Kia ora students, whanau and community

One of the things that Oamaru Intermediate prides itself on is providing opportunities for our students. In the dynamic landscape of education, empowering and motivating students is crucial for their overall development. As educators and parents, our role is not just to provide knowledge but also to instil a mindset that enables young minds to make the most of opportunities when they arise.

Empowering students involves fostering a sense of confidence, resilience, and belief in their abilities. Encourage them to explore their interests and passions, recognising that every child has unique talents waiting to be discovered. At O.I.S. we create an environment that celebrates diversity and individual strengths, laying the foundation for a strong sense of self.

Opportunities often come disguised as challenges, and teaching students to recognise and embrace them is a valuable life skill. We continuously encourage a growth mindset, emphasising that failures are opportunities to learn and grow we share stories of successful individuals who faced setbacks but turned them into stepping stones toward success. By reframing setbacks as opportunities, young learners develop a positive outlook on challenges.

Motivation is the fuel that propels individuals toward their goals. Cultivating a passion for learning by making lessons engaging and relevant is what we aim to do. This shows students the real-world applications of what they are learning, igniting curiosity and a desire to explore further. It’s also imperative that we all recognise and celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, to reinforce a sense of accomplishment and motivation.

We pride ourselves on creating a supportive community within the classroom where collaboration and teamwork are celebrated. We teach students the value of working together, sharing ideas, and supporting each other's growth. A sense of community provides a safety net that encourages students to take risks and pursue opportunities without fear of judgment.

Empowering and motivating students involves more than just academic instruction. It's about instilling a mindset that views challenges as opportunities and cultivates a passion for continuous learning. By fostering empowerment, seizing opportunities, and nurturing motivation, we pave the way for a future generation that is not just academically successful but also resilient and driven to make the most of every opportunity that comes their way.

Wishing you a happy and safe weekend

Hei konā rā

Belinda Hirst

Deputy Principal, Oamaru Intermediate School