Te Pūrongo o te kura - Newsletter
October 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
Preparing for an Important Term 4, Especially for Our Seniors
Kia ora koutou e te whānau,
I hope this message finds you well and ready for the challenges and opportunities that Term 4 brings. As we step into the final term of the year, it's a crucial period, particularly for our senior students.
Term 4 is not just about wrapping up the academic year; it's about celebrating the journey and the hard work that has led us to this point. For our seniors, it's a time of transition, reflection, and, most importantly, preparation for what lies beyond these school walls.
We understand the pressure that our senior students may feel, whether it's related to exams, career choices, or future plans. Our commitment remains steadfast in providing the support, resources, and guidance to ensure that every student can navigate this period with confidence and success.
We encourage our seniors to make the most of the opportunities that Term 4 presents, both academically and personally. It's a time for goal-setting, determination, and commitment to completing a successful year of learning.
For all our students, let this term be a time to focus on finishing strong, setting new goals, and embracing the learning experiences that lie ahead.
Thank you for your continued support, and together, let's make Term 4 a memorable and productive chapter in our educational journey.
Nicola Ngarewa
IMPORTANT UPDATE: Changes to Catch - Up Classes for 2023
As part of our ongoing commitment to providing the best possible educational experience, we are making adjustments to better align our approach with the needs and goals of our students.
We will not be offering the standard catch-up classes as we have in the past. The decision to discontinue these classes comes in response to valuable feedback that we have received from students, parents, and educators. This feedback highlighted that some of the credits offered in catch-up classes were too generic and did not complement the curriculum credits available through the courses offered throughout the academic year.
Our intent is to shift our focus toward students completing curriculum credits through the courses they are currently undertaking. This approach allows for a more personalised and relevant educational experience. However, we understand that some students may have unique circumstances that warrant study leave.
If you meet the following criteria, you are eligible to apply for study leave by reaching out to nng@spotswoodcollege.school.nz:
You have successfully completed your assessments for your NCEA Year Level, and you do not have any externals.
OR
You have a well-defined and approved study program in place with your classroom teachers.
If you do not meet these criteria, you will be required to continue attending school during study leave. Here are some specific cases to consider:
If you have not achieved Level 1, 2, or 3 and have not completed an assessment in a Learning Area, you need to continue attending your classes as usual.
Students who have chosen a course in the same HUB area for 2024 and have not completed all internal assessments in that area will need to do so, in consultation with your subject teacher.
Students with a significant number of external exams can use classroom time for studying and, once completed, may apply for an exemption.
Students who have completed their Year Level, for example, L1 Science, and plan to continue with Science in 2024 can use their remaining classroom time to get a head start with L2 Science, with guidance from the subject teacher, Pouārahi, and LA teacher.
These changes are aimed at providing a more tailored and effective learning experience for our students. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we implement these adjustments. If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
Thank you for your continued support in making our educational community the best it can be.
BYOD 2024
In the past, we have been able to provide loaner Chromebooks and other appropriate devices to students who needed them for remote learning or classroom use. However, as we move forward into the new school year, we want to make you aware of a crucial change. Due to various factors, including increased demand and resource constraints, we will have limited devices available for loan during the upcoming year.
We understand that not all families may have access to the necessary technology, and we want to ensure that every student has the tools they need to succeed in their education. Therefore, we strongly encourage families to make provisions now to ensure that their child has a Chromebook or another appropriate device available for the upcoming school year.
Here are a few steps you can take to prepare:
Check Your Current Device: Please assess whether your child's existing device is in good working condition and suitable for their educational needs. Ensure it is up-to-date and ready for school-related tasks.
Explore Affordable Options: If your family does not already have a suitable device, consider exploring cost-effective options for purchasing or acquiring one. Many retailers offer budget-friendly Chromebooks that are well-suited for students.
Utilise Community Resources: Investigate local community programs or organisations that may provide assistance or loaner devices for students in need. These resources can be invaluable in ensuring access to technology for your child's education.
Reach Out to Us: If your family is facing exceptional circumstances and is unable to secure a device, please reach out to us for support. We will do our best to assist and explore available solutions on a case-by-case basis.
We want to emphasise that the availability of loaner devices will be limited, and it is crucial for all families to take proactive steps to ensure that their child has access to the necessary technology for a successful academic year.
Thank you for your attention to this matter, and we look forward to a successful school year ahead.
