From the Principal's Desk

It was wonderful last week for all new staff and Year 9 students to be welcomed to Cashmere High School in a moving powhiri that reflected the tikanga of te ao Māori. These occasions and traditions are important as they symbolise the beginning of a new journey.

At the start of the year it is most important that I emphasise the shared common vision of our school, that of ‘empowering communities’, and the importance of our collectively committing to this vision.

This is the core of what we believe and guide how we relate to and engage with each other. We fulfill this vision through the development of both the intellect and character of our students, ensuring our students have the knowledge, skills and dispositions to make a positive difference for our communities, both nationally and globally. This vision alongside our values reflect our past, impact on our present and challenge us for the future.

Academically we had another outstanding year in 2020. I would like to congratulate all of our students both individually and collectively for their achievements. Our Level 1 (92%) and Level 2 (93%) results were the strongest we have seen for a number of years. Our endorsement rates again were very strong with over 78% of Level 1 students achieving an Excellence or Merit Endorsement.

While academic success is only one of our measurements, achieving personal excellence in this area is important. It provides the opportunities for our students to pursue the pathways they desire when they leave Cashmere High School, and also provides the confidence for our students to develop a desire for lifelong learning.

Congratulations to all our staff and students!

You will have noticed that we have moved to an online newsletter. This we hope will keep our communities more connected with the life of the school. We also have Facebook and Instagram pages for those of you who are connected to social media.

I wish all our community the very best for the year ahead!

With every best wish

Aku mihi nui ki a koutou

Year 9 Powhiri

The fortnight ahead...

Joe Eccleton

Principal