As I write this article, there are some very excited Year 7 and Year 8 Students boarding the buses, heading to their respective camps. I am sure many of you reading this article will have fond memories of Camp Iona for Year 7 Students. They have such a great time which is largely due to the time and effort put in by the staff and parents at camp. We are immensely grateful for the support of parents as we cannot run the camp without it. 

Year 8 Students head to Oamaru for a more urban based camp, which includes Gunns Bush. However, they have had a fantastic time over the past few years since the camp started. 

Next week our Year 9 Students head away to Glenorchy, so fingers crossed for great weather there too.

Last week, the highlight for our school was Athletics Day. There was such a positive vibe with most saying it was a great day. Watching Ashley Te Huia smash the Senior High Jump record was certainly my pick for the day. Again, a big thank you to all those parents who turned up to help, we just cannot do it without you.

I have made two responsibility appointments so far this year. Sian Downes has been appointed as Coordinator of the School Council and Chris Walker is taking on the Community Garden Project. Both will be very busy working with the Community to ensure successful outcomes. I am sure you will hear more from both of these staff members as the year progresses so be supportive as the need arises.

Sadly we have had to postpone our Swimming Sports due to the lack of parent help. We totally understand that people are busy, however, if you can help on the 27th March, I am sure Roz will be very keen to hear from you.

Our building programme continues to be frustrating, despite the fact that we will get a much improved C Block in the end. However, after almost eighteen months we are finally beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Today the carpet is being laid, which is a good sign we are close to completion. Art and Music have been particularly affected as they have had to share a room for the whole period C Block has been out. They will be thrilled to get their spaces back.

Our refreshed mobile phone policy has made a significant difference to date this year. Although parents have had to come and pick the phones up if confiscated by staff, there have been very few so far. We are transitioning to implementing the full Ministry of Education policy in Term Two. More to follow later in the term.

It is with sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Maureen Rawson. Maureen and John worked for EOHS for many years and made a significant impact, not only to our school but the community. A number of staff attended Maureen’s funeral in Oamaru last week. Our thoughts and hearts go out to John who was our Property Manager for 27 years.

Finally, I have thoroughly enjoyed the first few weeks as Acting Principal and have appreciated some of the positive comments and support that has come from the community. The Board of Trustees are still in the process of appointing a new Principal, with applications closing on February the 26th. From there they can begin the appointment process.