Lyall Bay School

Pānui Wiki e Waru

Turei 17 Hune 2025

Kia ora e whānau

This is the last newsletter of the term as next week is the last week for term 2! We have had such an exciting term with the Dance Festival W.A.T.P hui, Cross Country, Huetepara Glow Show trip, visitors from America and Karori Normal School chatting about our pedagogy and practice, Staff Only Days with training, Pacific Peoples group, Kapa Haka, School Assemblies, Breakfast Club continuing, as well as all the rest of the teaching and learning. We have Matariki this week and Jumping June next week to finish with a flourish!

By the end of the term you should be able to access Timely Comments in Reading, Writing and Maths as well as an Ako comment. There will also be a post sharing with you where your tamariki are currently leanring in relation to the phases. Informaiton was shared in the week 6 newsletter in regard to this. If you have any questions, please see kaiako or myself.

I have shared the change from the refreshed curriculum below. We used curriculum levels for the past 8 years and now the curriculum is in phases. Years 0-3 are generally Phase 1, years 4-6 generally Phase 2, Years 7-8 generally Phase 3.

Next term, near the end of term, we have Learning Conversations. Please remember that you can come in any time to talk to kaiako. Please just make an appointment, so kaiako can make sure they are free to talk to you.

Newsletters are sent out in weeks 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 each term. There is a lot more information on HERO from kaiako for you too. If you are not seeing more information on HERO, please let us know and we will try to fix that for you.

Our Kupu Māori this week is more information about Matariki.

The theme for Matariki 2025 is "Matariki mā Puanga: Celebrating Together", which emphasizes inclusion, diversity, and celebrating the Māori New Year together as a community. This theme acknowledges the different iwi and hapū who observe either Matariki or Puanga (or both) as the start of the Māori New Year. It's a call to unite and share the unique aspects of each community's traditions and practices. The theme highlights the importance of coming together as a nation to celebrate Matariki, regardless of which star is traditionally observed, according to the Ministry for Culture & Heritage. It's an opportunity to learn from each other, share stories, and foster a sense of unity.

The "Celebrating Together" aspect also focuses on the diverse cultural practices and knowledge associated with Matariki. It's a time to acknowledge and celebrate the richness of Māori culture across different iwi and hapū. Like other Matariki celebrations, the 2025 theme encourages reflection on the past, gratitude for the present, and setting intentions for the future. It's a time to connect with whānau, friends, and the wider community, strengthening relationships and fostering a sense of belonging.

Our Matariki celebrations take place on Thursday 19th June, starting with gathering on the beach as a community, coming together for breakfast, exploring Matariki throughout the day, sharing kai at lunch, and finally a remembrance for Jyoti. You are invited to all of these events. There has been information sent out through your hubs on HERO. If you have any questions, please chat to kaiako. Dress warmly for the beach!!

Matariki is a good time to reflect on our Strategic Plan, have gratitude for where we are, and set intentions for the future. We are setting our Strategic Plan for the next three years. This is a process that all schools are expected to do. We would love to hear from you about what you think our strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats are. Please scan the QR code and fill out the survey. There will be other opportunities for you to share your thoughts and ideas for the strategic plan early next term too.

Every three years we also vote for members for the Board of Trustees. The board work at a governance level and represent all members of the community.
The more diversity we have on a board, the better the representation is. The board contribute to the school through setting the strategic plan, ensuring that this is followed, protecting the school’s values, monitoring and evaluating student learning outcomes, approving policies, financial stewardship, building community engagement and support. It’s important to note that the board does NOT get involved in the day-to-day running of the school.

The most valuable skills board members can bring to the board table are:

Work well as part of a team.
Not afraid to ask challenging questions.
Have good communication skills.
Be connected to their community.

The school board is the governor of the school/kura. The Principal is responsible for the management of the school/kura. The Principal is a member of the board and acts as the board’s educational leader and chief adviser. Governance and management work in partnership.

We have our elections in September this year and are looking for new members. If you want to give back to the school, please contact us and we will put you in contact with a board member who you can talk to. You are welcome to attend any of our board meetings. The next one is Monday 28 July at 7.00pm in the staffroom.

If you want to look through any of our policies, these are online for you. Please enter schooldocs.co.nz into the browser. The community name is lyallbay and the password is maranui. You can search for any policy in there.

Cross Country success!

Congratulations to our Cross Country runners who competed at the Primary Sport Wellington Zone Cross Country competition last week! It was a cold day, but your running was fantastic! Congratulations to Kieran, James, Darcia, Camden, and Xavier for showing Hiranga and representing your whānau and school so well!

