Kia ora to all of our school community

This week, I drilled down into our core school value of Positivity.

Positivity is not about being happy or cheerful all of the time. Rather it is about embracing challenges that come our way and making the best of them.

To do this we need four things. The first is adaptability. Just when we think that things are running smoothly, we strike a bump in the road. Just when we think there is no hope we come across a new sunrise, a new horizon or a new possibility. Some of us have hardship, loss or daily struggles. How we adapt, change, live with these difficulties is what defines us and decides our path ahead. I know people with immense challenge, immense hardship and immense disadvantage who greet each day with positivity and give so much to other people - inspiring them to be better versions of themselves and inspiring us to be grateful for what we have.

The second pathway through difficulty and challenge is routine. If we turn up every day, read every day, make our bed every day, do two pomodoros of homework, go to bed early with no digital device and eat well - we can get through almost anything. If we work on responding rather than reacting, give time for matters to settle, say sorry when we are in the wrong and ask for help when we need it, we will find success and satisfaction. Working with people, really getting alongside them, helping others and giving of your talents is where real happiness lies.

The third factor is the support of friends and family around us. When things are hard, we can find strength in those around us. We need to notice people when they are having a struggle and listen to them. We need to just be there - as simple as that. Making time is difficult in itself but we get back what we give and it is important to invest time in friends and family so that when the chips go down - so to speak - we can be there for each other. Time spent with others in fair weather times builds relationships that support us in less favourable times.

Finally, struggles and difficulties will take grit and determination to get through. Some days will be hard! Some things in life will not go our way. When we are losing 15-5 on the netball court or get not achieved on a test, we need to look up and reflect and look and move forward to a better time and a better performance. In between we will train harder, aim higher and re-group as a team.

This week at assembly we were privileged to hear from Holly Robinson, New Zealand Paralympian, who is a student teacher with us. Holly gave inspirational advice about self-belief, routine, mental mindset and difference. Thank you Holly for sharing your story with us so generously.

“Those highs and lows are part of sport, and they're part of what makes you the best athlete” - Holly Robinson

Enjoy the sunny weekend ahead.

Ngā mihi nui