When we were planning our overview for 2019 we were intent on starting the year with a social sciences focus on culture and identity.

Our vision was for all of our learners to understand that we value them for 'who they are' and that we wanted to learn more about our families own cultures and values. We aimed to teach the importance of accepting, acknowledging and celebrating diversity and difference.

We were very excited about the celebration day that Miss Leigh Thrupp and Miss Katie Talbot planned for today to complete this unit of learning. Thank you to all of the parents and families who helped to make this day a wonderful celebration. The effort that went into costumes and food preparation was outstanding.  It was a privilege to sample all kinds of delicious foods from across the world. It was also fabulous that several parents and grandparents dressed up as well!

Yesterday I also had the privilege of taking our ambassadors to Cashmere High School and to Shirley Primary School with our mufti day proceeds. Each school received $421.50 each which will be of direct benefits to their learners who have lost loved ones or who have loved ones still affected by injuries. Thank you to Dan Paterson for helping with transport for this trip.

Next term we have two new teachers joining our team. Mrs Joanne Norman-Larter will be replacing Miss Laura Finn when she goes on maternity leave. Mrs Louise Thompson will be starting a new whānau group in Te Kete Kākano. We look forward to welcoming these new teachers on our staff only day tomorrow. 

Finally, just a reminder that school is closed tomorrow as our staff are spending the day visiting other schools with flexible learning spaces.

Ngā mihi nui

Sylvia