Hero photograph
Mr Phil Holstein
 
Photo by Burnside High School

A message from the Principal

Burnside —

To Students, Staff, and Whānau

Tēnā koutou katoa

He waka eke noa - We are all in this together (again). We’ve got this!

This evening, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced that New Zealand is moving to Alert Level 4 at midnight. At this stage, we will remain at Alert Level 4 for three days, with the situation under constant review. This means that Burnside High School will be closed for all staff and students until Monday, 23 August, unless we are advised otherwise.


While the resurgence of COVID-19 in the New Zealand community is the last news anyone wanted, unfortunately, it is what was anticipated; and what our government and health system had planned for. Acting decisively, and with extreme caution, has served us well in New Zealand to date. A short and sharp shift in Alert Level settings now will stop widespread infection in the community. We all know what we must do to keep ourselves and our communities safe. We have coped with lockdown before, and we can do it again. I am confident that our school is well prepared for any changes to Alert Levels.

We will keep you informed through messages and announcements on the BHS website and Facebook page, via Schoology, and emails. Please check these regularly.

As today’s Alert Level announcement occurred after the school day ended, we ask that students continue with work they have already been given, either in books they have with them or on their Schoology pages. Students will be contacted by their Form Teacher and Class Teachers. While we are realistic about what work can be set and achieved in this short time, it is important that students continue their learning. Our school’s mantra in 2021 is: Kia kaha, kia mau, kia haere tonu: Stay strong, hold fast, keep on course.

Please look after yourselves over the next three days. Follow the government’s clear instructions, adhere to the COVID health and wellbeing protocols, look after yourselves and your family. We are a strong community. While we cannot control what has happened, we can control our response to the restrictions. Make sure you find creative, appropriate ways to connect with people and school, and help and support each other, families, friends and colleagues.

Thank you for your understanding in these unprecedented times. We will continue to provide you with updates as they unfold.

Ngā mihi nui

Phil Holstein

Principal