12 September 2025

The Arts Celebration hot off the heels of the 'Music Assembly' provided a great window into the breadth of learning experiences our children receive. Yes we are all about the academics and achievement and... it all!

Big thanks to our teachers for their ingenuity, creativity, passion and sheer drive to make this annual event a reality. They really weave magic around everything else that needs to happen at school. Our children are the benefactors of their dedication and didn't they put on a show! What a terrific display of rich learning - all linked to the different Inquiry that has been the focus in each area.

Ka mahi te tawa uho ki te riri.
Well done, you whose courage is like the heart of the tawa tree.
Yes, it certainly takes some niwha/grit!

Onto yet another rich aspect of the curriculum - Te Ao Māori. The Education Act which guides national education and learning priorities  includes 'instilling in each child and young person an appreciation of the importance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and te reo Māori'. Schools are required to report on the Ministry of Education annually as to progress being made.

Although next week is officially Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori which prompts us to reflect on where we are at with our learning - we are trying really hard to keep things alive... daily. A big necessity is ongoing staff learning. We have been part of Kura Ahurea professional learning for a number of years. Through being part of this programme we are able to celebrate different pūrākau (stories) with a better knowledge of local historical narratives, tikanga and kawa. Plus te reo learning as an essential ingredient in this kaupapa.

Recently Suz lead the teachers through a poi making workshop - we were out there having a play after school in the courtyard in the sunshine. All remain intact and it was a lot of fun. Watch this space as I can see more poi coming our way soon.

All of the above are possible because of the energy and contribution you all put into the fair. We are fundraising for resourcing The Arts - orchestra, kapa haka, and also advancing our library learning and collections, alongside extra staffing and support in the classroom. To give our children all that we can in this window of time called primary school it's a squeeze that just can't be covered by our Government Grant. Big thanks to Jess, Megan and our Fair Team!

We have one more week before we rock into the break with hopefully spring vibes in our dance steps. Let's make it a great one.