Principal's Message.....
Our Purpose: To prepare students to be active participants who will contribute to their community.
Tēnā koutou katoa, Malo e lelei, Talofa lava, Bula vinaka
It's hard to believe that we are already a quarter of the way through the year. It seems like yesterday we were waiting in the hall in anticipation for the year to start.
A huge congratulations to all the Year 8 students who have been away on camp. I know that sleeping away from home and trying new things can be very challenging. This week we also had a group of swimmers representing the school at the Otago Swimming Sports and teams in the EPPRO 8 final. Thank you to everyone who has supported these events.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the students who have stepped up with our IDEAL values. I do believe the Intermediate age is a very special age when our students are starting to learn about themselves. A shout-out to our staff for their ongoing commitment to ensuring that Oamaru Intermediate is a place of positive and fun learning opportunities. Believe me when I say that staff go above and beyond to ensure that we have a wide range of opportunities both cultural and sporting. To our whānau/families, thank you for your understanding, support and your ongoing commitment to seeing your child be the very best that they can be.
There has been a wonderful tone in the playground and classrooms this week. Students have enjoyed starting their second round of technology with some brilliant outcomes coming together.
As we head into the holiday break it is a timely reminder to be aware of what your child is doing online. Take an interest in who they are meeting up with both online and out in the community. I am aware that a number of our students use Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and other social media platforms - a majority of these platforms have an age restriction of 13 and up. We as adults have a role to play in setting boundaries and educating our children when they're navigating the internet or a social media platform. It is up to us to protect our children and model the appropriate use of social media and digital devices. Our children look to us for guidance.
If your child does have access to a social media platform and interacts with others when gaming or going online, here are some key ideas that you might like to go over with them
Keep private information private, and don’t give out passwords - even to your best friend.
Be respectful and expect respect. Respect for yourself and other people is important in all relationships, and it's no different when you're online - how we speak, and the words we use, should always be respectful.
If it is not something you would say face to face, then don’t be a keyboard warrior online. If you were to read your digital footprint what would it say about you?
Friends - know who you're ‘friending’ and talking to. Unfortunately, not everyone online is genuine and wants the best for your child.
I wish you all a safe and happy holiday, recharge, refresh, and be ready for another team.
He waka eke noa - We are in this together
Rebecca Meek