Term 3, Week 1, 2024

FROM THE PRINCIPAL Tēnā  koutou, e te whānau o Howick College, Welcome back to Term 3. It is fantastic to see the school settling quickly and everyone working hard. The return to school in Term 3 can be a significant wake-up call for senior students as they realise the academic year is coming to a close and external examinations are on the horizon. Combined with internal assessment deadlines and a multitude of other school events, this can be a daunting prospect. In my experience, this is the time of year when seniors experience the most stress. Several important strategies need to be employed by the school and students at this time. The school needs to be organised and ensure the Term 3 calendar is free of bottlenecks involving events, sports tournaments, and assessment deadlines. Well-organised schools will have planned this 12 months in advance. Additionally, the school needs to ensure that staff are alert to signs of stress in students and take appropriate actions to support them. We have come a long way from the days of the "concrete pill," and with a personalised approach to education, we should know our students well enough to provide appropriate support. It is also important that teachers do not work in isolation and understand that students are managing multiple activities, sports, and subjects. This holistic understanding helps every teacher support the students. Support does not mean lowering standards or expectations; it means working with and alongside students to help them better manage the load of Term 3 and encouraging them to keep going. However, the rubber does hit the road, and the students must do the work. There are no shortcuts in this regard. There are many quotes and stories about never giving up and that it’s never too late to start—all of which are true. The reality is that in learning and studying, every little bit helps. The quote, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step," is from a Chinese proverb and can certainly relate to studying for exams. For everyone, this journey is well underway; everyone is at a different place and pace. The recent break and feedback from teachers at the end of Term 2 provided an opportunity to reflect, gauge progress, and make adjustments for Term 3. Have a great weekend. Dale Burden Principal/Tumuaki

KEY DATES Tuesday 30 July - Saturday 3 August School Production 2024 Blood Brothers Wednesday 7 August Y9 2025 Parent Information Evening Monday 12 - Tuesday 13 August  Winter Teams & Groups Photos Thursday 15 August Subject Information Evening   KBB Music Festival Monday 19 August NZ Blood Collection Monday 26 August Teacher Only Day Wednesday 28 - Friday 30 August Dance Showcase - Contrast Monday 2 - Sunday 8 September Winter Tournament Week Wednesday 4 September Y9 Out-of-Zone Enrolment Applications Close Wednesday 11 September Y9 2025 Out-of-Zone Ballot Drawn Thursday 12 Sepember Arts & Extra Curricular Awards Monday 16 September - Friday 20 September Senior Practice Exams Thursday 26 September Howick College Fashion Show Friday 27 September Battle of the Bands PHOTOLIFE PHOTOS Now available for collection from the Student Office.

LOOKING BACK

2003 - A Great Year for Food & Hospitality

Mrs Roberts receives the HSI Award for Excellence.

Mr Dimery enjoys a gourmet lunch and excellent service.

2003 was an exciting year for the Food and Hospitality Department. The department moved into a new suite of food rooms that included a purpose-built café/restaurant, providing senior students with a working environment as close to industry reality as possible. The opening was a "spectacular" event officiated by then-Auckland Mayor Sir Barry Curtis and the Town Crier. The food on the night was superb and greatly enjoyed by all who attended. The restaurant opened 3 times a week, serving a 2-course gourmet lunch to upto 40 staff. The students did everything, from designing the menu to ordering the food, cooking, serving and cleaning up. The restaurant had to run at a profit, with all earnings going back into buying resources for the programme.

That same year, our talented team of staff and students entered the Hospitality Standards Institute (HSI) Awards for Excellence for the first time and won the top award in the schools section. These prestigious awards celebrate outstanding achievements in the hospitality industry across New Zealand, honoring excellence in both the accommodation and food and beverage sectors. Winning this award was a wonderful recognition of the quality of the food and service standards at Howick College. The department went on to win it for a second time, received 3 further nominations and our Head of Department and former chef, Mrs Rebecca Roberts, was nominated twice for Tutor of the Year.

50th Jubilee Registrations Open Now! Enjoy a weekend filled with a trip down memory lane, reconnecting with old friends and meeting familiar faces. You are welcome to join any or all of the events happening on the Friday and Saturday including Golf, High Tea, School Tour, Decade Photos and a Mix & Mingle. For updates follow us on Facebook Howick College Alumni

BLOOD BROTHERS OPENING SOON!

Our incredibly talented actors, musicians, technicians, and back stage crew have been working tirelessly to bring you our major school production for 2024. 

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Liverpool, Willy Russell’s compelling musical Blood Brothers will captivate you with its rich storytelling and unforgettable music. This gripping tale follows twin brothers separated at birth and raised in completely different worlds. As their lives unfold in vastly different directions, fate brings them back together in a reunion that leads to a powerful and dramatic conclusion. Get ready for a theatrical experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish!

