Senior Examinations

All the school senior (mock) examinations have now been completed and I wish to thank all the staff and students for their dedication and hard work during this period. Examinations play a pivotal role in our student’s educational journey, serving as a measure of their growth, understanding, and application of knowledge. However, exams are not just a measure of academic prowess; they are also an opportunity to demonstrate resilience, time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. As our students continue their educational journey through NCEA, these skills will hopefully serve them well in various aspects of their life.

I do want to acknowledge that this year we did not facilitate our exams in our usual manner in which students would undertake 7 days of examination leave. Instead we timetabled examinations during class time. The reason for this was that I was concerned at how much class time our students had missed due to the industrial action, which, at the time, we did not know how long would last. I was also concerned that the study period would disadvantage a number of students who do not have many external examinations. However, upon reflection, I think this was not the best model and I appreciate that it may have caused some added stress for staff and students, for which I apologise. However, I thank the staff and students who, as always, ensured that the examinations ran smoothly.

Football Premier Champions

Congratulations to our Boys First XI Football- Canterbury Champions 2023!

Winter Tournament

Last week our winter sports season concluded with the annual Winter Tournament. In the next Fortnightly Kōrero I will summarise all the main results. However, I wanted to acknowledge all the staff, coaches and managers who supported our teams throughout this week. A special mention to Michael Jones, Kellie Lightfoot, Julie Macdonald for all their work organising this week. They ensured the week ran smoothly and ensured that our students were provided a fantastic experience. I also thank all the students who were part of this Tournament. Before we left we spoke about the importance of excellent sportsmanship, integrity and about doing the right thing at the right time. Our students have, as expected, been great ambassadors for our school and community.

Rising Voices

10 years after 'Rising Voices' kick-started the poetic careers of several local gems (including Cashmere Alum Claudia Jardine), Christchurch has launched its very own interschool poetry slam: Word The Frontline Ōtautahi. This year, five pilot schools participated.

Coaches supported teams of young poets to develop performance pieces - and these were shared in the final competition at The Piano.

COVE Award Winners - Tristan Dunlop and Charlie Milne

Every week I am always amazed at the depth of achievement and service within our school. Over the last two weeks this is no different. Congratulations to Tristan Dunlop and Charlie Milne, who received COVE Awards for their exceptional achievement, involvement and service in the school.

Year 8 Academic Testing

On Thursday in week 9 (14th September) we have Year 8's coming in to complete their entrance testing. As usual, to accommodate the testing, our Year 9 students will be rostered home for P1-3 on this morning and will only come to school for P4 and P5.

10 Year Reunion - Class of 2013

Register your attendance HERE

From the Archives

Last week we received a few historical treasures from 1956 that were kept by a first day pupil.  A big thank you to Feliclity Walbran who ensured we received these on behalf of her late husband. 

Who’s Who at Cashmere High School - Elise Molloy

Kia ora, I’m Elise Molloy. I am one of the counsellors here at Cashmere. I am originally from the UK and have been in NZ for 8 years. I am a registered Social Worker and have been working with young people for nearly 20 years in a variety of different forms mainly in health and wellbeing - generally around mental health/drugs and alcohol. I am passionate about holistic wellbeing. I am a Reiki practitioner and love using energy based healing whenever possible. I will often be found listening to music and have recently been learning about the benefits of sound healing.

I love the outdoors and would happily spend everyday at the beach. I have backpacked around Asia, India, Australia, New Zealand and some of Europe. Some of the things you will find me doing out of school are scuba diving, snowboarding and paddle boarding. I also recently dusted down my old roller skates from when I was a teenager to teach my daughter how to skate (thankfully we haven’t broken any bones….yet). I also love a bit of DIY and often have a restoration project on the go. I enjoy spending time in nature with my husband and 2 children who are 7 and 4. We are often found out in nature exploring New Zealand and all the awesome things on offer.

Thought of the day- The truth is you never know whose sky you're lighting up, simply by being yourself.

The Fortnight Ahead