I am so proud of our children in the way that they demonstrate our school values in a range of settings.  Last week I attended the Christchurch Schools’ Music Festival where our school choir sang with around 1,000 other students from across Canterbury. Three of our students also sang in the special choir. They represented us so well! For eight decades, this has been an icon in the cultural life of Christchurch's young people. The largest annual event in the South Island dedicated to developing young musical talent, the Festival inspires the children of Canterbury to participate at the highest level in musical performance, both vocal and instrumental, fostering a lifelong passion for music.

I was fortunate to see our senior team compete at the Lincoln Zone Athletics. Their support for each other, their ability to give their best and their positive attitudes were just fantastic. It was great to see so many parents supporting them too.

This week the Year 4's have been visiting Te Taumutu - our local marae. They have been busy writing and practising their mihimihi (Māori greeting). This experience helps our children connect to local stories, our rich history and the importance of the Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

On November 24 the teachers will be attending their paid union meetings. They have not been offered a good deal by the government and this concerns me. Teachers play such an important role in supporting the next generation who will be looking after us when we are old! The school will close early on this day to allow all teachers to attend. Whaea Jacqui and I will be looking after any students who are not picked up until 2.50pm in the Wharehui.

With only 5 weeks to go, we are starting to plan the end-of-year celebration assemblies where parents can join us once again to celebrate the year. We look forward to seeing you at these.

Have a fantastic long weekend.

Matua Mike