Tēnā koutou e te Whānau

We had a fantastic turnout of parents and grandparents at last week's Art Exhibition. This was an awesome way to finish our Term 4 focus on the visual arts. Like me, I'm sure you were impressed with the standard and variety of artworks that were on display. The children were delighted to share their learning with you all. 

As this is the last newsletter of the year, I would like to take the opportunity to thank the following people and groups who have made 2022 another successful year at Te Kura o te Tauawa Halswell School. 

Firstly, thank you to our School Board, comprised of Rob Dixon (Presiding Member), Natasha Buckby, Michelle Bishop, Tania Shuker, Sarah Robb, Claire Harris and staff representative Rachel Ono, for the fantastic job they have done governing our school. A lot of their mahi goes on behind the scenes, but I can assure you that they have our school community's best interests at the heart of any decision they make and are committed to creating the best possible learning opportunities for our children.

Our fabulous PTA has done an amazing job again this year, not only fundraising for resources but also bringing our community together. Their efforts have helped subsidise school camps for all Years 5-8 students, support families to access activities and events through the Hauora Fund, purchase sports and Kapa Haka uniforms, new scooter racks and a range of other learning resources. In terms of bringing our community together, highlights have included the Quiz Night, School Disco and the inaugural Burgers, Braids and Beers evening. 

I want to acknowledge the hard work of our staff this year. There is no doubt that 2022 has been another peculiar year with a myriad of disruptions caused by Covid-19. Our dedicated team of teachers and support staff have responded resolutely to all the challenges thrown at them. They have been flexible and have adapted to the ever-changing Covid landscape whilst managing to maintain a steadfast focus on providing high-quality programmes throughout the year 

As mentioned in the last newsletter, we have several staff members leaving us at the end of the year. I want to thank them once again for their contributions to our school. A special mention needs to go to Kim Lister for her work with Ōrongomai and our Leadership Team over the past three years. Kim is retiring from full-time teaching after a career in education spanning 37 years, where she has served in schools across the country. We wish Kim and our departing staff, all the best for the future. 

I want to thank all of our students for the positive attitude they have displayed toward their learning in 2022. We feel very lucky to be able to work with such amazing kids. It has been a real pleasure to watch them grow and develop as learners this year. 

Many of the events and activities that our children have been involved in have been supported by our parent community. This was recognised at last week's Parent Helpers' Afternoon Tea. Without this ongoing support, we simply wouldn't be able to provide the range of experiences we do for our students. 

Finally, I wish you and your whanau all the best for the festive season. I look forward to seeing you when the 2023 school year begins at 8.30 am on Wednesday, 1 February.

Meri Kirihimete! 

Stuart Cameron 

Principal