Mauri ora ki te koutou

This term has certainly sent us some curveballs with teachers and principals strikes taking place across the mōtū, cancellations of EOTC days, a packed curriculum and variable weather conditions. The staff and students at QPS have managed the interruptions with aplomb. They are all very ready for a well deserved relaxing break with friends and whanau. Please know that we continue to plan and prepare for the following term during this time also by planning a healthy work/life balance.

School starts on Wednesday 26 April next term. Tuesday 25 April we celebrate ANZAC day.

In many ways, 2023 is set to be a year of change, turbulence and uncertainty in the education sector of Aotearoa. On Monday 24 April teachers are meeting with other schools in the Wakatipu to learn more about the NZ Curriculum Refresh. The NZ Curriculum required review as previously research indicated that teaching and learning was not meeting the needs of our Maori and Pasifika students and lacked structure. A new structure will support increased levels of achievement. The diagram below provides a brief overview.

This term we have started to teach the Aotearoa NZ Histories Curriculum. We are gathering stories of our local area to prepare our students before they experience EOTC activities and following an inquiry practice for teaching and learning based on;

• Interpreting past experiences, decisions and actions

• Identifying sources and perspectives

• Identifying and exploring historical relationships.

We are very excited to be teaching and learning more about Aotearoa and understanding our commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Next term, Skyline has informed us that a very noisy, ex-military helicopter will be working on the gondola project on Friday 5 May for several hours. Teaching and learning will be affected. The QPS Board is working with Skyline and the Ministry of Education on mitigating the impact on students and staff. We are hoping for an effective solution. I will keep you informed.

Mā tō rourou, mā taku rourou

Ka ora ai te iwi.

With your contribution and my contribution there lies well-being for the people.

Have a wonderful Easter everyone!

No reira

Fi Cavanagh