Te Pūrongo o te kura - Newsletter
August 2023 Newsletter
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
NGĀ KUPU O TE TUMUAKI- PRINCIPALS PIECE
HE KAUPAPA POUMAHI- STAFFING NEWS
KO TE AKONGA KEI TE PITO- STUDENTS AT THE CENTRE
KO TE HAPORI TE MANAWA- COMMUNITY AT THE HEART
NGĀ PĀNUI HAKINAKINA SPORTS AND CULTURAL BULLETIN
NGĀ KAUPAPA KEI MUA I TE AROARO- UPCOMING EVENTS
NGĀ KUPU O TE TUMUAKI- PRINCIPALS PIECE
Ka nui te mihi mahana ki a koutou,
We are delighted to extend a warm invitation to our School Open Night, an event designed to showcase the vibrancy and excellence of our learning community. Join us on Thursday August 3 from 5.30pm as we open our doors to prospective students and families, offering a glimpse into the exciting world of education at Spotswood College.
We believe that education is a partnership between school, parents, and the community. Our Open Night is an excellent opportunity for you to see firsthand how we empower students to become confident, compassionate, and responsible global citizens.
So, mark your calendars for Thursday 3rd August and bring your curiosity and enthusiasm as we open our doors and hearts to welcome you. We look forward to meeting you and sharing our pride in being a part of the Spotswood College whānau.
Ngā mihi
Nicola Ngarewa
Tumuaki
ENROLMENT HUI INFORMATION
Ka nui te mihi ki a koutou
It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to Spotswood College. We look forward to sharing with you the incredible opportunities and nurturing environment we offer for your child's education.
Where possible please complete an online enrolment prior to your enrolment interview. To do this, please go to www.spotswoodcollege.school.nz and click on ‘ENROL NOW’.
Please find below key information regarding upcoming enrolment dates which are held at the contributing schools.
Enrolment Hui Day at Highlands Intermediate School:
Tuesday 8th August 2023 from 9am
Enrolment Hui Day at Devon Intermediate School:
Monday 14th and Tuesday 15th August 2023 from 9am
Enrolment Hui Day at Puketapu School:
Tuesday 22nd August 2023 from 9.30am
Enrolment Hui Day at Ōakura School:
Monday 28th August 2023 from 9am
Enrolment Hui Day at Ōmata School:
Tuesday 29th August 2023 from 9am
To book an enrolment interview, please follow the instructions below:
STEP 1: DOWNLOAD SKOOL LOOPS (Available on Android and IOS)
STEP 2: CHOOSE “Spotswood College” using the schools selection options
STEP 3: CLICK ON BOOKINGS
STEP 4: SELECT YOUR CHILD’S CURRENT SCHOOL
Please note: A, B, C etc refers to how many Spotswood College representatives we will have available on each day to do the enrolling. Please check other representatives if your preferred time is unavailable. If your child requires additional learning support, please book your interview with the SENCO - Ms Jo Sampson.
STEP 5: SELECT THE DATE OF INTERVIEW
These are preset by the schools and cannot be changed. If you are unable to make this date please call the Spotswood College school office for more information.
STEP 6: SELECT TIME OF INTERVIEW Please check other representatives for more availability.
STEP 7: ENTER YOUR DETAILS Please enter in details for your child and yourself. You will receive a confirmation from Spotswood College - but interviews will be held at the CONTRIBUTING SCHOOLS.
If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact the school on
06 751 2416 or admin@spotswoodcollege.school.nz.
HE KAUPAPA POUMAHI- STAFFING NEWS
A warm welcome to Christina Davis who joins us as our new Business Manager.
Congratulations to Matua Airana Ngarewa, who has the upcoming release of his novel, The Bone Tree.
You can join him for an signed copy as below.
Staff
Principal
Whaea Nicola email: nng@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
Deputy Principal
Mr Daryn Shaw email: dsh@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
Senior Leadership
Mrs Hilary Takarangi email: hta@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
Senior Leadership
Mr Darren Scott email: dsc@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
Year 12 and 13 Dean
Mr Wayne Cribb email: wcr@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
Year 11 Dean
Mrs Tulah Katene email: tka@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
Year 10 Dean
Mr Cameron Hopkinson email: cho@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
Year 9 Dean
Mr Airana Ngarewa email: ang@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
International Director
Mrs Nicola Healy email: nhe@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
Business Manager
Ms Christina Davis email: cdv@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
Careers Advisor
Mrs Chell Lusk email: clu@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
KO TE AKONGA KEI TE PITO- STUDENTS AT THE CENTRE
Student Poumanaaki Committee
We have a request from our Student Poumanaaki Committee (enviro leaders) that we become a disposable cup free school - they are asking for your support as we transition to this in Term 3 to fully adopt it in Term 4 where Spotswood College will become a disposable cup free zone.