Best wishes to James, who placed 5th in the Year 6 Boys' race. He will represent PSW at the Greater Wellington Primary and Intermediate Schools Cross Country Championships next Tuesday in Upper Hutt. Good luck James!

Term 3 Sports information

Term 3 Sports registrations are now open.

Mini-Ball – Year 3-6 – all genders

This is run in term 3 for 9 weeks at Ākau Tangi Sports Centre It is run by Wellington Basketball. There are 5 players on the court, playing a modified version of Basketball. The cost per player is $65. Payment can be made in person, or via Kindo.

A $5 levy from NZ Basketball is paid once a year – a code will be sent out to new players once teams are confirmed.

Year 5/6 – play on Monday between 4pm and 6pm. The season beings on 21st July and ends on 15th September. (The UP Foundation sponsor a girls only league – if you are interested in playing in this league it is free).

Year 3/4 – play on Tuesday between 4pm and 6pm. The season begins on 22nd July and ends on 16th September.

If you are interested in playing Mini-Ball for term 2, please complete the registration form by Friday 28th March. Click this link to register: Mini-Ball Term 3 registration form

Volleyball – Year 5-6 – all genders

This is run in term 3 for 10 weeks at the Kilbirnie Rec Centre. It is run by Wellington City Council. There are 6 players on the court. The cost per player is $52. Payment can be made in person, or via Kindo (Kathy will set this up on Kindo next week).

Year 5/6 – play on Tuesday between 3.30pm and 5.30pm. The season begins on 15th July and ends on 16th September

If you are interested in playing Mini-Ball for term 3, please complete the registration form by Friday 28th March. Click this link to register: Volleyball Term 3 registration form

I have been out on Freyberg St at the beginning and end of the day and have noticed some unsafe behaviour during drop off and pick up. Please park legally, not in the middle of the road, on yellow lines, in the accessible park (unless you have a pass), or across driveways. The centre of the road is not a parking area. It is extremely dangerous for your tamariki if you park there. It means they are not using designated crossings, are getting in or out of cars into the line of traffic who will not be expecting this, can run to the car in front of traffic. The yellow lines are there so tamariki on road patrol can see, and so cars can turn safely. Staff are doing their job when they ask you to move to a safe area. Please help them to keep your tamariki safe.

Please model the correct road safety rules to your tamariki. Use the crossings that are patrolled by tamariki and adults, or the safe road blue area.

We are a Water Only School. Water is the only drink for tamariki at school. The reason for this is for their health, teeth health and brain health. Other drinks often have too much sugar, or if they spill leave a big mess. If tamariki bring other drinks to school we will ask them to take them home. We have water fountains at school that they can drink from if needed.

We also prefer 'Nude Food' which is food not in packets. Nude Food helps with less rubbish at school and, if it didn't come from a packet, is healthier for learning and growing brains. There are No Sweets allowed. Sweets seem to be creeping in, kaiako will remove the sweets and tamariki can have them back at 3 pm. If gum is being chewed we will ask tamariki to put it in the bin. Gum makes a terrible mess!!! Better snacks for school are fruit, vegetables, popcorn, crackers, cheese, rice, home baking, etc.

We also have options through Kindo for a range of lunches delivered to school.

Kia pai te wiki

Melanie Dean

Principal

Jumping June

Thank you for all your support for our Jumping June fundraiser for The Heart Foundation. We have exceeded our original target so now we’re aiming for $8500 – we are currently 82% of the way there!

The event will be held on Wednesday 25th June giving students one week to get excited and to collect online sponsorship for their big day!

Prize selection opens on 1st July – we’ll let you know when they are open!

Dates to Diary

Mon 23 June: Learning Phases shared on HERO

Tues 24 June: Regional Cross Country

Tues 24 June: FoLBS meeting, all welcome https://meet.google.com/ggb-juqv-jxv

Wed 25 June: Jumping June day

Thur 26 June: EZ Miniball tournament

Turning Five Party

Fri 27 June: Whole School Assembly

Last Day Term 2

Wed 16 July: School Photos

Thur 17 July: School Photos

Tues 22 July: FoLBS meeting, all welcome

Wed 30 July: W.A.T.P Hui all invited

Mon 28 July: Board of Trustees meeting 7 pm in staffroom all welcome

Fri 1 Aug: Parent and Principal chat in library 8.30 - 9.00 am

Fri 8 Aug: Teacher Only Day : Kahui Ako Maths learning

Wed 13 Aug: EZ Netball Yr 5-6

Fri 15 Aug: Whole School Assembly

Tue 19 Aug: Maths Well at Victoria University (yr 5-6)

Tue 26 Aug: DanceSplash Team @ Opera House

Wed 27Aug: ArtSplash Choir @ Opera House

Tue 9 Sept: Learning Conversations

Wed 10 Sept: Learning Conversations

Wed 17 Sept: EZ Floorball

Fri 19 Sept: Last day term 3

Community Notices

Welcome to:

Millie, who started last week.

