As we head into the new term, there are a few changes for you to know about:  

Daily Timetable

This year, the structure of the day will be a little different; the changes have been made to ensure we have quality literacy and maths teaching time and ultimately optimise teaching and learning time.

Research also shows that shorter breaks at regular intervals can boost prosocial behaviour by improving focus, reducing restlessness, and providing more opportunities for varied social interaction and "reset" moments. This can lead to a more positive classroom environment and reduced negative behaviour, ultimately enhancing student outcomes.

With this in mind, the day will be structured as follows: 

• 9.00 – 9.10 Morning paepae (roll, welcome and news)           

• 9.15 – 11.15 Teaching time   

• 11.15 – 11.45    Morning Tea

• 11.45 – 12.45   Teaching time

• 12.45 – 1.15     Afternoon Play

• 1.15 – 1.30       Lunch eating

• 1.30 – 3.00      Teaching Time

Specialist Teaching

We are fortunate to have a team of specialist teachers, funded by the Board, who offer our tamariki a range of exciting learning opportunities.

This term, our STEM teacher, Morgan McKeen and Music teacher, Eugenie Middleton, have both been awarded study leave. However, we have secured fantastic specialist teachers to continue the program. 2025 Specialist lessons will be as follows:

TERM 1

• PE (Swimming) - Louise Lavulo

• STEM - Ben Offner

• Visual Art - Genevieve Thomas and Grant Arendse

TERM 2

• PE - Louise Lavulo

• Music - Eugenie Middleton  

• Visual Art - Genevieve Thomas and Grant Arendse

TERM 3 AND 4

• PE - Louise Lavulo

• Music - Eugenie Middleton  

• STEM - Morgan McKeen

Library

As our roll continues to grow, we are forced to use the library as a classroom space (see property update for more information). However, Tracye Erikson, Librarian, has created a 'mobile' library to visit classes and enable children to borrow books.

I would also like to remind you that we have a fantastic library in Takapuna; a fun family activity!   

Uniform

The start of the year is a timely reminder to check uniform requirements. Please refer to the school website if you are unsure. Teachers will be vigilant to ensure the uniform is correct.

A reminder that:

• Shoes must be black or navy in colour and have no coloured parts.

• Milford sun hats are compulsory for Terms 1

• No jewellery. For those with pierced ears, studs only are acceptable.

• Socks and/or tights must be plain black or navy colour.

Property Update

In the November newsletter, we provided a property update highlighting how rapid roll growth has led to a shortage of classrooms, forcing us to use shared spaces, such as the library, and close our enrolment zone. Despite exploring options with the Ministry of Education, funding constraints prevent new classrooms from being built onsite. We have been relentlessly pursuing options and alternatives; two solutions are in progress.

Firstly, over the break, the Resource Room was converted into a teaching space, and we anticipate this will be ready by mid-February. At this stage, the space will be used for STEM and, later in the year, a new entrant class.

Secondly, the two-story junior block was accepted into the MOE Weather-tightness Program last year. Initially, we were advised that the rebuild would take four to five years. However, after much pushing, we have been notified that the project will commence in July 2025. Part of the remediation work will involve redesigning the downstairs to include two additional classrooms. This is a big win for the school!

Rooms 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and the Hive will be relocated into modular classrooms along the Shakespeare Road boundary of the school field so that the project can commence. We are awaiting a timeline from MOE and can expect the classrooms to be relocated in Term 2. The project is anticipated to take 12 months.

We understand that construction can be disruptive, and we are committed to minimising any impact on our students' learning. We will send you newsletter updates on the progress of the project.

We appreciate your understanding and support as we work to create an even better learning environment for our students.

Refreshed Curriculum

You may have seen in the media recently about the refreshed curriculum rollout. At Milford, we embrace these changes as opportunities for growth for our teachers and students. In the next few newsletters, we will outline how we are implementing the refreshed curriculum, what you can expect to see in terms of teaching, assessment, and reporting, and how you can support your child's learning journey.

As we begin this new year, we’re excited about the fantastic learning experiences ahead for our tamariki. Together, we will create a supportive environment where every child can thrive. We look forward to celebrating their growth and achievements throughout the year. Thank you for being part of our school community—let’s make it a fantastic year!

Noho ora mai

Lucy Naylor
Tumuaki