From the Principal 13 April 2022

We finally find ourselves in the last week of Term One, 2022.  We commenced this term knowing that we could face a number of barriers to cohesive teaching and learning programmes and there was no surprise in the fact that this has been the case, and may continue to be so, moving forwards.  We still have a number of staff away unwell, including all but one of the Senior Leadership Team and continue to face a shortage of relievers.  Regretfully this has meant that we have had to ask year levels to remain at home and work on-line which we hope has worked for most students.

Despite these disruptions, we have still managed to continue having opportunities for students, both in and out of the classroom and this newsletter celebrates student activities and achievements, many of which we did not think would or could take place earlier in the year.  It is heartening to see that we are managing to offer our students an ongoing range of opportunities.  It now looks increasingly likely that we will be able to host three Otaki Scholars in late July.  These students are current and recent Head Boys of Robert Gordon's College and their arrival will signal, not only the opening of our borders to retain this long and cherished tradition, but will also allow our Everiss Scholars to travel back to Scotland in January.

Staffing in Term Two

I would like to inform whānau of the following staffing changes in Term Two which will provide us with greater continuity:

• Hugh Shields has been appointed as full time reliever for Whaea Penny's History/Psychology and Social Studies classes for Term 2. In addition to this, Whaea Penny herself looks likely to return next Term on a two hour per day basis. The idea will be that Penny and Hugh will team teach at the commencement of classes and that Hugh, who has a Social Sciences background, will continue the teaching and learning programmes.

• Caroline Beaufort, currently relieving for us, has accepted a .5 Technology position in a fixed term capacity for Term Two.

We hope that this will give you some clarity moving forwards and, as always, if you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Rest and Recharge

I am hoping that the two week holiday break will provide us with an opportunity for students and teachers to rest, recharge and be ready for Term Two, 2022.

Go well, be safe. 

Mauri ora,

Andy Fraser, Principal