QM Calling Issue 68

QUEEN MARGARE T

Calling

issue.

68

DECEMBER 2021

TE WHĀNAU O

Kuīni Mākareta

CONTENTS

FOREWORD From The Principal

4

From The Board Chairs

6

Head Prefects

7

RESI LI ENCE QMC Welcomes Megan Williams to the Wellbeing Team 28

L IVING L E A RN IN G From The Head Of Preschool

8

French Plays

9

Year 6 PYP Exhibition Global Honours for our Environmental Reporter

10 – 11 12

Junior School Creative Writing 13 Year 10 Community Projects

14 – 15

Japanese Success

16

Duke Of Edinburgh

17

Te Whānau

18

IB Visual Art

20 – 21

Witi Ihimaera

22

IB Review 23 Year 11 Student writing hits the Dom Post

24

Ringa Toi Exhibition

29

Sharing Student Successes

30

Winter Sport (and a bit of lockdown)

32

Junior Footy Team

35

Voces Luce takes talent to Whanganui 36 Nothing can stop House Performing Arts

38

Standing Room Only

44

Student groups furthering important conversations 46 – 47

COM M UNI TY Fresh faces in the faculty 48 – 49 Holly Payne announced as Deputy Principal

50

Grandparents’ Day in spirit for 2021

51

QM House Lockdown

52

From The Foundation Trust

54

Year 13 Leavers' Assembly

55

The Audience-Less Assembly 55 From The Old Girls’ Association

56 – 57

Lokotui shines in debut professional season

58

QMC Parents’ Association

59

Front cover QMC Junior School Football at Martin Luckie Park Inside front cover QMC Te Whanau – Samoa

53 HOBSON STREET, TH O R N DO N , WEL L I N G TO N NEW ZE A L A ND 6 01 1 • + 6 4 4 473 7 1 6 0 • Q M C . S C HO O L .NZ 3

F O R E W A R D

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Thinking about OUR thinking Many years ago, I was taking a professional development session for a school and we were focusing on how students learn best. I asked the audience who knew what metacognition was, and the vast majority put up their hands. Then I casually asked the obvious question,

“Can anyone describe briefly what metacognition means?” All the hands

slowly went down, along with heads (all teachers know making eye contact is always fraught with danger at question time).

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Naturally, the slowest to look away got asked the question and I was met with silence. We all kind of knew what metacognition was, but I know there was not a common understanding for that group of teachers about what the word meant in practice.

We need both a common language of learning and the deliberate use of metacognitive practices by teachers and learners.

The International Baccalaureate have recently published their own paper about the importance of teaching metacognitive skills.

When we are confident to use metacognitive strategies, we are open to the concept that we may have made an error or see something differently and we should welcome that.

When we have trust and dialogue between learners and teachers, engaging in these practices encourages self-efficacy, a growth mindset, and the belief that there is always more that we can do to add to our understandings.

Some actions your daughter can engage in with their learning or study are: • A lways, always, always make a plan before beginning to write a response, especially if it is a longer answer. A handwritten piece is not able to be altered with the back button. Reduce the likelihood of stress by planning the order of your work. Trust me, it is easier and more time efficient to do the plan at the start.

• Rehearse and memorise key facts. Like learning sports, music, and drama lines, you should use the same drills in Science and Mathematics – in fact, everything.

• Self-monitor – be rigorous in asking if you are tracking well and are you where you should be? Do you believe you have any gaps, and if so, what are you doing to fill the gaps?

F O R E W A R D

Celebrating the Queen’s birthday with Year 1

Here at QMC, it is not only the learners who engage in metacognitive activities.

“

In the past 18 months, we added a new lens for the teachers; IRIS Connect. IRIS Connect allows teachers to see themselves as students do by experiencing their classes through videos of themselves engaging in the art/ science of teaching. We call this microteaching, and this practice is a game-changer for teachers to get a microscope-view on our teaching.

Collaboration is vital for our profession and tools such as IRIS provide the opportunity for new discussions with each other.

Ms Young with Year 13s at Athletics Day

The feedback from our trial has been overwhelmingly positive.

“ I used IRIS this week on my phone and then I edited a video clip which is part of my appraisal. I LOVE the technology and am super excited about the possibilities surrounding it” and “simple, easy to use and totally under your control as to how you share and with whom. An absolutely outstanding tool for PLD”

are examples of the feedback we have received from teachers.

So back to that thinking about your thinking.

Metacognition is an essential part of teaching and learning.

The skills of self-regulation and agency are built up through willingly scrutinising ourselves as both learners and teachers.

As the IB paper says: Promoting metacognition is less about finding the perfect policy, practice, or program and more about creating a culture of teaching and learning that produces thoughtful and reflective students who are prepared and motivated to engage in independent, lifelong learning.

The insights and lessons learned from the research provided in this policy paper can help teachers and school leaders take small steps toward creating a school culture and learning environments that cultivate metacognition for all learners.

Jayne-Ann Young

Principal Beach, PT, Anderson, RC, Jacovidis, JN, and Chadwick, KL. 2021. Making the abstract explicit: The role of metacognition in teaching and learning. Bethesda, MD, USA. International Baccalaureate Organization.

