Te Pūrongo o te kura - Newsletter
Term 3 Week 9 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
We hope this newsletter finds you well. It's been an eventful month at Spotswood College, filled with exciting activities and achievements that we are delighted to share with you.
Student-Led Individual Development Plans (IDPs) Meeting
We extend our gratitude to all the parents who attended the recent Student-Led IDPs meeting. Your active involvement and commitment to your child's education play a significant role in their success. The IDPs offer a valuable opportunity for students to take ownership of their learning journey, and course choices for next year and your support makes a remarkable difference. We appreciate your presence and look forward to continuing this collaborative effort.
Congratulations on "The Addams Family" School Production
A round of applause goes out to our talented students and dedicated staff members who put on an outstanding performance of "The Addams Family." Your hard work, creativity, and teamwork brought this production to life, captivating the audience and showcasing the incredible talents within our school community. Your commitment to the arts is truly commendable, and we couldn't be prouder of your achievements.
Secondary School Sports Tournament Week
We want to recognise and celebrate the students who participated in the Secondary School Sports Winter Tournament Week. Your dedication, sportspersonship, and determination were evident throughout the week, and we are proud of each and every one of you. Your efforts showcased the true spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie. Keep up the great work, and continue to strive for excellence both in academics and athletics.
As always, we are grateful for your continuous support in creating a vibrant and engaging learning environment for our students. Their growth and accomplishments would not be possible without the collaborative effort between our dedicated educators, enthusiastic students, and supportive parents.
Ngā mihi,
Nicola Ngarewa
Tumuaki
HE KAUPAPA POUMAHI- STAFFING NEWS
As we head into the end of the term it is important to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank staff for their dedication and enthusiasm. A special acknowledgement to Michael Ham who leaves us to take up a new role working with the hearing impaired. This month, staff came together to participate in an enriching Equity Conference aimed at enhancing our understanding and skill set in creating an inclusive learning environment for our young people
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
We're excited to share a story that featured on stuff recently that highlights the creative and proactive spirit of our youth. As teenagers, navigating the challenges of adolescence can often include concerns about skincare. In a world where appearance plays a significant role, it's heartening to witness our students taking the initiative to address this common issue.
We invite you to dive into the article "The Taranaki Students Working on Ways to Beat Teenage Spots," where you'll discover how a group of young minds are channeling their curiosity and innovation into finding solutions for a universal concern. As educators, parents, and supporters of our students, their proactive approach reminds us of the endless possibilities that arise when young individuals are empowered to think critically, collaborate, and contribute positively to their communities.
The journey of these Taranaki students serves as a reminder that education extends beyond the classroom walls. It's about nurturing a holistic growth that encompasses both academic learning and the development of life skills. We hope their story not only inspires you but also reaffirms our shared commitment to fostering a generation of confident, capable, and compassionate individuals.
Happy reading
SENIOR PRIZEGIVING 2023
KO TE HAPORI TE MANAWA- COMMUNITY AT THE HEART
CAREERS EXPO
Students recently had the privilege to be a part of – the Careers Expo and Why Ora Expo. In a world where the landscape of work is constantly evolving, providing our young people with the tools and insights to make informed decisions about their future is paramount. These Careers Expo serves as a crucial stepping stone on this journey, equipping our students with the knowledge they need to navigate their unique paths.
It's an opportunity for our students to broaden their horizons and explore the myriad of pathways available to them. Whether they are considering tertiary education, vocational training, entrepreneurship, or embarking on a creative endeavor, the Expo brings together a diverse range of industries, institutions, and professionals under one roof. This allows our students to interact directly with experts and gain firsthand insights into various fields.
We would like to extend our gratitude to the organisers, exhibitors, and all those involved in making the Careers Expo a meaningful and enriching experience for our students. A reminder students are able to make appointments to see our Careers Advisor, Chell Lusk for further information and support.
PAPATŪĀNUKU
HOST AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT
Dear Spotswood College Community,
We are overjoyed to have our wonderful International Students back with us again.
