Over the past few weeks it has been fulfilling to see two year levels enjoy the experience of a school camp. Our Year 8’s headed to Finlay Park on the shores of Lake Karapiro, while our Year 12’s headed to Tongariro National Park. Each camp included a range of activities and experiences where all students in attendance were able to have the opportunity to encounter learning opportunities that ultimately will assist them in developing their confidence, leadership, resilience, self awareness, empathy and self esteem.
The planning, preparation and time that goes into education outside the classroom experiences, such as these camps, involves a number of people. I would like to extend a huge thank you to all involved. To those initially involved in the planning, booking of venues, activities and transportation, to those involved in ensuring health and safety regulations are met, and to the staff and parents who attended the camps and supported our young woman throughout the week, thank you. Your time, work and dedication to providing and supporting these experiences is greatly appreciated. I also wish to acknowledge and thank parents who supported their daughters to participate in camps. We understand that education outside the classroom activities and events do bear a financial cost, and that sending your daughter away to camp can be daunting. So thank you; thank you for trusting us and supporting these experiences.
This week has also seen Swimming Sports take place, the first in a few years due to interruptions from Covid and weather events. Tomorrow the coin trail will occur. A team of students and staff work behind the scenes and on the day to ensure the success of these days. To those involved, thank you for your contribution as these events bring our school community together and highlight the house and school spirit that makes our school culture unique and special.
As we are now over halfway through the term, students’ school and extracurricular schedules are getting busier. While it is pleasing to see the involvement of our young woman in activities, in and around the college, I also ask that you please check in and support your daughter in finding a balance between her extracurricular, leisure activities and school work. If at any point you are unsure or think she may require some support, whether that be sitting down with her Dean, career or guidance counsellors, do not hesitate to reach out.
Finally, I also wish to acknowledge two new members of our senior leadership team – Mrs Toni Ferens and Mrs Anna O’Farrell, who have been appointed Acting Deputy Principals for the remainder of 2024. Both Mrs Ferens and Mrs O’Farrell have responsibilities within the pastoral space of the school and we look forward to their ongoing contribution to the wellbeing and support of our students and staff.
