25 November 2022 Newsletter

Dear Parents/Caregivers
Kia Ora Tatou

During the week junior students have been sitting their end of year exams and assessments. I have heard of some very positive reports of students working well and trying hard. In particular some of our students who have learning difficulties have been well supported and have put in a great deal of effort to achieve.

I anticipate that next week students will receive the results of their endeavours. There is good learning to come from this experience regardless of the results. For some it will be the knowledge that the effort put into preparation has paid off. For others it will be consideration of how to better prepare for these types of assessments.

Teachers will provide feedback and whilst I know it is the end of the year it is well worth making a note of the advice and using it for future assessments or for start of studies in 2023.

Covid, exams and the end of the school year.
We are well aware that we have had increasing numbers of students who have been confirmed cases of Covid-19. As a precaution, the school moved exams from the Old Gym to classrooms with better ventilation and air cleaners in an effort to reduce the risk of transmission. Despite our best efforts some students have missed some or all of their exams. We will endeavour to provide a time and venue for students to catch up on these missed assessments. Summative comments by teachers will reflect not just the performance in the end of year assessments but also upon the progress throughout the year.

Please, if your child is unwell do keep them at home. If they have covid symptoms please do get a test done.

As well as students suffering from Covid-19 we have also had a number of staff absent as well. Whilst the school has managed these disruptions this week we are conscious that if the trend continues there may need to be some changes to our planned events and activities. Whilst we know that there is the potential for disappointment if we do make changes our priority remains the safety and wellbeing of both students, our community and staff. I am sure no one wants to start their summer holiday by needing to go into self isolation!

Students who are unwell
This week we have had a few students who have become unwell during the school day. If your child becomes unwell, or parents need to collect them during the school day, please do inform the school BEFORE taking your child off site. This is an important safety issue especially if we have an evacuation or lock down situation and have to account for all individuals who are on site.

Activities days
The end of year activity days get underway next week. We do expect students to attend the events and activities for which they have signed up. I know that teachers are checking that payment has been received. As usual, we want to work with families who may be challenged to find the full payment for the activities in the lead up to Christmas. If this is the case please do contact me to negotiate a solution to enable students to participate.

Finally
There are a number of students who are working at the A&P show on Saturday to raise funds for trips or to help other organisations. Please do support them if you see them during the show. Have a good weekend.

Ka kite ano

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