Term 4, Week 3, 2024

FROM THE PRINCIPAL Tēnā  koutou, e te whānau o Howick College, Excellence was on show across the many ceremonies and celebrations held over the past few weeks. The breadth of education and diverse opportunities available at the College were showcased through the arts, cultural, sports, service, and academic awards, where both individual and team achievements stood as examples of what’s possible when we surround talented students with great adults and set high expectations. During the celebrations, I took the opportunity to remind everyone that our focus this year has been on raising standards, a commitment we will continue as we build a culture of personal excellence. Personal excellence will look different for each student and staff member, but at its core, it means striving to be the best possible version of themselves.  A quote from my speech, which several students and staff have since remarked upon, is from my “go-to” leadership author, Jim Collins, in his book Good to Great: “Good is the enemy of great.” Collins believes that the prevalence of “good” schools prevents the rise of truly great ones - a concept he also applies to business and other sectors. The “good is fine” mentality accepts a standard that falls short of personal best yet is considered “good enough.” This mindset can quickly take root within organisations, fostering a sense of complacency and satisfaction that stifles growth. Accepting “good is fine” may yield adequate performance but ultimately dooms individuals and organisations to mediocrity. Schools have an important role to play when it comes to not accepting anything less than one's personal best, and at our College, we are committed to supporting and encouraging both students and staff to be the best versions of themselves. Have a great weekend. Dale Burden Principal/Tumuaki

KEY DATES Wednesday 30 October - Sunday 3 November Visual Arts Showcase Tuesday 5 - Friday 29 November NCEA Exams Friday 15 November Last Day to Order the 2024 Yearbook Tuesday 19 November -  Sunday 1 December Year 9 Camps Wednesday 29 November  School Board Meeting 6:00 - 8:30pm Monday 2 December Y10 Honours Assembly - Period 2 Tuesday 3 December Y9 Honours Assembly - Period 2 Wednesday 4 December Last Day Term 4 Thursday 5 December Y8 Transition Day Tuesday 28 January 2025 Y12/13 Course Confirmation Day  for students with gaps/ missing subjects in their timetable Mon 3 February 2025 Welcome Y9 & All New Students Tues 4 February 2025 Whole School Returns

SENIOR HONOURS 2024

Congratulations to our Supreme and Special Awards recipients

Congratulations to all our senior students recognised at the 2024 Senior Honours Ceremonies! These events celebrated our Year 11-13 students' academic achievements, hard work, and commitment over the past year, offering a moment to reflect on their school journey with gratitude for the support of parents, whānau, friends, and especially their teachers.

A special congratulations to our Supreme and Special Award recipients, we particularly recognise this year's Senior Scholar, Harry Gan, for his exceptional dedication and academic excellence. We also acknowledge our Year 13 students who have been awarded tertiary scholarships as they prepare for the exciting next stage of their journey.

Well done to all awardees - you can be very proud of your success!

For the complete list of award recipients, including Top in Subject and Gold Awardees, please visit our website: Honours Awards 2024. To view more photos, please visit the Howick College Facebook page.

MODIFICATION TO MOBILE PHONE PROCESS

As you will be aware, the Government has mandated a “phones away for the day” policy for all state and state-integrated schools in New Zealand to reduce distractions, improve focus, and minimise online bullying during school hours. Since the policy’s implementation in April, we have been pleased to see improved mobile phone behaviour, with students now accustomed to the expectation of keeping mobile phones off and out of sight during lessons. This has helped to create a more focused and distraction-free classroom environment. However, we have observed that there are still students who are not adhering to this requirement outside the classroom.

Beginning today, Friday, 1 November, we are implementing a stricter approach to enforcing the government’s phone ban at all times during the school day, including between classes, interval and lunchtime. This means students who do not have their phones turned off and stored in their bags will have their phones confiscated. Ideally, students would leave their phones at home, as very few have a genuine need for them at school.