We are looking for new homestay families to be part of our incredible International Program. This is a very rewarding opportunity for both your whanau and the students. Often lifelong relationships are formed and Homestay families will visit their host sons and daughters in their home countries for years afterwards. There are many wonderful stories of connection that have come out of the Spotswood College International program.
As Spotswood College homestay whanau:
- You will be a valuable part of our kura
- You will be highly supported by the International Team with access to emergency support 24/7 as well as advice from the team
- Regular homestay hui's- including an event at Snug lounge to celebrate you
- Financial support for your manaakitanga
If you are able to provide a fun, safe, caring, family environment, are conscientious and reliable, then please contact us. Our major enrolment intakes are mid January and July.
If you would like to know more about this opportunity please contact our homestay manager Vanessa Sheard at vsh@spotswoodcollege.school.nz or 027 665 1600
NGĀ PĀNUI HAKINAKINA SPORTS AND CULTURAL BULLETIN
FUNDRAISING EFFORTS
Embarking on journeys of learning and exploration, our students are gearing up for incredible experiences in various corners of the world. With excitement and determination, they're planning trips to Spain, Vietnam, New Caledonia, France and Rarotonga to expand their horizons and immerse themselves in different cultures. To help turn these dreams into reality, our dedicated students have taken up the task of fundraising for their upcoming adventures. Every contribution, no matter how small, plays a vital role in supporting their efforts. By offering your support, you're not just helping them reach their destination – you're investing in their growth, understanding, and global perspective. Let's come together as a community to back these young explorers and empower them to seize the opportunities that await them on the international stage.
VOLUNTEERS
Calling all compassionate individuals with a passion for education and a heart for making a difference!
We are reaching out to our community to seek volunteer reader-writers for upcoming exams in term 4. This is an invaluable opportunity to support fellow students who may require assistance during their exams due to various challenges. Your generosity in lending your time and skills can have a profound impact on their academic journey. If you're interested in being a part of this important initiative, please reach out to us at admin@spotswoodcollege.school.nz.
Together, we can create an inclusive and supportive environment that empowers every student to excel.
Thank you for being the change-makers our school community needs!
SPORTS TOURNAMENT WEEK PHOTOS
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Health and Safety: School Sign-in Process
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. Jeans and cargo pants are not part of the uniform.
Non uniform items will be collected from students and returned at the end of the week.
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: 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.
Option 2: Send a text to the Attendance Officer (Jenine) on 021 023 93060
Option 3: Send an email to absent@spotswoodcollege.school.nz
Option 4: Use the school app to submit an absence
Option 5: Telephone the school on 06 751 2416 and speak to one of our reception team:
Kara, Jenine and Lana
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 10
18th September - Snapshot of Learning Survey for students
19th September - Assessment week ends
22nd September - Last Day of Term 3
End of Term Assembly
Non - Uniform Day: Blue September Men's Prostate Fundraiser
TERM 4
Week 1
13th October - Sports Prizegiving
Week2
18th October - TSSSA Touch and Turbo
Week 3
23rd October - LABOUR DAY (School is closed)
25th October - Inquiry Showcase
26th October - TSSSA Cricket 6s
Puanga Festival at Waitara Memorial Hall
27th October - Puanga Festival at Waitara Memorial Hall
Week 4
NCEA Co-requisite assessment week (30th October to 3rd November)
1st November - Clapping for Year 13 Leavers out the gate at 1.50pm
Senior Prizegiving 5pm-7pm
Leavers Dinner 7.30pm to 9.30pm
3rd November - TSSSA Junior Beach Day
Week 5
6th November - NCEA Exams Begin
Week 6
13th November - Puke Ariki Library Visit Year 9 and 10
15th November - TSSSA Social Volleyball
Week 7
Junior Tournament Week
20th November - STAFF Only Day
24th November - Transition Day for Incoming Year 9s for 2024
Mahi Day
Week 9
Activities Week
8th December - LAST DAY OF TERM 4
Junior Prizegiving