Final newsletter for 2023
I hate to sound cliché, but where has the year gone? The list is vast as I reflect on the achievements, progress and happenings around Kaikorai for 2023.
Our community engagement has grown stronger. We witnessed a significant turnout for the new building opening, had representation from most families at our Matariki celebrations, and the art exhibition proved to be a standout highlight.
We tried new things: A colour run, a new venue for camp, our whole kapa haka rōpu on stage at Polyfest, implementing a school-wide structured literacy approach and adopting new methods for teaching mathematics.
Our students have achieved success across various domains, including notable accomplishments in sports, the full integration of the Zones of Regulation programme, the implementation of the Seasons for Growth programme to support children dealing with grief and loss, and the positive impact of our learning intervention initiatives led by dedicated support staff. The improvement in student achievement through these interventions is evident, and the overall quality of our teaching programmes has been exceptional, as reflected in the end-of-year school achievement data.
The Kaikorai team remains dedicated to delivering daily enriching learning experiences for your children. Whether it's our support staff, teachers, Sharon and Hannah in the office, or Kim, the caretaker, the entire team is committed to achieving excellence in all aspects of their work. I am truly grateful for their hard work and commitment. I do hope they have a restful and relaxing holiday after what has been a busy year. For our staff that are moving on - Felicia, Anya, Kelsey and Becky, embarking on new ventures, we thank you for everything you have contributed and wish you well in your next steps.
I want to express my gratitude to our Board of Trustees, the dedicated group overseeing the governance of our outstanding school. Their hard work and commitment have been truly amazing, contributing significantly to the growth and success of our school in the past year. Thank you!
Our Parents' Group, who organise fundraisers and experiences for our children, thank you.
It is a privilege to lead and drive this school, and I am truly grateful for your support. I am excited about implementing our new strategic plan in 2024 and continuing to make Kaikorai Primary School an outstanding school.
The field is open! 
We have grass! As you may have heard, the gates were finally removed, and access to our field and grass area is now allowed! It's been a long time for staff and pupils, but it was worth the wait. The courts are no longer kicking spaces, opening up this area for other types of play. Children can access the sports shed at lunchtime and use any type of kit they want - stilts, hula hoops, balls, frisbees, etc. The field is suitable for rugby, football, handstands, cloud watching, and chatting, and we are really happy with what we have been provided.
New sand was delivered to the sand pit this week, and this continues to be a popular play space with children of all ages. We have some new toys and sandpit tools which we will bring out in the new year.
Year 6 Leavers' celebration 
What a beautiful evening celebrating our Year 6 2023 crew. There was singing, laughter, memories shared, and, naturally, tears. We will miss our Year 6s but know they leave us with great memories and happy times. To our families that have finished their time with us, we thank you for your contributions to making Kaikorai School a great place, and we hope you leave with happy memories of your time here.
Staffing 2024 
We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Miss Hannah Sims, who will join the Senior Syndicate in 2024. Hannah will teach in Rūma tekau mā tahi and enjoyed meeting the children and staff yesterday.
Neighbourhood watch during the break 
If, during the holidays, you notice anything unusual or come across anything untoward at Kaikorai, please send me an email. We appreciate the extra sets of eyes on the school during the break.
Start of year 2024 
The school office reopens on Monday, 29th January, 10 am-1 pm if you need to purchase a new hat school top or if you have any questions.
Teachers will not check their emails over the summer break but will contact families the week school begins.
Syndicate names 2024 🪶
Next year, our syndicate will no longer be called the junior, middle, and senior syndicate. They will be known as the pīwakawaka hapori (juniors), tui hapori (middles), and kererū hapori (seniors).
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I wish you and your whānau a safe, healthy and fun festive season, and I look forward to doing it all again in 2024.
Beth Downie
Principal