There is a lot to report this week, starting with our celebration Mass of the Assumption of Mary, an important date in the liturgical calendar for NZ. Thanks to Dr Roberson and Fr Matthew for planning and leading the mass.

Two teachers attending a three-day retreat programme in Auckland this week, exploring the pedagogy of Marist education in the tradition of St. Marcellin Champagnat. The Marist and Mercy Charisms are important foundations of our school, the pillars of each guiding how education looks at John Paul II High School, informing our LIGHT values. The retreat was attended by teachers from other Marist secondary schools around Aotearoa New Zealand, strengthening our connections and network.

A group of ten rangatahi (students) attended the second in a series of wananga at the Arahura Marae this week with Whaea Tina, alongside other secondary schools. The Kaupapa (focus for the day) was on practicing Mau Rākau, learning a new Haka, and developing their understanding of local tikanga and pūrākau (local history). The students should be very proud of the way they represented our school.

Year 12 students participated in the ‘Loves Me not’ programme all day on Wednesday this week. This programme is designed to help students understand and prevent abusive behaviour in relationships. Thanks to the teachers and members of the police who guided students through the programme.

It was great to have the Year 11 Science students out on their field trip to the Cobden Aromahana Lagoon. The Department of Conservation staff and Fish and Game officers spoke to them about the Grey River ecology, and students completed some community work as part of the trip.

Hockey and Basketball teams have also been competing against West Coast schools this week. The combined WHS, GHS, and JPII boys' and girls' hockey teams had a great outing, beating Buller. Our boys Basketball team are playing today and although it wasn’t the junior's day, the seniors are playing in a very tight final as I write.

We look forward to lots more learning and activities coming our way over the second half of this term.