Spotswood College Coffee Club
From Māra Kai to Table: A Journey of Cultivating, Creating, and Sharing
In a celebration of the bountiful harvest and the spirit of collaboration, an enthusiastic inquiry group has embarked on a remarkable journey, producing a unique masterpiece - "From Māra Kai to Table: A Journey of Cultivating, Creating, and Sharing." This beautifully crafted book is more than just a collection of recipes; it is a testament to the power of community, sustainability, and the profound connection between the land and the table.
At the heart of this endeavor lies the passion for Māra Kai - the cultivation of food from the land.
The journey began with the tilling of the land, where fertile soil served as a canvas for the group's agricultural creativity. They sowed seeds with care, tended to plants with love, and embraced the rhythms of nature. The fruits of their labor flourished, and the Māra Kai transformed into a thriving tapestry of colors, shapes, and flavors.
As the seasons unfolded, the inquiry group gathered to harvest the fruits of their labor, experiencing the joy of reaping what they had sown. From crisp greens to vibrant root vegetables, the diverse produce from Māra Kai provided an abundance of inspiration for their culinary pursuits.
With aprons tied and utensils ready, the group's culinary adventurers set forth into the kitchen. They creatively fused traditional Māori recipes with contemporary flavors, guided by the principles of whakapapa (ancestral knowledge) and manaakitanga (hospitality).
As the tantalizing aromas filled the air, the inquiry group gathered around the table, embracing the art of whakawhanaungatanga (building relationships) through shared meals. The book "From Māra Kai to Table" captures these cherished moments, preserving the essence of their journey for generations to come.
Beyond the culinary delights, this book is a testament to sustainability and responsible food practices. It serves as a reminder that the choices we make in our food systems impact not only our well-being but also the health of our planet.
As we leaf through the pages of this remarkable book, we are reminded of the richness of our traditions, the abundance of the land, and the importance of cherishing and sharing both food and knowledge. "From Māra Kai to Table" is an ode to the past, a celebration of the present, and a guiding light towards a more sustainable and harmonious future.
SCHOOL BALL PHOTOS 2023
KO TE HAPORI TE MANAWA- COMMUNITY AT THE HEART
This term we have had a new intake of students from Germany and Japan join us,
By welcoming students from diverse cultural backgrounds, we foster an inclusive and enriching learning environment that prepares all our students for success in an interconnected world.
Cultural Enrichment: International students bring a wealth of cultural knowledge, traditions, and experiences to our classrooms. Through interactions with peers from different countries, our domestic students gain a broader worldview, developing cultural competence and global awareness.
Enhanced Learning Experience: The presence of international students in our school enhances classroom discussions and academic experiences. Their unique perspectives offer fresh insights, encouraging creative problem-solving and critical thinking among all students.
Language and Communication Skills: Interacting with international students provides valuable language practice opportunities. Our students have the chance to learn and practice different languages, improving their communication skills and fostering a sense of curiosity about the world.
Global Connections: Building friendships with international students creates lasting connections that extend beyond our school's borders. These global networks can open doors to future opportunities, including educational exchanges and international collaborations.
Cultural Exchange Programs: Hosting international students paves the way for reciprocal cultural exchange programs. Our students have the chance to experience education in other countries, broadening their horizons and creating lifelong memories.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: Embracing international students demonstrates our commitment to diversity and inclusion. By valuing and respecting different cultures, we create a welcoming environment for all, fostering mutual respect and appreciation.
NGĀ PĀNUI HAKINAKINA SPORTS AND CULTURAL BULLETIN
The Addams Family
Step into the Spooky and Hilarious World of "The Addams Family" - An Unforgettable School Production!
Get ready to snap your fingers, tap your feet, and embrace the darkness as our talented students bring to life the kooky, mysterious, and altogether ooky family we all love - "The Addams Family"! Join us for a spellbinding evening of entertainment on [Date] as our school proudly presents this hair-raising and side-splitting musical extravaganza.
