Kia ora

We have just had the last long weekend for this term, the next couple are in the term break.  With all Wakatipu Basin schools having a staff only day last Friday I hope you made the most of the 4 days.  On the topic of our staff only day, thank you for your support.  It was a valuable day for our team. 

The morning was spent at Shotover working through some further Mathematics professional learning.  After an early lunch teachers from across the basin met at the high school.  This session was facilitated by education consultant, Melanie Rewai-Couch. Melanie talked us through her learning model Niho Taniwha.

We have now charged your account with the initial invoices for 2025, these include such things as School Donation, Stationary, swimming to name a few.  Please can you give this your attention and settle your account in full or in part this week... preferably in full.  If you need assistance please reach out to me (principal@shotover.school.nz), to discuss how you can pay your account over the year.

While I am on the money theme, please read this article that outlines a change we are implementing when it comes to payment of accounts.  In essence we are asking that outstanding accounts are paid in full or that the there is evidence of a payment plan or we will not be allowing your child to participate in non curriculum related events.  Examples of these include, touch and netball. 

A couple more of our new team;

Tess Powell (Hapori D)

Kia ora

My name is Tess Powell. I was born in New Zealand and have been fortunate to call Queenstown home since 2013. 

I love being able to teach here and enjoy watching both my children and students have opportunities to grow in such an inspiring environment. 

Creating an inclusive classroom is important to me, as I believe this promotes learning while also encouraging a sense of belonging and community for every student. 

Outside of teaching, I enjoy swimming, travelling, snowboarding, and spending quality time with my family.

Becky O'Meara (Hapori B)

I am excited to be part of the Shotover team.  After many years of teaching Early Childhood, I'm excited by the transition to Primary.   Teaching is a passion of mine; I love seeing what makes all children tick and bringing out the best in each child.  I have been involved with the school as a mum since nearly its beginning, and I value all that it offers to the growth and development of our children and its place in our community.

I love living in Queenstown; serving coffees on the Earnslaw was my first job here 25 years ago!  I enjoy living in this beautiful area and all that it brings - spending time biking, running, skiing, family adventures, and we feel blessed to be bringing up our family here. 

I look forward to meeting you and your children, and being part of their learning journey in these precious years while at Shotover Primary. 

Ka kite

Ben