From the tumuaki | principal 2024 Term 1 Week 1

Kia ora koutou

It’s been great to see so many excited faces this week. I love mihi whakatau for new students and staff and was overwhelmed by the 260 people - students and whānau - who attended. As I said to those present, we appreciate the trust you place in us and we will do our utmost to honour it. My thanks to our Peer Support students and Ms Cartman, as well as our Head Students, for their excellent introduction to our school. One of the joys of teaching is witnessing young people grow up well and these students are really doing that.

It was an honour to speak to our Year 11 students at their camp about the deeper significance of our value “Rangatiratanga - become your best you”. That camp was organised through hard work during the holidays by determined and caring teachers and it was well supported by volunteer parents - my thanks to all of you. What I noted from the students was a much more mature and settled ‘vibe’ than we’d seen in year 10; they appreciated the connections and the preparation for NCEA.

In catching up with students this week, I’ve also heard feedback that our cellphone rules and extra security cameras are appreciated as they add to a sense of focus and safety. I’ve really enjoyed experiencing the qualities that our students are known for - great manners and interest in others. I’ve seen care for others and a few ‘back to school’ teething things that we will sort out.

For those parents who’ve supported us with getting your children - our students - back into routines for school, thank you. Sleep is absolutely essential for learning and behaviour! 

I’m looking forward to meeting as many of you as possible at our Whānau Evening on 22 February.

Ngā mihi

Andy England

Tumuaki | Principal