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F O R E W A R D

FROM THE BOARD CHAIRS

We don’t know what Term 4 will

as we open our doors more and

bring, but we are quite sure the

more to students of other cultures

staff will be equal to it. Meantime

and traditions. A keynote address

we hope that the school holidays

by Rev. Dr Jordan Redding on

have been refreshing for everyone

what it means to be Presbyterian

as we gear up for the last part of

in the 21st century was genuinely

the school year, which is always a

insightful. Jordan emphasised the

very busy term for students and

importance of understanding and

teachers alike.

being connected with our roots,

The year was rolling along nicely, with only a few disruptions as we popped in and out of Alert Level 2 a couple of times. So Term 2 was fairly ‘normal’ and it was good to make it halfway through Term 3. Deputy Principal Marianne Duston, Chaplain Deborah Wilson and Board Co-Chair Lynne Dovey

whatever tradition we are from.

The conference was hosted by St Andrew’s College in Christchurch and attended by staff, Board members and chaplains from the 12 Presbyterian Schools around the country. It was a great opportunity to meet with colleagues, exchange ideas and learn new things.

wrong. And perhaps Ms Young had a sixth sense prior to New Zealand going into Alert Level 4 on 17 August.

(A sixth sense is something which school principals learn to develop, we suspect). QMC began its remote learning programme on 19 August.

Thinking and planning ahead has really paid off. Staff were able to mobilise very quickly and were in their virtual classrooms with only one day of preparation. Students had been advised to take their devices home on 17 August. Some didn’t quite manage it due to the speed of the move to Alert Level 4, but staff undertook ‘special deliveries’ so that every student had what they needed to continue their studies.

In many respects, the speed and efficiency with which QMC switched to remote learning is a metaphor for how fleet of foot and adept the college is in its approach to learning. The Board is proud of the college’s track record with remote learning, 100% attendance being a great measure of its success.

This doesn’t mean that remote learning is easy for students or teachers. We are aware some students find virtual learning a real challenge. The important point is that students are still very much engaged with their teachers and peers and well-integrated into the college community. The Board is constantly impressed with the dedication of teachers and staff generally to individual learning and wellbeing of the students. Thanks to all for your professional approach.

attended the Presbyterian Schools

In early August, the Principal,

Conference held in Christchurch on

Jayne-Ann Young, informed Board

5 and 6 August, and it was a great

members that the Executive Team

event. Wellbeing was a focus of the

had completed a review of remote

conference, as was understanding

learning procedures to be ready for

and integrating Te Ao Māori into

whatever might happen next, as the

a work context. Diversity of the

Delta variant situation worsened in

student body was also a topic of

New South Wales. Good idea we

conversation, encouraging us to

thought, hoping this would not be

Lynne Dovey and Tim Power

think about interfaith connections

needed any time soon. We were

QMC Board Chairs

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F O R E W A R D

HEAD PREFECTS

“

I wish there was a way to know you're in the 'good old days', before you have actually left them.

Term 3 began well with QMC's first Sustainability Week taking place.

Our Sustainability Prefect, Amelia Peel, organised a terrific week full of pot plants, a Hobson worm farm and a sustainable market day.

Head Prefect Erinn Aspell, Principal Jayne-Ann Young & Deputy Head Prefect Sophie Hargreaves

Despite the challenges the last half of this year has presented, the class of 2021 and the rest of QMC have still managed to MAKE THEIR MARK! At the end of Term 2, we celebrated Purple Power Week, a female empowerment week started

by Wellington East Girls' school, and now celebrated across Wellington. We had various activities such as 'Dress as an inspirational women day' and 'Wear a purple accessory day' to celebrate this. This raised money for Y25, a programme supporting incredible young women, including our own Angelina Del Favero and Maia Mariner.

Term 2 concluded with a personal highlight – House Performing Arts.

This is a great day as those who lack musical abilities, like us, can still be involved. From the Year 6 Chant right through to Senior Small Group acts, it was a fantastic event.

This year's theme, 'Icons', was thought of by our Drama Prefect – Lola Gonzalez-Boddy and Music Prefect – Ella Briggs. The theme tied in very well with the school theme for 2021 and showcased some of QMC's own icons. The House Prefects did an incredible job organising this event, with Berwick and Locky tying for first place. House spirit soared during this time, and it was a great way to finish off an outstanding term.

Unfortunately, our plans for the remainder of Term 3 got cut short with another lockdown.

But we still checked in with QMC students through our Instagram – @qmcstudents (chuck us a follow). When it was time to return to school, we found ourselves heading straight into exams; however, we were still able to finish off the term well with a bake sale, which brought us to our $1,000 target for Daffodil Day. In a favourite show of ours, 'The Office', a character said, "I wish there was a way to know you're in the 'good old days' before you have actually left them", and as our time at QMC comes to an end, it becomes more apparent that the days we have spent here are 'the good old days'. The cohort of 2021 will look back on our time as QM students exceptionally fondly. So, continue making your mark QMC! We hope you remember the one we have left.

