Kia ora e te whānau,

It was a real privilege to host the Kōtuitui Speech Competition yesterday and to welcome students, teachers, and whānau from across our Kōtuitui schools. The talent of our young orators was inspiring, and the sense of connection and pride in the room was tangible. I am really proud that this year, students were able to kōrero in Te Reo Māori and I look forward to this being part of our competition every year. For many parents and teachers it also felt like a reunion, with friendships and networks rekindled - that is what I really love about being part of a community.

Today also marks the end of the school exam period. I want to congratulate our senior students and our Year 10s who were sitting CAA exams, on the focus and determination they have shown. Exams are not just about results; their real power lies in the opportunity to identify both the areas of strength and confidence, and the areas that are still ‘work-ons’.

As we move toward the end of term, the pace is not slowing. Next week, our level 3 Drama students are showcasing their final performance of the year, ‘Remains of the Light’, and of course, we will be having our celebration assemblies at the end of the week. There is more information in the newsletter about the partial strike action across the week.

Have a great weekend.
Fiona Barker
PRINCIPAL