Kia ora koutou. 2021 has now commenced with the Board of Trustees welcoming our new Board members, Kaylene and Belinda.

It is back to business as usual with the Board ratifying the proposed Strategic Plan and targets for the year and reviewing the School’s performance from last year. Sometimes it is as important to take a few minutes to look back and remind ourselves of the achievements that we have made over what was a very difficult year. Personally, I am very proud of the way in which the whole school community came together to deliver a continued learning experience to our students, and I am confident that this experience will make the School more resilient to whatever challenges this year may bring.

The Board are very hopeful that this year will be less disrupted and that the School can continue to grow and improve on our solid performance over the past years, with over 90% pass rates across all NCEA levels in 2020. With nearly 300 new students joining the School this year, it is heartening to see that Kaiapoi High School is continuing to be seen as the school of choice for our local community, and a school that our students can be proud to say that they have been a part of.

I know that this year will bring more new and exciting challenges with changes to the NCEA system, the Education Review Office (ERO), and the role and responsibilities of School Boards, but I am confident that the Board is well-positioned to provide the support that the School and Senior Leadership Team need, with a wide range of experience and a strong commitment to improving the education of our students.

Phil Kerrigan, Board Chair