Principal News

At last week's assembly, I issued a challenge or wero to our students. With the conclusion of Year 7 camps, the induction process to Tahuna completed and all of our systems up and running, it was time to focus on their learning.

As we all know, education is a collaborative effort that extends beyond the walls of our school. Your involvement and engagement in your child's learning journey play a crucial role in their academic success. With that in mind, I wanted to share some tips on how you can support your child's learning at home:

Establish a Daily Routine: Consistency is key to maintaining a productive learning environment at home. Help your child establish a daily routine that includes dedicated time for reading, basic facts, and any homework activities they may have. The relevance of homework has become a controversial issue for some, but in my mind, there is nothing more beneficial for students to do than to read a variety of genres and learn their basic facts. 

Create a Distraction-Free Study Space: Designate a quiet and organised area in your home where your child can focus on their schoolwork without distractions. 
Encourage Regular Reading: Reading is fundamental to academic success and personal growth. Encourage your child to read for pleasure regularly and discuss the books they are reading to deepen their comprehension and critical thinking skills.

Incorporate Learning into Everyday Activities: Take advantage of everyday opportunities to reinforce learning outside of school. Whether it's cooking together and discussing measurements, exploring nature and identifying different plants, or practising math skills while shopping, finding ways to make learning fun and relevant can enhance your child's understanding of the world around them.

Model a Positive Attitude Towards Learning: Children often mirror the behaviours and attitudes of the adults around them. Demonstrate a positive attitude towards learning by expressing curiosity, asking questions, and showing enthusiasm for new knowledge and experiences.  Please never say to your child, "I was never good at ... either" or "I have never needed to know how to do ..." 

Prioritise Well-Being: Remember that a balanced approach to learning includes prioritising physical and emotional well-being. Encourage your child to maintain healthy habits such as regular exercise, nutritious eating, and getting enough sleep to support their overall health and academic performance.

By working together as partners in your child's education, we can create a supportive and enriching learning environment both at home and at school. Thank you for your continued commitment to your child's success.

Nga mihi
Simon Clarke
Principal