Kia ora koutou

Our hall repair is progressing and we thank all of the companies involved for the urgency in their work and the long hours they have put in. We are hoping to be back in the hall at the end of the term or the very start of next term. Stefan Box is our Property Manager and we are now in the tender stage for our major building works which will bring 11 new toilets in S Block, accessibility works including a three-storey lift, a sprinkler system in the hall, a new historic tiled roof, three up-graded Science labs and an administration area redevelopment. We are fortunate to be amongst the schools that still have building work proceeding. Our main building is a Category 1 Historic Building and carries our long history within its walls. We look forward to this work starting later in the year. 

Our last Year 9 campers return today. The Peer Support leaders and Year 13 ‘Sisters’ have worked hard to make the first term of the year a very happy and settled one. A reminder that all students should be involved in at least one Winter and one Summer school activity. School activities and opportunities are what makes the magic and supports the learning in school. 

Our PTSA AGM was on Wednesday and this is a great group of parents - most of whom were new last year. Come and join them at their next meeting on Wednesday 7th May in the school library at 6.30pm. All welcome. A reminder that hot cross bun orders are due next week and an order form is attached in this newsletter. Please support the PTSA who give so generously to the students.

We are still seeking homestay families and welcome any enquiries. There are generous weekly payments for hosting our international students and they love the experience of living the full New Zealand experience in Kiwi homes. Stays range from one term to the full five years. Please consider if you may be able to do this and contact Mrs Rose Gilani in the first instance: rsg@otagogirls.school.nz

Have a great long weekend. We are fortunate to live in this wonderful region.

Ngā mihi nui