M AY 2 0 1 9 N E W S L E T T E R
Message from the Principal
School culture is certainly something we all value extremely highly. It is absolutely crucial for our children to be in a safe and inclusive environment where they are challenged yet supported to reach their full potential. School culture is however not something we can leave to chance. We must work with purpose and determination to create a school environment we can all be proud of. School wide events, such as the recent Cross Country Day, play a significant part in developing our school culture. It was great to see so many of our families join us. What was most significant though, was the care, commitment and dedication shown by our students in supporting each other. It was certainly a day of excellence but also of persistence, resilience and personal success. Persistence and personal success were also key themes during our recent mid-year examinations. When the pressure is on to step up to the plate, we often gain clarity around what is needed to move forward. Talking with our students in the lead up to examinations, I urged them to particularly invest the time and energy to reflect on the skills and strategies which paid dividends for them. These are the skills and strategies they must build upon moving forward. Enabling our students to achieve academic success, it is imperative that they understand the value of quality study and revision, the correlation between effort and outcome, and the importance of healthy habits including diet, sleep and exercise. Being aware of the exciting opportunities beyond school are fundamentally important to the growth and development of our students as capable, confident, young people. Our annual Pathways Planning Evening will take place on Thursday, 20th June in the Sports Complex. This year we are delighted to welcome Karen Tui Boyes and Mariane Wray to the event. As we have scheduled a panel discussion and short presentations from key speakers, families should arrive at 5:25pm for a 5:30pm start. Karen is an expert in effective teaching and learning, study skills, motivation and positive thinking. She will also be working directly with our Y10 to Y13 students on Friday, 21st of June as part of our ACG Tauranga Learning Conference. Karen’s focus will be on developing our students’ understanding of effective study and giving them practical strategies guaranteed to make a positive difference in the lead up to final examinations. Mariane Wray, a hugely experienced Performance Psychologist, will be working particularly with Y11 to Y13 students. She will provide them with knowledge and strategies to ensure they are mentally prepared to give their very best on exam day. Excitement is mounting as we start the countdown to our 2019 ACG Tauranga musical production. Aladdin Jnr will be performed on Wednesday, 26th and Thursday, 27th of June. Our students have been working incredibly hard and it is set to be a great event. Please note that tickets are now on sale. Best to get in quickly. As always, a reminder that all families can access an up to date school calendar, daily notices, attendances, grades and student information via myACG. Our students are all familiar with myACG and as such, will be able to show you how to navigate the site if required. Should you need further assistance, please feel free to contact your child’s tutor teacher. Thea Kilian Principal