Kia ora koutou

It has come to our attention that there has been some recent discussion on social media regarding the construction of the new astroturf court, our next major property project as part of the Government's School Investment Programme. One of the challenges we face as a school is the limited playing areas we have available, especially with a roll of close to 700 students. The new astroturf court is a specifically targeted project to significantly improve outdoor play opportunities over the winter months when the field is unable to be used due to it being sodden with water. This project requires the removal of four existing oak trees, however still retain seven trees along the School Road fenceline, and replacing any tree removed with another. The remaining oak trees will help to maintain the current aesthetic on the school boundary, and our established long term tree planting plan will see the planting of more appropriate native trees in other areas of the school, that align more closely with our school's cultural narrative.

As a Board, we take a great deal of time and consume a considerable amount of information to come to these decisions, and they are always based on the best overall outcomes for all students, current and future. Where there are concerns, our complaints and concerns procedure (available via the Information Central page on our website) enables us to resolve matters of concern early. We strongly encourage open communication and prefer that you come to us to talk these through rather than discussing them in the community. In this instance, should you wish to discuss any concerns around the astroturf project, we encourage you to come and chat directly to Rob Dixon, Chair of the Board and/or our Principal Stuart Cameron.

Thank you for your support,

Halswell School Board of Trustees