Message from the Principal

By Andrew Hunter | Posted: Friday August 23, 2019

We are well into Term 3 programmes with plenty of fun learning activities happening.

Kia ora koutou

It really is a privilege to watch children learn and grow. To see the development of our young people over the course of the year is something very special. We watch with interest  as they continue to build the personal skills and knowledge to enable them to be confident and capable young citizens. 

Over the years, three themes emerge when I speak to parents.  They want their children to be happy, get along with others and do the best they can.  It all sounds fairly simple, right? Well.... sometimes.

There's an old adage, "experience is the best teacher" and this is so very true with children and especially at intermediate level. Learning from one's successes and mistakes, reflecting on what happened and why are critical elements to a child's development. That's why it's important we don't rush to fix our children's mistakes thus shielding them from failure. Because no matter how well intentioned we may be, if we solve our children's problems, we take away the opportunity for growth and learning. Of course we don't want to leave our children feeling isolated  either, so the best way forward is the supportive and encouraging, "you've got this" response.

Children learn resilience through practise and the developing brain needs regular workouts to help build strong pathways. Albert Einstein once said, "failure is success in progress". It's the, "well I won't do that again" mindset that helps us learn and grow. Developing this mindset takes time (maybe a lifetime!) as we live and learn in an increasingly complex world.

Balmacewen's project based learning approach gives students some wonderful opportunities to develop new skills. It has been great watching children collaborate to achieve impressive results and the Year 7  family bag and colour run are both good examples of this. Thanks to all who have supported this project!

Finally, it's nice to think that we are slowly emerging from the winter sports season. A big thank you to all coaches and managers for your commitment and support. It is much appreciated.

Nga mihi nui

Andrew Hunter