This has been a busy week, both for those at school and those away at sporting tournaments. Teams have participated in basketball, football, hockey, rugby, chess and squash tournaments at various locations around the country. Competition continues over the weekend with boys competing in South Island Schools’ Curling Championship. We wish them all the best.

Today’s Teacher Only Day has given both teachers and support staff the opportunity to undertake professional development. Support staff took the day to refresh their knowledge and skills in First Aid. For teachers, the focus was on how Professional Learning Communities and an Inquiry approach to teaching can be used to inform and develop classroom practice. It proved to be an interesting, challenging and valuable day for all.

The remaining weeks of the term, particularly for seniors, are definitely about academic work. Year 11 students sit their first external exam, the MCAT, on September 15. Senior practice exams begin the following day on September 16. Boys should use their time effectively over the next two weeks to prepare thoroughly for these exams.

More immediately, next Wednesday is Senior Subject Selection evening for current Year 10, 11 and 12 students. Boys and parents are encouraged to come along and find out about the subjects that are on offer in the senior school for 2017. Teachers will be on hand to answer questions.