Erinn Aspell and Sophie Hargreaves

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L E A R N I N G

FROM THE HEAD OF PRESCHOOL

ALL action in the Preschool In recent months, the QMC Preschool has been focusing on communication and relationships. This particular line of inquiry has taken several paths and shapes but has been primarily driven by the children’s interests and questions. Read on for a summary of some of the goings-on in the QMC Preschool.

QMC’s youngest students have been participating in many activities involving music, dance, and visual art. Beginning with a visit to Hannah Playhouse to see a Capital E production, we then moved on to a five-day dance workshop at Preschool. Finally, we started a weekly programme that focuses specifically on visual art.

The children have explored elements of art, including colour, texture, pattern, shape, and a range of drawing and painting techniques. They are already starting to talk about the different techniques and styles they are using when creating their own artworks.

With ten new children starting Preschool since September, there has been a focus on communication to support children and their whānau with

reinforcing appropriate social communication, and encouraging the development of strategies that promote sharing, teamwork and effective listening skills.

Children’s knowledge and use of te reo Māori continues to develop.

As part of our programme, children learn their own mihi and practise presenting it in front of the Preschool group. The children have recently been learning new waiata and continue to practise NZ sign language. Learning how to write their names has been a goal for most of our younger children and we are offering opportunities for all our children to practise writing and see how writing is used in everyday activities.

We will wrap up the inquiry when we close for the year, after more performances, songs and celebrations for Christmas.

settling in quickly, building new relationships, and making

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friends. The Preschool has been

Emily Domican

working with all its children,

Head of Preschool

L E A R N I N G

FRENCH PL AYS

Vive le Français!

The French language skills of

of the story and characters,

Junior School students were on

and ultimately perform in front

full display as they took to the

of their peers and family.

Auditorium stage in October.

French is a specialist subject in the Junior School, with all students

French and Music teacher Susie Hardie said she was incredibly proud and impressed at what

introduced to and immersed in

the groups were able to deliver.

the language in highly interactive

“I thought the girls were

ways. The girls thrive as they are

outstanding. They really engaged

presented with opportunities to sing, dance, take part in musical games and activities, using French.

with the story and performed with lots of expression. Having to perform in front of an audience

The culmination of their learning,

really motivates them to memorise

and the highlight of the year, is

their lines! The vocabulary from the

the presentation of their plays, for

story becomes engrained in their

which students have spent weeks

minds. I had had a girl, who has

preparing. Groups are required

now graduated, come up to me

to understand the story they

recently and recite the entire play

are telling, memorise their lines

for me which she had performed

and staging, choose costumes

years ago when she was a student

that reflect their interpretation

in the Junior school!” said Susie.

Year 4 performed ‘Comment Y aller’

“The Year 4 play was called 'Comment Y aller' and told the story of Marie, a girl who lives in Quebec and wants to see her friend in Paris. She tries to use various modes of transport to get there but is thwarted at every turn. Then, an alien comes to the rescue and takes her to Paris, where she discovers her friend went to Quebec to visit her! The Year 5 was called 'Boucles Violettes et les trois ours' – a variation on the story of Goldilocks. The culmination of all the learning that happens in French is in Year 6, where they get to perform 'Louis la grenouille', a story about a frog that loves rock and roll!

This is the most challenging play which features much more complicated grammar.

Year 2 and 3 also presented their French plays in early November; however these fell after the publication deadline.

Year 2 performed ‘La Poule Maboule’, a version of the story of “Chicken Little”. Year 3 presented ‘Les trois Petits Cochons (The Three Little Pigs)’.

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L E A R N I N G

YEAR 6 PYP EXHIBITION

Year 6 Exhibitions are a significant event in the learning journeys of our girls. These are independent research projects where students are given the opportunity to share their understanding of a real-life issue or topic they've covered during the year.

“

the difficulties this posed, Year 6

know about these situations

Teacher, Mrs Ashleigh Pickering,

that so many people around the

said the students were a delight

world face because I really want

“ I was so impressed by the independence and initiative shown by the girls. All were fairly grounded in their online learning after last year, but the way they took to the task of creating such extensive portfolios of work was above what I expected.

The collaboration among groups was fantastic, with all students pushing and challenging each other to take their ideas further.

I am so proud of them,”

throughout the process.

to help them," said Madeline.

said Mrs Pickering.

Exhibitions are the culmination

Students covered a range

of students' development as

of topics this year, spanning

inquirers and an important step

environmental challenges and

in the International Baccalaureate

the history of LGBTQI rights

Primary Years Programme (IB PYP). Students can reflect on their learning while developing skills of presentation and assessment.

Over ten weeks, students work tirelessly and enthusiastically to plan and create their incredible presentations and performances.

Students faced new challenges in 2021 as most of the preparation was done from home as they worked remotely during the Alert Level 4 lockdown. Despite

in New Zealand to how music can create changes in society and trigger hidden emotions.

Year 6 students Madeline Roberts, Emily Candler and Danielle

O'Donovan said they loved working together as they investigated the plight of refugees. "We feel proud of all we've achieved in the past ten weeks. I didn't really even know refugees existed before. But now I'm happy I

What an incredible group of adventurous learners these young women are! A big thanks to Mrs Pickering for all the amazing support she provided throughout these projects' development.

