Term 2, Week 2, 2025

FROM THE PRINCIPAL Tēnā koutou, e te whānau o Howick College, A new Pope has been elected, and he is sounding much like the last—Pope Francis, who passed away over Easter. Pope Francis’s famous quote, originally credited to Martin Luther King, “building bridges, not walls”, is an important thought to put into action every day of the week. The opportunity to build bridges with other cultures and countries will be very apparent at our annual Po Fiafia event next week, where we celebrate the multicultural nature of our college. On a wider scale, we are proud to have welcomed 99 students from 18 different countries into our international department so far this year. On Thursday, several teams from St George’s School in Argentina (known as the Dragons), a touring rugby 7s team from a Japanese high school, and a Fijian rugby team visited Howick College, engaging in friendly competition across various sports. In addition to these visits, our own Girls' 7s team recently returned from the Sanix World Rugby Youth Tournament in Japan. The interaction and collaboration across cultures has been great to see and highlights the value of internationalism in education. Howick College vs St Geroge's Dragons  (Photo by Nathan Cox, Y13) Fostering an internationally minded perspective has never been more important, given the isolationist and anti-immigrant narratives that often dominate the media. Our students are entering a workforce that has a  demand for skills which transcend borders—cultural competence and the ability to work in diverse teams will be essential. The reality for our students is that they will need more than just technical skills. They will need to work alongside people from different backgrounds and think critically about global challenges. The future of work will be shaped by both technological advancements and the globalisation of markets. As a college, we play a vital role in connecting our students to the world and helping them develop understanding and empathy for other cultures. You do this by building bridges, not walls. Have a great weekend. Dale Burden Principal/Tumuaki

KEY DATES Tuesday 13 May Po Fiafia Evening from 7:00pm 12BUS Market Day - Lunchtime in C Block Courtyard Wednesday 14 May NCEA Music Concert - 6:30pm Thursday 15 May NCEA Music Concert - 7:00pm Friday 16 May Pink Shirt Day Monday 19 - Thursday 29 May Numeracy/Literacy Exams Saturday 24 May School Ball  Monday 2 June King's Birthday - Public Holiday Tuesday 10 & Thursday 12 June Y13 Drama presents The Odyssey Wednesday 11 & Friday 13 Y13 Drama presents Yerma Thursday 19 June Midwinter Festival Friday 20 June Matariki - Public Holiday Sunday 22 - Tuesday 24 June Jazz Band & Orchestra Tour Monday 23 June Teacher Only Day Thursday 26 June International Food Festival Non-Uniform Day Friday 27 June Last Day Term 2

ATTENDANCE MATTERS

ATTENDANCE CATEGORIES & THE IMPACT OF ABSENCES

As part of our ongoing focus, we remind students and parents of the strong connection between regular attendance (over 90%) and academic success. Students who attend school consistently are in the best position to achieve their goals and make the most of their learning opportunities.

As shown in the graphic above from the Ministry of Education, it’s clear that even a small amount of absence can add up over time and have a significant impact on a student’s progress. The graphic highlights just how important regular attendance is for staying on track.

This aligns with the Government’s Every Day Matters initiative, which reinforces the importance of daily school attendance. We encourage everyone to prioritise being at school every day to ensure students can succeed and reach their full potential.

PO FIAFIA 2025 We are delighted to invite our Howick College community to join us in an exciting celebration of culture at our annual Po Fiafia evening featuring traditional dances, music, and cultural performances that showcase the rich diversity of the Howick College community. From the energetic beats of the Pacific Islands to the graceful movements of Asia, this will be a night to remember! Date: Tuesday 13 May, 2025 Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm  Venue: Howick College Main Gym Admission: Gold coin koha at the door Bring your friends and family to celebrate our community's rich cultural tapestry. Join us for an evening of entertainment and unity that you won't want to miss!

UNIFORM REMINDER As the days shorten and become chillier, we would like to remind students and caregivers that there are a number of warmer uniform options that students can choose from if they are feeling the cold. These include the following Howick College regulation items (Click here for more detailed uniform information): Black waterproof jacket with crest Black V-necked jersey with crest Charcoal/white pinstripe ankle-length skirt Regulation charcoal/white pinstripe trousers  Black/red Howick College scarf  Those wearing the knee-length skirt may also choose to wear black opaque stockings Singlets ONLY may be worn under the uniform shirt but must not be visible

PLEASE NOTE: Beanies, tee-shirts and thermals (short or long sleeved), hoodies, sweatshirts and any other non-regulation items are NOT permitted and will be confiscated as outlined in our Uniform Process.

