The Parents & Friends Association have been delighted to be involved with a number of school community focused events in Term One. Our year got off to a great start when we hosted a BBQ for the parents of new Boarders. Families dropped their girls off at Tolcarne, travelled down to the school for a formal welcome and finished off with a BBQ cooked by the Parents & Friends Association. This gave the new families a chance to get to know each other and hopefully start a connection that will grow throughout their daughter's time at Tolcarne. A couple of weeks later we also hosted a "Take Away" night for new Year 7 and 9 families, to welcome all other families new to the school. Fortunately, on both occasions the lower quad was basking in sunshine and families enjoyed a lovely introduction and catch up.

This term we were also privileged to help with hosting the 125th Reunion for all those with current & past connections to St Hilda's. The PFA helped with registrations, hosting morning teas and evening functions. We loved meeting the "old girls", ex staff and even an "old boy". The morning tea in the Chapel was filled with laughter and chatter as everyone lined up for their "decade" photos. It was wonderful to be in the lovely new staff room serving tea when recent ex staff walked in for the first time - it was like being in an episode of "extreme makeover". There were exclamations of amazement at this beautiful new space for staff. It was also lovely to hear the current girls talking about the great stories they were hearing as they gave the "old girls" a tour of the school. Congratulations to Amanda Burke for organising such a wonderful weekend for all.

This term has been all about our school community and the connections we make through St Hilda's. If you would like to be part of the Parents & Friends Association, our next meeting is on 12th May at 7pm in the library. Please come and join us. If you want more information please email pfa@shcs.school.nz

Also, a reminder that girls who are participating in external sports or cultural events are eligible to apply for support from our Sports & Cultural fund. For more information check out the school website link here.