Before we know it this stop, start, crazy year will be coming to an end and, all going well, we will soon be able to relax into our much deserved summer holiday.  At GEIS, we have been very fortunate to have so much to celebrate this term as planned activities and events have been able to proceed without interruption or limitations. Highlights have included our wonderful school production of Aladdin which, after several delays, amazed and enchanted audiences over three evenings and a matinee performance. A massive thank you must go to producer/director, Bronwyn Chalmers, her team of staff and the talented cast for battling through the hurdles and modelling our school value of manawaroa (resilience).

Another very successful event was our recent Aotearoa Ako Pasifika afternoon and evening.  This event included guest speakers inspiring our Maori and Pasifika students by sharing their personal career pathway journeys.  These were followed up with student workshops which included goal setting and weaving.   In the evening, our Maori and Pasifika whanau packed the auditorium eagerly awaiting performances from our Kapa Haka and Pasifika groups.  They were not to be disappointed as, despite the lack of practice time this year, our students pulled it off on stage with powerful, passionate performances.  A huge thank you must go to our dedicated tutors for the work and energy they have put into these groups.  Thanks also to our team of staff and supporters who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the success of this event.

Alongside all of this, our students have participated in multiple  'catch up' sports field days and have enjoyed success at Western Zone and Auckland level. Our athletes are always blessed with amazing support from the staff, coaches and whanau involved in our sports programmes and we thank you all. 

I would also like to acknowledge our Mini-School teams who have organised especially high quality EOTC activities for classes this term.  These have included trips to Goat Island Dive and Snorkel, Rangitoto Island, Rocket Ropes, Wero Water Park and Tree Top Adventures.  All of these excursions have been fully funded by the school using funding from the Government's  Donations Scheme.  We have been very pleased to be able to 'support local' and at no cost to our school families.  We are also pleased that we will be able to cover the  costs of our extra-curricula Mini-School 'Big Day Out' end of year trips. 

The pace will not be slowing down over the remaining few weeks of term and we look forward to seeing many of you at our end of year celebrations.

Ngā mihi nui

Maree Stavert