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L E A R N I N G

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L E A R N I N G

GLOBAL HONOURS FOR OUR ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTER

Senali Vasanthathilake won first prize in an international reporting competition

In last year’s QM Calling, we

Making this even more remarkable

acknowledged the outstanding

is that Senali was just ten years

work of Year 7 student Senali

old when she submitted her

Vasanthathilake. Her exposé on

work and competed against

the unsustainability of cat food

students up to four years older.

packaging was awarded first prize for her category in New Zealand’s Young Reporters for the

Asked about her reaction upon hearing the news, Senali said she

Environment Competition.

could barely believe it. “I feel really

This also qualified her work for

idea as a joke in class, but I thought

moderation in the international

it was interesting, so I decided to

Young Reporters for the

look into it. It has definitely changed

Environment Competition.

how we think about the food we

250 submissions were

buy for our family cat, Miskit.

shortlisted from the 454,000 students participating in the programme around the globe.

After a three-day deliberation, the panel of environmental leaders awarded Senali first place in the Litter Less Category (age 11-14).

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“Back in Year 3 my friend said we should call him Miskit. I didn’t like the name, but I also didn’t want to be mean, so I just decided to go with it. Four years later it has definitely grown on me,” Senali said.

proud. Mr Vohan suggested the

Asked about the origins of her cat’s name, Senali said that Miskit is the name of a cartoon character and it was actually suggested by one of her classmates.

“Ms Treeby contacted my mum before my music class to tell her that I won first place and I was absolutely shocked. I was really hoping to receive an honourable mention, but I never really imagined that winning was a possibility.”

L E A R N I N G

JUNIOR SCHOOL CREATIVE WRITING

The Secret Tunnel

By Isla Devers, Year 5 There was a bunny on the lawn, he was sitting on the smooth grass and looking at the tunnel in front of him. He decided to go in, so he did. When he went in he felt someone’s presence behind him, he looked behind and saw himself. He did not know what to say, he was in shock. But that did not stop him from going in. His future self was still following him.

When he stepped foot in the tunnel, he felt a breeze of air coming right at him. At the other end of the tunnel was a beautiful garden, so he was determined to get in the garden. After it felt like hours of walking he made it. He realised There was something special about this garden, it made the bunny feel calmer than the outside world. He was strolling around the garden and saw this flower, he felt a connection through the flower. So he decided to pick the flower and he was right. The flower gave him some sort of power, it made him feel stronger. He kept hold of the flower. He just remembered that his future self was still behind him, so he asked him one question that he was waiting to, ask him since he met him.

“What are you doing here?” “Well, I was here because god sent me down to talk to you”. “Oh, ok” I said.

People still say that the bunny is still in that garden till this day, and never left since.

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L E A R N I N G

YEAR 10 COMMUNITY PROJECTS

Every year the Year 10 students explore service learning through the Community Project. They chose to work alone or collaborate in small teams to identify a need in the community and work towards producing a project centred around advocacy, research, direct or indirect service.

Year 10 students presenting to a Year 5 class

The students worked through investigation, planning, taking action and reflection stages to create a wholesome project that some are taking further into upcoming action like organising Mental Health Awareness Week, creating ongoing real-life stories and content for ADHD New Zealand and creating recipes and baking to fuel our local community.

In line with previous years, the quality of projects at this year level has been outstanding. Among a sea of inspirational projects, we have seen: • websites constructed to raise awareness for mental health with inspiring local women leader advocates • LGBTQIA+ community support • a refugee support guide for teens who are new to New Zealand • knitted hats for the Neonatal Trust • funds raised and environmentally safe period products purchased for the underprivileged • fundraising for hygiene products for recently released women prisoners who are integrating back into their communities • a donation of reused toys for the SPCA • book donations for a local charity • sports uniforms for a lower decile school • books made with original stories and artwork for the local library • guides for the elderly to become digitally literate • helpful pamphlets to educate Sri Lankan communities on First Aid • activity booklets for the children arriving at a Women’s Refuge.

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L E A R N I N G

Isabelle Van der Wilt and her knitted hats

Presenting the new worm farm to Junior School students

MYP Coordinator, Camille Le Prou, said she was blown away by the quality of work and incredibly proud of what students had accomplished.

“

Year 10 student, Emily Humphrey, described her involvement in the Year 10 Community Project as challenging but very rewarding.

“

“As well as taking action, students noted in their reflections that their understanding of what service learning is has shifted throughout the project. It is pleasing to note that students have been selfmotivated and driven to succeed in this aspect of the Middle Years Programme to be able to think outside of themselves and serve a wider community need through their learning journey,” she said.

“Throughout the journey of our project, we encountered a number of problems and difficulties and came up with many solutions and new ideas. We have learnt to solve issues calmly and constructively and have developed many key life skills as well. We have loved helping our community, and I think I speak for everyone when I say that we have taken a lot away from this experience,” said Emily.

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L E A R N I N G

JAPANESE SUCCESS

The conquerings of QMC’s Japanese students

Trivia Quiz winners – Tanishka Raina, Sophia Gittings, Lexie Johnston and Tianyi Mathur

Our Japanese students have excelled in competition in 2021. From claiming the top prize in a national quiz to flexing their speaking abilities in speech competitions, 2021 has been a year to remember.

