A warm welcome back to school. On behalf of the school community, I would like to welcome two new teachers to the school, Jessica Jackman (Hanrahan), and George (Georgina) Matheson (Timoney). This week's article provides information on Sexuality Education

Welcome

On behalf of the St Joseph's School community, I would like to welcome the new families to our school: Yagmich, Bain, Carrington, Chartrand, and Quina.

We also have a number of new entrants that have started this week: Bree, Mason, Theo, Will, Hugo, and John. 

I know that our new families and students will enjoy their time at St Joseph's School. 

Sexuality Education

Sexuality Education will feature in the Term 2 programme. Sexuality Education should not be confused with Sex Education. Sexuality Education is a broader term that is used to cover concepts of human physical development and the impact that this has on our emotional and social wellbeing.

A short video has been created to explain the school's Sexuality Education programme in more detail. I encourage all parents and caregivers to watch this video so that they are aware of the concepts that will be discussed at school during the coming weeks. 

Human sexuality is not a mono-structural concept. Over the passage of time, concepts relating to human sexuality have become more complex, diverse, and controversial. So to mitigate any concerns whānau may have regarding the content and delivery of the programme, a drop-in session has been organised for parents and caregivers to ask questions and seek clarification on Thursday the 5th of May from 2.50 pm to 3.20 pm in the school library. Parents and caregivers who are unable to physically pop in can phone the school during this time. A school leader will be available to discuss the programme with you. 

Covid Update

Unfortunately, Covid caught up with me this week, placing me in isolation for a week to recover. Two other staff members and a number of children have also been away having contracted the virus. 

A huge thanks to Mrs Beattie and Mrs Easdown for keeping the ship running smoothly. 

Covid is very much circulating through our community. It is important that we follow the Safety protocols to slow its spread and protect the vulnerable members of the community who have suppressed immunity or cardio medical issues like Asthma. 

If you have not already had a chance to read the Orange Alert Level Safety Plan, please click on this link. 

Community Celebrations

This week the Community celebrated Fr Rick's 70th birthday. We also celebrated Fr Edwin's 25th anniversary in the priesthood. This is a very special occasion for both priests. 

On behalf of the St Joseph's School community, I wish Fr Rick and Fr Edwin a happy week full of joy and time with their family.