Last week was just an incredible time to be in school. The energy levels were palpable as the children returned to the classrooms after six months of home learning and partial opening. We are delighted to have them back on site - it has reinvigorated the staff and reminded us all 'why we do what we do'.

Your attendance at the Meet the Teacher presentations added to the excitement, and I am sure you will agree, a great way to reconnect and kick off the school year.  We hope you found the presentations informative and enjoyable. Thank you for supporting us to start the year with a hiss and a roar.

The long weekend has allowed us to reflect on the first couple of days back, and watching the fantastic young Winter Olympics team at the weekend was an inspiration - they are the ultimate risk-takers. They back themselves and adjust as they go, to make the impossible look effortless. They feel the fear, embrace the moment and go with the hand dealt. It is exactly what schools are being asked to do this year. We've got this...we don't know how the run will go and when we will hit the tricky parts. But be assured, like the Olympians, we aim to run the entire course, plan the tricky parts, and navigate the slaloms and jumps along the way to give our students the best possible year of learning. Just like Zoi Sadowski-Synnott, we are aiming for gold!

School Picnic - Friday 25 February, 4 to 6pm

Our first community event is the annual school picnic that will take place after school on Friday 25 February.

A school picnic is an informal event, held on the field. Families are encouraged to bring a blanket and some nibbles and enjoy getting to know each other while the children have a play.

If you are new to Stanley Bay this is a great way to meet other families, and if you are an existing family, what a great way to catch up! We look forward to seeing you all there.

As this is a non-curriculum related event the general rules for gathering apply, this means to attend the picnic you will be required to present your vaccine passport, scan the QR Code, wear a mask and observe social distancing of 1m. 

Mihi Whakatau

At the start of each term, we perform a mihi whakatau. This is an official welcome for all new students and staff to the Stanley Bay whanau. The ceremony removes tapu (restrictions) of the manahiri (visitors) to make them one with tangata whenua (hosts). 

It is a powerful way to connect our with our students and let them know they are very much part of our school, it is a celebration we very much look forward to. 

While we are unable to invite you along, it will be a special day for our students which we will video and share with you. 

Year 5/6 Camp Reminder

Year 5 and 6 students are excitedly getting ready for camp! Now is a good time for students to get themselves organised gathering the equipment and gear they will need - Gear List. 

Don't forget to sign up to School App and select 'Camp 2022' to stay connected and receive updates. 

https://hail.to/stanley-bay-school/publication/8RrmdOV/article/iioas9h

Payments for camp can be found on Kindo and are now due. 

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Finally, thank you to the parents who have stopped to chat over the fence and offered support and encouragement. It is great seeing the community back together!

Noho ora mai 

Lucy Naylor
Tumuaki / Principal