The weeks are just racing by already this term. I have been spending some time in learning studios and it is amazing to see the 'fruits' of the teachers planning and organisation efforts with how smoothly teaching programmes are running.

The children are always so proud to share their learning with me and talk with great interest about what they are working on and becoming more confident about talking about their next learning steps.

Some amazing learning occurred at last week's Year 5/6 Camp to Woodend Christian School. Thank you to the staff and parents/whānau who made this camp awesome for our learners. They were involved in high ropes climbing, archery, orienteering, go-kart racing and a real highlight was the dodgeball pit. It sounds like the children would like one at our school.

Good luck to our four year 5-8 basketball teams competing in the zone tournament tomorrow with Mr Fraser Malins, Annette Hynes and Amy Price. Good luck also to our Chess Tournament competing at the Canterbury Chess Competition with Mrs Ollivia Nancekivell and Lee Scheepers tomorrow.

It will be another busy week at school next week with our school cross-country and the highly anticipated disco! Research suggests that primary school children should be actively involved in fun physical activities which promote participation and enjoyment. This is why all Selwyn schools have moved to a team based cross-country event. However, following  strong parent/whãnau feedback last year we are going to offer a competitive aspect for learners in Year 1-4 who wish to 'race.' The Year 5-8 learners had their opportunity to compete for zone places this week. Look out for information from Mr Pete Northmore in this newsletter regarding this. 

Finally, this week we regretfully accepted the resignation of Amy Hunt from the front office. We will miss working with Amy who has been pivotal in establishing quality systems in our office as we have grown from a school of 77 to 530 learners in just over three years. Good luck to Amy who is returning to the world of commercial banking.

Ngā mihi nui

Sylvia