Three weeks in as the Acting Principal for Amberley Kura and there is never a dull moment. We've had so many events going on in and around our kura and lots of reasons to celebrate. 

I was very fortunate to join Kowai camp for a small part of their day whilst on their camp. The kaiako in Kowai shared an article in our last newsletter with pictures and stories showing lots of engagement and enthusiasm. With some schools choosing not to go on camps; we are extremely lucky that we have the support from our whānau, board and the community. I remember only too well the adventures we had on camp in my primary years. These memories are never forgotten. 

We have had our annual Cross Country Event for the seniors and as I write, this afternoon, it is time for the Junior Cross Country. Our school Cross Country was a real chilly day. Grit, determination was shown by all our students and for our Year 4 tamariki, it is their first time entering this event. Mahi pai to all our participants and of course the parents/whānau who supported out in the cool and at times wet conditions. 

Mrs Houston and I then went to the next Cross Country Event called Kowai, organised by Broomfield School. This was north of Amberley on a farm and again, I could not be more proud of our tamariki. These results were shared on our facebook page and now the 'selected' students, whom were in the top 3 placings will be heading off to Canterbury Cross Country. We wish them all the best. 

Our four young leaders went off to Christchurch recently to attend a leadership conference that is another annual event. National Young Leaders Conference allows our young people to hear speakers who are influential, top of the pops, inspiring, have made change and on trend with who young people can relate to. I am going to be asking the leaders to share an article for the next newsletter about the speaker they enjoyed the most and of course, what they took away from the day. We thank Bea's mum, Emma for taking the students to town and supporting them. 

Finally, we have our two debating teams who have made it to the semi-finals. We have lots of people to acknowledge, but of course this competition is still in progress. Keep an eye out for our next newsletter with further updates. 

Finally, we are to say farewell to Miss Chloe Boal and her daughter Lucy at the end of this term. Chloe and her partner have a wonderful opportunity to manage and expand a farm in Central Otago. Chloe is going to also be able to spend a bit more time with her daughters and of course working on the farm too. We know this is the dream role for Chloe and her family; with the possibility of also once settled, finding a teaching role that works in with 'life on the farm'. Chloe is instrumental to our teaching team. She will be missed and her professionalism and the way she engages to support progress and achievement with her tamariki is exemplary. We are currently underway with the process of finding her replacement. 

Please make sure you check out our Matariki celebration that is well underway that YOU are ALL invited to; Whaea Mik has been sharing lots about this. Check out our other articles. We also have 'Shoot for the Moon' challenge happening that is being organised by Mrs H, Mrs Dean and Jasper supporting the Cancer Society. 

Last but not least, this Saturday - Go the Crusaders! and of course our annual Quiz Night with Mr Green as our Quizmaster. Thank you to F.A.S.T for all the support and hours and hours of time into giving back to our school. 

Kia ora e te whānau and thank you for your support, as always. 

Mrs S