MEET THE TEAM BEHIND THE SCENES

Science Technicians, Mrs Taburnot and Mrs Lim

 At Howick College, a dedicated team works behind the scenes to support our students and staff. This week, we shine a light on our two highly qualified Science Department technicians, Mrs Vanessa Tabunot and Mrs Rachel Lim, whose work is essential to the smooth delivery of practical science education.

Mrs Vanessa Tabunot (Bachelor of Engineering - Chemical)
Mrs Tabunot joined the Science Department in 2011. With a background in industrial laboratory and production work, she brings a wealth of experience to her role, complemented by the skills developed through motherhood. She values the opportunity this role provides to engage with her passion for science while supporting like-minded colleagues and maintaining a strong work–life balance.

Mrs Rachel Lim (Master of Science - Food Science)
With a background in the food industry, Mrs Lim has previously worked at two other schools before joining Howick College in 2023. She describes the Howick College Science Department as a wonderfully multicultural team of talented individuals. She enjoys the variety and challenge of the role, as two days are ever the same.

Mrs Tabunot and Mrs Lim play a key role in supporting the teaching of science at Howick College. Their responsibilities include setting up, trialling, and delivering equipment and chemicals for experiments, carrying out minor repairs or modifications, and advising staff on practical resources and equipment. They also manage the safe storage, labelling, and disposal of hazardous substances in line with GHS standards and school policy, and assist with the implementation of health and safety guidelines.

Both are proud to be part of a department that inspires curiosity, fuels discovery, and empowers students to explore the world through a lens of wonder and possibility.

HOWICK YOUTH COUNCIL BREAKFAST

Tuesday morning marked an early start for Howick College’s three Youth Council representatives — Kate Donnell (Year 13), Bhavya Madan (Year 13), and Charlotte Hutton (Year 12) — who attended the 2025 Howick Youth Council Principals’ Breakfast in Pakuranga.

The event brought together youth council members from secondary schools across East Auckland, alongside school principals and representatives from the Howick Local Board. It provided an excellent opportunity for young leaders to connect, share ideas, and present their strategic goals for the year ahead.

All three Howick College students delivered speeches, offering thoughtful insights into the initiatives they will be working on throughout 2025, and highlighting the importance of amplifying youth voices in the community.

The Howick Youth Council comprises 32 volunteers aged 12 to 24 from across East Auckland. Supported by the Howick Local Board, the Council exists to represent, empower, and create opportunities for young people in the region.

Congratulations Kate, Bhavya, and Charlotte on representing the school with confidence, clarity, and leadership.

LITERACY & NUMERACY WORKSHOPS

Literacy and Numeracy workshops will run over the first three weeks of Term 2 to help prepare students for the upcoming Co-Requisite exams in Weeks 4 and 5 of Term 2.

All students are welcome to attend any of the following workshops:

If you are having any issues creating your NZQA account please see Mrs Nairn in the Study Centre during lunch times in A4.

40 HOUR CHALLENGE - MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Howick College is once again participating in the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge, with this year’s exciting goal of raising $5,000 to support sustainability projects in the Solomon Islands. Our dedicated 2025 World Vision student leaders — Evie Hollyman, Nikita Keeling, Lana Hattingh, Ziva Hollard, Aliya Symister, and Theodore Florea — are leading the charge with passion and commitment. Recently, the group was inspired by Youth Ambassador Joel from World Vision NZ (centre in orange), who shared his insights and encouraged everyone to get involved.

This is your chance to be part of something bigger — to challenge yourself, raise funds, and make a real impact on a global scale. Pick up a booklet from the Student Office and start planning your 40 Hour Challenge now! Whether it's giving up something for 40 hours, volunteering your time, or finding your own creative way to contribute, we want to see the Howick College community come together for this important cause.

LEO CLUB CUSHIONS FOR PATIENTS APPEAL

The Howick College LEO Club is continuing its support of Middlemore Hospital this year by sewing comfort cushions for patients recovering from colorectal surgery. These handmade cushions play an important role in the hospital’s therapy programme and have been greatly appreciated by both staff and patients. To keep this meaningful project going, the LEO Club is asking for donations of fabric and cushion filling. Every contribution helps to make a difference for people in recovery. Donations can be dropped off at the Howick College Student Office. Thank you for your support!

