Welcome back to term three, which is a busy academic term particularly for our Senior students - hence the messages I have are very important.

Derived Grade Examinations (DGE) 5 - 8 September Week 7

All senior students who are entered for external examinations will be participating in the DGEs.

Students who take classes with a practical component Art, Technology, Music and Drama will also have workshop sessions during this time.

Regardless of whether your child has an examination or workshop - attendance is compulsory, and rolls are taken during this week. The timetable for the week is being finalised now.

All schools across Aoteaora New Zealand have a week of derived grade examinations. It is an New Zealand Qualificaitons Authority requirement.

If your child is unable to sit an end of year external examination for any of the reasons listed below - then they will be eligible to apply for a derived grade. This is why ‘sitting’ the derived grade examinations, is so important.

Here are some reasons why a student might need to apply for a derived grade:

• Passing of family/whanau member
• Hospitalisation
• COVID
• National representation in a sport, academic or cultural event (during the examinations)
• Unwell on the day of the examination (requires a medical cerfiticate)

If a student needs to make an application for a derived grade (during the end of year examinations) they must communicate with the Principals’ nominee - Ms Philippa Mallinson.

This information will be shared again during the remainder of the year; but it is important that students, family and whanau understand, now why the Derived Grade examinations during week 7 are so important.

Course selection afternoon/evening (Years’ 10,11 & 12) 25 August

On Thursday 25th August from 2.00 pm - 6.00 pm students and family, whanau are invited to attend an informal event for course selection in the school hall.

We strongly encourage parents/caregivers to attend this event. All subject teachers and learning area heads will be available to share information about the various courses. This event is important - subject choices or omissions can have a significant impact on future learning pathways for students. This evening is designed to assist students to navigate their learning pathways and experience success with their learning.

We look forward to seeing you on August 25th anytime between 2.00 pm and 6. 00 pm.