FREE WIFI
The Ministry of Education recognises that not everyone can currently access the internet at home. The Ministry’s Equitable Digital Access initiative provides fully funded internet connection to learners/ākonga who do not have home internet connection. To be eligible for internet connection, a learner/ākonga must:
be enrolled & attending a school
be in Year 0 to 15
not have access to an internet connection at home.
This support is only available until 30th June 2024.
Families, schools, & community groups can apply for student connections by:
emailing the Equitable Digital Access (EDA) team at EDA@education.govt.nz
emailing the Equitable Digital Operating System (EDOS) team at support@edos.kiwi
contacting the EDOS team between Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 7:00 pm, on 0800 441 844
For more information about the initiative, refer to the attached flyer or go to the following websites:
The Ministry of Education website: https://www.education.govt.nz/school/digital-technology/your-schools-ict-network/enabling-home-internet-access-for-your-community/#Eduroam
The Equitable Digital Operating System (EDOS) website: https://edos.kiwi/
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
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE
Congratulations
We are thrilled to announce and celebrate the remarkable achievements of these outstanding individuals within our community. Their dedication, talent, and commitment to their goals have earned them prestigious awards that highlight their exceptional capabilities.
First and foremost, we extend our congratulations to Zara Erol Watt, who has been awarded the Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship for the year 2024. This scholarship is a true testament to Zara's extraordinary determination and commitment to her academic pursuits and extracurricular achievements. Sir Edmund Hillary, known for his pioneering spirit and dedication, would undoubtedly be proud to see his legacy carried forward by someone as deserving as Zara. Her commitment to excellence is commendable, and we can't wait to see the incredible impact she will undoubtedly make as a scholarship recipient.
We also wish to acknowledge and congratulate Lydia Aldridge, who has been named the recipient of the esteemed First Foundation Scholarship. Lydia's commitment to her personal and academic growth is evident in her being chosen for this prestigious honor. The First Foundtion recognises Lydia's dedication to her studies and community involvement, reflecting the spirit of teamwork and excellence that the award embodies.
Isis Kennard is the deserving recipient of the Totoweka scholarship at Victoria University of Wellington. Additionally Isabella (Bella) Hopkinson has successfully been awarded a WITT Te Pūkenga School Leaver Degree Scholarship for 2024. Oliver McFarlane and Xanthe Hawksley both received the Ko Te Tangata School Leaver scholarship. 'Ko Te Tangata' School Leaver Scholarship from The University of Waikato.
KO TE HAPORI TE MANAWA- COMMUNITY AT THE HEART
In the coming weeks and months, you will start to witness some transformations as we prepare for Phase 1 of our eagerly anticipated new Science and Technology Building.
Some older buildings will make way for the future, and our outdoor courts will be relocated to our back field. These changes are necessary to make room for the first phase of our modern Science and Technology Building.
This development represents a step forward in enhancing our educational facilities and providing a cutting-edge environment for our students. The new building will house state-of-the-art laboratories, classrooms, and collaborative spaces, fostering innovation, scientific exploration, and technological advancement.
The move of outdoor courts to the lower field will ensure that we can continue to offer our students recreational opportunities during the construction phase, while allowing us to create a sports hub area.
We understand that change can be a mix of excitement and curiosity. The entire process will be carefully managed to ensure minimal disruption to our daily school activities. Our priority is to keep the safety and well-being of our students and staff at the forefront of every decision we make.
We want to thank all our students, parents, and supporters for your patience and understanding as we embark on this journey. This development will not only benefit our current students but also generations to come. We're excited about the future of our school, and we invite you to stay engaged and follow our progress throughout this transformational process.
We will continue to keep you updated on the progress of the new Science and Technology Building and any changes affecting our school community. Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or would like more information about this exciting project.
NGĀ PĀNUI HAKINAKINA SPORTS AND CULTURAL BULLETIN
Sports Prizegiving Recipients 2023
It is with great pride that we celebrated the achievements of our student-athletes at the 2023 Sports Prizegiving.
Our sports stars have showcased their exceptional talents, teamwork, and sportspersonship throughout the year, earning themselves well-deserved accolades. The dedication and passion of our athletes have not only contributed to individual successes but have also played a significant role in the collective achievements of our school sports teams.
We also want to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to the coaches, managers, and everyone who has supported our athletes on their journey. Your dedication, guidance, and unwavering support have been instrumental in nurturing the talent and potential of our students.
