As we head into the break it is a great time for students to take stock and reflect. For seniors and their parents it is important to look at what yet needs to be achieved in the year and plan around the calendar for study periods and examinations. For juniors it is important to think about next year and to put study habits and routines in place to prepare for and achieve well in the Junior exams in Weeks 5 and 6 next term. 

Year 10 students will receive camp information soon and the more hill-walking they do between now and Week 8 next term, the more they will enjoy the camp experience. Start to source key items such as a waterproof raincoat, sleeping bag and pack over the break. 

Currently I am in Japan with Ms Thomson and the Japanese students. We are visiting our sister school, Yasuda High School, in Hiroshima and it is wonderful for me to finally visit the school after several study tours of Yasuda students to our school. As always, consider hosting international students short or long term as it is a rewarding and enriching experience for all. There is considerable remuneration for this and the contact is Mrs Gilani in the first instance rsg@otagogirls.school.nz

This week is the 50th Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori - Māori Language Week, celebrating the journey of language revitalisation in Aotearoa New Zealand. Wairua Pūhou gave a wonderful performance at assembly on Tuesday, joined by staff to sing waiata. Thanks to our Māori Prefect, Jade Wilson, and her team who have been coming into staff meetings on Friday mornings to teach waiata to the staff. 

I wish all students a restful and restorative break after a fabulous term, including our recent Blues evenings, celebrating the achievements of so many students in different endeavours. Save the dates for Celebration at Knox Church on Tuesday 21st October and Prizegiving on Tuesday 2nd December - both commencing at 6pm. 

Mā te whakarongo, ka mōhio, mā te mōhio, ka mārama, mā te mārama, ka matau, mā te matau, ka ora

Through listening, comes knowledge, through knowledge, comes understanding, through understanding, comes wisdom, through wisdom, comes wellbeing.

Ngā mihi nui