There is a real emphasis in education to promote the sciences within the NZ curriculum to ensure we develop an interest early in a child’s learning journey. They are growing up in an increasingly technologically and scientifically advanced world, children increasingly need to be scientifically literate to succeed in the future.

This year via the CRT teachers we are using science kits from the ‘House of Science’. This organisation started in the North Island and their vision is “Every Child in NZ is Scientifically Literate”. Do check out their website. The kits are sponsored by NZ companies and industry and if this was of interest to you, then do contact me and I can link you up with the team of volunteer organisers. The kits are well researched, well resourced and well-targeted to capture inquiring minds.

The feedback from the teachers and children involved has been quite amazing as the children are really engaged in the practical side of science, using scientific language and getting a real buzz from the scientific inquiry with hands-on equipment. I am sure many of you have heard about the hydrophobic sand, if not do ask your children!!

It is exciting to announce the School Council for 2021and we look forward to all they bring to the year ahead.

From year 6: Jack Borcoski, Isabelle Gill, Hannah Howis, Isaac Marchant, Nelly Shailer, Catherine Shao, James Stockdale, Charlotte Withers

From year 5: Olivia Collins, Charlie Gill, Alfie Matheson, Rosa Redfern, Connor Riley, Bella Theile. Congratulations to you all and thank you for the mufti day today.

Just a reminder for the PTA working bee on Sunday 11 April from 10 to 12 o'clock. We really appreciate the community support to help us keep our lovely grounds neat and tidy and Autumn is clearly evident with massive amounts of leaves falling daily.

Tomorrow is a ‘Teacher Only Day’ and we are engaging in professional development with staff. We are working with Tony Burkin from Interlead on psychological capital as part of the Hauora focus this year. School is closed for instruction for all children.

Have a wonderful long weekend and enjoy your Easter treats. We look forward to seeing everyone back on Wednesday 7 April.

Ngā mihi nui

Raewyn