I spent some time at the start of this week with our Year 12’s at camp in Hanmer Springs – what an incredible group of young wāhine. It is interesting to witness students outside of the school environment that we know them so well in; you see their independence shine, the strength of their adaptability, and how they connect in different ways outside the classroom. We had rain, hail and snow in Hanmer, and the students showed their values in spades. This term has been similar, and whilst the rain hail and snow might have taken the shape of a lockdown, online learning and missing special events, the same values and resilience have been the special ingredients our students have used to shine in very challenging situations. As we head into a well deserved two week term break, I know you will all commend, as I have done proudly, our students for once again digging deep and making the most of the term.

Term 4 is traditionally packed with special occasions and events, and we have been working on a plan A and plan B for all of them. One such event is the Leavers’ Communion, taking place on Wednesday 10 November at 11.15am. Parents of our Year 13’s and also any Year 12's who are leaving us, please save the date for this event, noting it could either be Plan A or Plan B! Further information will be sent to you directly in the coming weeks.

Thank you to those who took the time to complete the Communications Survey. The feedback will be used to review our current channels and refine how we engage with you all. Congratulations to the lucky winner of six bottles of Black Estate wine - Katherine McCusker!

I wish you all a wonderful term break.

Ngā mihi nui