Newsletter 19th August 2024
From the Principal
Dear Parents
A warm welcome to our new families
In the next few weeks students will be participating in class and team speech events. Below is an interesting point of view on why so many of us fear public speaking. According to a number of surveys, fear of public speaking ranks among our top dreads, surpassing fear of illness, fear of flying, fear of terrorism, and often the fear of death itself.
The benefits for students
Overcome Fears
Learning to write a speech and deliver it and surviving the experience unscathed can lessen anxiety about speaking in public.
Build Confidence
A study by North Carolina Cooperative Extension of 98 young people ages 9 to 18 who participated in a public speaking program found that public speaking increased confidence.
Improve Communication Skills
The children learn to calmly refute an opposing view, to present their ideas in an organized and coherent manner, and to defend their views to others.
Increase Organisational Skills
Writing and presenting a speech requires researching a topic and organizing their ideas, research and their time..
Future focused……Get ahead at College and work
Public speaking ability can help your child stand out. They learn to speak up in meetings, to promote your ideas, and to present as a professional.
It takes courage to stand in front of a group of people so we celebrate every student for giving it a go.
Curriculum Teacher Only Days Advance Warning
As you are aware the Government is bringing in substantial changes to the curriculum, assessment and strategies to raise attendance.
We have secured professional development facilitators through the Ministry of Education.
To minimise disruption to all parents and work with the days that the facilitators are available the Board of Trustees has approved the following Teacher Only Days
Monday 2nd September - School closed
Friday 27 September (last day of term) - School closed
Friday 11 October (Week 2 of the school holidays)
Parent Partnership Meeting Attendance
Thank you, we were delighted at the high turnout whether it be in person, phone or by Zoom. A great benefit is that going to parent-teacher interviews shows your child that you're interested in their learning and life at school.
Sunshade and Sandpit Opening
The sun was shining as our local MP Simeon Brown officially opened these fantastic additions to our school. A special thank you to the PTA and to you as parents and whanau for helping with fundraising and your support. The Board of Trustees is ensuring the school has top class facilities for generations to come for which we are very grateful.
Student Attendance
Thank you for your support in ensuring your children are not only attending school each day but are on time.
Is Attendance and Lateness A Problem?
In Term 2 this year 61 % attended 90% or more and only 63% of students were on time to class so that means 27 % of our students are regularly late- Nearly a third of all students - Please leave a bit earlier or send the kids off earlier.
Reminder Prize draw for a $100 voucher of your child’s choice for all students attending 90% or more at school this term. A voucher draw for junior, middle and senior school so three vouchers altogether.
Sunshade Official Opening
Sandpit Opening
Sports News
Inter School Cross Country
We had a wonderful day at our Year 4-6 Cross Country inter school competition. All students demonstrated exceptional effort, running their best and showing great determination. It was great to see everyone supporting and cheering on their teammates as they crossed the finish line. A number of students achieved top 3 finishes in their races, adding to the day's excitement. In the team competitions, our school placed third overall in the whole event. The beautiful weather contributed to a fantastic atmosphere, making the event a true success. Congratulations to all for their hard work and sportsmanship!
Celebrating Excellence
Cook Island Language Week
Week 3 of this term was Cook Islands Māori Language Week. One lunchtime the cultural leaders and a group of students all participated to make a tīvaevae. Tīvaevae are quilts made by women in the Cook Islands and are made from brightly coloured fabrics. Designs can include geometric shapes, flower and animal designs. Students were able to make one to take home and one to contribute to our collaborative tīvaevae. This is now hanging in the school library if you would like to see their hard work.
From the Community
