It is my absolute privilege to be holding the reins for our principal Linda Miller, as she embarks on her sabbatical over the end of Term One and start of Term Two. We are grateful to all of our school staff, and in particular the senior leadership team, for stepping up and supporting the school and myself so well in Ms Miller’s absence. Special mention also goes to the office and support staff who show great flexibility and initiative in plugging all sorts of gaps when staff change roles. It is a testament to how efficiently our systems work at Otago Girls’ High School that I am currently at Borland Lodge with Year 12 Biology and Geography students and the cogs are turning seamlessly back at school!

Last weekend we were thrilled to see the high level performances and results from the Otago Secondary Schools' Athletics. Particular congratulations to Emelia Adamson in Year 9 who broke the U14 High Jump record, jumping 1.59m at the Otago Secondary Schools’ Athletic Champs - a record that has stood since 2001. There were many other superb results over a range of events. These students are to be commended on committing to very high levels of discipline and training, in many cases over several years.

This week saw our Year 12 Geography and Biology students at Borland Lodge in Fiordland. Their programme included caving, climbing, kayaking and a full-day trip to Doubtful Sound. We are grateful to be able to experience first-hand pristine natural environments and be able to conduct fieldwork in world-class landscapes with abundant and unique plant and bird species.

Remaining Year 12 students participated in a Careers Programme which included two days of work experience on Thursday and Friday. A particular highlight was the keynote address by Amy Scott, sometimes known as the DOTS lady! Amy focuses on communication, courage and connection. Thanks to Mrs Bazsika and Mrs Hill for their huge effort in organising this very exciting programme. All students have access to Careers Education so please do email Mrs Bazsika (bzk@otagogirls.school.nz) if you have a particular enquiry or request. This year Open Days at Otago University and Otago Polytechnic will take place on 23 and 24 May.

Wairua Pūhou, our kapa haka group, has re-formed for the year and an intense schedule of weekend practices is ahead in preparing for Hautonga which will happen in June this year. Again, the discipline and commitment of students in this group is an example to us all. There are also development squads for kapa haka so anyone is welcome to join at any time.

As we pass the half-way point in the term, senior students are advised to plan ahead, using all of the tools available to them such as Google Calendar, the school diary and/or wall planners/ calendars to plan their time to complete all assessments. The end of term is always busy and eating well, sleeping well and drinking lots of water is important. We wish them well in their studies.

Happy Anniversary Day holiday on Monday.