Dates: Tuesday 30 July - Saturday 3 August at 7:00pm
Matinee: Saturday 3 August at 2:00pm
Tickets: $10 Child, $15 Student/Senior, $25 Adult. Available from the Cashier's Office in person or by phone on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Phone 09 534-4492 extn 825
Venue: Bill Dimery Performing Arts Centre

OPEN NIGHT DINNER CANCELLED 
Due to unforeseen circumstances, we have regrettably had to cancel the dinner portion of the Opening Night Dinner and Show package. We apologise to those who have already paid for their dinner and show; the show will still go on, and you will be reimbursed for the dinner portion of your ticket. The cast looks forward to seeing you on Tuesday evening at 7:00 pm.

SENIOR SUBJECT SELECTION EVENING

To support our current Year 10 students, parents and caregivers with the 2025 subject selection process, we will be holding a Subject Information Evening on Thursday 15 August. Teachers from all subject areas will be available to explain their courses and how students can pathway from Year 9 through to Year 13. While this evening is particularly focused on Year 10 students who will begin their NCEA journey in 2025, Year 11 and 12 students and their families are also welcome to attend.

The evening will begin in the Theatre at 5:00pm with a brief presentation from the Head of our Careers Department. We look forward to seeing you there.

SUBJECT SELECTION PROCESS FOR 2025

In term 3, students in Years 10, 11 and 12 will choose their subject options for 2025. Parents and caregivers should support their children to make these important decisions. All the information about the various subjects available at Howick College can be found on the Subject Pathways Map available on our website. Additional information and activities can be found at: https://www.careers.govt.nz/

All students will begin the process by completing a careers activity and attending a subject selection assembly.  Students will select their options in the relevant tutor times shown below:

Year 12 - Term 3 Week 2
Year 11 - Term 3 Week 5
Year 10 - Term 3 Week 7
Year 9 - Students will select their 2025 subjects in Term 4.

YEAR 9 2025 ENROLMENT INFORMATION EVENING

We warmly invite students and their families interested in enrolling for Year 9 in 2025 to join us on Wednesday 7 August, for a tour of the school, meet our dedicated teaching staff, interact with students from various year levels, ask questions, and experience our vibrant school community in action.                 

To register for 1 of 2 sessions starting at either 4:00pm or 5:00pm, please visit our website:   https://www.howickcollege.school.nz/enrolment-information-evening

Both sessions will begin in the Bill Dimery Performing Arts Centre.

CELEBRATING GUIDING EXCELLENCE

During the term 2 holidays, Freya Newbould (Y13) had the incredible honor of traveling to Wellington at the invitation of the Governor General for the Vice-Regal Reception at Government House, to celebrate achieving her Queen’s Guide Award. This prestigious award is the highest achievement in Girl Guiding New Zealand and requires exceptional dedication, leadership, and community service. It fosters personal growth, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact. The Governor General, the Right Honourable Dame Cindy Kiro, expressed her pride in the 79 recipients from Aotearoa New Zealand who earned this distinguished award. Freya has been a dedicated member of Kilkenny Rangers, participating in Pippins, Brownies, and Guides since the age of 5. Congratulations Freya, on this outstanding achievement!

CAREERS DEPARTMENT

Air New Zealand warmly invite students and parents to attended one of 2 sessions at their Pilot Career Evening on Wednesday 21 August. At the event, there will be a presentation by Air New Zealand (1 hour duration), and a chance to talk to Air New Zealand Pilots and flight training organisations about pilot careers.

Tickets are free and available at Eventbrite or visit the Careers Department for the link.
Please note: Spaces are limited and fill up quickly

