5 August 2022

These days we plan.... and we hope!


Although we are somewhat wired to receive the negative more freely than the positive, I think we do a very good job here of attempting to live the principles of our foundation in positive psychology. The do good, feel good factor. What's that about walking the talk, talking the walk, walking the walk 'stuff'?!


So, at our regular staff meetings, we always begin with a WWW - a What Went Well - so that we make sure we celebrate all the good that's happening before we turn our attention to the trickier puzzles we are faced with. It's energising and helps us deal with challenge with greater ease. Of course, at this time, it's even more important as we take calculated risks in ramping up our 'community spirit' we are well renowned for.


Yesterday at the morning meeting, the WWW column on the agenda was already full by 8am. This is because there has been so much BUZZ amongst the staff and children with getting Assemblies back and running with the Zine Launch to kick it off. When I received word from Beth last weekend that she was unwell and would be away for the week it was 'a moment'. Since last year, Beth has been planning the Zine. It was her idea based on the hunch that a good deal of our children would be excited by Visual Literacy, the format of graphic novels, it could potentially raise comprehension and create excitement around reading and so on. It ticked so many boxes for us. It's been Beth that has led the staff and the brains behind the operation from Day 1. Her Character Strength of Perseverance has had a good shine up, believe me! So, Beth, congratulations - the initial taster Zine has launched and my goodness the anticipation of the first full issue will be growing!


The Autahi Stay and Play. How fab to see so many of our Rising 5s and Autahi whānau staying behind for a child and adult 'play'. Such a good opportunity to get to know a few more people in the Worser Bay village!


Music Jam - line up. Here comes the word 'hope' again - so hope all music we have lined up comes to fruition and if not...... well, we have to try!


This is just a bit of informal community fun. Bring your picnic, please eat in family groups then mask up (Year 4 and up). We have so many alumni keen to share their music - it's very cool that they want to come back and give back!


SAMPLE Jam Night Run Sheet

Kick off at 5.30pm in Tautoru

  1. Toia Mai, Karakia

  2. Orchestra 2-3

  3. Henry and friends……. Watermelon Man, Tequila

  4. Otto and Will - One Song

  5. Mackenzie Htay - Original music 2-3

  6. Thomas Bass Moore - Jazz 2-3 pieces + Everybody (with percussion instrument) Jam

  7. Jack Harris and Friends - Soul/Funk

  8. From the floor - a spontaneous tune?

  9. Bandits - 3-4 classics plus some originals

7.30pm-ish Finish


Bring any percussion you can find (maybe earphones for the small ones!)


Feels so good to have you all more present once again.