We hope that you enjoy this newsletter in an updated format, which allows us to include more information, student achievements and photos of events.

It is great to see that Spring is finally here as we say goodbye to a rather long and cold winter and look forward to some warmer weather.

Term 3 has certainly passed with a whirl of activity in the classroom, wider co-curricular activities and other unique events that add to the special nature of the school (Happy Daze Week, Deans' Appreciation Week and ‘Showcase’ just to name a few).

My congratulations and thanks to all of our coaches, managers, supporters, and of course our Sports Director, David Biddick, who contributed to such a successful Tournament Week at the beginning of September. With the senior girls netball game held in Timaru, the girls football in Ashburton and basketball and rugby 7s in Christchurch, it was a privilege to be able to get around and watch at least one game at each venue. Our students were exemplary in their conduct throughout the week.

As students prepare to have a well-earned break, I am sure that many feel a real sense of achievement. During prelim exam week, our senior students demonstrated their high engagement and positive commitment to being the best that they can be. I am sure that this attitude will continue as we count down to the NZQA exams in November. As part of a second round of individual interviews with Year 13 students, I have been discussing the need to devise a plan over the upcoming weeks that will enable the students to successfully manage both the demands of any final internal assessments and classwork alongside preparations for the final examinations.

We are well into the process of preparing for 2016, which includes advertising for three staff to cover maternity leave positions. I am happy to report that our school roll for next year continues to look very healthy. In-zone enrolments continue to come in at all levels, with out-of-zone applications now closed. In keeping with the spirit of collaboration with our neighbouring high schools, Riccarton continues to apply strict limits when it comes to out-of-zone applications that has resulted in some people finding themselves on a waiting list. Certainly, the number of applications reinforces the strong reputation that the school has in our local and wider communities.

Finally, as we take time out to recharge our batteries prior to a short and very busy term 4, I'd like to recommend some good reading. I find anything written by Richard Branson to be direct, fun and inspirational. Here are his 10 success tips:

1. The most important thing in life is family.

2. Live life as an adventure. Have fun.

3. Always look for the best in people.

4. Follow your heart.

5. Don’t forget the humour!

6. Saying ‘yes’ is a lot more fun than saying ‘no’.

7. Failure is nothing more than another way to learn.

8. Go and make a difference in the world.

9. Dream BIG.

10. Be humble and stay grounded.