Sensei Hidemi Fuke has been

The QMC team, consisting of

understandably giddy when

Tanishka Raina, Sophia Gittings,

reporting on the successes of

Lexie Johnston and Tianyi

her talented Japanese students

Mathur, were thrilled to learn

in 2021. They have claimed an

they had scored the top mark

unprecedented amount of

at the Wellington Regional

silverware thanks to their passion

Championship. However, not

and commitment to learning one

only was their score the top for

of the more challenging languages.

the region, but they also topped

At the end of Term 2, QMC entered the New Zealand Secondary Schools Japanese Trivia Championship. This annual quiz takes place simultaneously at different venues around Aotearoa.

Participants are tasked with answering questions covering

more than 100 other schools that participated around the country.

This success was followed by more great news in Term 3 as five students participated in the 11th annual Wellington Regional Japanese Speech Competition on 13 August (just days before

Japanese history, culture, sport,

the Alert Level 4 lockdown).

food, festivals and several other

The competition was organised

topics. Essentially, it challenges

by the Wellington Association of

students to demonstrate how

Japanese Language Teachers,

much they have absorbed

and participants spoke eloquently

through their language and

about personal topics, including

cultural study years.

families and hobbies, while others

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provided their own perspectives on different subjects.

Tessa Burnett claimed first place in the Year 12 category, while Imogen Kennedy-Smith was a close second. In Year 10, Tianyi Mathur took second prize, while Sophia Gittings came in third.

Faith Lim (Year 13) also spoke superbly about the tradition of Japanese tea parties.

Tianyi was also awarded the Ambassadors Prize – an award that acknowledges previous winners with named ribbons that commemorate the year they won. Several Old Girls’ names feature, including Emma Power and Alexandra King.

Well done to our students and Ms Hidemi Fuke on a remarkable year of achievements.

L E A R N I N G

DUKE OF EDINBURGH

Chasing the Duke's Gold on Abel Tasman's Golden Sand The Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Award programme is a challenge that pushes young people to their limits and recognises their achievements.

It is comprised of three levels and four sections: skills, voluntary service, physical recreation, and adventurous journey. Queen Margaret College had 110 students participating in 2021 across all three levels – a remarkably high percentage of the student body and a testament to the adventurous and community-minded spirit at QMC. Year 12 student, Iris Ma, is completing the Gold level and shares her experience of the tramps she participated in this year.

Ten students embarked on two enthralling tramps as part of the Gold Duke of Edinburgh programme during the April and October school holidays.

Our practice tramp was the comfortable yet exciting Queen Charlotte Track. Some memorable moments included staying in a quaint and unique backpackers, which used to be an aquarium, and spending heaps of time on the beach while visiting nearby lodges and shops. We had great weather and we finished the trip with a sunny afternoon exploring all the shops and views Picton has to offer.

As for our qualifying trip, our original plan was to tramp on Great Barrier Island; however, due to the recent COVID-19 developments, we changed plans and decided to return to the beautiful Abel

initiated a friendly race to each night's accommodation but ultimately fell short of their expectations. I also found that our tramping pace as a group dramatically increased on this trip due to our previous experience, meaning we were able to power through each day in record time and relax early in the afternoon.

Although the sky decided to rain the one and only night we stayed in tents (which unfortunately resulted in some leaks and soggy clothing), we generally had great weather.

We had a fantastic time swimming at all the beautiful beaches and taking in the breathtaking views.

Overall, I am proud of how much we've achieved as a group this year and how far our abilities and team spirit have come. The adventurous journey is only a small part of Duke of Edinburgh, but it has certainly been the most enjoyable. We've learnt so much over these journeys and are now all incredibly skilled at chasing away pesky weka!

Tasman. On this trip, we were accompanied by a friendly group

Iris Ma

from Whitby Collegiate who

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TE WHĀNAU

Te Whānau o Kuīni Mākareta This year Te Whānau have had a productive year, celebrating Māori and Pasifika performing arts. It’s such an honour to learn the rich histories of our whenua and those of our neighbours.

Because of the hectic schedules of our ākonga (students), it was decided that we would cease to have weekly evening practices in 2021 and instead learn our brackets at three separate noho marae.

The following is a summary of our learning throughout the year.

Kapa Haka We started the year attending the Wellington Schools' Rā Haka, where we learnt a regional haka ‘Mangumangutaipō’ and a poi with other Wellington kura. Following this event, we made our way to Te Tatau o Te Pō Marae in Te Awakairangi where we had our first noho marae of the year. The primary purpose of this event was whakawhanaungatanga and celebrating Māori performing arts and culture.

We learnt a waiata-ā-ringa and a haka pōwhiri. We were so well looked after by our whānau members, and it was awesome to sit down for a meal with the Senior Leadership too.

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Sāmoan

Cook Islands

Our second noho marae took place at school! We were lucky enough to be tutored by the talented Mr. Dan Pavihi, supported by Jackie Curry. Once again, we ate well, thanks to our awesome whānau members and celebrated fa’a Sāmoa, the Sāmoan way. This included performing for assembly and showing staff and students the beauty of Sāmoan performing.

