Tēnā koutou, e te whānau o Howick College,
 On Wednesday evening this week, the NCEA information evening was very well attended and provided outstanding and relevant information to our community. NCEA began in 2002 with Level One, with Levels Two and Three being rolled out in subsequent years. I was drafted out of my school to join seven others as national facilitators of the professional development needed for teachers at the time. We spent half a year touring the country and running workshops. I had always believed in standards-based assessment, so this was an enjoyable and rewarding role.
Secondary school teachers have long been at the heart of this qualification because we have always seen its undoubted benefits. It’s a standards-based system built on the principle that all students should have the opportunity to succeed and be rewarded for what they know. Back in 2001, it was clear that the old norm-referenced system had to go for a number of reasons, including the built-in failure rate.
With NCEA, the incorporation of continuous assessment during the year, rather than just relying solely on an examination, is a fairer assessment of learning. Some schools, over time, have opted out of Level 1 and/or offered international alternatives for selected students. At Howick College, we believe that NCEA is a rigorous, accessible, and inclusive qualification that is just as good as—if not better than—any international alternative. We are also committed to all three levels of the qualification, as we believe that the added rigour a national qualification provides at Level 1 is vital for success in Levels 2 and 3 and beyond. Importantly, as it currently stands, Level 1 also provides a more valid pathway to achieving the literacy and numeracy corequisites than a one-off test.
While some recent modifications have not been managed well by various government departments, it is important that our qualification is not undermined. It is demoralising for the students and teachers who are working hard to constantly hear negative commentary in the media from a small but vocal group that offers only criticism with no solutions.
As you may be aware, the current government is reviewing aspects of NCEA. While we don’t know for sure what the outcomes of this review will be, our teachers remain committed to NCEA at Howick College and will continue to work hard with each and every student to help them be the best that they can be.
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Have a great weekend.
Dale Burden
Principal/Tumuaki
| | Wednesday 19 March
Rugby Girls' 7s Golf Fundraiser
Thursday 20 & Friday 21 March
Summer Sports Teams,
Cultural Groups & Y13 Photos
Monday 24 - Friday 28 March
Summer Tournament Week
Friday 28 March
Teacher Only Day
Tuesday 8 April - Friday May 2
Dental Planet on Site
Friday 4 April
NZ Blood Collection
Monday 7 - Thursday 10 April
Senior Drama Production
Monday 7 - Friday 11 April
Spirit Week
Friday 11 April
Term 1 Ends
Friday 18 April
Good Friday
Monday 21 April
Easter Monday
Friday 25 April
ANZAC Day
Monday 28 April
Term 2 Begins
*Girls' Rugby 7s
Sausage Sizzle Fundraiser
Every Thursday at Lunchtime
During Term 1
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MEET THE TEAM BEHIND THE SCENES From left: Mrs Monoyoudis, Mrs Andrew and Mrs Johnson At Howick College, a dedicated team works behind the scenes to support our students and staff. Over the next few weeks, we’ll introduce you to the key individuals who help keep the school running smoothly.
This week, we would like to introduce our Student Office team and Front Office receptionist who play key roles in supporting the school's day-to-day operations. As frontline staff, they are often the first point of contact for parents or the last friendly face students see at the end of the day. Their knowledge of the students and their solution-focused approach allow them to navigate complex situations with calmness and positivity, making a real difference in the daily life of the school.
The Student Office Team
Located in the Administration Block, the Student Office is open every school day from 8:00am to 3:30pm. Mrs Andrew and Mrs Johnson, manage a variety of student services, including attendance, lost property, locker hire, and formal uniform management. They also oversee the school runners, reflections, and assist with tasks such as printing certificates for awards. In addition, they help coordinate school events and are always ready to pitch in where needed. Students can visit the Student Office to sign in if late, sign out for appointments, or request replacement ID cards.
Front Office Reception
Available from 8:00am to 4:00pm, Mrs Monoyoudis is the welcoming first point of contact for parents and visitors to the school. She handles phone calls, emails, general inquiries, assists with enrolments, coordinates deliveries, and ensures the efficient distribution of materials across the school. Mrs Monoyoudis also liaises between the school and the bus companies, providing up to date information for our bus students. She is perhaps best known for her wonderful festive decorations and her keen eye for detail when it comes to coordinating special school events.
Together, these three dedicated individuals provide vital support to students, staff, and parents, ensuring the smooth running of the school and contributing to the positive atmosphere at Howick College.
UNIFORM REMINDERSLast year, we raised expectations around uniform standards, personal grooming. Our students have worked hard to meet these higher standards, and while we celebrate their efforts, we recognise there is still room for improvement.
KNEE-LENGTH SKIRT OPTION
Students wearing the knee-length skirt option must ensure it is worn at the correct length (see image). Students who repeatedly wear the knee-length skirt too high, may be required to wear the full-length skirt only.
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SANDAL REGULATIONS
Parents and students are reminded that all sandals must have a black leather upper and a supportive back heel strap. Pictured below are examples of acceptable sandal styles.
Please note - Slides and crocs are NOT permitted.
