FROM THE BOARD CHAIR

It was a pleasure to have the Minister of Education, Hon Jan Tinetti, visit the College recently to officially open the first stage of the College's redevelopment. The Minister was hosted by our Head Students, who did a great job as always.

The Board had a relatively short and routine meeting on Tuesday night of this week. We welcomed Zoe Laws as a new Board member elected by our students, and thanked Tane Haines for his contribution to the Board over the last year. The student elected member makes an important contribution to the work of the Board.

Thank you to those who have responded to our invitation for input to the revision of the College's Strategic Plan and on our delivery of the Health curriculum. We will carefully consider this feedback when we meet again in Term 4.

Nicola Jacobsen reported to us on projected NCEA results; roll numbers (with a projected enrollment next year of 1282 students); stand downs and suspensions; staffing; events and meetings; and property.

The Finance Committee reported on a generally satisfactory position at this point of the year, and noted that planning for next year's budget is now well under way.

As we come to the end of another busy term, I want to express the Board's thanks for the support of the College community. I was told recently by a parent that our Newsletter presents a "rosy picture" of the College where all is well. It's true that the Newsletter does indeed represent a record of so many happenings and achievements and will inevitably portray the College in a positive light.

Equally, however, we want to be clear about our Concerns and Complaints policy and assure parents and caregivers that we take seriously any issues that are brought to our attention, as does the Principal and her leadership team. We are absolutely committed to a safe and inclusive environment for all of our students, and that commitment is a clear focus at all of our meetings. As an example only, it's a matter of routine practice that drug detector dogs make unannounced visits to the College, at least twice yearly, and no evidence has been found of any drugs on the College campus.

The coming term break will be welcome and then we face a busy period before year's end, especially for our senior students who face the challenge of external exams. I look forward to seeing many of you at the Senior Prizegiving to be held on 1 November. Having recently sat through interviews for the various senior scholarships that are on offer, I know that many outstanding and deserving young people will be recognised at this ceremony.

The Board will meet again on 14 November and 5 December. Finally, I draw your attention to the forthcoming election for two members of the Board.

Best wishes,

Ian Hall

Board Chair