Ngā mihi mahana ki a koutou katoa, warm greetings to you all.

I hope this message finds you all well, surviving the unfortunate weather, and looking forward to the rapidly oncoming Spring!

Term 3 is off to a fantastic start, with plenty of exciting events and activities already underway. It's hard to believe how quickly this year is progressing, and I can see that many students are looking ahead to make the most of the remaining months of the 2023 school year.

In the past two weeks alone, we've had two ski trips, an inspiring guest speaker (check out the 'Jake Bailey' article), school photos, and a memorable senior Geography trip. But the fun is far from over! There's an abundance of exciting activities planned for the rest of this term, including the Year 8 transition events, the School Formal, an ERO visit, the KHS Art Expo, 2024 Course Selection, the Talent Quest, Spirit Week, Swimming Sports, and the much-anticipated start of the 2024 Head Student appointments process. And that only takes us up to mid-term!

Speaking of the 2024 Head Student appointment process, I'd like to draw your attention to some important changes we've made this year. We have streamlined the process to ensure it's completed before the start of term 4. This way, our year 12 students can focus wholeheartedly on their crucial external assessments without any distractions. Additionally, we have introduced a nomination option, allowing potential applicants to be nominated for the position. More information on this significant event in the school calendar can be found in the 'Head Students - 2024' article in this newsletter.

Let's make this term truly remarkable by actively participating in these events alongside our regular weekly sports, cultural, academic, and artistic activities. Here is a relevant whakataukī to reflect upon:

"Whāia te iti kahurangi ki te tūohu koe me he maunga teitei."

Seek the treasure you value most dearly; if you bow your head, let it be to a lofty mountain.

This proverb beautifully reminds us to identify the things that matter most to us and to actively pursue them.

Wishing you all an exciting and fulfilling term ahead! Let's make the most of every moment.

Kia tino pai te rā, have a great day.

Jason Reid