Kia ora Te Whānau,

You will have seen in the media the launch of the Literacy and Communication, and Maths Strategy. This strategy is part of the curriculum refresh process that is occurring in education. The aim is to ensure equity and excellence for all and to honour our obligations to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. It is an exciting time in education, as we critically review our practice.

As you will be aware, the staff at Cashmere constantly model to our tamariki that we are learners. In Term 2 we will continue to review our practice around literacy to ensure our programmes accelerate learning. What this will look like in Term 2 is us working with outside experts in Writing and also Structured Literacy. Over the coming terms we look forward to sharing more of our journey with you, especially into Structured Literacy. As always, our staff approach new learning in a measured way building their knowledge so they are equipped to make changes to their approach.

Finally, on behalf of the staff, I want to thank you all for your support over the term. It has been an unusual first term for us all. However, we have approached it utilising our value of Mahi Tahi (working together on a shared goal). A highlight for the staff was the parent teacher meetings earlier in the term and we are all hopeful that next term will enable us to connect further and feel our usual whanaungatanga throughout the school.

Wishing you a safe and relaxing Easter break.

Ngā mihi nui

Jo Staite