9 February 2024

Tūngia te uruuru kia tupu whakaritorito te tupu o te harakeke


This whakataukī really sings to me as we begin a new school year. It speaks about the harakeke, the importance of clearing away the undergrowth around the plant so that the new shoots can grow and flourish.


The harakeke isn't just referring to the children, I don't think! Catching up with some of you over the last week, it became apparent that, for many of us, we either enjoyed a staying put time in our fair city or an escape to nature - getting into the bush, the sand and the sea. After a few interesting years for the world, we really needed some space to clear away some of the undergrowth, so to speak.


We had numerous staff meetings (hopefully all highly effective!) before your return. At one of these meetings, I asked some of the staff what their aspirations were for the year, their hopes, dreams and what they were excited about. So, naturally - I had to turn the mirror inward and share what my thinking was too. I can never get away with much with this lot ;)!


For me, it's clear. In 2023, we were faced with a bump in the road when we couldn't find a teacher mid year, no matter how many haystacks we searched in. This was indeed challenging but, not only did we have to get curious, creative, connected...., we had to totally go outside the box and develop quite a different model for two terms in the Senior School. We didn't just survive, in the main - we managed to thrive. Our staff grew and evolved, our children experienced new skillsets, passions and strengths from a range of adults involved in facilitating their growth.


When we are challenged, we need to model all of those things we ask of the children - Growth Mindset, some Optimism, a sprinkle of Hope and some Determination! On top of this, we managed to make the most accelerated progress in Reading, Writing and Maths that we have possibly ever - AND - I could go on about the stunning teamwork including Mana whenua, students, whānau, staff, artists, architects, engineers, 'creatives in schools' funding grant..... in pulling together our terrific Pou. This was a project not for the faint-hearted and one that means so much to us. John had an idea once and ...........!


So, my response was - if we can do this in 2023 - what on earth are we capable of in 2024? I left it open ended. Although we have clear Annual Plans, targets, and the how all detailed - it's the extra bit, the unknown... that's where the magic lies.


So, yes - the undergrowth needs careful attention for the harekeke to truly be able to flourish in the way it might. We are excited to have you with us in '24. Let's keep our eyes and ears wide open and get seeking opportunities to add the 'extra' for all in our community.


UPCOMING DATES TO MIX AND MINGLE