Here, Principal Nicola Jacobsen shares her thoughts.

Kia ora,

Thanks to the Parents and Friends of MAC who have been raising funds for the adventure playground at the College over this past year. Their uniform initiative - selling second hand uniforms to parents of new and current students - is becoming quite popular. At the end of the year we would like to be able to collect any donations of uniforms for the Parents and Friends of MAC group. There will be a collection point in the main reception for this purpose. The group is also asking for help with regard to their calendar of events for 2024. Please complete this form if you can help: https://forms.gle/dYhtrW4343nDcpUK6

It has been great to see the learning happening in classes over the past weeks - the Year 7s are busy writing their novels as part of their literacy focus, in science the Year 10s are preparing for their science exam, which will happen in class time, Year 8 students are working on their sustainable market products, and last week I had the pleasure of judging the Year 9 monologues - which the students did an excellent job of.

In terms of behaviour expectations, the focus is on manaakitanga at the moment, and getting the small things right to show respect for ourselves, others and our environment. It is great to see that the majority of students are doing this - using manners, wearing their uniform well, having their mobile phone switched off and in their bags, and coming prepared for learning. If your child does not have the correct uniform, we can help. Students need to see their Dean and either borrow some uniform or be given a uniform pass for the day.

Toitū te whenua, toitū te tangata.

The land is strong, the people are fulfilled.

Ngā mihi,

Nicola Jacobsen