 UoA JUNIOR MATHEMATICS COMPETITION All students in Years 9, 10, and 11 who are New Zealand residents are invited to take part in the University of Otago Junior Mathematics Competition. This iconic competition, now in its 40th year, will be held as a single part, paper based competition. The competition lasts for 50 minutes and will be conducted at school during school hours.
WHEN: Wednesday May 7, 2025
COST: $5 per student. Please note that this is covered in your Course fee, if it has been paid for the year.
All students who wish to participate, must register with their Math teacher before 1st April, 2025. Any further queries, please email the HOLA - Mathematics & Statistics at [email protected]
CAREERS DEPARTMENT NEWS"Your Education" Visit | | This week, our Careers team hosted "Your Education" —a New Zealand owned and operated student exchange provider—and the response was incredible, with over 70 students attending! "Your Education" offers high quality exchange programmes and exciting opportunities for students interested in experiencing global learning. For those unable to attend, they will also be hosting online information evenings for students and parents at the following times -
Wednesday, 19 March, 6:00pm
Thursday, 3 April, 6:00pm
To register go to www.youreducation.co.nz
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Upcoming University VisitsWho: The University of Otago
What: The University of Otago will be here to talk to students about the courses on offer and life on campus.
When: Tuesday 11 March, 1:40pm (lunchtime)
Where: H3
Who: The University of Canterbury
What: The University of Canterbury will be here to talk to about the courses on offer and life on campus.
When: Thursday 13 March, 1:40pm (lunchtime)
Where: H3
Who: Massey University
What: Massey University's Head of the School of Agriculture and Environment—Paul Kenyon, is coming to the Careers Department to talk to any student who is interested in Agriculture Science, Horticulture, Agribusiness, Earth & Environmental Science, and Animal Science.
When: Friday 14 March 10:50am (tutor)
Where: H3
For the latest Careers updates and information, please visit our CareerWise hub.
KINDO PAYMENTS | | As most of our community will now be aware, we have introduced Kindo as 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]
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NCEA CO-REQUISITE EXAM PREPARATIONFor those students who will be sitting the Co-Requisite exams in Term 2, please make sure you sign up to the relevant Google Classroom using the codes listed below. It is crucial that you do this so that you can receive any important information regarding these exams. Lunchtime workshops will begin in week 8.
Literacy Co-requisite 2025 Support: ob5rxtk
| | Numeracy Co-requisite 2025 Support: fdtihwj
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STUDY CENTRE
Where: A4
When: Interval & Lunchtime
The Study Centre provides a quiet space for students to work independently on their classwork and homework. Student tutors are not yet confirmed, but we will update you once they are available for bookings. | |  |
SPORTS NEWSCount Down To Sanix World Cup, 2025Congratulations to the talented players selected for the Howick College Girls' Rugby 7s squad, who will represent both their school and their country at the Sanix World Youth Invitational Rugby Tournament in Japan next month! With just 42 days until departure, the squad has been training hard for weeks as they prepare to compete on the international stage.
2025 marks Howick College’s return to this prestigious tournament, following a memorable 4th place finish in 2019. Since then, the squad has made remarkable progress, and under the guidance of coach Mr Waisake Sotutu, the team is ready to take on the world once again.
As the countdown to their departure begins, we encourage our community to follow the team’s exciting journey! Don’t miss the chance to support them and be part of this incredible adventure.
Join us for the squad’s golf tournament fundraiser! There are still spots available for teams to get involved and help cover the costs of the trip. It’s a great way to support our athletes while having fun.
For more details, please see the flyer below or contact Mrs Kate Pike at [email protected].
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 Outstanding Week of Cricket Left: Yom Patel, Daniel Wellm and Mathew Scragg. Right: Junior Boys' T20 Team 1ST XI BOYS
Our 1st XI Boys returned to winning form this week with a comprehensive victory over Rangitoto College. Opting to bowl after winning the toss, the team bowled Rangitoto out for just 82 runs on a challenging wicket. The bowling effort was outstanding, with notable performances from Trent McVeigh (3/11) and Billy White (3/20). Howick chased down the target in just 13.2 overs, despite losing a wicket in the first over. A crucial 83-run partnership between Gurkanwal Singh (20 off 33) and Callum Edwards (46 off 46) saw the team over the line. The squad now looks ahead to a pivotal match against Rosmini College this Saturday.
2ND XI BOYS
The 2nd XI defeated Botany Downs Secondary College, achieving several impressive individual milestones. Howick posted a total of 323/2 from 39.5 overs, while Botany was bowled out for just 46 runs in 19.5 overs.
With the bat, Yom Patel played a stellar game scoring 118 runs (not out) off 71 balls, while Mathew Scragg scored his maiden century, finishing with 100 runs (not out) off 75 balls. With the ball, Daniel Wellm gave an outstanding performance, claiming 5 wickets for just 7 runs off 6 overs. Mathew Scragg also contributed with the ball, taking 3 wickets for 4 runs off 4 overs.
JUNIOR BOYS' T20
We also congratulate the Junior T20 team on their 7-wicket win against Macleans College. The team successfully chased down a target of 97/1 from 10.1 overs, with Macleans posting 96/8 in 20 overs.
