Daniel Wilson reflects on another successful year.

As another senior academic year draws to a close we can reflect once again on what has been a truly outstanding year at Nayland College. The school has a very strong vision, led by an exceptional Board with an influential leader in Pat Davidsen.

As a school we are continually seeking to improve in everything we do. Despite many challenges throughout 2018, including building disruptions, natural disasters and a very large junior school, our key indicators of student learning continue to rise; students are more punctual, attendance is steadily improving, student engagement across the board is obvious and our achievement rates continue to track in the right direction.

In the extra-curricular space our sports teams are rejuvenating, with stunning National and South Island tournament results and several local championships recorded. Our performing and cultural arts programmes also continue to grow in strength, from our growing kapahaka programme through to our platinum award winning choirs.  And who can forget our students taking the opportunity to perform for Jacinda Ardern and baby Neve at Wellington Airport, the second time Nayland College achievements made National headlines in 2018.

Our school was once again recognised as a Microsoft Showcase School for 2018-19, opening up further opportunities for our students to engage with cutting edge digital learning tools and strategies. Over the course of 2018 we also progressed to tier 2 of the Positive Behaviour for Learning initiative.  This is recognition of the significant responsibility our staff take to ensure that our relational approach to school development sets clear learning and behaviour expectations and is effective in promoting what I believe is an ever increasing self-belief and pride across our student community.

There has been significant construction work completed throughout 2018 and the delayed upgrade of 12 classrooms, the Kuaka Café opening and final touches on our new turf will finally be completed in time for an onslaught of new junior students in 2019.

There is still plenty more we are wanting to achieve as a school and to do this we need the support of our alumni network.  If you feel you are in a position to contribute in any way, should it be student study support, business mentoring partnerships or sponsorship please fee free to contact me at any time: daniel.wilson@nayland.school.nz