Kia ora koutou Breens parents and whānau.                 It certainly has been a term filled with brilliant learning experiences and plenty of opportunities for our students.

The rich stories of those in history who have demonstrated Bravery have inspired our children to inquiry further and lead their own learning in areas of personal interest.

We had plenty to celebrate with our students.  Some of these are profiled in this newsletter publication.

The student leadership group are proving to be a proactive and motivated group and we have a number of dedicated teachers who are working alongside them. During the term the Hauora/Wellbeing Leaders organised a Pink Shirt Mufti Day and coin trail in support of Anti Bullying. The $460 they raised was passed on to the Mental Health Foundation. The Hauora Leaders also organised the promotion of the 40hr Famine this year. We were delighted that the children raised over $2400. This will go to those in need in Suria.

It has been a busy time connecting with the community. Two of our boys delivered their innovative workshop projects - planter boxes on legs to the Maples Retirement Home. We had a very successful whānau hui with great attendance and useful discussions and feedback. The Parent Support Group organised a school garden cleanup on a Sunday morning and we had around 20 people all helping out to tidy our gardens. The PSG also organised a very successful School Dance last Friday - smiles and great dance moves all over the place! Many thanks to all of our parents who have helped us throughout the term, whether it be at the dance, the garden clean up, on the sidelines of sport or helping at our hangi. We love having you right alongside us as partners in your child’s education.

We congratulate Nathan Riki on his appointment as a Culturally Responsive Practice Lead Teacher in our Community of Learning.   Nathan will continue to be based at Breens but will also work with our schools and services in the Hereora Cluster.  We farewell Mrs Hannah Bennett this week as she heads off on maternity leave.  Next term we welcome Miss Dannielle Guthrie to the Aoraki team. Dannielle joins us from St Joseph’s School in Rangiora.  We know she will be an excellent addition to the Breens staff.

This week you will have received Mid Year progress reports. Our teachers look forward to catching up with you all early next term to celebrate your child’s progress and discuss goals and next steps for your child as we head towards the end of year.

The staff here have been working extremely hard to support each and every one of their students. They really are a dedicated team of professionals. Thank you to those of you who have sent those positive emails to teachers during the term, it does make a real difference to us all as we work tirelessly to do their very best for our children.

Best wishes to you all for the holiday break - I hope we see some winter sun and get the chance to get out and about with our families.

Ngā mihi nui

Nikki