Kia ora e te whānau, 

It is hard to believe we are already half way through the school year! As we reach the end of Term 2, it is a good opportunity to acknowledge our fabulous team at school. I am so thankful for the hugely dedicated, hard working and caring kaimahi (staff) we have, and the support they give to our tamariki and to each other. We are really lucky to have our amazing support team of Brian, Rachel, Gail, Kirsty, and John who help to keep everything running so safely and smoothly. Our tamariki are also hugely fortunate to have such fabulous learning teams around them: Our fantastic Koru team of Navy, Gerri, Amaria, Kate, Lauren, Sophia, Amelia, Brooke, Hannah, Lily, Aleesha, Angela and Wee Ai, and our amazing Pōhutukawa team of Nic, Brydon, Emma, Sarah, Rachel, Charlotte, Gar Kee, Rupert and Jenny. Together, this whole team continually works super hard and goes above and beyond to make sure our ākonga are at the centre of everything that happens at school and all decisions that are made. 

I also wanted to take this opportunity to thank our community for your continued support and engagement. A perfect example of this is our Grandparents and whānau sharing time earlier this week, where so many whānau members came and spent time seeing how learning happens at Amesbury and celebrating some of the fabulous things that have been happening this term. We have had so many parents and whānau members helping with trips, sporting events, coaching and Garden to Table sessions, and we really appreciate the support you give our ākonga (students) and kaiako (teachers). 

Have a fabulous holiday break. I will be staying in Wellington for the break, and I'm looking forward to a slower pace and to catching up with friends around the city. Enjoy time with your whānau and we look forward to seeing back in two weeks for another term of exciting learning. 

Ngā mihi nui,

Urs Cunningham