Kia ora whānau,
Our kura is a microcosm of Aotearoa, diverse, connected, and at its best when we look out for one another. When students choose to ignore expectations, it does not just break a rule. It affects others and undermines the respectful community we are building together.
We are currently dealing with some unacceptable behaviour in our toilet areas, including increased vaping and deliberate mess. This is disappointing and we will be responding firmly.
How you can help:
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Please talk with your rangatahi about respecting shared spaces and the impact this behaviour has on other students and staff.
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Remind them that vaping at school is not acceptable and will lead to consequences.
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Encourage them to report concerns to a trusted staff member.
We have also seen a noticeable increase in rubbish around the school, despite having bins and recycling available across the kura. If we want to protect our environment and waterways, we all need to reinforce the message that litter goes in the bin every time.
How you can help:
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Please reinforce at home: If you bring it, you bin it.
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Ask your child where rubbish should go when they are out and about.
Thank you for your ongoing support with uniform. Expectations around jewellery, facial hair, and clothing have been clearly communicated through assemblies. From this point, students who repeatedly choose to ignore these expectations will receive consequences, including detention. This is not about being punitive. It is about consistency and teaching responsibility.
A continuing issue is unsafe and illegal parking outside school, particularly on yellow lines and in bus bay areas. This creates congestion and can put students at risk.
Please help by:
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Avoiding yellow lines and bus bays at all times.
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Parking on nearby streets such as Morris Road or Carrington Avenue and arranging a short walk and meet point with your child. This improves traffic flow and safety for everyone.
On a much more positive note, there have already been some great moments this term. Our House Sports Day had strong participation and was a great example of students trying new things, supporting their House, and enjoying healthy competition. We also enjoyed our first Sports Exchange with Otūmoetai, with a winter exchange planned later in the year.
We are also excited to welcome new staff to our kura: Whaea Marino Hau, our new HOD Te Reo Māori; Mrs Guest, our Assistant Sports Director; Ms Dove to the English faculty; Mr Chanati to Science and Maths; Mrs Kuys to English Language Learning; Mr Hobson to PE and Health; and Mrs Joubert to Food Technology and Hospitality. We are lucky to have them with us.
It was fantastic to see so many whānau at the Year 9 Parent Evening. Our Year 9s have made an excellent start and a strong first impression. It has also been a pleasure visiting classrooms where active learning is happening every day.
Finally, please encourage your student to join a club, sport, or cultural group. Students who connect with a group build friendships, confidence, and a stronger sense of belonging. It is never too late to start, whether they are in Year 9 or Year 13.
