Tēnā koutou katoa

It is with great sadness that we heard of the passing of a student from our neighbouring school, Trinity Catholic College, after a serious incident at the bus hub. The loss of a teenage life brings shock and an inability to comprehend what has occurred. There is a ripple effect and in a city as small as Dunedin - everyone will know somebody who is affected by this tragic event.

Although we finished early yesterday for parent-teacher interviews, we know that at least a few students were in the vicinity of the bus hub at this time, including some students travelling to sport. Please make sure to speak with your teenager about the incident and to seek support if they are requiring it. Our school counsellors, Kara and Rosie, are available via email in the first instance at rbr@otagogirls.school.nz and krp@otagogirls.school.nz. The many adults in the school can also supply support or point students in the right direction.

Our condolences and thoughts are with Kate Nicholson, Principal of Trinity Catholic College, the Board, staff and students of Trinity and of course the families and all people affected in this tragedy. Again, please reach out and support members of this community that you know. I would remind parents that there are many alternative bus stops on the way to and from school, including Princes St, New World, the University of Otago and Logan Park - and I would recommend that students use these.

Arohanui