Message from the Principal

As we head towards the middle of August, there is much to reflect upon and celebrate across our school community.

First, thank you to everyone who shared their voice during our recent consultation process. Your input provides valuable clarity regarding your expectations for our school's future direction.

Inside the classroom, our students are currently investigating Financial Numeracy concepts through an exciting collaboration with Sir Ian Taylor. We are incredibly fortunate to benefit from the ongoing support and partnership of both Sir Ian Taylor and Lisa Dixon as we bring these authentic learning experiences to life.

Behind the scenes, our team remains focused on continuous professional growth to support high student achievement. We continue to unpack the curriculum expectations and explore what these look like in practice for Balmacewen students and staff. Monday, 17th August, was particularly productive as we delved into literacy expectations with a strong focus on writing. The clarity provided by Sara Quelch to our staff about what students must demonstrate to meet the new assessment descriptors—along with the resources created to help our students reach these high aspirations—is greatly appreciated.

Preparations for Polyfest later this term are in full swing, and our Kapa Haka group continues to grow in strength and confidence. The commitment of our students, alongside Whaea Sue, Matua Che, Matua Aaron, Whaea Mary, and our tutors from Otago Girls' High School, is truly commendable. Listening to their waiata is an absolute highlight influencing our Wairua and filling our cups.

Our Pasifika students are also in the midst of preparing for Polyfest. Whilst this group was only recently formed they have been practicing every week and we are excited to see them represent their cultures at Polyfest. We recently held our first Pasifika Fono, which yielded valuable feedback and clear direction for supporting our Pasifika community moving forward. My sincere thanks to all the aiga, vuvlae, magafaoa and fāmili who were able to attend and contribute.

On the sports front, our Netball, Basketball, and Hockey seasons are coming to a close. While final results on the court and field didn't always go our way, the personal growth and camaraderie among our students have been wonderful to see. The connections that have been made within teams by sharing a common goal is something I have enjoyed seeing every week.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the parents and staff who coached and managed our teams—these opportunities simply could not happen without your dedicated support. Special thanks to Alex Buttery for officiating our netball teams every Thursday, and to Mary Brady and Aroha Wylie for mentoring and improving our student umpires each week. Giving back to sport is vital, and we deeply appreciate your expertise and commitment.

Finally, Thank you all for your continued support of our school and students.