Kia ora,
This week has seen our senior students sitting assessments to assist in their preparation for the NCEA external exams later in the year. These assessments are an important step in ensuring students are preparing for the external exams in November, while also providing a potential ‘emergency grade’ should that be needed. Senior students will be given valuable feedback from these assessments on how they are progressing, which they should use as part of their preparation process heading towards those examinations. Students have also been working through the process of completing internal assessments. With the external exam period in mind, students should be thinking about reducing their part time work hours where appropriate, engaging their study plan, and talking to their teachers to support their ongoing learning.
I would like to thank the junior school who have busily gone about their daily routines around learning, particularly over the last week when we have had some rooming and time-table changes, and an awareness of the need to have quiet areas when senior assessments are taking place.
Congratulations to our musicians who competed in the Christchurch Wind Festival, held on Sunday 18th September, this year at Papanui High School. Two Papanui groups took part in the ensemble and chamber group sections with great success, Weapons of Mass Percussion were awarded the only Gold in their section, and the Papanui High School Concert Band took out the Silver. The Concert Band, were also awarded Best Percussion Section. A detailed article can be found on the following page.
On Friday (23rd September) our Pasifika students participated in a Fiafia night here at school. This was an opportunity to celebrate and share Pasifika culture and diversity within the Papanui High School community. Thank you to those who were able to attend.
On Thursday 29th September the school will be holding a practice lockdown. Further information will be emailed home early next week
We are closing in on the end of a very busy term. Next week will include our traditional Extravaganza Week, which will provide a range of fun activities during the lunch breaks, culminating in an extended lunchtime ‘Carnival on Friday.
PUBLIC HOLIDAY – Monday 26th September
The Government has announced a one-off national public holiday to mark the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, to be held on Monday 26th September. The school will be closed for instruction.
I hope those of you who are able to have a long weekend, enjoy some extra time with family and friends.
Ngā mihi
Jeff Smith
Principal