Whaea Rā was too tired to miss a night of sleep again in Term 4, so we decided to have a non-overnight noho marae for our Cook Islands bracket. Our tutors Sharlene Brabant and Henry Tutaka shared their skills, knowledge and reo with us. We had a ball and laughed a lot.

This event also culminated in a performance in assembly where we showcased our ura and ute.

L E A R N I N G

Thank you to all of those parents and whānau members who supported us this year.

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L E A R N I N G

IB VISUAL ART

Telling a story through Visual Art Visual arts are an integral part of everyday life that permeate all levels of human creativity, expression, communication and understanding.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Visual Arts Programme is a two-year course that encourages students to challenge the perspectives of the world around them and apply different cultural contexts when developing work.

and exhibit in Hobson House.

Student work was both thoughtprovoking and well-received, and the artists spoke passionately and critically about their work and the journey that went on through two years of IBDP Visual Art.

The course is not only designed for those who want to go on to study visual arts in higher education, but also for those who wish to address and discuss pertinent issues, through various forms of media, in meaningful ways.

These exhibitions are highly engaging as students are not limited to a simple canvas. The art is very much alive, in your face and makes the viewer think deeply about the artist's message.

This year, our eight Year 13 IB Visual Art students were to curate their group exhibition at the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts.

They prepared work for the lightfilled 'Lightspace' section of the gallery and met with Marc Pettie of the New Zealand Academy of Fine Art to discuss curation and how best to hang their work in a public space with viewers in mind. Due to COVID-19 Level restrictions, plans had to be altered, and we thought ourselves fortunate to be able to bring the exhibition back to school

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Well done to Aruni Aluvihare, Renee Caddis, Paige Duligall, Charlotte Humphries, Anastasia King, Nonabelle Miranda, Yujin Roh, Edie Wood and their teacher, Erica Adams.

L E A R N I N G

IB Visual Art pieces

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WITI IHIMAERA

Writing Royalty Visits 53 Hobson Street Witi Ihimaera makes his first school visit in three decades to talk about life and literature with QMC’s Year 9 and 10 English students.

As part of their unit on language and culture in 2021, Year 9 and 10 English students explored works of famed writer, Witi Ihimaera.

Mr Ihimaera, who is perhaps best known for penning ‘The Whale Rider’ (1987), was the first Māori writer to publish a collection of short stories, with ‘Pounamu, Pounamu’ in 1972. Year 9 studied several of his short stories and the history around the novel ‘The Parihaka Woman’, while Year 10 studied ‘The Whale Rider’ (the film and excerpts from the novel) and ‘Big Brother, Little Sister’ (the story and the film).

Thanks to the hard work of Dr Maggie Trapp, Mr Ihimaera agreed to visit Queen Margaret College and spend an afternoon with the very excited students that had been studying his works in the preceding weeks. This was quite remarkable as, according to Witi, it was his first school visit in nearly 30 years, making it a particularly special occasion for both students and staff.

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Mr Ihimaera spoke in detail about his life and career, before answering the many questions of students. He spoke in detail about the role of women in his formative years, describing his mother as his biggest inspiration when he was growing up and when he became a writer. This discussion about inspiration led Mr Ihimaera to ask students to share their dreams for their futures, which made for quite a rousing afternoon.

It was a great honour to host Mr Ihimaera at QMC and a unique experience for the girls. Well done to all the students involved on the day for asking thoughtful questions and responding eloquently when called upon.

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This was not the only opportunity students had to spend time with the author of the work they were studying. Only weeks later, NCEA Year 13 students hosted Tina Makereti, a Wellington-based writer of one of the novels read by Year 13, ‘The Imaginary Lives of James Pōneke’. A big thanks to Dr Trapp for making these events possible.

L E A R N I N G

IB REVIEW

Excellence in delivering IB In Term 3, Queen Margaret College received the outstanding results of our Five-Year International Baccalaureate (IB) Evaluation. This was a multiprogramme visit where the visiting IB evaluators examined the school as a whole and how effectively the PYP, MYP and IBDP programmes are being implemented and practised. Some of the overarching

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comments provided by the IBO evaluators included: The purpose for learning at Queen Margaret College is clear, modelled and practised at all levels, nurtured, supported and celebrated in a variety of ways. Developing passionate learners, resilient women and future leaders, as stated in the strategic plan, is indeed a distinguishing feature of the college. There is a strong understanding of, and commitment to, the principles of an IB education, from governance to classroom level, a genuine willingness to grow and develop holistically, and a professional and honest approach to all aspects of college life.

Queen Margaret College demonstrates a clear pathway for success for each individual student.

Queen Margaret College fosters a fully inclusive and diverse culture. The importance placed on language learning,

The IB Programmes provide a curriculum framework that enables the development of a student's academic, social and emotional wellbeing, focusing on international-mindedness and strong personal values.

QMC takes immense pride in knowing that learners are: • Inquirers • Knowledgeable • Thinkers

encompassing indigenous, heritage, home and additional

• Communicators

languages is one aspect of fostering such a culture.