MOBILE PHONE PROCESS
Phones off and stored: Students are not permitted to use their phones while at school and must keep them off and in their bags during school hours.

Consequence of non-compliance: Any student using their phone will have it confiscated by a Senior Leader and will receive a reflection. Confiscated phones can be collected at the end of the school day. Students who repeatedly have their phones confiscated will be required to hand in their phones each morning.

Exemptions for medical needs: We understand that some students may require access to phones for medical reasons, such as monitoring insulin levels. If your child needs an exemption, please contact Dr Bennett to arrange this.

Our full mobile phone process is available to view here. We appreciate your support in reinforcing this policy by discussing its importance with your child. Should you need to contact your child in an emergency, please call the school office on 09-534-4492.

Thank you for you understanding and co-operation.

YEAR 13s THRIVE IN LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

This year, five of our Year 13 students - Winter Lin, Katy Gribble, Mahalet Wale, Zoe Owen, and Ashley Nam- embraced an incredible opportunity to be part of the University of Waikato Leadership Academy, successfully completing a Stage 1 university course in leadership. This sponsored program involved dynamic workshops at the Hamilton campus and team-based online assessments.

Reflecting on their experience in the Waikato Leadership Academy, Winter, one of our 2024 student leaders, found that completing the paper deepened her understanding of leadership as a journey of continuous learning, resilience, and challenging the status quo. Zoe also valued the program, noting how much she appreciated the varied perspectives on leadership and the practical ways these qualities can be applied. Overall, the group viewed the course as an invaluable experience that developed their capacity to lead with empathy, clarity, and strategic vision.

Congratulations to these dedicated students on their successful course completion and for gaining 15 university credits toward their future studies! We hope the University of Waikato will make this opportunity availble to more of our Year 13s in 2025.

INTERNATIONAL DEPARTMENT NEWS

At the beginning of Term 4, we warmly welcomed Boran Yu, our new international student from China, to Howick College! Boran has made a positive start, enjoying his first two weeks of classes and adjusting well to his new environment. Huānyíng nǐ,(Welcome) Boran, we’re excited to have you as part of our community! While our long-term international students prepare for their upcoming NCEA exams, those not sitting exams are eagerly anticipating the end of year activities programme. This programme will take them to some of the most beautiful locations in our region, providing a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the end of the school year.

YEAR 13 DRESS UP DAY

Clockwise from top left: Team Shrek, 101 Dalmatians, Santa and his Elves and a delightful group of fairies.

Last week, we said farewell to our graduating class of 2024 with a memorable series of events celebrating their time at Howick College. From a BBQ breakfast in the car park before school to a relaxed alternate uniform day and an epic water fight, the week was packed with moments to remember.

The culmination was perhaps the most anticipated event of all - Squad Dress-Up Day. Our Year 13s brought their creativity and humour in full force, dressing up in an array of clever and entertaining outfits, making their last day with us truly unforgettable. It was a tough choice, but congratulations go to "Team Shrek", who claimed the Best Squad Dress Up crown.

To view more squad photos, visit the Howick College Facebook Page.

NEW DAILY TIMES FOR TERM 4

To accommodate the NCEA exams beginning on Monday next week until the end of the term we will be running a new daily timetable. Please see below for the updated daily times:

Period 1: 9:10 - 10:10am
Period 2: 10:10 - 11:10am
Interval: 11:10am - 11:40am
Period 3: 11:40am - 12:40pm
Lunch: 12:40pm - 1:20pm
Period 4: 1:20pm - 2:20pm
Period 5: 2:20pm - 3:20pm

We also remind junior students that G and L Blocks can only be accessed  for classes, or to go to the Library at LUNCH TIME ONLY. During interval all of G and L Blocks are out of bounds. Juniors must stay away from the buildings and surrounding areas, including the back feild from the cricket nets to the car park. 

