence. Creativity is the bridge that takes them there.” – Steph Mac