We have some important events coming up this term.

You will be able to access your child’s report today via Hero. Please read the information about our reporting process that has been provided for you. The Hero student management system has evolved from Linc-Ed and there are parts of the Hero programme that are now different. Please make contact with us if you do have issues accessing your child’s report. Following on from the report, there is the opportunity for you and your child to meet with our teachers to discuss learning progress, goals that have been set and to talk about any queries you may have.

On Monday 17 August, the school will be closed for instruction. We have a teacher only day during which teachers will be continuing their learning about how to effectively integrate the philosophy and practice of NPDL (New Pedagogies for Deep Learning) into their teaching programmes.

You will see the attached flyer about a parent information evening focusing on supporting young people when they experience anxiety. This will be held on Thursday, 3 September from 7-8pm. Please RSPV to the email address on the flyer. We will notify you of the venue which will be here at Heaton once we know the number of people who will be attending. After the presentations from the speakers there will be light refreshments available in the Heaton staffroom for those of you who would like to talk more about this very important topic or meet up with others.

Thank you very much to those of you who have paid the school donation for the year. Funds from the school donation are used across all areas of the school but particularly enable us to provide a wide range of opportunities for all our students.

Unfortunately Covid-19 is not going to go away in a hurry and we must all remain vigilant about maintaining good hygiene practices. Students and staff must stay at home if they are unwell. If anyone has the symptoms of Covid-19 then ask to be tested through your GP or Healthline not only for your own peace of mind, but also to help protect our New Zealand team of 6 million.

On a positive note, it is uplifting to be moving towards spring with sunny skies and longer daylight hours. In these challenging times, it is even more important than ever that we celebrate and enjoy the “little” things. We have a wonderful school with amazing students and staff. We are very lucky indeed.