Welcome to the first newsletter of 2023. As many of you will know, this newsletter includes many articles already published on Facebook and our website. We publish information to our community within a day or two of important acknowledgements. As you will see from this newsletter, a lot has happened in February!

A special welcome to our new families to the college. Seeing a sizeable amount of new enrollments entering our doors is wonderful. We look forward to partnering with you to provide your student with an education that we can all be proud of.

Sometimes it is the little things that make a big difference in the lives of others. When scrolling through the 3 Day learning events forms, we came across a note from a new year seven student, Eden Hawkins. “I love Mack College”. I must say the simplicity of this note lifted my spirits and put a smile on my face and the faces of my office staff. It made our day.

In the first couple of assemblies, I have spoken about the spirit of Mackenzie College. Something very special exists here, but it is based on a moment in time. My words have encouraged our students to think about how they contribute to our spirit and how they might make a mark. Positive words of affirmation, gratitude and a helping hand are simple acts, but the positive ripple effect through a school and community is far-reaching. It lifts our mana, makes us feel good, and makes us proud of who we are and where we come from. So thank you, Eden, for your simple note. It reminded me of why I do what I do.

To help our students remember the importance of positive connections and ensure they are organised to learn, I spoke to the school about the 3 Gs.

Greetings (when entering the classroom)
Getting ready to learn (having the right gear and actively engaging in learning)
Gratitude (saying thank you during and at the end of a lesson)

If students can focus on the 3 Gs during their school day, it ensures they are putting their best foot forward to engage in learning and build on the positive culture of Mackenzie College.

NCEA achievement results in 2022 were outstanding. We continue to punch above our weight locally and nationally.

NCEA Level 1: 89%

NCEA Level 2: 93%

NCEA Level 3: 89%

100% of our students enrolled with universities for 2023 gained University Entrance

I congratulate our students for these impressive results. We continue to be incredibly proud of the academic accomplishments of our students.

Heoi anō tāku mō nāianei

Sam Nelson

Tumuaki/Principal

Mr Hignett has designed and made another head student display board. He has made it out of recycled timber from around the school. Thanks, Mr Hignett!