Kia ora koutou,

As the Acting Principal, I take great pride in watching Mana College students and staff flourish. Even more so, I take pride in seeing groups of our people connect and flourish together. Week 4 has seen many examples of that and I’d like to acknowledge a couple of specific groups.

The Pasifika Talanoa on Thursday evening was the coming together of a community. Led with such heart and passion by Mr. Filisione Koloamatangi, the night was an opportunity to gather a collective voice of the Pacific community in a safe and comfortable environment. The student leaders contributed beautifully to the evening as did other members of our staff. A big thank you to all those that attended and contributed in your own way.

On Wednesday, I was privileged to be a part of the first Beard Trophy defense for 2022. The afternoon began with a very special moment where Mātua Nathan Rei presented a patu to the 1st XV captain Randall Paenga. The patu, carved by Hohaia Ogilvy and Pedro Busby under the guidance of Mātua Nathan represents strength and mana and will be a taonga that will remain with the Mana College 1st XV for many years to come. The Inspiration of the moment certainly played out that evening when the team, with eleven Beard Trophy debutants, outplayed Tawa College to secure a convincing victory. We look forward to the next defense in a few weeks' time.

Next week is a busy week that includes Samoan Language week, Parent/Teacher interviews, and a Teacher Only Day. The Teacher Only Day on Friday is an opportunity for staff to engage in further restorative training which is a big part of who we are as a school. With Queen's Birthday on Monday 6 June, students will have a well-earned mini-break in the middle of the term.

Ngā mihi,

Greg Sharland

Acting Principal