It was great to see so many of you at our parent teacher meetings this week. It is so important to keep in regular contact so that we can work together to achieve positive outcomes with our tamariki. If you have not yet met with your childs class teacher, please contact them and an alternative meeting time can be arranged.

The Importance of Knowing Your Child's After-School Whereabouts

Over the years and more recently we have had a few scares regarding children going missing after school finishes. Knowing where your child is after school is crucial for several reasons:

1. Safety: It ensures your child's safety. Knowing their whereabouts allows you to respond quickly in case of an emergency. Whether they're at a friend's house, a library, or a sports practice, being aware of their location helps mitigate potential risks.

2. Supervision: It enables you to supervise their activities. While independence is important for a child's growth, supervision ensures they're not engaging in risky behaviors or situations that could harm them. According to the NZ Police website:

   “Young children must never be left alone in a house or vehicle – they need constant supervision. It is illegal to leave a child under the age of 14 years without reasonable provision for their care.”

   “What is considered ‘reasonable’ takes into account the circumstances in which children are left alone and the length of time they are alone. Parents are required to assess all the circumstances and make sure that any child left alone, or in the care of another child or young person is safe and not in danger.” Child, Youth & Family

3. Communication: It facilitates open communication between parent and child. Regularly discussing where they are and what they're doing encourages dialogue about their experiences, challenges, and interests. Double check what their plans are.

4. Emergency Response: In the unfortunate event of an emergency, knowing your child's whereabouts expedites the process of locating and assisting them. Time is crucial in emergencies, and having this information readily available can make a significant difference.

We understand in busy lives there may always be that time when there is a last minute change of plans that has not been clearly communicated. Please call the school office if at anytime you think you are running late or your meeting/collection plan needs to change. We will ensure your child gets the message.

SCHOOL PHOTOS

It's that time of year again when we invite our school photographer to take individual and class photos. Please ensure your child is dressed smartly in their GHS full uniform on MONDAY 13TH MAY. No sports kits are to be worn. Please refer to our school uniform article if you need reminding of our policy.

ENJOYING OUR NEW COMMUNITY TRACK

Our new track has been enjoyed by many this week.

All children from Year 3 to 6 can bring in their scooters or bikes to use the track at morning teas/lunchtimes. They must wear a helmet. Our Year 1 and 2 children are able to scoot and bike up the side of the school.

Please remember, this awesome facility is for the whole community to use at the weekends. So feel free to grab your bikes as a family and have some fun!

CHOCOLATE, CHOCOLATE, CHOCOLATE!!

A big thank you to those of you that have been busy selling chocolates for us. We really need as many of these boxes to be sold as possible to help us move onto more playground improvements. You have until WEDNESDAY15TH MAY to complete selling and then return all unsold chocolate and money earnt to us by this date.