Newsletter
June 2014
Kia ora koutou. There is a really positive vibe around the school at the moment as we prepare for another one of our famous school productions: Bugsy Malone. I have had the privilege of seeing the hard work that is happening at rehearsals and I can assure you that such a professional and entertaining musical only happens with the focus of the cast and crew and the tireless support of a large number of staff and parents. I wish them all the best in their final preparations. Dandy Dan: “Okay fellas, this is our moment. Keep a cool head and keep those fingers pumpin’, ‘cause remember, it’s history you’ll be writin’. “
This line from Bugsy Malone appeals to me as it is a good reminder of the grit and determination needed to see goals through to the end. The first half of term two is always a little colder and it can be harder for students to motivate themselves to meet their daily commitments in the classroom. We have certainly been appreciative of your support in getting students correctly dressed, to school on time and to complete assessments. For our part here at school, teachers are monitoring attendance, attitude and completion of work closely. I am very proud of the strength and experience that our deans and guidance staff always bring to their work. The support Nayland College can offer students and families has been recognised as being of a superior standard numerous times by ERO. We know that encouraging students to maintain their focus on their schoolwork during term two contributed to our high literacy rates at level 1 in 2013 (over 90%) and we are on track to do this again.
There is extensive research that shows the positive effect on mental health that belonging to a group, team or club can have for us all. Being connected to others through trying new things or through a shared interest is an important cornerstone of good health. They provide ways to build friendships and have fun. For teenagers, taking part in extracurricular activities is an important way to establish an adult identity and set up habits that last a lifetime. It has a particularly positive effect when it mimics real life something that is easy to facilitate in coeducational settings.
Nayland College; Shaping confident, adaptable contributors
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