It has been a busy and action filled term. Thank you to all of the whānau who have supported our children to grow as happy, healthy learners. We have such a generous community who look out for our children and do lovely things like help out at school events, help with lost property, drop a couple of dollars in our manaaki fund [in kindo] to support families in times of need, and donate old school uniform.

Two special groups of whānau to mention at the end of term are our School Board and GROW. Thanks to all of our Board members for their tireless activity behind the scenes governing our school. Big shout out to our Presiding Member Rob Hunt who has been instrumental in getting some proposed action from the Selwyn Council to improve traffic safety measures in the local community. Huge thanks and farewell to Lee-Ann Irving who will finish on the Board early next term as she moves overseas.

How great also were our GROW team running the Disco last Friday night. This was really successful and our children had an awesome time alongside their peers. We are really grateful for your efforts.

It has been awesome to run our school camps this term. These are such an important and valued aspect of our senior children's year. Special thanks to the Team Leaders, Mrs Caitlyn Tinnelly and Miss Claudia Copeland, who spent many, many hours preparing. Big shout out also to our EOTC expert Mrs Megan Murray who inducted and supported Caitlyn and Claudia with leading a camp. Finally, thanks to all of our parent helpers for this week in Hanmer Springs:

Jacqui Read, Salena Schaeffer, Rachael Woodworth,  Sarah Ching, Steve Dawson, Chris Eric, Matt Schuurmans, Mark Walcot-Wood, Ivan MacAuley, Fraser Pelvin, Marijke Etwell, Jodie Taylor, Chris Jennings, Ken Broom, Blair Croucher, Janna Harvey, Marie Mills, Courtney Whitmore, Janna Bruce, Emily Breakwell, Amy Ngaha and Katrina Clarke.

Hopefully, you all enjoyed seeing a sample of learning for your child in HERO this term. Next term there will be no samples posted as the teachers will be preparing a school report for your child. 

Thanks to Mrs Nicki McKenzie who looks after our school pets, Pepper and Duncan, along with the Clarke family, our caretakers and all of our wonderful learners. Nicki  has once again organised a roster for caring for them in the holidays. I would like to reassure everyone that they are regularly checked. The vet visited on Monday and Duncan was given some antibiotics and the all clear:)

Finally, just a reminder that I am on sabbatical leave next term and Mrs Amanda Clarkson will be acting principal. She will be supported by our senior leadership team, Mrs Megan Murray, Miss Anna van der Voort, Miss Bec Lambert and all of the staff.

Take care

Sylvia