Dev Sharma top-scored with 36 runs off 29 balls, while Harvey Powell made a handy contribution with 24 runs off 24 balls. The wickets were shared across several bowlers, reflecting a strong team effort.
Well done to all players for their hard work and dedication!
Ex-Student Brings Home Judo Gold Conrad Hynes (right) and his teammate congratulate each other on their success. Ex-Howick College student Conrad Hynes (2024) has recently delivered strong performances at two major judo events in Australia, competing in both the Junior Men’s (U20) and Senior Men’s (adult) divisions in the Under 66kg category.
At the Canberra International Open, Australia’s premier international open event, Conrad placed 5th in both divisions after competing in two bronze medal finals. The following week, he continued his impressive form at the Sydney International Open, where he earned a gold medal in the Junior Men’s competition and a bronze in the Senior Men’s.
Congratulations, Conrad, on your well-earned results, which reflect your commitment and dedication to excelling at an international level.
Sports NoticesGIRLS BASKETBALL TRIALS
Date: Thursday 13 March
Time: 3:30-5:30pm
Venue: School Gym
This is a general trial for all girls interested in playing basketball this year. Open to all year levels.
JUNIOR BOYS BASKETBALL TRIALS
Dates: Sunday 16 and Thursday 20 March
Times: 10-12pm Sunday 1-3pm Sunday
Venue: School Gym
Please signup for one of the Sunday trial sessions at https://forms.gle/D7rrSakoqmj7Ar1W7. If you have any questions, please contact Mr Chiu – [email protected] or pop in to see him (usually in H9).
| | FOOTBALL TRIALS - Y9 & 10 BOYS
Date: Thursday 13 March & Friday 14th March
Time: 3.30pm - 5pm
Venue: Football Field 1. Make sure you are changed into your PE gear and have your boots, shin pads and water bottles. Open trial for all Y9 and 10 boys
NETBALL TRIALS
Date - Saturday 8 March
Time - 8:30am to 12:00pm
Venue - Howick Pakuranga Netball Centre
To register: Please email [email protected] and state the 3 positions you intend to trial for.
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Coaches and Managers Needed for Winter CodesWe are looking for coaches, managers, and helpers for our upcoming winter sports teams. This is a fantastic opportunity to support our students in doing what they love while encouraging them to take on new challenges. If you have a passion for sport and want to make a difference, we would love to hear from you. For more information or to get involved, please email [email protected]
Sports Draw for Week 6 HEALTH CENTRE NEWSKeep Sun Safe and Avoid DehydrationDehydration occurs when your body loses more fluids than you take in, and if left untreated, it can become serious. Babies, children, and older adults are more at risk.
Causes of Dehydration:
Insufficient fluid intake (common among students), hot weather, heavy physical activity without enough fluids, illnesses like gastroenteritis, diarrhea or vomiting, and fever
Symptoms of Dehydration:
Moderate: Headaches, dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps, poor concentration, increased heart rate.
Severe: Seizures, confusion, extreme weakness, dizziness, and red, hot skin without sweating
| | Preventing Dehydration:
Drink at least 2 litres of fluid daily, preferably water. Sip small amounts throughout the day if needed.
Avoid caffeinated and energy drinks as they worsen dehydration. Students are encouraged to bring their own water bottle to school.
Be Sun Smart
UV light in New Zealand can be dangerous, causing skin damage and increasing the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.
How to protect yourself:
Avoid the sun between 10am and 4pm, when UV is strongest. Stay in the shade or use an umbrella.
Wear protective clothing and apply sunscreen regularly
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Mobile Dental Service Coming Soon HOWICK COLLEGE LIBRARY BOOK OF THE WEEKHot Rods Downunder
By Larry O'Toole Library hours are from 8:30am - 3:30pm, Monday to Friday.
| | The best way to describe Hot Rods Downunder is through the author’s own words:
"Every hobby has its devotees, and they are all passionate about their interest. But when it comes to absolute devotion, it is hard to find more committed participants than most hot rodders."
The book begins with an introduction to Hot Rod styles—Roadsters, Coupes, Pickups, and T Buckets—followed by a chapter on engineering and design, featuring construction photos. It then showcases 15 Hot Rods, mainly Fords from 1928 to 1936, with one standout: a 1948 Fiat Topolino powered by a massive 527 cubic inch America LaFrance V12 engine.
Packed with stunning photography, the book not only highlights the cars but also shares the stories behind their owners and builds.
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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIESHowick College is seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join our team. We currently have several part-time support staff positions available, including:
Arts Coordinator: Join our well-established Expressive Arts team in an engaging admin role, supporting events and behind-the-scenes operations with your organisational skills and passion for the Arts.
Attendance Liaison Officer: This new role offers an exciting opportunity to analyse trends and develop strategies to improve student attendance. The position requires strong analytical, communication, and relationship-building skills.
International Department Office Manager: An experienced and dedicated International Office Manager is needed to oversee the daily operations of our International Student Programme, manage enrolments, support educational agents, and enhance student experiences in a fast-paced environment.
If you're interested in making a difference in a dynamic school environment, please visit the Career Opportunities page on our website for more details and to apply.
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