As a new tumuaki, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude to find myself at a school as wonderful as TPS.

In my hospital bed, I have had some time to reflect on the incredible kindness demonstrated by all of the Titirangi community. My hospital bed is decorated with cards, gifts and well wishes from the staff and students. The commitment and teamwork displayed have not only kept the school running smoothly but also reinforced the fundamental truth that a strong team is the backbone of a successful school.

The essence of Titirangi Primary School is not embodied in the physical buildings but resides in the collective spirit of the incredible individuals who make up our school. It is also in the kindness and thoughtfulness displayed in the overwhelming number of get well cards that are surrounding me from Year 0s all the way to our lovely Year 6s - the pictures of me in bed (although some did resemble coffins) and little messages have kept me smiling. Those children are a reflection of the amazing families and whānau that are a part of our school - we are so lucky to have them.

We sometimes get distracted by the squabbles that children have at school, the time they threw a pencil or a rock, the time they called someone a nasty name or a fight they got into. But these are mistakes that children make when they are young and as long as they show empathy and remorse and learn from their mistakes then we are there to support them into becoming the wonderful young adults that they are sure to be. Seeing them care and take the time to write get well messages gives a little insight into the people they are becoming. I am constantly amazed by just how NICE our TPS tamariki are. It’s a boring word but a truly amazing quality to have and our kids have this in spades! Tēnā rawa atu koutou.