• Principled

Although these reviews happen primarily in the background, the entire

• Open-minded

QMC community plays an incredibly important part. Thank you to our

• Caring

teachers and support staff for your professionalism, knowledge and

• Risk-takers

dedication to our learners. Thank you to our students for the energy and enthusiasm you give to learning every day. Thank you to our QMC families for your ongoing commitment to your daughter's education.

• Balanced • Reflective

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YEAR 11 STUDENT WRITING HITS THE DOM POST

Plastic

By Tia Pavihi You’re not Samoan enough: you don’t speak Samoan, you’re fiapalagi, you’re afakasi (halfcaste), you don’t go to church, you’re plastic!

The writing of two Year 11 Students, Tia Pavihi and Sarah Caddis, was published in the Dominion Post in Term 3. Their messages are inspirational, powerful and were also delivered orally in the Senior School Speech Competition to an audience of judges and their peers.

Despite my dad being of Samoan descent, many Samoans only focus on my palagi (NZ European) heritage from my mum. I am constantly told I am not Samoan enough due to things I have no control over. It’s true that I don’t speak Samoan, I don’t regularly go to church, and I am not often found in a puletasi (traditional dress). However, I still have a strong passion and connection for my Samoan culture. Yet I am continually called plastic.

So… what does plastic mean? The derogatory term “plastic” refers to a person who is out of touch with their culture and perhaps doesn’t understand or speak the language. What does plastic mean to me? Barbie dolls, pollution and waste. I reject the term plastic and challenge this one-dimensional view of culture.

Growing up I struggled to fit in I’ve either been “too white” for the brown kids but then “too brown” for the white kids.

I live in these two different worlds. I’ve found it hard to be able to express my passion for my Samoan culture because when I do, I am put down, shamed and called plastic by people of my own culture for merely being myself. Since a young age I’ve always been told “You’re ONLY half” like half isn’t enough, like it doesn’t make me worthy of being a Samoan. What our own people don’t understand is the impact the use of this word has on OUR development, OUR people and the future of OUR culture. The poet John Agard ridicules the concept of being half-caste by joking

“when you mix a black key with a white key, it’s a half-caste symphony”. Well, I’ll tell you one thing, I am not a fraction.

I’ve grown up identifying as a Kiwi/Samoan. I am 15 years old now and not fluent in Samoan, but I know some words from speaking with my dad and being out in the wider community. There was a time when I was questioned if I knew how to speak Samoan and received a judgemental look after my response which left me feeling embarrassed like I was less than. Why do my own people do this to me? Why am I different? Am I not Samoan enough?

The stereotype of a “real Samoan” in NZ is they are Christians who attend Church, immersed in the language at home and always provide for their family. My upbringing as a 24

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Kiwi-Samoan has been different.

This hasn’t been the case. But being Samoan means more than speaking the language, it's full of stories, traditions and narratives that have been passed down from generation to generation.

We act like Samoan culture isn’t more than a language.

To some Samoans being “palagi” is associated with being bratty, spoilt, ungrateful and privileged. This is largely due to the rocky history of Pasifika people in Aotearoa. The stereotype of being white seem to go against Fa’a Samoa, the real Samoan way. To me my palagi side represents generosity, support, love and a really good sense of

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humour, just like my Samoan side.

What I would like other Samoans to appreciate is that though my

two sides of my family may vary in ethnicity, skin colour, hair colour

and more, they have both greatly contributed to making me who

The word PLASTIC is breaking us apart. If this continues there won’t be any Samoans driven to pass down the knowledge and values that came before us. What classifies me as a Samoan is my pride, heart and willingness to learn. When I grow up, I want to be able to tell my kids the stories of their Samoan heritage and give them the ability to express themselves and their Kiwi/ Samoan heritage. As Samoans we have to learn to accept the new generations to come as they are the ones who will be fighting for our culture in the future. No matter the fraction, no Samoan is more worthy than another. Fractions are JUST a number. Don’t let anyone “confirm” your spot in your culture.

me the Kiwi-Samoan I am today.

I am not plastic.

I am a proud Kiwi-Samoan!

O lo'u igoa o Tia Pavihi

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The Killer Amongst Us

By Sarah Caddis

A serial killer on a murdering spree, and no one’s doing anything about it.

One woman dies every 48 hours in New Zealand from the least survivable cancer, ovarian. More people die from ovarian cancer in New Zealand than those who die from car crashes.

In fact, the government hands out $1 Billion dollars annually to reduce this road toll, yet nothing is done to protect the women of New Zealand from their most dangerous killer.

Ovarian cancer only affects women as the ovaries are part of the female reproductive system. This disease has no gender bias. It does not discriminate against women, so why is there no voice nor actions to help the Wāhine of New Zealand prevent it?

In 1806, Jane Crawford had a tumour removed from her abdomen, this was the first discovery of ovarian cancer. Whereas cancer like testicular which only affects men was discovered in the 1960s, over 150 years after ovarian cancer was documented. Yet an ad, which you may have seen recently, features some rugby stars from the All Blacks wearing Jockey underwear raising awareness to testicular cancer and getting tested. Ovarian cancer has been known for over 200 years, yet still, no tests or voices are talking about this killer taking one of our Wāhine every 48 hours.

