Kia ora whānau

Well, we hopefully have come back from our non-contact term break refreshed and raring to go for the third term - one which seems jam packed with amazing opportunities for us to be involved in, and the usual term 3 activities being undertaken in our schools.

I am fortunate to be available each morning at one of our school entrances, greeting whanau and our tamariki as they come in all excited. I love the welcome hugs and fist bumps from the tamariki. I love the gentle banter with some of our parents. I especially LOVED the "welcome back flat white" brought very carefully to me by one of our road patrollers from the cafe owner next door. This morning, I also enjoyed some awesome time in the learning spaces to help me get back into the "why" we do what we do. 

Just like you, I was so thrilled to see the natural way our tauira relate to our kaiako. The reconnections being made and the stories being told of holiday experiences led to some animated experiences across a number of the curriculum areas. 

I am thrilled to be attending the NZPF conference next week in Rotorua with over 70 of our Canterbury colleagues. It promises to be a great time of learning and fun together - especially with over 600 in attendance. Please check out the article within to find out the system to receive a refund for attending a national Conference.

We also have a couple of events on 20 August - our 2nd in the Breakfast Connector series for 2021, and our Hauora and get together time at Dux Central. Already there are people signed up for these, so get in. We love to see connections being made.

Our Hanmer Spring Retreat is going to be awesome. Only 1 villa left and a few rooms yet to be allocated. With the speakers we have, and the fun programme organised by the connect team, #21Hanmer is going to be epic. Check out the article below, and make that $300 investment!

I know that there has been some wondering about the Out of Zone Enrolment Notice scheme that has been facilitated by Charles Levings for many years on behalf of a number of schools . I have been in touch with Charles, and he will get the information to me to distribute to you within the next week. Charles is facilitating this again for next year.

And lastly, welcome to our new principals in the CPPA - some changes and some new to principalship. We know that you will get a lot out of being involved. Enjoy your new positions, and remember to connect with those around you especially.

Keep smiling

Shane

(021 908033)