Kia ora Kātoa,
There were several teams that competed in the recent AIMS Games held in Tauranga. It was pleasing to receive the consistent feedback about the level of commitment of students wanting to perform to their best and the supportive sporting spirit being shown by all teams.
I was proud to receive a communication from an opposition team parent to say… “what an amazing bunch of boys that played in the 7s Rugby team. They were super kind, nice and polite. Reflecting on the team play, her son commented that they (Sancta Maria College) were the nicest team they played, and as a parent, I saw this too. Sancta Maria College played hard but fair and showed good sportsmanship, as a school they are something to be proud of…”
A huge thank you must go to the staff, parents, coaches and managers who gave up their time to go away with the teams and help make these sporting opportunities possible for our students. It is an enormous ask, so your commitment is greatly appreciated. I hope the AIMS Games were as enjoyable for you as it was for the students.
I must also acknowledge our sports staff, Mr Goundar, Mrs Farmer and Mr Krause for all the administrative and organisational work behind the scenes to enable the teams to participate and the high level of commitment and dedication they give to our sports programme.
The celebration of Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori Language week led by Mrs Averil Hiddleston saw the whole school participating in a range of activities in recognition of this national event. This is a significant part of our strategic plan and curriculum. This opportunity supported new learning and increased understanding through a range of authentic tasks.
New BOT Student Representative
Elections have recently taken place for the changeover to a new student representative on the BOT. I acknowledge the rich contribution made by Joshua De Guzman who completes his term over the last 12 months. We welcome into the role Mya Tubu (Year 12) who will take-up this role later this year. There were five students nominated. Congratulations, Mya.
Student Activity Trip
There were two student trips away recently. International students experienced a trip to Queenstown that provided an excellent opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and participate in a range of activities, including experiencing snow! The Year 13 PE studies class went to Mt Ruapehu to undertake activities in the snow.
Student Drop off from Chapel Road
We are pleased that the system for the Chapel Road morning drop off has worked so well this term. Thank you to all parents for following the stated guidelines. A reminder to parents that there is no parking in the St Luke’s carpark for the afternoon pick-up, please.
Staff Farewells
We farewell Mrs Anita Heffernan who has been a valued member of staff since 2012 and has undertaken a range of leadership opportunities during this time. First and foremost, Mrs Heffernan is an experienced expert teacher of Physical & Health Education, has been a Deputy Principal, Principal’s Nominee and Dean supporting international students in course compliance and a fit-for-purpose specialised PE programme for Learning Support students. Mrs Heffernan leaves us to work in the Tertiary Sector at AUT leading NCEA & Community Partnerships, a position she is well experienced in and will take her expertise to. We wish her well in her new role.
We also farewell Mrs Angela Underwood, who has been working in Learning Support since 2019. Mrs Underwood has brought her expertise and experience to this role, and we are grateful for the contribution she has made and wish her well for the future.
Welcome
Mrs Christine Leishman has been appointed to the Principal’s Nominee and Operations Manager position. Mrs Leishman has been Head of Faculty in Languages and comes to us from Tauranga Boys College and before this St Kentigern’s College.
Louise Moore,
Tumuaki/Principal.
