Kia ora koutou

This week our thoughts and prayers are with all those who are coming to terms with the horrific tragedy that occurred last Friday afternoon. This incident impacts on us all and today we held two minutes of silence as a measure of respect for all who are suffering because of this one senseless act.

Last night, many of you may have joined in the vigil at which the feeling of unity and aroha was so clearly evident. Now more than ever we hold strong our values of compassion, kindness, peace and solidarity.

We have encouraged everyone to care and look out for each other even more than usual this week and to also talk about what has happened and how they feel. As mentioned in my email earlier this week, school running as usual is important for everyone’s well-being and I thank both the staff and the students for making this happen.

Ex Queen's student Ruby Jones, 25, turned to art to try and understand the tragedy as it was unfolding.  Since then, her drawing of two Kiwi women embracing – one a muslim wearing a hijab – has been shared internationally with the message: "This is your home and you should have been safe here".  People have told Ruby the image showed exactly how they were feeling, but had no idea how to express it themselves.  Ruby has said the response to her drawing has been overwhelming.  We thank you, Ruby, for your powerful image.

Ngā mihi aroha ki a koutou i tēnei wā

Barbara Agnew

Principal