We know your time at Lyall Bay School will be the Best!

Lunches at School:

If you would like to order lunch to be delivered to your child at school, this year we are offering Subway Mondays, Vietnameezy Wednesdays, Sushi Fridays and Oat Cafe lunches on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Go to the School Shop (Kindo) on our website, www.lyallbay.school.nz and set up an account. Lunches need to be ordered before 9.00am on the morning of delivery or you can order for a whole term in advance. Please make sure you use the correct name and class for your child!

Information for Caregivers - Newsletter Snippets (kindo.co.nz)

School Photos Term 3:

Our school photos will be taken on Wednesday, 16th, and Thursday, 17th of July. Sibling/family photo order forms will be coming home with children this week. These forms need to be back at the office before the first photo day.

Order forms for your child's photos will come home a week or two AFTER photo day. Orders will be online only.

Entertainment Book Fundraiser:

With the holidays coming up, as parents we all ask the same thing: “What are we going to do with them all day?” 😅
And with the rising cost of everything, finding ways to keep them entertained and save money is a must!

That’s why Entertainment Publications have put together a Winter School Holiday Campaign
to show families how their Entertainment Membership can help them save on fun activities, dining, and even everyday essentials like groceries! (Fun fact: the average family can save around $440 a year! 🙌)

If you've never owned an Entertainment Book before, these are a great way to save money after the initial outlay. From just $70 you receive in excess of $20,000 in genuine discount offers from the best restaurants, attractions, cinemas, sports, hotels and more with a Single City Membership. Each membership purchased earns the school $12 commission. In previous years we have sold around 130 books annually, with absolutely NO problems ever reported. Now it's even more convenient in an app, so it's on your phone to use at every opportunity. Order now at www.entertainment.com.au

After School Care:

Do you want your kids to:

· Have a sense of belonging and community

· Learn through play

· Grow in confidence

· Explore alongside their peers in their neighbourhood

Then Lyall Bay School After School Care is for you!

The safe, onsite service has been a staple of Lyall Bay for more than 30 years, allowing kids to grow in a nurturing environment. This not-for-profit, parent-led service is here to serve the community — right here in Lyall Bay. We're also offering families who have their kids booked in for two days or more per week "Fridays Free" for term one! Any questions at all, please get in touch here: lbascppc@gmail.com

Enrol now at www.lbasc.net

Capital Gymnastics:

Capital Gymnastics Club offers exciting opportunities for children to enjoy and excel in gymnastics. Led by experienced coaches, safety and wellbeing are paramount. Our holiday programme is affordable and lots of fun, with sessions from 9:00am until 12:30pm and 12:30 until 4:00pm. You can book here for whole or half days. https://www.capitalgymsports.org.nz/holiday-programme

Our term time programmes cater to all skill levels, from beginners to elite athletes, covering gymnastics and tumbling. Our structured approach fosters skill development and confidence. Book online for Term 3 classes, birthday parties, or school groups at www.capitalgymsport.org.nz or contact us at 027 239 9139 or office@capitalgymnastics.nz.

Circa Theatre:

An Epic Kids’ Adventure Lands in Aotearoa! "All The Things I Wish I Could Be" – Coming to Circa Theatre this July School Holidays! Get ready for lift-off, laughs, and loud singalongs! This July, tamariki and their grown-ups are invited on a wild, musical ride with two lovable dads—Jeff and Tom—as they explore all the things they’ve ever dreamed of being. From All Blacks to ballerinas, monkeys to monsters, All The Things I Wish I Could Be is a joyful, high-energy celebration of imagination, friendship, and the freedom to be whoever (or whatever!) we want. This brand new Aotearoa-made adventure stars local legends Tom Knowles (Shrek in Shrek The Musical, Capital E national tours, Global Children’s Entertainment Awards winner) and Jed Parsons aka Jeff Parsnips (award-winning indie singer-songwriter and rising star of the Kiwi kids music scene). Packed with hilarious characters, playful chaos, and a full set of catchy original tunes performed live, this “very Kiwi” comedy is perfect for tamariki ages 3+—and guaranteed fun for the grownups who bring them. Sing, dance, and roar along as Jeff and Tom bumble their way through time, space, and endless possibilities. Where will they land next? The moon? A jungle? A rugby field? You’ll have to come and find out…

