Week 4, Term 3, 2023

Kia ora ki te whānau o Cobham,

We hope this newsletter finds you well. Here are the latest updates from our school community.

Writing - we are committed to up-skilling staff and students in writing. Writing is an indispensable asset for students as they progress through their academic journey. It facilitates effective communication, critical thinking, and self-expression. Strong writing skills lay the foundation for success in high school and beyond. All of our students could finesse and improve their writing.

We know that at high school, students need to articulate ideas clearly and coherently not only in English, but also in science reports and across the curriculum. As assignments, essays, and projects become more complex, strong writing skills enable students to present well-reasoned arguments, analyze complex concepts, and convey their insights persuasively. Please talk to your child about their writing, what they are working on, and how it is developing.

CAIMs Winter Tournament - we are excited to be sending over 200 students to the CAIMs Winter Tournament next Monday and Tuesday. Thanks to the parents who have offered to support the teams, we are confident that our students will represent our school well. We hope the weather will be kind to us for the outdoor events.

Ski Trips - Kei 1 & 2 had a great ski trip last Friday, with almost perfect weather and conditions. We are looking forward to the remaining Year 8 classes having their excursions in the coming weeks.

Ngā Muriwai Office/Admin Block Access - the administrative team has successfully transitioned to our new office and admin block, Ngā Muriwai. We are pleased to inform you that access to this new facility will continue to improve as paving and landscaping work progresses. To ensure a smooth experience for everyone, we kindly remind you of the following points:

• If you require assistance or have any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact the office via phone or email.

• Signposts have been placed strategically to guide you to the new office location.

• Our staff members will be available to provide assistance and guidance, ensuring you find your way to the office with ease.

Production Update: we are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Mandy, our cherished choreographer for the upcoming school production. Mandy's battle with Stage 4 cancer, diagnosed just three weeks ago, has left us all deeply affected. She had been an integral part of our school's artistic endeavors since 2009, working alongside Miss Chilvers to bring our shows to life and nurturing countless students' passion for the stage and performance.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to Mandy's family and the close-knit theatre groups in Canterbury. In the wake of this loss, we are fortunate that Mel Jarman has stepped up to take on the role of choreographer. Rehearsals and preparations for the production are proceeding, keeping Mandy's spirit alive through our performance.

Tours - we have opened our kura to whānau who want to come to or are enrolled at Wairarapa Cobham Intermediate in 2024. We have completed six tours so far, with five to go. It is great to see returning whānau and brand new whānau on these tours. Please see our website if you are interested in one of these tours or know any families who would like to complete a tour.

Thank you for your continued support of our kura. Please, if you do have any concerns, make contact with us; we are here to help.