As we shift into NCEA exams early next term, I would urge you to encourage good study habits and also be vigilant in ensuring that your child takes breaks from their study and engages in healthy behaviours to ensure they are caring for their mental health at this time. 

Please read the information below carefully as it includes key dates and information about exams and prizegiving. 

Upcoming events for seniors 

• 30 October Senior Recognition Assembly (9am) 
• 3 November: Thanksgiving Mass (10.30am) 
• 3 November: Senior Prizegiving (students at school by 6.30pm for a 7pm start) is compulsory for all senior students. Students leave school around noon in lieu of returning for prizegiving. 
• 3 November: Study Leave begins for all senior students 
• 3 December: Clearance Day (all seniors check courses, return outstanding books and collect yearbook) 
• 3 December: Leavers’ Dinner 

Course Selection
Senior students have recently completed course selection. Information and links to Option Booklets were sent home to all Year 10-12 students.  If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact our Careers and Transition Team. 

Preparation for NCEA Examinations
Congratulations to Years 11, 12, and 13 students for their outstanding effort in the recent Derived Grade Examinations (DGE). 

Students should be using the DGE as a springboard for their study, leading into the NCEA examinations in Term 4. In recent days, they should have spent time in class going through their papers with their teachers and know where they should focus their study time over the next six weeks. 

A study timetable that balances all subjects and is used in conjunction with revision activities is essential for building effective study habits.  

We are encouraging use of the Pomodoro Technique for organising study time, as recommended by the University of Auckland. This promotes the idea of 25 minute ‘bursts’ of study time followed by a brain break. Further information on this is in the SMC Study Skills Information booklet. 

For further information on effective revision activities and study habits, consult the SMC Study Skills booklet you were emailed before Derived Grade Exams or click this link to view or download the document. 

Please remember to check in with your child as they study, especially during the holidays, to ensure that they are staying healthy both mentally and physically. Many students will be highly motivated to study hard after the Derived Grade Examinations – it is important for them to maintain balance. Maintaining regular sleep patterns can be especially helpful. 

If you are concerned about your child, please contact their kaihautū, in the first instance, or one of the school counsellors. There are also many helpful contacts listed on our website under ‘Wellbeing’.  

Senior Prizegiving – 3 November 2026
Senior Prizegiving is a major event on our school calendar and all students are expected to attend.
Please note that it is a compulsory event for all Year 11-13 students. Students will be released at noon go home at lunchtime on this date and are expected to be back at school by 6.30pm. Please use this advance notice to ensure that students do not have work, sporting, or personal commitments on this evening.