A reminder that the Merrin School's 50th Jubilee will be held on 28/29 October.   For programme details  go to  the Merrin School website. Please spread the word in our community. We would love to see past pupils, especially those who were here when the school first opened.

Most Mums and Dads and caregivers are aware that at Merrin, we pride ourselves on our pastoral care. We like to work with whānau to create a partnership, not only in your child's learning, but in other areas of their lives.  At times, events happen at school, which to a child are 'bigger than Elvis', as Jeni Bargh would say. Sometimes we have to look at a problem through their eyes, and that can mean parents have to be their child's advocate. It's really helpful if parents have a concern, it they contact the staff member(s) firstly, as often the situation can be cleared up with a brief conversation. We have team leaders who may also be able to help. When a resolution is tricky, by all means move it 'further up the chain'.  It's probably helpful to refer to the Merrin School Complaints Procedure which is on the Merrin School website. Hard copies are also available in the school office. Remember, our door is always open and please don't feel a problem is too small: we want your child to feel safe and happy.

We love to congratulate students who step up and represent our school. One such student was Senaya who won the Riccarton Rotary Competition on Wednesday 6 July. As part of her role as the winning speaker, Senaya, her Mum and teacher (Mrs Mac)  were asked to attend the Riccarton Rotary Lunch last Monday where Senaya presented her speech.

Our middle and senior winter sports athletes, also representing Merrin,  braved the cold the same day, playing in the North West Zones Sports Tournament at Hagley.  Feedback tells me that our teams not only played well, but displayed a high level of sportsmanship - that's what we like to hear! Many thanks to Peri Marks (teacher in charge of sport) and Rozz Guillemot (sports coordinator), for organising all the many things that have to be organised for a day such as this. I owe Lee McKenzie a token of gratitude for looking after my Year 5/6 netball team that day because I was unable to venture out in the cold due to an infection. Also, a very big thank you to our parent volunteers: Jill Carey, Carolyn Yang, Craig Leary and Kevin Guillemot.  

Exciting things are happening in the Juniors: the little Pūtahi children (Year 0 - 1) are learning how to be scientists, and the Kāhui team (Year 2 - 3) are following the Olympics as part of their inquiry. The children are investigating the values displayed by the athletes.  

Click here for a direct link to the Jubilee 2016 information.

Have a great weekend!

Lesley