Kia ora koutou

Well done to all students for making it through a very disrupted term. It is evidence of our good work ethic and sound systems that students could move fairly seamlessly between school and home and school again and still keep up with their learning and exam preparation.

This week is the last week before Ms Miller returns for her last term as Principal at our school. We welcome her back for an exciting term with her last Celebration service, some further 150th Celebrations, her final Prizegiving and the Year 13 Graduation Ball. Seniors will officially farewell Ms Miller on 17 November. We will also read the Senior Prize list that day. Due to the delayed NCEA exams, seniors will not have a rehearsal for Prizegiving on 13 December and will receive instructions for seating and other matters by email. The Junior Prize List will be read on Thursday 9 December andJunior prize-winners will be expected at a Prizegiving rehearsal at the Regent Theatre at 1pm on 13 December. Prizegiving commences at 5.30pm that evening.

At present I am at Geography Camp in Queenstown with the Year 13 students. It is wonderful for the students to be here after so many cancellations in 2020. In true OGHS style these students have embraced learning outside the classroom and shown exemplary behaviour when engaging with people here. Being on camp is a reminder of the importance of our Outdoor Education programmes. Outdoor experiences build resilience, social skills and problem-solving. There are amazing opportunities for exploration within our own island at present and immersing ourselves in these environments is therapeutic and broadens our horizons. As Year 10 camp approaches students should relish the opportunity to get to know new people in their year group, see some beautiful places and make memories for life. Getting fit for camp also makes it more enjoyable for Year 10 and there are plenty of hills to walk up around Dunedin over the holidays.

We wish everyone a safe and happy holiday. Seniors should refresh, relax and re-focus on their goals for next term. Juniors should spring-clean their bedrooms and make the most of the warmer weather outside. Junior exams take place in class this year and will be a series of one hour tests, activities and practicals spread out over a week during Weeks 3 and 4 - more information will be given to students in Week 1.

Ngā mihi nui