Deputy Principal's corner...

By Belinda Hirst | Posted: Thursday July 4, 2024

Tēnā koutou katoa, Malo e lelei, Talofa lava, Bula vinaka

What a supportive community

As we close on Term 2, I want to thank you, firstly, for your support. We had a wonderful Matariki whānau breakfast last week that was very well supported. It was fantastic to see our community coming together to start the day. It was also extremely heart-warming to see the number of items that were donated in our 'Bring a Can' fundraiser for the Oamaru Foodbank. We were humbled by the generosity that our community has and we know that this will make a big difference to a number of whānau in our community. The donations were gratefully accepted and appreciated by the Foodbank. Thank you.

Last week the students had the opportunity to perform in their House Choirs. What a fabulous showcase this was of students working collaboratively within the Arts curriculum and sharing their talents. Congratulations Konini on your first place as the winning house, an amazing performance. We look forward to seeing everyone participate in our cross country, the next house event in Term 3.

We also had the opportunity to compete against Tahuna Intermediate in our Annual Sports Exchange. Although we lost 3-5, this was the most competitive team we have had since the inception of this event five years ago. We competed hard and fought fiercely, the team did us proud. We look forward to participating in the annual James Hargest exchange in week one of next term.

Next two weeks - spend time together during these holidays

Spending quality time with others is essential for nurturing relationships. Quality time is about being present and enjoying each other's company, making moments count with meaningful interactions and creating lasting memories. Encourage positive connections through fun activities and engaging conversations; try activities like picnics, movie nights, game nights, or cooking a meal together. Take a walk, go for a bike ride, or explore a new hobby, and share stories or memories to strengthen connections. Whatever you choose to do and however you spend your time, make memories that count.

Term 3

​As we prepare for the upcoming term, I want to announce some staff changes. Change is a natural part of life and schooling, and it provides us with new opportunities for growth and learning. Let's welcome our new​ or returning staff members with warmth and kindness, showing them the same support we have for each other.

Room 4 will have said goodbye to Miss India McLay today, and be welcoming Whaea Isabelle Raukete, one of our Assistant Principals, who is returning from maternity leave to teach on Thursday and Friday. In room 7, Miss Johnston is on leave for Term 3 so Miss Tahlia Sherwin and I will be teaching in Room 7.

I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to our leaving and current staff members who have worked tirelessly to support our school community. ​There has been a multitude of illnesses around and we have managed to keep turning up each day to keep the learning happening.

Let's embrace these changes together and make the next term a successful and rewarding experience for everyone. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to me.

Stay safe and enjoy making some memories these holidays.

Belinda Hirst, Deputy Principal