Hero photograph
John Laurenson
 
Photo by K Casey

Headmaster's Message

John Laurenson —

Dear Parents and Caregivers

A lot has happened over the last few weeks. By now you will have heard the glad tidings about the purchase of land for our new school. This is truly wonderful news, and now that we have a bit more clarity about things, the timeline to our new school starts to look very achievable.

  • Expression of Interest from Building Consortia - 15 April 2016
  • Shortlisted Consortia notified - 17 June 2016
  • Consortia submit detailed bids - 29 July 2016
  • Closing date for proposal - 18 November 2016
  • Preferred bidder notified - 25 January 2017
  • Contractual and financial close - April 2017
  • Work begins - April/May 2017
  • School opens - January 2019

If there are any questions you wish to raise, you only have to get in touch with me. One thing that might help as far as this is concerned is the series of community meetings that are proposed. The details are as follows:

  • 7pm - Tuesday 26th July at Redcliffs Bowling Club and Function Centre, 9 James Street
  • 7pm - Wednesday 27th July at Parklands Baptist Community Church Auditorium, 180 Queenspark Drive
  • 5pm - Thursday 28th July at Shirley Boys’ High School Hall, 77 North Parade
  • 7pm - Thursday 28th July at Avonside Girls’ High School, 180 Avonside drive

New Board of Trustees

The election saw a mix of long serving and new people elected to the Board. These people have the task of directing Shirley as it moves to build a new infrastructure on a new site.

  • Tony Deavoll, Chairperson
  • Sarah Clark, Deputy Chairperson
  • Neil Falconer, Elected Parent Representative
  • Karaitiana Taiuru, Elected Parent Representative
  • Andrew Hood, Elected Parent Representative
  • Caine Tauwhare, Seconded from Whanau Committee
  • John Laurenson, Headmaster 
  • Steve Garland, Staff Representative
  • Judah Watkinson, Student Representative  

The Board usually meets at 6.15pm on the fourth Thursday of each month.

BYOD Information

In 2017 all SBHS students (Year 9-13 inclusive) will be asked to bring their own digital device to school (BYOD). This is the final step in our BYOD journey which started with one class in 2012.

Digital devices are an amazing tool that gives students access to many learning opportunities. Unfortunately the school is not able to provide continuous computer access to all students, if they do not have their own device. Students will be able to download text books and course notes, communicate with teachers, record notes that will never get lost and access a wide variety of resources. In addition, the National Qualifications Authority has begun taking steps towards online assessment that is in its second year of trials currently.

I want to assure you that in no way will all school work be done on computers. Practical experience will still be a crucial part of the learning journey for our students, obviously in subjects like Physical Education, Technology and Science, written work will still be done. What we’re moving towards is a blended approach of digital and traditional methods; and this is now mirrored in many schools across New Zealand.

We understand that cost will be an issue and as such, we are pleased to announce our partnership with Noel Leeming for 2017. They will be making available three devices at prices that are significantly less than recommended retail. In addition, they will have bundles of accessories such as cases and warranties. Because of the rapidly changing nature of technology, we will confirm our recommended devices for 2017, around September of this year.

This has been five years in the making. As we have increased the number of students on devices, we have invested in building an outstanding IT infrastructure that includes widespread wireless at ultrafast speed. Our systems are continually being reviewed and we have implemented software solutions that are focused on learning.

Please direct all enquiries to Mr Richard McLaren 

New School Uniform 2017

It is timely to remind everyone where we are at, as far as the introduction of the new uniform is concerned. 2016 was the start of the process of change with all Year 9 students coming into the school, arriving in the new uniform. Details of the actual items are available on the website, or directly from the school office.

Junior Students (Years 9 and 10) may wear the summer uniform all year round. However they may choose to wear the winter uniform in Terms 2 and 3.

Senior Students (Years 11 and 12) may wear the winter uniform all year round. However they may choose to wear the summer uniform in Term 1 and 4.

Kind Regards

John Laurenson