Kia ora Koutou

It was interesting to look back at this time last year. We had been rostering year levels off to cope with COVID during Term 1 in 2022. How times have changed and we now seem to be back in full swing, albeit with some lingering COVID issues.

We have really enjoyed having our full school on-site with lots of activities being resumed. Re-engaging with many parent on-site activities, including the BBQ welcome for all Māori and Pasifika students and Whānau, Year 13 student and parent evening, Year 9 Divisional parents evenings, Year 11 NCEA parent evening and Year 9 and 10 parent evenings. Meeting with whānau is really important as we re-establish those face to face connections and relationships.

In Term 1 we analyse our previous years examination results. Our results continue to be strong. Our students perform well above National in their NCEA results. Our scholarship results are some of the best in the country, with a number of students gaining outstanding scholarships.

Following the retirement of Phil Holstein, the Principal recruitment process was completed at the start of Term. We look forward to welcoming Scott Haines in Term 3 as our new Principal. Scott is a highly experienced educator and leader. He has served as Principal in two different New Zealand secondary schools during the last 14 years, including the past 7 years as Principal of Waimea College in Nelson.

This year has seen the completion and start to building projects. The refurbishment of our swimming pool has been completed. At a time where water safety is a continuing priority, this facility is being well-used. It has been great to see both students and staff enjoying the new pool. We have also seen the start of building our 25 classroom Science and Technology block, Pukehinau. Naylor-Love are building this substantial building. This week we have seen the concrete pours happening and through time-lapse photography we have been observing the progress. This building is due for completion mid 2024.

As I write this Summer Tournament week has just finished. This is the first time in two years that we have been able to field full teams in competitions and send them around the country. It is a pleasure, once again, to see the fulfillment that the students get from these extra-curricular activities. A huge thank-you goes to the parents and staff that make these activities happen.

As we begin the April holidays, we wish our families and communities a restful break over Easter time.

Ngā mihi nui

Andrea Griffin

Acting Principal