Tēnā koutou katoa,
We have had a settled start to Term 4, with students quickly getting back into the school rhythm and approaching their learning with a positive attitude. It was incredibly encouraging to see our school attendance continue to improve last term, with regular attendance up 4% compared to Term 3, 2025, despite the waves of illness that buffeted our community. This is a testament to the diligence and positivity of our families and students, which will open more pathways for their futures. With the worst of the winter sickness behind us and the summer months on the horizon, we look forward to continuing our trend of record high regular attendance throughout Term 4.
I spoke at this week’s assembly about the importance of making the most of this time for our seniors and I am pleased to see the maturity and diligence with which they are approaching this period. With just three weeks to go before our seniors head off for their end of year exams, the message has been to enjoy their last weeks while continuing to lay a strong foundation for success in their externals by doing a little bit of extra work each day. Parents can continue to support their senior students by checking that they have a positive study space free from distractions, especially phones, and that they have a clear study plan in place.
With respect to our junior students, we are shifting our focus to our WISE value of Independence. Parents may hear juniors speaking about the expectation to routinely carry their equipment and take greater ownership of self-management. This aligns directly with the key capabilities outlined in the New Zealand Curriculum and naturally connects with our school values. Where materials were previously kept largely in classrooms, we recognise that this can foster dependency, whereas taking personal responsibility will serve students well in the long run. Parents can support their juniors by ensuring they bring all required stationery in a pencil case and all necessary books for each day’s lessons in their bags.
Ngā mihi mahana,
Cameron Flude