📅 SHOW DETAILS:

Circa Theatre, 1 Taranaki Street, Te Aro

Tuesday 1 July – Saturday 12 July 2025 10.00am & 11.30am daily

Special Sunday Shows: 6 July at 1.30pm & 3.00pm

TICKETS: www.circa.co.nz/package/all-the-things-i-wish-i-could-be/ 🌟

EXTRA SPECIAL PERFORMANCES:

Thursday 10 July – 10:00am: Jams & Prams Perfect for babies, toddlers, and their grown-ups—this relaxed kids concert version has a pram park and extra space for wrigglers.

Thursday 10 July – 11:30am: Unplugged A Relaxed Performance for anyone who might benefit from a gentler theatre experience— modified lighting, sound, and a welcoming vibe for all. 🌈 Come find out what YOU could be! All The Things I Wish I Could Be is a high-energy, big-hearted show that proves there’s no limit to who—or how silly—you can be. For interviews, media passes, or press images, please contact Jane Carruthers: marketingmanager@circa.co.nz 021 0883 8568 Let your imagination run wild this winter school holidays—only at Circa!

Rock Academy:

🌞 July Holiday Programme 🌞

Dates: Monday, 7th July – Friday, 11th July

Join us for a fun-filled week in the sunny EBIS Hall, with Jackson, Francis, and Geoff leading the way. Activities include:

🎤 Fun music workshops
🎵 Group busking trips
🏓 Table tennis
⚽️ 4 Square
🎸🤘🥁🎤 Band school Thursday

WHAT TO EXPECT

Our holiday programmes are a vibrant blend of creativity, fun, and musical growth suitable for beginners looking to explore or experienced pupils looking to advance. Each day features engaging music workshops and group busking trips, offering students real-world performance experience. We also ensure plenty of downtime with popular activities like 4 Square and table tennis.

WHO ATTENDS

We welcome young musicians aged up to 16, including singers, guitarists, keyboardists, drummers, bassists, and ukulele players. Our repertoire includes modern and classic rock and pop songs, tailored to challenge both beginners and advanced students.

BAND SCHOOL

Our Band School provides students with the thrill of playing in a band setting. We supply drums, bass and guitar amps, and a PA system with microphones for singers, creating an authentic band experience.

OUR TEACHERS

Our mentors are experienced, full-time music educators and musicians dedicated to inspiring the next generation. They bring passion and expertise to help each student achieve their musical goals.

www.therockacademy.co.nz or call Geoff on 021 565 750

WORD - Wellington Off Road Department:

WORD is a not-for-profit organisation running after school mountain biking skills sessions and holiday camps for young people aged 7-17 years old. We are currently taking bookings for our July Holiday camps starting 30 June.

🚴‍♀️ WORD July Mountain Bike School Holiday Camps – Now Open for Bookings! 🚴‍♂️
Looking for an adventure for your young rider these school holidays? WORD (World Off-road Riding Department) is a youth mountain biking charity dedicated to empowering tamariki and rangatahi through the thrill of mountain biking.

🌟 About WORD
Founded in 2013, WORD is a not-for-profit organisation committed to changing the world one ride at a time. We offer after school sessions and holiday camps designed to build confidence, connection, skills, and a love for the outdoors among young people aged 7–17 years old. Our programmes are led by experienced, first-aid-certified coaches who are passionate about youth development and mountain biking.

📍 Camp Info
Our 1, 2 and 3 day camp options operate in:

Central Wellington: Mākara Peak, Matairangi/Mt Victoria, and
Waimapihi/Polhill

Porirua: Rangituhi/Colonial Knob.

· 8:30-3pm each day

· Cost varies between $155-$337 per camp

🎯 Why Choose WORD Holiday Camps?

· Inclusive for All Skill Levels: Whether your child is new to mountain biking or looking to hone advanced skills, our camps cater to all abilities.

· Small Group Sizes: We maintain a low instructor-to-rider ratio (1:8)

· Focus on Fun, Learning and Connection: Our programmes emphasise skill development, environmental connection, connection to self, and, most importantly, having a blast!

· Community Engagement: Activities like trail maintenance and tree planting instil a sense of responsibility and connection to the environment.

📣 Spread the WORD!
Together, we can help our youth to find outdoor activities where they feel safe, heard and connected with others. For more details and to book a spot, visit our website - word.org.nz

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