Principals Comments 26.5.23

Posted Thursday May 25, 2023
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Kia ora e te whanau

And just like that, week 5 of Term 2 draws to a close. Over the past week there have been many things happening in and around the college. It was great to have our whanau conferencing and student led conferencing take place. Parent-teacher conferences serve as a crucial bridge between the school and home environments. They provide an invaluable opportunity for open and constructive communication, fostering a strong partnership between parents and educators. These conferences enable us to work together in the best interest of our students, ensuring their success and growth. One of the key benefits of parent-teacher conferences is the chance to gain insight into your child's academic progress and overall development. Our dedicated teachers invest significant time and effort in understanding each student's unique strengths and challenges. By participating in these conferences, you have the opportunity to discuss your child's academic achievements, areas for improvement, and specific goals. This collaborative dialogue allows us to tailor our teaching strategies and support systems to meet your child's individual needs effectively. If you could not make the interview times please email your child’s teachers to make an appointment

Last Friday we raised awareness around anti-bullying through celebrating pink shirt day. Conversations and education around bullying are important and align with our school values of Compassion, Commitment and Community. Respect for human dignity, and in this instance, helping students to learn to act in a way that ensures others do not feel bullied. We hope through the activities of last week our students gained the courage to stand up and do the right thing, stop rumours, be an upstander, and tell a trusted adult if they are or see someone being bullied.

At St Peter’s College, we strive to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student can grow academically, spiritually, physically and emotionally. Our Catholic values play a crucial role in shaping the character and moral compass of our students. It is disheartening to witness behaviours that do not reflect these values and hinder the teaching and learning experience for everyone involved.

As parents and guardians, you have a significant role to play in guiding and encouraging your children towards greater commitment to their education and our school's teachings. Here are a few tips to help foster a stronger commitment to teaching and learning in our students:

1. Open Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with your child. Encourage them to share their thoughts, concerns, and aspirations. By understanding their perspective, you can better support them in aligning their behaviour with our school's values.

2. Reinforce Values: Remind your child of the core values we uphold at our Catholic school, such as respect, compassion, integrity, and responsibility. Discuss the importance of these values in their daily lives and how they can demonstrate them at school.

3. Lead by Example: Children often emulate the behaviour of their parents and guardians. Model the values you wish to see in your child. Exhibit respect, kindness, and honesty in your own interactions, both within and outside the family.

4. Encourage Involvement: Encourage your child to participate in extracurricular activities, clubs, and community service initiatives offered by the school. Engaging in these activities fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens their connection to the school community.

5. Monitor Digital Presence: With the prevalence of social media and online platforms, it is essential to monitor your child's digital presence. Encourage responsible online behaviour and discuss the potential consequences of inappropriate content or cyberbullying.

6. Establish Routines: Help your child establish a structured routine that includes dedicated study time, adequate rest, and physical activity. A balanced lifestyle contributes to their overall well-being and enhances their ability to focus and engage in the learning process.

7. Collaborate with Teachers: Maintain regular communication with your child's teachers. Stay informed about their academic progress, classroom behaviour, and any concerns that may arise. Working together as a team will provide the best support for your child's educational journey.

By implementing these tips and fostering an environment that upholds our Catholic school values, we can collectively guide our students toward greater commitment to teaching and learning. I firmly believe that with our combined efforts, we can positively shape their future and provide them with the tools they need to become responsible, compassionate, and successful individuals.

Thank you for your ongoing support and collaboration in nurturing our students' growth. Together, we can create a school community that reflects the values we hold dear.

God bless you and your families.


Tara Quinney,

Principal

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