ORDER YOUR 2024 YEARBOOK 

Each year, we take great pride in celebrating the people, events, and achievements of our school community through a high-quality, full-colour publication. You can order your copy of the 2024 yearbook for $30 by making an online payment to the Howick College bank account: 12 3011 0160054 03. Be sure to include your student ID number and the word "yearbook" as the reference. Alternatively, you can also place your order at the Cashier's Office. Orders must be place by Friday 15 November.

Yearbooks will be available for collection from the student office starting Monday 17 February 2025.

STUDENTS COACHING STUDENTS PROGRAMME

Student coaching is a supportive process that helps students set and achieve personal goals. Our trained student coaches are here to help clarify your aspirations and navigate school life. We have started with a small group of Year 10 students who were trained as Student Coaches at their previous Intermediate School. They have now completed a refresher training course and are ready to be of service to our Junior students.

We use Growth Coaching, which involves five simple steps:
1. Reality: Share what’s currently happening in your life.
2. Goal: Pinpoint what you want to achieve.
3. Options: Consider different paths to your goal.
4. Prioritise Actions: Determine the most important steps to take.
5. Set a Timeframe: Establish when and how you’ll take these actions, with regular check-ins for success.

Why Choose Coaching?  
Coaching helps you define your goals, promotes personal growth, and assists in overcoming challenges.

How to Book a Session:  
To book a session, our website and click the Student Coaching link on the top menu bar. Each session lasts about 30 minutes during tutor time. After your session, you’ll leave with an ISMART goal—Inspiring, Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—and a clear action plan.

We encourage Year 9 students to take advantage of this opportunity. If you have questions, feel free to email Mrs. Henkin or Mr Bannister or speak to our student coaches: Archie Bourdillon, Ava Walden, Charlotte Charlotte French, Christian Curry, Jonas Shallard-Kerr, Shaelei Kirby.

