Kia ora koutou

As we send this newsletter to you, we have been once again unsettled by community transmission of Covid-19. It is a virus that will be around for some time and it is important that we are vigilant and well prepared so that we can respond effectively. We are fortunate that we have our experience from Alert Level 2 in May and have put similar steps in place to ensure that school remains safe. We have increased hygiene standards, are asking people not to come to school if sick, and are requiring physical distancing. We ask all people to respect these protocols.

Unfortunately, the move to Alert Level 2 may have an impact on sport. I am hopeful that this will be minimal, and in a number of sports the games may be able to continue but without spectators. Again, we ask that people are respectful of those rules as it helps keep everyone safe.

We are getting to the point of the year where Years 10, 11 and 12 will do their course selection for 2021. This is an important time of year and our Form Tutors and Deans are supporting your sons as they work through the options. It is important that boys think carefully about their learning strengths, the subjects they enjoy and potential future pathways. These factors are more important in choosing subjects than basing them on their favourite teacher or what their friends are doing.

Part of the course selection is looking at the financial contributions for each subject. In 2021 Shirley Boys’ High School has opted into the Ministry of Education School Donation Scheme. This means that we will automatically get funding for each student directly from the government and we will not be asking for a School Donation in 2021. However, Contributions to deliver courses and whānau/parental costs of workbooks, over-night trips and activities where participation is optional may be requested. These will be noted clearly in the course selection booklet.

While I think there are some fishhooks with the School Donation Scheme, and it has the potential to compromise the curriculum and co-curricular activities that we offer, I believe it is a sound option for 2021. All communities have had a tough time this year due to Covid-19, and there may be further impact in the months ahead. This removes the need for families and whānau to pay the School Donation, and while it is not a huge amount, every bit will count for many of our families. I am pleased that this gives us an opportunity to demonstrate our values of Belonging and Whānau.

Ngā mihi

Tim Grocott.