PINK SHIRT DAY 2025

All staff and students are encouraged to wear pink on Friday 16 May in support of Pink Shirt Day. Pink Shirt Day aims to raise awareness and help create a positive school environment free from bullying where everyone feels safe and valued and diversity is celebrated. By taking part in Pink Shirt Day 2025, you will be doing your part to eliminate bullying by celebrating diversity and promoting kindness and inclusion

Please note: Pink Shirt Day is a non-uniform day for those wearing major items of pink clothing (i.e. hoodies, sweatshirts, jackets, skirts, trousers etc.). If you are not supporting Pink Shirt Day, then you must come to school in your normal school uniform. No donation is required however, the normal rules surrounding appropriate non-uniform clothing apply.

FRIDAYS@TWELVE MUSIC CONCERT

Join us on Friday, 30 May at 12 noon for a vibrant celebration of music as Howick College takes the stage at the Uxbridge Fridays at Twelve concert. This special concert will showcase the talents of our Jazz Band, String Orchestra, and Choir, along with a variety of instrumental and vocal solos and duets. From classical to contemporary, it’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the skill and passion of our student performers. Time: 12 Noon, Friday 30 May Venue: Uxbridge Arts and Culture, 35 Uxbridge Road, Howick Tickets: $6 – Available online, from the Uxbridge customer services desk, or at the door (from 11:30am, on the day if not sold out) Come along and enjoy an hour of exceptional music, from our talented performers. Bring a friend and treat yourself to a midday musical escape!

CAREERS DEPARTMENT NEWS

Pacific Island Leaders Of Tomorrow 

Year 13 Pasifika students attend the MIT PILOT Programme

The Pacific Island Leaders of Tomorrow (PILOT) programme is an inspiring event designed to empower Pasifika students as they prepare for life beyond school. Bringing together Year 13 students from across the region, the programme offers a supportive and culturally affirming environment where students reflect on their journeys, hear from inspirational speakers, and connect with others who share similar aspirations.

This year, several of our Year 13 Pasifika students represented Howick College at PILOT for the first time. Initially quiet and reserved, they soon embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm and confidence. The event not only showcased student talent across the wider community, but also gave participants the chance to hear from motivating leaders and role models. One of the attendees, Dellarose Mimita, described the experience as powerful and uplifting: “It was truly welcoming to be in an environment with other Pacific Islanders who are also preparing for life after school.”

A quote shared during the programme that really resonated with Dellarose was from Franklin D. Roosevelt: “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” For her, it served as a reminder that life’s challenges are what shape us.

“Life has its ups and downs, and it ultimately teaches us valuable lessons when we fall—like how not to fall again. And falling? That’s okay. The PILOT programme is definitely an event that all Pasifika students should experience. So, one question I took from the programme that I’ll leave for other Pasifika students to think about is this: ‘How will you leave your mark in school?’”

The Careers Department is extremely proud of these students for stepping outside their comfort zones and making the most of this valuable experience. We are excited to see the contributions they will make in their communities and beyond. Keep pushing boundaries and striving for greatness—you are the leaders of tomorrow.

Upcoming Education Provider Visits

Who: NZMA (New Zealand Management Academies) Zealand Management Academies 
What:  To speak with students who may be interested in the various courses offered, including hospitality, trades, sports, health, business, and more.  
When: Monday 12th May, 1.40pm lunchtime
Where: H3

Who: The Skills Group 
What:  To talk to students who are interested in apprenticeships and training in electrical, plumbing, drainage, and gas-fitting.  
When: Tuesday 13th May, 1.40pm lunchtime
Where: H3

CAREERWISE
Don't forget to check out CareerWise, a central hub for students and parents to access career-related information and opportunities. This platform is available via the Careers page on our website and provides up-to-date information on career events at school. It also brings together essential tools, resources, and opportunities in one easy-to-use site.

