On Monday, we successfully completed a lockdown drill, an essential practice to ensure everyone's safety during emergencies.

We're incredibly proud of our students, who were calm and asked insightful questions, showing their understanding.

These drills help our staff care for your children's physical and emotional safety, making everyone more familiar and comfortable with the procedures.

What Prompts a Lockdown?

Lockdowns are initiated for immediate threats, such as:

• An intruder or dangerous animal on school grounds.

• A police incident or serious emergency nearby (e.g., chemical spill, gas leak).

• Violent or threatening behaviour by a parent or visitor.

• Severe weather posing an immediate outdoor risk.

What Happens During a Lockdown?

Upon hearing a pre-recorded announcement or a long bell, staff and students will:

• Move to the nearest classroom or safe area.

• Lock doors and stay out of sight below window level.

• Teachers will count students and share details with the office.

• For safety, teachers will not open classroom doors. They'll be waiting for instructions from the Principal or emergency services.

Why We Ask You Not to Come to School During a Lockdown:

We know your first instinct might be to rush to school, but during a lockdown, it's really important for everyone's safety that you stay away from the school grounds. 

• The front door and school phone will not be answered to keep lines open for emergency services.

• Your presence could hinder emergency access and cause confusion.

• Please refrain from contacting any staff at the school, as this could lead to distraction of the primary focus, which is caring for our students. They will not respond.

• In a real event, theNZ Police will be in charge of the site, and we must follow their directions while we care for our children.

How We'll Keep You Informed & Child Collection

We'll update you viatext message, the School Hero App, Facebook, and phone calls if necessary. Please ensure your contact details are current.

If a lockdown happens, especially near pick-up time, please wait until it's safe. Students will only be released after the NZ Police give the all-clear. Once safe, you'll collect your child directly from their classroom, where teachers will record their departure. 

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in helping us keep our school a safe place for all our tamariki. Please reach out if you have any questions.

Ngā mihi nui, 

Rachael Coll

Tumuaki | Principal