Lydiard House News

What an honour to be part of Lydiard House. I chose this whakatuaki, because it has never been truer than ever before. We welcomed our Year 9 students at the beginning of the Year, wide-eyed and slightly overwhelmed. I am proud to say that they have realised that they are not alone and that this is a time to spread their wings and fly. With this role, there are a lot of good, sometimes the bad and sometimes the ugly. It is when the latter turns into something even more perfect than expected, is what is making this job worthwhile.

I want to acknowledge the Lydiard Executive team. Our 2023 Student Executive team, our Captain is Lucy Miller and Deputy Captain, Hayden Wafer has done marvelous work so far. Their team is completed by students who are determined to make 2023 the best year. They are Tayla Smart, Maddison Smart, Casey Kirwan and Kobe Murdoch. They have showed their commitment and dedication to Lydiard House. We are honoured to have them.

They have taken our House motto “Take the long view and work towards it” and made it reality. This is only the start of the year. They have done the Coast to Coast, where they helped Mrs Don with tasks on the day, including marshalling and getting wet. They have taken the lead in Relay for Life - getting a group of RHS students together for a great cause. I have never been so proud in my life. We are ready for next year.

Throughout my teaching career, I am still surprised by our students daily. The way they think, ask questions and try to find solutions to problems.

We have seen it during the Year 9 camp. The beauty and the new friendships quickly overcame no cellphone coverage. We were proud of each student who stepped out of their comfort zone to try new things. We want to thank the staff and seniors who went to the camp to support our Year 9 students.

During SummerFest our Seniors have showed what they are made of. They have won all their games. Thanks to all the senior students who has participated.

We are here together. My challenge for Term 2 is to stand taller, speak louder, play harder and be prouder of who you are in Lydiard House. Each one of the staff and students plays an important role. Without you we will become vulnerable. Let’s look forward to our well deserved vacation and let's come back stronger and prouder.

We encourage all Lydiard House members to remember our House motto.

Annekie Badenhorst

Head of Lydiard House