Step inside the iconic Addams Family mansion, where the ancestors have come out to play and the unconventional members of the family are at their eerie best. Witness Gomez and Morticia Addams, the patriarch and matriarch of the clan, navigate the challenges of raising their equally peculiar children, Wednesday and Pugsley. As the story unfolds, secrets are revealed, and the macabre meets the mundane when the Addams family welcomes their daughter's "normal" boyfriend and his parents for dinner.
Our young actors have been diligently perfecting their roles under the guidance of our dedicated production team. From the quirky antics of Uncle Fester to the cryptic wisdom of Grandma, each character comes alive on stage with unmatched charisma and talent.
"The Addams Family" is more than just a musical; it's a celebration of embracing individuality, accepting differences, and cherishing the eccentricities that make us who we are. Through the music and witty humor, the show reminds us that there is beauty in the weird and that love and family come in all shapes and sizes.
This upcoming production promises to be a visual feast with captivating sets, dazzling costumes, and choreography that will leave you enchanted. So, gather your family and friends, and join us for an evening filled with laughter, a touch of darkness, and a whole lot of heart.
Don't miss out on this extraordinary event! Secure your seats for "The Addams Family" now, and get ready to be whisked away to a world of ghoulish delight and comedic brilliance. We can't wait to welcome you to our haunted halls for a night you won't soon forget!
Spotswood College Events Presents The Addams Family.
Tickets now available for purchase through EventBrite
Dates:
23rd August - 7pm
24th August - 7pm
25th August - 7pm
26th August - 2pm (Matinee)
26th August - 7pm
NGĀ KAUPAPA KEI MUA I TE AROARO- UPCOMING EVENTS
TSSSA Events
Any students wanting to sign up for the following TSSSA events for this term please sign up at the student office.
Fri 11 August - Ski/Snow
Fri 18 August - Ski/Snow Postponed Date
Thurs 7 Sept - Junior League
Sun 10 Sept - Motocross
Thurs 14 Sept - Ki o Rahi
SCHOOL UNIFORM EXPECTATIONS
Note please students are expected to wear the school uniform to from and at school.
Items can be borrowed from the Uniform Shop for the day if required.
Non uniform items will be collected from students and returned at the end of the week.
BUS SERVICE - IMPORTANT CHANGES FOR STUDENTS FROM TARANAKI REGIONAL COUNCIL
Taranaki Regional Council is committed to making public transport more accessible and affordable for everyone, and we are pleased to announce that we have opted in to the free under 12's and half-price bus fares for under 25's initiative which commenced on 1 July 2023, in partnership with central government and other partners.
This means:
• Children aged 5-12 will be FREE with a registered Bee Card
• Youth aged 13-24 will pay half price bus fares with a registered Bee Card only
Unfortunately our contractors are again seeing an increase in the number of students who are boarding the bus without their Bee Card, with no credit on their card, or with insufficient funds for the cash fare when no Bee Card is presented. Youth who board the bus without a Bee Card are required to pay the full adult cash fare.
This results in lost revenue, which is unsustainable. We introduced flat fares throughout Taranaki, meaning along with the recent Government initiative public transport is more affordable for youth. But with thousands of dollars lost each month, the number of free rides impacts all bus users. As such, we now have no option but to be stricter with regards permitting students to travel for free.
This is a reminder that students will only be permitted one free ride (a return trip), but they will be issued a warning from the driver. Should they fail to pay for a second trip, they will not be allowed to board.
There are many options available for topping up a Bee Card, so it has never been easier or more affordable to travel. We are keen to keep it this way and ask that you please notify your students who travel by bus to have their Bee cards both available and topped up, to ensure they can continue to use the service and receive the reduced half price fare.
Please ensure all students travelling on the bus are given this letter so they can take the necessary steps to guarantee their travel.
Career News
MoneyHub has 10+ NCEA resources to help everyone attain merits and excellences - check it out and prepare for upcoming internals and externals with confidence.
https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/resources-for-ncea-students.html
Please make sure your teens are checking, opening and reading their emails. Opportunities are being missed.
School Counselling Services
School Counselling Services are available to discuss academic, career, or personal/social support.
To make an appointment
Careers Officer Chell Lusk - clu@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
Guidance Counsellors - manaakitanga@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
Drop in Public Health Nurse hours - Monday 9.00 am - 2.00 pm.
Keeping Yourself And Your Whanau Safe In Our Digital World: Bullying And Harassment
Digital platforms can be useful tools, but in this time and age, there is a significant risk that social media platforms can be used by students to bully each other or spread rumours about others. We are asking for the support of this community to come together in addressing this.