STUDY CENTRE    If you are a student looking to enhance your learning or a parent encouraging your child to seek extra support, student tutors are now available to help. Tutoring sessions can be booked through the Study Centre button on the Howick College website. Students must use their school email to book. Parents and caregivers cannot book on their behalf. Tutors can be booked for a one-off session or set up for ongoing weekly support. The Study Centre also provides a quiet space for students to work independently on their classwork and homework. Take advantage of this valuable support service to build confidence and improve learning outcomes! Where: A4 When: Interval & Lunchtime SPORTS NEWS International Sports Day The Argentinian flag flies proudly over Howick College in honour of our visiting teams from St George's College. Howick College was proud to host a vibrant afternoon of international sport and cultural exchange on Thursday, welcoming visiting teams from Argentina, Japan, and Fiji. The event brought together teams from St George’s College (Quilmes, Buenos Aires Province), Kanto Gakuin Matsuura High School (Yokohama), and Lelean Memorial School (Fiji) for a series of friendly matches and shared cultural experiences. St George’s College, a prestigious bilingual school known for blending British educational traditions with Argentine culture, competed in rugby and basketball against our Howick College teams. Matches included our Year 10 Rugby Academy team - proudly sponsored by Walker Homes Ltd - taking on their U16B side, the 2nd XV playing their U16A team, and our U17A basketball team going head-to-head with their U17s. Meanwhile, our Girls’ Rugby Sevens team had the exciting opportunity to face off against Kanto Gakuin Mutsuura—our Japanese sister school and recent winners of the Sanix World Youth Rugby Tournament. It was a special rematch on home turf, following our girls’ recent trip to Japan. Clockwise from top left: Y10 Rugby Academy, U17 Basketball, Mr Alvarez Prado with St George's representative, Lealean rugby team Although not competing on the day, Lelean Memorial School's rugby team joined us as spectators, adding to the vibrant multicultural atmosphere and friendly spirit of the occasion. We hope to face the team on the field later in the term. The event extended well beyond the sports field. Reflecting Howick College’s strong commitment to cultural inclusivity, Mr Sergio Alvarez Prado (TiC Spanish) and senior Spanish students gave a warm welcome to the Argentinian group in their native language. Members of the Sports and International Departments also played an important role in supporting the day’s success. It was a memorable celebration of sport, language, and global connection—showcasing the strength of our international relationships and the values of hospitality, respect, and cultural understanding. A sincere thank you to all the staff and students involved, especially our Sports Department, whose dedication behind the scenes ensured a smooth and successful day. 1st XI Hockey Success Continues Our Boys’ 1st XI Hockey team has made a strong start to the season, following last week’s 1–0 win over St Kentigern College with an emphatic 5-0 victory over Macleans College this week. Congratulations to Glenn Solomann, Connor Vazey, Alex Yin, Hamish Lad, and Yash Patel on finding the back of the net, and a special mention to Harvey Powell, who made his debut on Thursday. A great team effort and an encouraging start to the season! Meanwhile, our Girls’ 1st XI Hockey team has also enjoyed back-to-back wins, with a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Pakuranga College this week. The team showed outstanding determination and teamwork, truly reflecting our 4C values. Goalkeeper Trixie Kruger was a standout on the night, making some incredible saves to help secure the win. Well done to both teams! Premier Teams Sports Draw - Week 3 MONDAY 12 MAY 1st XV Girls' Rugby vs McAuley High School, Venue: Sturges Park, Kick-off: 4:00pm 1st XI Girls' Football vs Western Springs College, Venue: HOME GAME, Kick-off: 4:00pm TUESDAY 13 MAY Premier Boys' Basketball vs AGC Parnell College, Venue: Elim College, Start: 5:00pm WEDNESDAY 14 MAY Howick 1 Badminton vs Venue: Lloyd Elsmore Hall Ct 10, Start: 3:30pm 1st XI Girls' Football vs Marist College, Venue: Walker Park, Field 1, Kick-off: 4:00pm 1st XI Boys' Hockey vs Botany Downs Secondary College, Venue: LEP Turf 1, Start: 4:30pm THURSDAY 15 MAY Senior Girls' Basketball vs Mt Albert Grammar School, Venue: Baradene College Ct 1, Start: 5:30pm 1st XI Girls' Hockey vs Glendowie College, Venue: LEP, Turf 1, Start: 4:30pm FRIDAY 16 MAY 1st XI Boys' Football vs King's College, Venue: TBC, Kick-off: TBC SATURDAY 17 MAY 1st XI Boys' Rugby BYE

KINDO PAYMENTS   Kindo is now our preferred payment system for donations, course and sports fees, school trips, fundraisers, and more. What this means: Payments can no longer be made via the Kamar Financial tab or direct bank deposits. Families are encouraged to set up a Kindo account, remembering to use the email address on file with the school. If you already have a myKindo or ezlunch account, simply update your details—no need to create a new account. If your account has been inactive for over 15 months, contact the Kindo Helpdesk to reactivate it. For full sign-up instructions, click here to download the flyer or visit our website. If you need assistance, please visit the Kindo online support pages. Need more help? Kindo Helpdesk: 8:00am – 4:00pm (weekdays) Freephone: 0508 4 KINDO (0508 454 636) Email: [email protected]

HOWICK COLLEGE LIBRARY - BOOK OF THE WEEK