We’ve made it through a wet start to the term, but the forecast is looking brighter—just in time for cross country next week!

We’ve launched into our "Move to Survive" Inquiry, focusing on survival strategies. Ākonga are exploring a scenario where they are stranded on an island, thinking critically about the strategies and resources they would need to survive. It's been awesome to see their enthusiasm and the independent research they’re doing at home!

Next week, we’re diving into learning about the musculoskeletal system. Ākonga will enjoy hands-on activities to help them identify major bones and muscles and understand how these systems work together to enable movement.

Maths: Next week, we begin our new unit for decimals with a specific focus of reading and writing decimals with base 10 materials to build a strong conceptual understanding.

Writing: This week, our writing centred on the light-hearted but thought-provoking question: Is a hotdog a sandwich? The consensus from ākonga, backed by clear arguments and evidence, was that a hotdog is not a sandwich! (Although Mrs Sage is still undecided...).

Next week, ākonga will watch a video prompt and use it to independently write their own argumentative texts, developing their ability to form and support their opinions.

Reading: In Pānui Tahi – Reading Together, our focus remains on survival, with texts featuring adventurer, Bear Grylls. Next week’s shared text will tie in with our science focus on the musculoskeletal system.

For independent reading, ākonga are engaging with texts that encourage them to make connections, think critically, and complete meaningful follow-up tasks.

A warm welcome to Jessie Pickering, a first-year teaching student. Jessie will be observing in Maungatere on Wednesdays for the next few weeks and will return in Term 3 for her placement. Nau mai, haere mai Jessie!

High school enrolments: Next week, Kaiapoi High School will be coming in to visit our year 8's to talk about the life of a high school student. It will be great to reconnect with some familiar faces and hear about their experiences. Principal, Jason Reid will also be along to answer any burning questions ākonga may have. They will also be given some information to take home regarding enrolment.

In addition, Hagley College have an Open Evening coming up on Thursday 22 May, starting in the Auripo Auditorium with presentations at 4.30 pm, 5.30 pm and 6.30 pm. Each presentation will contain the same information and will be followed by a chance to look around the College and meet some of our staff and students. BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL – interested parents/whānau should head to https://www.hagley.school.nz/enrolment/year-9-enrolment/ to book your seats if you wish to attend one of the presentation sessions.

Applications for Year 9 2026 will open online from 19 May, and close at midday on 19 June. Important information for students and whānau is available here: https://www.hagley.school.nz/enrolment/year-9-enrolment/.Our 2026 Junior College Lookbook is available to download here: https://www.hagley.school.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2026_Junior_Prospectus-April-web-1.pdf

Important reminders:

• School Cross Country is being held on Thursday 8th of May down at the lake.

• Mixx Korfball is being held on Wednesdays over the next couple of weeks.