The Spotswood College’s Responsible Use of Technology Policy is below.
As part of the enrollment process, an agreement is signed by both the student and the caregiver regarding the appropriate use of the school's ICT systems. The school offers a monitored internet connection and a safe environment for the students.
Unfortunately, students’ personal cell phones are not covered by the protections that the system offers. These devices can easily be used to cause harm including the form of unconsented recording or photography.
To prevent this, it is important that as a community we understand the Harmful Digital Communication Act and the impact that this form of bullying and harassment can have on the victims. In this digital age rumours and jokes can have lingering consequences.
The Netsafe organization is the best place to get help either by starting a conversation with your child, seeking advice to help create a safer home internet connection or getting support if you are already suffering from online abuse.
Skool Loop
Spotswood College will be using Skool Loop to send out notices and information to our whānau. This is a free app available on Apple and Android devices. You can also access newsletters, contact the school about absences and find helpful links as well as quick access to Kamar.
Website
Kamar Portal
Attendance
We have a school attendance target of above 90% for every student. To ensure that together we reach this, it is important that if you know your child is going to be absent from school, that you please contact the school by using one of the following options.
Option 1: Telephone the school on 06 751 2416 and speak to one of our reception team:
Kara, Jenine and Lana
Option 2: Send a text to the Attendance Officer (Jenine) on 021 023 93060
Option 3: Send an email to the Attendance Officer (Jenine) - jpr@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
Option 4: Use the school app to submit an absence
Option 5: Leave a message on the Attendance hotline by calling the school on 06 751 2416 and press (1) to report a student's absence. Record your child’s name, parents' name, contact details and reason for absence.
Based on our attendance data system we will send an automated text to parents of any students that are absent, once in the morning and once in the afternoon.
If for any reason you are concerned about your child’s attendance, you can speak with the Attendance Officer (see contact details above) or she will pass you on to the DEAN or your child’s Learning Advisor.
Student Wellbeing Services
Sick or injured at school
The sickbay is closed for any sick-related issues. If your child is sick, we will contact home and ask for them to be picked up immediately. Students should not arrange this themselves as we need to know where they are at all times.
The sick bay is open to help with injuries.
A public health nurse is available for you and your caregivers if you have any concerns. This could be a rash, not sleeping well, regular headaches, ongoing health issues etc.
Please ask to talk to her privately. Consultations are confidential, offering information and advice. Health resources are available, with a choice of providers for referrals to agencies.
If you would like to see the public health nurse, please ask staff at student reception.
TERMS AND HOLIDAYS 2023
TERM 3
17/07/2023 - 22/09/2023
Teachers only Day = Friday 8th September
School exam week Wednesday 13th September - Tuesday 19th September
TERM 4
09/10/2023 - 8/12/2023
Monday 23rd October = Labour Day
Senior Prizegiving Wednesday 1st November
NCEA Exams start Monday 6 November - Thursday 30 November
NCEA Accord Day = Wednesday 22nd November
UPCOMING KEY DATES
TERM 3
Week 3:
WITT Taranaki Science & Technology Fair this week
3rd August - OPEN NIGHT
Week 4
8th August - TSSSA Volleyball Comp
Highlands Intermediate Enrolments from 9am
11th August - TSSSA Ski/Snow
Week 5
14th August - Devon Intermediate Enrolments from 9am
15th August - Sports Team Photos
Devon Intermediate Enrolments from 9am
16th August - Junior Student Info Evening 5.30pm-6.30pm
Senior Students Info Evening 7pm-8pm
18th August - Ski/Snow Postponed date
Week 6
20th & 21st August - Taranaki Careers Expo
22nd August - Puketapu Enrolments from 9.30am
22nd to 25th August - School production
25th August - Reports Sent Out
Week 7
28th August to 1st September
TOPEC WEEK
28th August - Oākura Enrolments from 9am
29th August - Ōmata Enrolments from 9am
Week 8
6th September - Student Led IDPs
7th September - TSSSA Junior League
8th September - Staff Only Day
Week 9
13th September - Parent Teacher Interviews
Assessment week begins (finished Tuesday week 10)
14th September - TSSSA Ki o Rahi
Week 10
18th September - Snapshot of Learning Survey for students
19th September - Assessment week ends
22nd September - End of Term Assembly
Reports sent out