Here, Principal Nicola Jacobsen shares her thoughts.

Kia ora,

Well done to the Service Committee, who last week helped to raise $1198.00 by organising a mufti day. The funds will go to the Red Cross, as part of the relief effort for those impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle. The Sustainability Committee has been busy with organising and participating in the School Strike for Climate Action. It has been great to see the student committees start their different projects throughout the school. Being involved in a committee is a great way to develop teamwork, communication, negotiation and problem-solving skills.

Next week the New Zealand Drug Dogs will be visiting the College. This is part of our proactive approach to ensuring that the College is a safe place. It also raises awareness, and provides an environment for the dogs and their handlers to train in.

Learning Conversations are coming up on Tuesday 14 March. During whānau time, students from Years 7-13 have been preparing their presentations for their parents/whānau and their whānau teacher. Each student sets goals for the year in terms of their learning and involvement, and is asked to talk about their learning - what is going well and areas that they would like to strengthen. Years 7 and 8 students are asked to comment on their skill development (literacy, numeracy, learning habits). Years 9 and 10 students are focused on their progress so far, and how they can further improve their skills for learning. Years 11-13 have a focus on NCEA and how this is going, as well as a career/future pathway focus.

Mount Aspiring College has a stand at the A&P Show and we would love you to visit us for a chat about our amazing school. I will be at the stand today (Friday) and would welcome an opportunity to speak to you and answer any questions you might have. We will also be at the show tomorrow so please stop by.

Toitū te whenua, toitū te tangata

The land is strong, the people are fulfilled.

Ngā mihi,

Nicola Jacobsen