1 May 2026

It’s been wonderful to see our tamariki find their "tribe" during break times. Annie saw a gap in the market last year and instigated our ‘Super Singers’ club. Since then, they’ve collaborated with the orchestra and played a lovely role at our mihi whakatau and in assemblies. We love having something special for those who are prepared to ‘give up’ a lunchtime play to join in a different type of play - working toward something meaningful. Watch this space!

We also have a new entry into the lunchtime scene this term. Every Thursday, ‘Art Club’ takes place in the art room, led by one of our talented parents, Fiona. It will be exciting to see where this extra chance for artistic expression leads.

This year, we are seeing a more eclectic age range in our Kapa Haka leadership. These leaders will have plenty of opportunities to showcase their growing skills as the year progresses as well. We have plans!

Meanwhile, the Orchestra takes over the staffroom on Wednesday afternoons. Being situated in the office close by, I can say firsthand that there has been a lot of strumming and drum-beating lately! I’m certainly looking forward to the upcoming Orchestra and Super Singers collaboration - I hear Annie and Kirsten have been in ‘discussions’! :)

Term 3 is always the time for the infamous ‘Worser Bay Arts Celebration'. These little extra pockets of practice will serve us well as we drive up the classroom learning in the Arts.

The late and wise Sir Ken Robinson would be smiling. His world-renowned research reminds us that “the arts are as important in education as everything else, and we should treat them with the same status". This isn't just about "fun" - it’s about brain power. Neuroscience shows that the arts are essential for building the resilient, brave learners we want our children to be. When children engage in the arts, their brains aren't just "relaxing" - they are firing on all cylinders:

• Emotional Regulation: Activities like singing and dancing release endorphins and dopamine, which lower cortisol (the stress hormone). This helps children regulate their nervous systems and process emotions they might not yet have the words for.

• The Courage to be Wrong: Sir Ken famously said, “If you're not prepared to be wrong, you'll never come up with anything original.” The arts provide a safe environment for healthy risk-taking. Whether it’s a pop of paint or a drama performance, children learn that "mistakes" are simply part of the creative process, building the confidence to try new things.

A huge acknowledgement must go to our staff who have stepped up and out on their own musical journeys. Ukuleles ahoy! I am very much enjoying our staff ensemble at karakia and assemblies - it’s so powerful when children see adults modelling these "growth mindset" behaviours too.

Sir Ken argued that traditional education often "educates people out of their creativity". By making space for the arts, we aren't just teaching them to draw, sing, act, or make poi - we are opening doors to new ideas, opening hearts, and building curious minds.

Most importantly: all of this supports quality academic learning - it’s not in opposition to it!

…………Blame it on the boogie!

Ngā mihi nui