Another busy term in the Spec Department, particularly in Enviro Tech where a group of students spent all term creating outfits for Wearable Arts.

Fabric, thread, paint, glue—the only things consuming their thoughts in the lead up to the big day. Over the entirety of term two, a group of aspiring students worked relentlessly to create the most impressive costumes, that told stories, and shared special messages. They made four outfits at school and Amber O’Neill made one at home. Each and every one with invisible work and effort built into them. They absolutely adored the collaboration that came with it. Every Wednesday, and numerous lunchtimes they worked on their projects, rushing to complete them before the 14th of June—the day of the show, where all five costumes were displayed, strutting across the stage proudly. Three of the five won  awards. 

All the groups had special connections with one another and the teacher.

Along this amazing journey they all experienced inspiring memories and some really stressful ones too.  On the day it was pouring with rain and one  groups' outfits melted  and they had to get a Woman’s Weekly to cover up the damage. Another group’s lights stopped working before the show and they frantically sewed new ones in. But at the end of the day they will  always  have unique and fun memories to share with everybody. 

Written by Beth Ciurlionis and Elke Van den Heuvel

ART: We are in the last week of finishing art projects. This term we have created some art works based around Matariki, some succulent works, floral works and some self-directed projects.

FOOD: Mrs Wilmshurst is also proud of how the Year 8 students stepped up and continued to work so well together. They created amazing dishes to meet the specifications of their design brief which required them to use some of New Zealand’s most wanted foods.

ENVIRO: In Enviro Technology this term we made connection to the science enquiry by looking at wellbeing as another important aspect of human biology. The year 8 students made Porotiti. We discussed the importance of balance in life and when making a Porotiti it is all about balance. If your Porotiti is not balanced it won't work. The students decorated their Porotiti with symbols to represent their whanau as they are the ones who are most important to our well being. Maori also used the Porotiti as a healing tool.  It is said that Maori used Porotiti during the time of Matariki,  Hyperactive children were often given Porotiti to play when they were required to be still and listen to their elders. The calming sound of the instrument enabled the children to be more receptive to learning.

DESIGN TECH: In Design Technology, we have been focusing on using nature as a source of inspiration  to design outcomes.We have been thinking like  the architect Frank Lloyd Wright making building prototypes .

VIDEO PRODUCTION: Video Production empowers students in the digital age, equipping them with technical skills for filmmaking while fostering valuable life skills like confidence and communication. It's an engaging way to explore creativity, teamwork, and potential career paths. Students develop the tools to navigate the evolving digital landscape through video production.