Kia ora parents and whanau,

It was good to have everyone back in school at the beginning of the term, and to come together as a community through so many special events.

A highlight this week was St Hilda's Day, where after a two year absence we were able to celebrate St Hilda and all her good work in St Paul's Cathedral.

The students, as always were respectful and rose to the occasion with aplomb. For many they had not attended this service in the cathedral before, and what for many of us is 'just how we do things', for others it is all new and can be a bit overwhelming. 

It was fabulous to be able to share the event with our Distinguished Alumni, and their profiles are included later in this newsletter. So powerful to have past students, who have followed such diverse paths to all be connected to each other and our current students through their time at St Hilda's and benefits of a quality education.

A big day followed by a special evening as we celebrated with the Year 13 Boarding leavers and their parents, five years at Tolcarne, and all the wonderful memories and adventures they have shared.

Tonight it will be a privilege to acknowledge our Manu Pounamu recipients, Hannah Langsbury and Imogen Hornal at the College of Education Auditorium, and then watch our water polo team and track and field athletes in action over the weekend. A busy time, a vibrant time, a time to cherish given we couldn't do any of these events this time last year.

Ngā mihi nui

Jackie Barron