Kia ora koutou and I hope this finds everyone well and happy in Alert Level 2.

This week is Te Wiki o te Reo Māori - Māori Language Week. ‘Kia kaha’ is well understood in New Zealand English with its meaning of ‘be strong’. We often talk about languages as if they are people – talking about language health, strength and revitalisation. So when we say ‘Kia kaha te reo Māori’ we’re saying - ‘Let’s make the Māori language strong' (www.tetaurawhiri.govt.nz).

I am so impressed with the way that students have re-integrated into face-to-face school life and re-connected with teachers and learning following the lockdown. Seniors have demonstrated a very positive and mature approach to their parallel exam preparation and subject selection, which is a credit to them. We would have loved to have subject selection evening with parents coming in but this has not been possible. If you wish to discuss subject selection, please do not hesitate to contact Heads of Department, Teachers in charge of subjects or the Careers Team for further guidance or information. This information for each subject can found on our Careers website. All students met with their mentors last Friday at whānau time to touch base and to introduce Year 9 students to their new mentors for 2022.

We are reminding all students that while we are still at Alert Level 2 we do need to spread out as much as practicable. While at Level 2 we are holding full-school assembly by year levels so that we can sit apart and maintain an uncrowded environment. Full school assembly expectations apply. There is a Shelly Card draw each week and this will be filmed and posted in the School-wide Google Classroom on Fridays. Face coverings are recommended but not mandatory in schools but they are required at all times on public buses. Vaccination of the country continues apace and is now open to all teenagers.

Due to the postponement of the NCEA examinations we have now confirmed new dates for several school events. Please note these new dates on your calendar and make sure your child is aware of and ready for them.

Sports Blues remains on Thursday 28 October.

Last day for all internal assessment is Friday 29 October.

Celebration remains on Tuesday 2 November. 

Cultural Blues on Tuesday 9 November. 

Seniors go on Study Leave for NCEA exams Wednesday 17 November.

Prizegiving Monday 13 December 5.30pm.

NCEA exams 22 November - 14 December.

Year 13 Graduation Ball Tuesday 14 December.

It has been a delight meeting our new Year 9 students for 2022 for the first time in the Year 8 interviews. These meetings always ensure a smooth transition to high school and we are enjoying connecting with all of our new families. We warmly welcome you all to Otago Girls’ High School.

On Monday a decision will be made regarding our 150th Jubilee Celebrations. Regardless of the outcome we will still proceed with our school celebrations on the afternoon of Friday 22nd October. Thanks to the hardworking Jubilee Committee who have worked tirelessly in stressful and ever-changing circumstances.

Good luck to all of our seniors for their parallel exams next week.

Mauri mahi, mauri ora - Do the mahi, get the treats!