We are grateful that the weather has been more favourable for our AJHS AIMS teams during ‘tournament week’ in Tauranga.

Unfortunately, a change we have also noticed is increased defiant student behaviour, both during learning periods and out of the classroom. We have many students arriving at school wearing incorrect uniforms, wearing makeup, and bringing attitudes that don't align with our expectations. During our school day we are experiencing unexpected situations in our school space, resulting from extreme activity on social media platforms, and students in friendship or social disputes. It is impacting on teaching and learning, and the wellbeing of our teachers, school leaders, as well as the rest of our students.

These are all behaviours that can typically come from the emerging adolescent, but they are currently more widespread and evident than before the pandemic. We deeply need your support, and ask you to please work with your children to manage their learning at home, respectfully prepare for school days, ensure they are in the correct school uniform, and remind them to use their manners when interacting with staff, demonstrating commitment to our school rules. We want our students to enjoy school, be happy at school, and have successful learning outcomes.

We need to stand together to ground our tamariki and find our ‘true north’ following such a complex time. Our philosophy is to work together, lead with a unified approach, and teach with our heart to ensure we have a culture of care, inclusivity, and the values of our school and wider community.

Thank you for your consideration and guidance of your children. Please enjoy your weekend and your well deserved break.

Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini.

Success is not the work of one but the work of many.

Take care te whanau.

Cushla Shepherd (Principal/Tumuaki), Albany Junior High School

Kumon provides supplementary, after-school learning programmes for children