SENIOR ART BOARD EXHIBITION Just some of the fabulous work on disply We warmly invite our community to attend the Howick College Art Board Show celebrating the talents of our senior students. This annual event showcases the stunning folio boards created as part of their NCEA Visual Arts assessment. The Art Board Show provides an excellent opportunity to engage with a diverse range of artwork, including painting, photography, printmaking, and design. Each folio board reflects the dedication and creativity of our young artists, and represents months of hard work and the exploration in various artistic expressions. Dates & Times: Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 November from 10:00am - 2:00pm Venue: Bill Dimery Performing Arts Centre, Howick College Entry: Free Please join us in supporting our talented students as they exhibit their remarkable achievements! SPORTS NEWS Hockey Player Eyes U21 NZ Māori Wāhine Squad Ella Worthington (right) competes for Tāmaki Makaurau at the National Māori Hockey Tournament. Congratulations to Year 12 hockey player and Howick College Girls' 1st XI vice-captain, Ella Worthington (left), who represented Tāmaki Makaurau at the 2024 National Māori Hockey Tournament over Labour Weekend in Whangārei. Ella’s team  were strong competitors and advanced through the tournament to face Tai Tokerau in the finals. Although they fell 2-0, it was an impressive achievement in a field of top talent from around New Zealand. Earlier this year, Ella also competed at the New Zealand Heritage Hockey Tournament, where she played in the Women’s U21 category for Tāmaki Makaurau. Her team reached the finals and narrowly missed out on the top spot in a 1-0 loss to New Zealand Heritage in the 66th minute. This tournament, held over Easter Weekend, brought together heritage teams from across the country, including NZ Indian, NZ Junior Māori, NZ Asian, and NZ Fiji. Ella’s impressive performances have now led to her being considered for the U21 NZ Māori Hockey Wahine squad. We wish her the very best of luck in this next stage and look forward to seeing her continue to excel in the sport! Solid Start to 2nd Half of 1st XI Cricket Season The 1st XI Boys’ Cricket team celebrated a win over Selwyn College last Saturday in their 1A limited overs match. Batting first, they scored 147, thanks to a vital 52-run partnership for the 10th wicket between Ewald Engelbrecht (46 not out off 33 balls) and Billy White (17). Notable contributions also came from Year 10 debutant Yom Patel (14) and Prabh Singh Jawanda (20). In response, the boys bowled Selwyn out for 112, taking the last nine wickets for just 59 runs. Saket Kapania led the bowling attack with 3 wickets for 14 runs, while Ewald Engelbrecht earned man-of-the-match honors with an impressive 5-19. Co-captain Callum Edwards excelled as wicketkeeper, taking 4 catches. This week, the team will face Botany in an away match. Outstanding Jiu Jitsu Success From left: Conrad Hynes, Jack Gilbert (left) and Adam Bousader Over the weekend, the NZ Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi Nationals took place at Barfoot & Thompson Stadium, where two members of our school’s judo club represented Howick College with impressive results. Jack Gilbert (Year 10) earned a silver medal in the grey belt U53kg division, while Adam Bousader (Year 11) claimed gold in the white belt U67kg division. Next week, Conrad Hynes will be traveling to Montreal with the New Zealand Junior team to compete in the Montreal Open, followed by a training tour in Japan. This trip caps off a successful year for Conrad, who finished as the top-ranked U20 U66kg competitor and the second-ranked Senior Men’s U66kg competitor in New Zealand, after earning a silver medal at the National Championships in Rotorua over the holiday break. Congratulations to Jack, Adam, and Conrad on their outstanding achievements and best of luck to Conrad in Montreal and Japan! MIT 2025 Enrolment Day    All students who have enrolled or are considering enrolling at the Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) in 2025 are invited to attend their Enrolment Day on Saturday 9 November, from 10:00am to 12:00pm. The day will offer an opportunity to ask questions in person, take a guided tour and find out more about the programmes on offer.  For more details, please visit the MIT website. International Travel College Open Evening   The International Travel College (ITC) is running an Open Evening event to help anyone understand the career options and study options in our tourism and airline industry.  Event details: Date: Thursday 7 November  Time: 6pm-7:30pm Location: ITC Botany Campus (level 1, Fashion Pavilions, Botany Town Centre) RSVP: Please click the following link to register your attendance -  https://forms.office.com/r/VHSsEBNiJK HOWICK COLLEGE LIBRARY BOOK OF THE WEEK By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult In 1581, Emilia Bassano is allowed no voice of her own. But as the Lord Chamberlain's mistress she has access to the theatre and finds a way to bring her work to the stage secretly. But creating some of the world's greatest dramatic masterpieces comes at a cost: by paying a man for the use of his name, she will write her own out of history. His name? William Shakespeare. In present day Manhattan, playwright Melina Green has written a new work inspired by the life of her Elizabethan ancestor Emilia Bassano. Although the challenges are different four hundred years later, the playing field is still not level for women in theatre. Is Melina, like Emilia, willing to forfeit her credit as author, to see her work performed? While this book is a work of fiction, Jodi Picoult wrote it after being inspired by the true story of Emilia Bassano, the first female poet to be published in England. Her research led to the contention that Emilia may indeed have written the plays and sonnets we credit to William Shakespeare.   COMMUNITY NOTICES All Saints' Church Christmas Lunch Appeal   Exciting news from the Howick community this December! All Saints Church is continuing its "Christmas Lunch on Jesus" initiative to support families in need of a festive meal. On December 23rd, special boxes will be packed and delivered, containing everything needed for a Christmas lunch—meat, vegetables, drinks, and festive treats. Since its launch in 2015 with 50 boxes, the initiative has grown significantly. Last year, 305 boxes were delivered to 200 families, providing meals for 1,200 people. We receive many heartfelt messages of gratitude, including: “Thank you for blessing my family with food. May God bless you for your kindness.” Howick College families have generously donated boxes of chocolates for the hampers over the years. We kindly ask for your support again this year—please drop off a box of chocolates at the student office by December 4th to help make Christmas special for these families.