RSHS Newsletter - Term 1, Issue 5

KORERO FROM MIRANDA

Kia ora Rototuna Whānau,

As we move through the last week of Term 1, it seems a good time to reflect on some of the highlights we have enjoyed over the last few weeks. On our return from Easter break, we celebrated 'Spirit Week' together. The theme of this week was about making connections to grow students' sense of belonging to each other and our school. Our head students (Manukura) worked with teachers and student councils planning a variety of activities our students could get involved in:

• Jamoa Jamin (Pasifika and Māori Council)
• White Noise Wednesday (Art Council)
• Department Quiz (Academic Council)
• Arts and Crafts (Community Council)
• Ki o Rahi (Sports Council)

And our Media Council captured and shared these events out to our school community on our student-led Instagram.

We finished the week with our first student organised and led Iwi Games. This was a fantastic day, where students competed as part of their Whānau in a range of activities for Iwi points. It was a time to get to know each other in new ways, strengthen our connections and have a fun, joyfilled time together (with a little competition thrown in for good measure). A big thank you to the GOLD module students and to their teachers Shona and Rich.

As we move into the colder Term 2 months I know it is tempting for some of our students to wear warmer clothes that are not necessarily part of our uniform. Over the Term 1 break could you please ensure that your student has their school jackets and jumpers ready for their return in Term 2. Additionally, we are starting Term 2 with full implementation of our phone policy. That means your young person will have to put their phones away for the day - in classes and during break times. Please remind your young person that this is the case, and that they should be charging up and bringing their laptops to school to support learning in classes.

We really appreciate your support so that we can keep the focus where it needs to be - on the learning. We want to have positive conversations with your students about their learning and our optimism in them as learners rather than conversations about compliance. There is more information about all the things I have mentioned further in the newsletter, as well as other highlights so please read on.

Thank you in anticipation for your continued support. Have a fabulous Term 1 break, stay safe and we are looking forward to seeing you in Term 2.

Ngā mihi,

Miranda