UNIFORM REMINDER As winter continues, 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: Black waterproof jacket with crest Black V-necked jersey with crest Charcoal/white pinstripe ankle-length skirt Charcoal/white pinstripe trousers  Black/red/white Howick College scarf  Those wearing the knee-length or ankle-length skirt may also choose to wear black opaque stockings Those wearing shorts, can chose to wear the knee-high charcoal/red stripe sock (pulled up to the knee) or the black/red stripe crew sock 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. HOWICK COLLEGE LIBRARY BOOK OF THE WEEK Arms and Armour: The Mightiest Weapons and Technology in the Marvel Universe Available from our temporary library in L6.   This book is a visual exploration of the weapons, armour, and technology of the Marvel comics. It delves into their creation and history. Who is Iron Man without his armour, or Thor without his hammer? Learn about the mightiest weapons ever made. From Iron Man's armour to Cap's shield, and Star-Lord blasters to Gamora's godslayer, the Marvel universe is filled with iconic weapons, armour, and technology. Wielded by some of the greatest heroes and villains ever created, many of these objects have histories just as compelling as the characters who use them. Some are hi-tech, futuristic creations, others have mystical origins. A few have destroyed worlds or sent entire empires crashing into dust. This is their story… For fans of the stories and characters from the Marvel universe. SPORTS NEWS Premier Netballers Make NZ U21 Squad Charlie Lindsay - Premier Netball Vice Captain   Avah Sila - Premier Netball Captain Congratulations to Year 12 students and Howick College premier netball stars Avah Sila and Charlie Lindsay on their selection for the prestigious Netball NZ U21 squad! This is an incredible honour and a testament to their exceptional talent and dedication. As part of the 23-strong squad, Avah and Charlie will now focus on earning a spot in the team representing New Zealand at the Youth World Netball Cup in Gibraltar from 19 to 28 September, 2025. Their selection is a proud moment for Howick College, which has a reputation for producing outstanding netball players. The U21 squad also includes former student and Pulse shooter Amelia Walmsley, who has achieved remarkable success with five Test caps for the Silver Ferns after making her debut against England last year. This continued legacy of excellence highlights the incredible talent nurtured at Howick College. We’re delighted to support Avah and Charlie as they embark on this exciting journey and continue to make us proud on the world stage! 2024 Aotearoa Māori Netball Secondary School Team   Congratulations to another Howick College sports high flyer, Skylah Tainui-Takerei (Year 13), on her selection for the Aotearoa Māori netball team that will compete in Fiji at the end of September. This impressive achievement comes hard on the heels of Skylah's recent return from England, where she represented New Zealand at the 2024 Touch Rugby World Cup. Her selection for the Aotearoa Māori netball team followed a rigorous 2-day camp that included whakawhanaungatanga (building and nurturing relationships), player profiling, fitness testing, specialist skills sessions, and trial matches. Skylah was confirmed as one of 12 kōhine (young women) to make the team, reflecting her exceptional talent and dedication. Congratulations also go to Unuhia Crosby Te-Whare (Y13) who has been named as a non-travelling reserve. Underwater Hockey Age Group World Championships  The full Howick College Contingent from left: Tim Bavelaar (2019) U24M, Sam Marshall (2019) U24M, Ben Hew (Y13) U19M, Rebecca Deen (2019) U24W, Phoebe Ata (2013) U24W, Kendra Scully (Y13) U19W, Juliet Curwood (2013) U19W When the NZ Underwater Hockey selectors were deciding who should lead their teams into the Age Group World Championships held in Kuala Lumpur from July 16 -27, they looked to Howick College to fill the top spots! Three out of the four New Zealand teams are captained by former Howick College players, alongside our current outstanding coaches. New Zealand are the defending World Champions in the Women's U19 & U24 grades as well as the U19 Men. Our U24 men are hoping to do better than the bronze last time. We wish them all the very best, and look forward to following their future achievements. Congratulations to the following team captains: NZ Mens U24: Sam Marshall (2019) NZ Womens U24: Rebecca Deen (2019) NZ Women's U19: Juliet Curwood (2023  Rising Rugby League Stars   Congratulations to our own Jhaedis Paerau-Mimita (Y10, left) and Jonty Pilkington (Y11) who were selected for the Kotahitanga U15 Rugby League team that travelled to Sydney on July 14 to play against the U16 Manly Sea Eagles and U15 Rabbitohs development teams. Although they narrowly lost both games, it was a fantastic effort and an amazing experience for these dediacted young athletes! It was also a great opportunity to showcase their skills and abilities in front of the Australian scouts who were present. Premier Teams Sport Draw  FRIDAY 26 JULY 1st XI Football Boys vs Macleans College, Venue: HOME GAME, Kick-off: 3:15pm SATURDAY 27 JULY  Netball Premier 1 vs One Tree Hill College, Venue: ANC Ct B, Start: 9:30am Netball Premier 2 vs St Cuthbert's College, Venue: ANC Ct A, Start: 8:30am 1st XV Boysvs Waitakere College, Venue: Waitakere College, Kick-Off 12:00pm MONDAY 29 JULY 1st XV Rugby Girls vs Kelston Girls' College Venue: Archibald Park, Kick-off: 4:00pm Learn to Row Sign Ups The rowing season runs over Term 3 2024 and Term 1 2025. We are starting with our learn to row trial which is over 4 weeks commencing Sunday 4 August. For more information, please email [email protected]. Underwater Hockey Sausage Sizzle & Bake Sale Thursday 1 August @ Lunchtime in C Block Support our Underwater Hockey Squad fundraiser and solve your problem of what to eat for lunch at the same time! Follow Sport @ Howick College For sports draws, results and the latest sports news, follow Howick College Sports on Facebook and Instagram or visit the Sports page on the Howick College website by clicking on the icons below.        HEALTH CENTRE Students Unwell At School If students are feeling unwell during class, they will need to obtain a permission slip from their classroom teacher to go to the Health Centre, students can also choose to drop-in during interval or lunchtime. The nurse will assess the student's health and, if necessary, contact their parents/caregivers for their consent to send the student home. If contacted by the nurse to pick up their child, parents can collect the student from the Health Centre and sign them out of school. Students are NOT to contact their parents/caregivers directly to make their own arrangements to go home. If your chld contacts you independently, please encourage them to go to the Health Centre for assessment. COMMUNITY NOTICES Warm Up Winter - Community Initiative The Howick and Pakuranga Community Houses Inc Society Board is excited to announce Warm Up Winter Homemade Soup Fridays and Used Clothing Repair Evenings at Highland Park Community House, 47 Aviemore Drive, starting 2nd August. Every Friday in August (2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th) from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, attendees can enjoy a free cup of homemade soup and benefit from complimentary clothing repairs by an experienced seamstress. Everyone is welcome to this free, no-strings-attached community service. For more information, contact Jennie at 09 534 5584.