This week I have been in Wellington at the State Girls’ Schools Conference hosted by Wellington Girls’ College and Wellington East Girls’ High School. This is a great network to be a part of, with 25 schools represented from across the whole country. State schools, and state girls’ schools in particular, have a very niche and particular role, lifting up girls and accessing education for their futures – regardless of background. In state schools, education is open and free, removing barriers to equity and inclusion. This also results in our school communities being diverse and robust, removed from social anxieties about income, status and restrictive entry criteria.

As a result of state girls’ school education, graduates from our school go on to be engaged with the world, highly qualified, culturally knowledgeable and compassionate. They think critically, relate easily to all people and challenge what they see around them if it is unjust or inequitable. Our alumni reflects these things, with women going onto great things in all fields of endeavour.

Our current strategic review of our school vision focuses on student self-belief, empowerment through education, a challenge to live their best lives and imagining their best futures. A great opportunity for students to challenge themselves exists next week on Year 10 Camp. Students travel to new places, with new people and extend their outdoor, cooking and physical skills. Best Wishes to all trips.

We look forward to welcoming all students back after examinations on Tuesday 5 December.

Mā te mātauraka ka tū teitei te tōtara - Through Education the Totara Tree will Stand Tall 

Ngā mihi nui