Over the last two weeks, preparations for our senior camp have been ramping up. This is the first time our tamariki have had the opportunity to attend a camp at Hanmer Springs, and I know both the students and staff are extremely excited. I am sure that our year 7/8 students will have a great experience, learn a lot and represent our school with pride.

We have received the most incredibly generous financial support from the Hanmer Springs Forest Camp, Rusty Carrot Catering, Activity Hanmer, Hanmer Hot Pools and Rotary. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all of these organisations for their kindness and efforts. A lot of work behind the scenes has also gone into making this trip happen, so I would like to recognise the amazing mahi of Sarah Jane Wright, Alannah Watson, Felicity Morton-Turner, Craig Gault, Kelly Keys, Shanelle Tufuga and Colin Cliddon-Brown.

Sports have also played a significant role at Waltham during the last six weeks, with Friday being our last matches for the year. Our winter sports teams represented our school so positively, and it was an absolute pleasure to enjoy their company each week at Hagley park. As a previous sports coordinator myself, I know the logistical challenges of organising weekly sport. To provide our tamariki with these opportunities there are a lot of moving parts, and staff taking on coaching roles and remaining at school are required to be very flexible. I would like to thank the whole Waltham team for their energy, efforts and dedication in making this happen for our young people.

Weekly Monday night and Thursday night basketball has also just concluded for the year. The Waltham Pirates (Yr.7/8) and Waltham Warriors (Yr.5/6) made some extraordinary improvements during the 12 game season, and finished the competition playing excellent team basketball. Whaea Kristie and Mr Gault deserve a lot of credit for the season, which involved them giving up their own family time to transport, coach and mentor our players. Sue Elliott, Mrs M-T and Mrs Curtis were also regularly attending games, providing transport assistance and helping create a supportive and positive atmosphere for our beginners.

We are looking forward to another action packed two weeks at Waltham School. Our termly 4R focus is being 'ready to learn' so your support at home in discussing this value is much appreciated. It is through our collective efforts that we can nurture a thriving and vibrant school community. 

Ngā mihi nui

Tim Evers