Comments from the Principal

​Kia ora and warm greetings to all of you
Tournament week has now finished, and teams have headed home for a well-deserved rest. We had two hockey teams, a football team and the senior A netball team competing in various venues from Oamaru to Invercargill. Although there were a variety of wins and losses, the games I saw were full of commitment, teamwork and great attitudes. They all certainly looked like they were having fun both on and off the field. Several of our staff and many parents and ex-students supported, coached and managed the teams during the week. Thank you all for taking time away from work and other commitments to support our students.
We began tournament week with a Mass at the parish church last Saturday night. Brendan Terry and I were thrilled to have about 80 students arrive to this celebration of the winter sports season that is coming to a close. Marion Frei and Luke Roughan (Special Character Leaders) along with Ben and Sol Wyatt (musicians) certainly helped create a true community event and one that is likely to go on the calendar every year.
Monday is our sports and cultural photo day. All students are asked to wear full winter school uniform and to bring their various sports uniforms for the photos.
Our intrepid year 8 travellers arrived home from Deep Cove last weekend after enjoying a wonderful few days away in a very beautiful part of Fiordland. Thanks to Ronny Kotkamp for his organisation and the staff and parents who took part. We look forward to a write-up of the highlights of the camp in next week’s newsletter.
Next week is social justice week with the theme disability and inclusion. Students will be encouraged to consider how they include those with disabilities. It is a chance for all of us to reflect on our attitude towards those who are different to us; indeed, if we consider disabilities to also be those hidden disabilities that prevent those in our community and social circles from being able to fully participate in life – how are we supporting them to be wholly immersed in our society? With this, I am also considering those with mental health issues and relationship problems and hurts that could be interpreted as a type of disability – a disability that stops them from being able to fully participate in society with joy. I may have diverted slightly from the true focus of this year’s social justice week, but it is an opportunity to reflect on how we create community and enable people to be full participants.
‘Don’t walk behind me; I may not lead. Don’t walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend.’ Albert Camus
I hope you enjoy another beautiful spring weekend.
Nga mihi nui
 



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