Term three learning got off to an exciting start in the Junior school! In week two we had the Science Roadshow visit and all our junior classes were fortunate enough to attend. The Science Road show allows attendees the opportunity to explore various science and technology concepts by ‘touch and feel’. It provides a unique, informal learning opportunity that:

• excites and enthuses visitors;
• nurtures curiosity and discovery;
• improves motivation and attitude;
• adds to teacher knowledge;
• supports numeracy and literacy;
• encourages social interaction and co-operative learning;
• provides memorable real life contextual elements and exemplars.

It was fantastic to visit alongside the students and see their excitement and enthusiasm for Science!

Our Year 9 and 10 students have been busy presenting speeches in English on a range of topics that reflect our school’s values and virtues. I am looking forward to hearing the top speakers in each class present when we are able to meet again! Sancta Maria has some fantastic orators – the Year 9 and 10 assembly were recently treated to some moving spoken word poetry performances that encouraged critical thinking from the audience.

Just before lockdown our Year 7 students were lucky enough to attend ‘Ballet in a Box’ at the Vodafone Events Centre. The show gave the students a glimpse into a day in the life of a Royal New Zealand Ballet dancer. It was narrated by Chris Lam Sam and included The Ugly Duckling –  a playful performance which re-tells Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless fairytale, with a distinctly New Zealand twist.  It’s a heart-warming, coming of age story that focuses on the challenges of growing up, fitting in and finding your flock.

I’d like to thank all our teachers who put in the extra effort to ensure that our students receive these rich and varied learning experiences that enhance the learning that happens day to day in the classroom!

Stay safe and God bless,

Courtenay Kilpatrick
Deputy Principal – Years 7-10