Kia ora everyone,

I'm writing this weeks article from my hotel room in Parramatta, western Sydney. This week I've had an absolute privilege to travel with 50 other principals from the Canterbury region to visit schools in Sydney. It has been a very worthwhile trip, sharing ideas and learning from our Australian colleagues who, like us, have students at the centre of what they do. 

Today we say goodbye to teachers Belinda and Mark Muller who are returning to Auckland. I would like to thank them both for their service and contribution to our school and we wish them well for the future. I'd also like to let you know that David Shea, our Deputy Principal has also resigned and we hope to farewell him later in the year. 

We are facing some staffing challenges at the moment but please rest assured that we are trying to find and recruit good teachers to replace the ones that are leaving. There is a nationwide teacher shortage and we are certainly feeling its effects. 

Unfortunately, there is no news on the union negotiations so it looks like Tuesday's strike will go ahead and we will be closed for students. Year 13 students are also rostered home on Thursday. If there is any change I will let you know as soon as possible.  

Have a great weekend,

Jo