“Preach the Gospel at all times and if necessary, use words”
Attributed to St Francis of Assisi – 13th century.
St Francis reminds us that actions speak louder than words. Our actions require tangible effort and time. Actions are intentional and accountable.
Tēnā koutou,
As Term Two ends, I want to acknowledge and celebrate the actions of our students over the past eleven weeks.
Firstly, we celebrate the students taking their studies seriously and trying their best in the many NCEA internal assessments that have occurred this term. These assessments, and the exam preparation done now, will set up our students for success later in the year.
We celebrate the involvement of hundreds of students in our co-curricular programme: sport, music, performing arts, and cultural activities. There is a plethora of opportunities on offer at Sancta Maria College; special mention to our cultural groups who have been practicing hard for the upcoming Twilight Cultural Festival. Our Kapa Haka group is growing and strengthening; congratulations to them for a powerful Matariki celebration over the last week of term.
We celebrate the students putting their faith into action through worship and service. Thank you to the hundreds of students who attend our voluntary Wednesday lunchtime Mass each week. Thank you to the students who give their time and energy in serving others in our Young Vinnies group. Thank you to the students involved in local clean-ups and tree planting in our Kaitiaki / Laudato Si club.
Finally, thank you to the students who engage in pro-social behaviour that is evident in our school environment. Respectful language and behaviour are the norm here, not the exception. Pro-social behaviour starts with our students being present at school. 85% of our students were here regularly this term; well done to these young people for their commitment to their learning.
Of course, these opportunities would not occur if it wasn’t for committed staff members and committed parents – thank you for supporting our young people to let their talents shine.
I hope our students can relax and recharge over the holidays. I encourage them to read a book and to put away their devices.
I wish you a safe and restful break.
May faith be our compass.
Nga mihi,
Andrew Mackenzie
Principal