As we acknowledg our sports prizegiving recipients, let's also remember that success is a journey, and this is just the beginning. The skills, values, and friendships forged through sports will serve you well in all aspects of life.
The recipients of Sports Awards 2023 are as follows:
Madison Abrams
Alya Anderson
Charlie Bennett
Mason Cowley-Mosen
Wairangi Davey
Huriwaka Dean
Scarlett Dinnis
Zara Erol-Watt
Augustine Faga
Chloe Fisher
Chelsea Gartner
Paige Greenaway
Samantha Hart
Lucas Heggie
Ashleigh Hill
Rotz Kavanagh
Isis Kennard
Shyla Kennard
Kingston Lilo
Zalan Lizaan
Mia Matheson
Balu Molnar
Joel Penno
Jamie Pihama-Jeffrey
Dahvade Pihama
Anika Puata-Tkalia
Luka Ruakere-Sutton
Haruna Saito
Aliana Scholey
Tahi Te Awa
Taya Tuavao
Mitchell Wong-Too
Samuel Woodward
Dhio Yoshimura
Noah Fleming
Ellie Dinnis
Jordyn Woods
Ocean Baylis
Bodhi Danenhauer
Madi Shines at New Zealand Highland Dancing Championships and Beyond!
We are thrilled to share some exciting news from the world of Highland Dancing – Madi Metcalfe has become the new New Zealand Champion for the 14 years and under 16 years age group! Her remarkable journey through the recent championships is nothing short of inspiring.
The competition took place from the 7th to the 9th of July 2023, where Madi displayed her exceptional talent and dedication. In the Premier Award Section for dancers aged 12 and over who have previously placed in the top three in a championship, Madi took home the title of Runner Up. She secured a gold medal for her Highland Fling, second place for her Sword, another gold for her Seann Triubhas, and despite a minor stumble in her Reel, she impressively landed in 6th place. Her performance in the Runner Up Premier Award category truly showcased her skill and passion.
The weekend wasn't just about the New Zealand Championships, as the Scottish Nationals & Premiership of Taranaki was also on the agenda. Madi's consistency shone through, securing third place overall. She clinched a silver medal for her Irish Jig, a bronze for the Flora, and two fourth-place finishes in the Blue Bonnets & Village Maid. As a testament to her excellence, Madi was also awarded the Premier Most Points Runner Up accolade.
Sunday saw Madi taking the stage with renewed determination. She scooped up three well-deserved gold medals in the Highland Fling, Sword, and the Reel, and claimed silver in the Seann Triubhas. This outstanding performance made her the Overall Winner of the New Zealand Championships for the 14 to 16 age group. Madi was overjoyed and ecstatic to complete the Championship Fling, capping off a fantastic weekend, and she also secured the Premier Most Points Runner Up Award for her achievements.
Madi's journey didn't stop there. She headed across the Tasman Sea to Gosford, New South Wales, to participate in The International Highland Dancing Festival from the 29th to the 31st of July. Her success continued as she clinched the silver medal in the Premier 15-17 years section. Notably, she earned a silver medal in The Sailors Hornpipe, earning her a spot among the 12 finalists to compete in The John McFarland Memorial Hornpipe. In this prestigious competition, Madi showcased her graceful and impeccable dancing skills, and she was the sole New Zealand Dancer to qualify. Her stunning performance in the final cemented her reputation as a Highland Dancing force to be reckoned with.
Madi's journey through these recent competitions is not just a testament to her extraordinary talent but also to her unwavering commitment to the art of Highland Dancing. Her achievements have made her a shining star in the Highland Dancing community, and we look forward to witnessing her continued success in the future. Congratulations, Madi!
NGĀ KAUPAPA KEI MUA I TE AROARO- UPCOMING EVENTS
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.
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 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 = Monday 20th November
UPCOMING KEY DATES
TERM 4
Week 3
25th October - Inquiry Showcase
Junior Volleyball Taranaki regionals TSB Stadium 5-9pm
26th October - TSSSA Touch Rugby
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
Junior Volleyball Taranaki regionals TSB Stadium 5-9pm
3rd November - TSSSA Junior Beach Day
Week 5
6th November - NCEA Exams Begin
Junior Volleyball Taranaki regionals TSB Stadium 5-9pm
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
21st - 24th November - North Island Secondary Schools Junior Volleyball Championships
Papakura, South Auckland.
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