Principal’s Address 16th November 2018
16th Nov 2018Dear Parents/Caregivers
Kia Ora Tatou
This has been the first full week without senior students. During our assembly on Tuesday we started our process of acknowledging those students who have gained Merit or Excellence endorsements in their Y9 and Y10 courses of study. It is very pleasing to see so many students being successful and that we are able to acknowledge this for students who may otherwise miss out on such recognition.
Junior prefects
Last week I stated that I hoped to announce some junior leaders. I was pleasantly surprised to receive so many high quality applications. Unfortunately we are not able to offer leadership roles to all of the students at this time. Those that were unsuccessful have been told to continue to seek out leadership opportunities. In two years time I would anticipate that all of the candidates will be considering the head student positions that will be available. The junior leaders that were offered and have accepted the positions are:
à Briana Dent
à Kareena Dunlop
à Keely Hill
à Sophie Hunter
à Gemma Johnson
à Callum Maze
à Hamish Mills
à Lachlan Roy
à Sophie Ruffell
à Sam Waenga
Junior exams
Teachers are preparing their end of year assessments for Y9+10 classes. I encourage parents to talk to students about what the assessments are going to be and ensure that time is set aside for preparation. This is a good opportunity for our young people to experience a formal exam situation prior to reaching the senior school and potential NCEA external assessments. Please encourage your child to treat these as a serious assessment
Uniform
This week we have been checking on student uniform and it was another pleasant surprise to see that students are on the whole maintaining the standard that we expect. Thank you to the parents who support the school.
Senior study leave and call backs
This year we have had to call fewer students to return for call back and after a week a significant number have finished their assessments and have been released from school for the year. It is good to see that our students are being successful.
Year 9+10 Activities
A reminder to parents and whanau to ensure that payment for activities is received at school. Please remember that teachers have worked hard to provide these opportunities and they have budgeted for your child to be involved. If your son/daughter is no longer able to afford to go or changes their mind it is important that this is communicated to the school as quickly as possible.
Finally
On Thursday I visited the senior students who have been working at Big River Homes constructing a small unit. The construction is nearly complete and looking very smart. The course started with 13 students. Already four have moved onto apprenticeships within the building industry. Those students who are still working on site are considering continuing their training in 2019 or seeking employment. Each of the students had a plan with regard to their next steps. It was so good to see these young men with goals for their future and enjoying success this year. It was also a pleasure to shout them a morning tea too!
Ka kite ano
Mike Wright
Principal