Kia ora e te whānau. It's been a week where we've celebrated excellence in many different forms across our school.

At our final senior assemblies on Monday, Deputy Principal Aaron Harris described excellence as perhaps our most flexible school value. I hadn't thought about excellence and flexibility going together before, but it's an idea that has stayed with me. Sometimes excellence is recognised through qualifications and awards, while at other times it's reflected in the confidence students develop, the challenges they overcome, or the positive difference they make to those around them. All are worth recognising.

Our senior students are now on study leave, preparing for their external examinations, which begin next week. On Monday evening, we farewelled our Year 13 students at their informal graduation. During their time at Green Bay High School, they've made friendships, taken on challenges, developed new interests and contributed to our school in many different ways. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to celebrate their time with us before they turn their attention to examinations and the next stage of their lives.

On Wednesday, we held our Year 11 and 12 Awards Ceremony, recognising students for their academic and vocational achievements, leadership, service and contributions to school life. Our Pasifika Awards Ceremony was another special occasion, celebrating the achievements of our Pasifika students with their families and whānau. It was a pleasure to see so many people come together to recognise and support our young people.

I'd like to thank the staff who have put so much work into organising these events, and the families and whānau who have joined us to celebrate. Your presence and support mean a great deal to our young people.

I wish our senior students all the very best for the exam period. I hope they approach the coming weeks with confidence, make good use of the support available to them, and feel proud of the work they have put in throughout the year.

This Sunday also marks Diwali, the Festival of Lights. To all our students, families and staff who are celebrating, I wish you a happy Diwali. I hope you enjoy this special time with family and friends.

Ngā mihi nui,
Fiona Barker
PRINCIPAL