One of the strengths of the Independent school sector is our ability to stand together, preserving the best interests of our students in challenging times.

So it was that my thoughts went out to the 20 Auckland independent school principals and their students, parents and staff last week as they rallied again to move to a remote teaching and learning environment. On our behalf, I sent the following ‘Good wishes from Down South’:

Dear Independent School NZ colleagues

Just a quick note to let you know that we are holding you in our thoughts, and sending our best wishes to you and your people in Auckland.

That's not to say that there hasn't been a good bit of banter down here about how to cut the line and set Te Ika a Maui free, but rest assured that we do love our northern sisters and brothers and are hoping for a swift resolution to this current situation.

On behalf of the leadership team, staff and wider community of St Margaret's College, all the best as you navigate this patch of rough water. If we can assist in any way, please reach out.

Until then, look after yourselves, ngā manaakitanga

Diana

The spirit of the message was well received and I have many responses acknowledging the solidarity of the education community at this time.

Monday’s Chapel service offered a reflective whakatauki that speaks to this sentiment:

E tū kahikatea, hei whakapae ururoa. Awhi mai awhi atu, tātou tātou e

Stand like the kahikatea tree, to brace the storms. Embrace and receive each other, we are one together.

New Zealand’s tallest tree, kahikatea (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides), reaches 60 metres in height. It grows throughout New Zealand on moist, fertile soils, and is the dominant tree of swampy lowland areas. But reaching that height and growing in the soft ground makes the tree vulnerable when standing alone. However, to experience a stand of kahikatea is to feel the collective strength of nature, enhanced by the filtered light and the birdsong of the tūī, bellbirds, kākā and kererū that inhabit the canopy and disperse the seeds.

May we continue to be like the kahikatea, and stand together to brace the storms, to offer a safe haven for our girls and each other.