Dear Parents/Caregivers,

We hope that this newsletter finds you well and we thank you for your continued support of our Christian community of learning.

Students have benefitted from a range of different activities and trips throughout the last few weeks, including a Year 13 History trip to Northland. Student’s stayed at the Ti Tiriti o Waitangi Marae (Treaty of Waitangi Marae) and visited key historical sites around Russell. Not only were they impacted by the locals who presented around aspects of our foundational years as a nation, they also impacted others by the way in which they represented the school. This trip is a fantastic opportunity for KingsWay students to learn more about their own culture and history to be good stewards of what they have inherited in Aotearoa.

Pop-Up Globe

Year 12 and 13 Drama students visited the Pop-Up Globe recently. With a Year 12 class of whom over half are new to Drama, students had a real taste of live theatre (the first for some of them!) in watching Shakespeare’s 'Romeo and Juliet'. With fantastic swordplay, witty humour and a whole lot of fake blood, the experience was one that was memorable and enjoyable for all. While we are sad to see the end of the Globe, the students and staff feel privileged to have caught the action while they could. Below are some quotes:

“I was absolutely blown away by the creativity and effort put into Romeo and Juliet. Shakespeare is something I thought I would not understand at all but through their actions, they easily portrayed what their intentions were with the idea of the story and script. I would highly recommend coming along if you have the chance ever because it’s hilarious, interesting and it’s an awesome experience.”

Ethan Binnie, Year 12 Drama student

“I went into the play thinking it will be the most boring show ever, by half time i was really enjoying myself and was having a great time. The acting was brilliant, the costume and humour was amazing, and the inclusion of the audience was great.”

Jesse Baker, Year 12 Drama student

“I had been lucky enough to go to the Pop-up Globe before, but this show was completely on a different level! The quality of performance was astounding and their ability to include the audience made it an experience to remember. I already know that it will be one of my favourite parts of the year!”

Bethany Read, Year 12 Drama student

Peer Support

On the first day of school, the peer support council ran the On Purpose day event for the Year 9 & 13’s. Giving students the opportunity to bond and have fun with each other resulting in the start of new friendships. On a regular basis, the Year 9 & 13 students will meet in groups to discuss how their week has been, any struggles they are facing and reflect upon other teenage issues. The older students also play a role as mentors to assist the Year 9’s as they transition into Senior School. Peer support challenges Year 13’s on how to relate and work with their younger peers and gives everyone leadership opportunities. It has been a great start to the Peer Support programme so far.

Malawi Mission Trip

The preparations for the Malawi Mission trip started in earnest as the group participated in their first Boot Camp. This started after school on Friday 21 February until Saturday 22 February. The ice-breaker and team building activities were enjoyed and the times of prayer and worship appreciated by all the team.

We were blessed by the arrival of some staff and past students who had been on this trip previously and who took part in the Q and A session. Through this the team learned about the people and culture of Malawi and practical aspects of the trip. Spiritual preparation through the Mission 101 course gave the team time to learn about and reflect on the spiritual journey they are on.

Please continue to pray for this team over the next months as together we work towards this trip.

Athletics Day

Athletics day was a great success last Thursday. The House Council and prefects showed leadership and initiative, arriving early to help set up and encouraged students’ participation in a variety of ways. They initiated a points system that gave rewards for involvement in multiple events and students gained access to the house “VIP” area where they received free food and drink which was kindly sponsored by charlies drinks. It was a great new initiative that was well received by all.

The new Millwater venue worked well and there was a vibrant carnival type atmosphere with a range of unique costumes worn. It was wonderful to see student’s support each other and compete with such comradery, but at the same time remaining competitive. The day finished with house relays across the four age grades, which was a great addition to the programme in 2020.

The winning house was Cook with a total of 1232 points, with Youngman just beating Braddock for second, and Darby house in a respectable 4th place overall.

Opportunities for Students

Computing Challenge

Mr Roberts has identified a computing challenge that some students may be interested in.

If you think any students from our school could be up for the challenge, please email Mr Roberts directly sam.roberts@kingsway.school.nz

There is information on the link below.

http://www.beaverchallenge.org.nz/students.php

Gifted & Talented

Highly Able and Ambitious Programme 2020 for Senior Students

Auckland: Mt Eden – Friday 15 May

https://www.academyconferences.com/index.php/gifted-and-talented-students/au-nz-programme

Some students have been asked about this directly, but we have not had any registrations as yet. If any students are interested, please email daniel.bennett@kingsway.school.nz as soon as possible

UN Youth

UN Youth is an opportunity to learn about the United Nations and to play a part in mock debates that are based on real-world current issues. Any students interested in being a part of this should see Mr Bennett.

Coronavirus

In case you missed the previous communication please CLICK HERE.

Please note that school management is regularly looking at updates and is in the process of looking at possible ways to respond.

Senior School Key Dates Term 1