Kia ora tatou; It was great to welcome students and staff back this week for what will be a busy term, with plenty happening right across the school. Assessment will be a strong focus across every year level.

Our Year 9 students will complete assessments in reading, writing and mathematics using SMART (the Student Monitoring, Assessment and Reporting Tool), a new Ministry of Education tool released this week. Year 10 students will have their first opportunity to sit the CAA (Common Assessment Activity), while students in Years 11 to 13 will continue working towards their NCEA qualifications. We want students to approach these opportunities positively, work hard and give their best.

Assessment matters, but it is not just about the result on the day. It helps students and teachers understand what is going well, where help and support is needed, and what the next steps should be. Each result should be seen as a stepping stone towards further progress and greater confidence. Thank you to whānau and caregivers for the support you provide at home. That partnership between home and school makes a real difference, particularly during busy times when students are balancing assessment, activities and other commitments.

Tomorrow is Anzac Day, and as a school we take time to acknowledge its significance. Our students will be representing the school at the local Titirangi service, and I know they will do so with pride. I was also very proud that, on the last day of the holidays, 85 students volunteered their time to sell poppies across Blockhouse Bay, Green Bay and Titirangi. I am really proud of these students, who gave up their time and put on their school uniform during the holidays to support this important cause.

Fiona Barker
PRINCIPAL