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Symptoms of ovarian cancer

said her symptoms matched

It would be absolutely sexist

consist of abdominal bloating

those of chlamydia so gave a swab

to deny a man research and

or swelling, quickly feeling full

test and prescribed Amy some

vocalization of a deadly disease

when eating, discomfort in the

antibiotics. A few months later,

pelvis area such as severe cramps,

that only affects him because

she passed away, cause of death,

changes in bowel habits, such as

of his gender, yet why is this

ovarian cancer. The health system

constipation, a frequent need to

is sexist, it is more of a fact than

happening to women?

urinate and a loss of energy and

a statement. In New Zealand,

feeling tired all the time. Such

women dominate the health

symptoms most woman may recognise as being very similar to those of a severe period. Society tells women; “periods are gross” “No one wants to hear about menstruation” “are you on your period?” “It's someone’s time of the month.” With such mocking and degrading comments, it is no wonder why women feel ashamed to talk about period-like symptoms with others. Regardless, even if a woman chose to speak about these painful symptoms, there still

ovarian cancer. It can happen to any woman at any time regardless

industry with almost four times

of her age. There is no screening

more women in healthcare than men. Yet, in such a female leading business, men are paid almost $10

tool or test for ovarian cancer, the only way we can prevent the rates

more per hour in healthcare jobs

of mortality is by talking. Its time

than females doing the same work.

to push aside the voices telling

The sexism in the health industry

women to be quiet about period

does not just stop at a pay gap.

like symptoms, because by talking

These issues carry on into the lack

about them, we may be able to

of research and funding women

prevent healthy woman like Amy

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receive for diseases that only affect them, such as ovarian cancer.

Now, you may argue that "Women

is no way to test for ovarian cancer

suffer from breast cancer and

and even still if they chose to

don't they get a lot of advertising

speak with a medical professional,

and research behind that?"

it is more than likely they will get

Yes, you would be correct, but

misdiagnosed, like Amy Meyer.

It is time to break the silence on

Meyer passing away too soon.

A serial killer is on a murdering spree, and it’s time we talk about it.

unlike ovarian cancer, breast cancer

Amy Meyer was a 36-year-old

can affect men too. Although

Aucklander, who went to the

men do not have breasts like a

hospital when she started feeling

female, they too have breast tissue

severe abdominal pains. The doctor

which can become cancerous.

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R E S I L I E N C E

QMC WELCOMES MEGAN WILLIAMS TO THE WELLBEING TEAM

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“It’s fantastic that we’re more comfortable talking about mental health and wellbeing, but the scale of these challenges continue to rise amongst our tamariki. That’s something I’ve seen first-hand over the past 16 years.”

Queen Margaret College is delighted to welcome Megan Williams to 53 Hobson Street as a psychologist and wellbeing coach. She joins Geneva Atkinson as the college looks to provide further support for students, parents and teachers.

Megan has spent the past 16 years with the Ministry of Education and supported schools across the Wellington region. During her tenure, she worked with students as young as three years old right through to school leavers, supporting them with 28 28

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various challenges and helping them move forward in ways that were beneficial to them.

Asked about her decision to join our QMC whānau, Megan says she desired less transience in her work and wanted to feel more connected to a community.

“I loved my time with the Ministry, but I always felt like a visitor as I moved from school to school. I gained invaluable experience from the breadth of challenges I faced and the individuals I worked with.

Now I want to focus on building closer relationships and apply my knowledge to hopefully make a visible impact,” said Megan.

The pathway into psychology and working with others was clear from a young age for Megan, who grew up in Shannon before boarding at Whanganui Girls’ College.

“Back then, I remember being able to see the wellbeing and learning challenges of the girls I lived and studied with. Some of my peers had fairly tough lives, and I was drawn to providing support, and I always knew this was something I wanted to do.”

“Current public health support is insufficient, and it’s so hard for schools to support students in a way that is proportional to the growing challenges to today.

I hope I can make a positive impact at QMC and students feel comfortable coming and talking to me,” she added.

Megan started at QMC at the beginning of Term 4 and students are now able to make appointments to see her, or Geneva, using the online booking system on the parent portal.

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Ringa Toi Exhibition For the second year in succession, the incredible art of Tawhirikura Mahinaarangi Doyle was selected to be showcased in the Ringa Toi exhibition.

Ringa Toi is an annual exhibition that showcases the artwork of secondary school students with a focus on Toi Māori. Work displayed showcases a range of Māori art forms, including raranga, kākahu (wearable art), tukutuku, tāniko, whakairo, kōwhaiwhai, mahi-tā (paint, print, spray), uku, whakapakoko (sculpture) and mahi-matihiko (digital).

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From the artist:

“My work is named Taku Tau Piki Kōtuku. It was inspired by the whakatauki, ‘He Kōtuku Rerenga Tahi’ – a white heron’s flight is seen but once. It tells of a very special and rare event, in this case, my kuia (Nan) who was special and one of a kind. She was a kuia extraordinaire, who loved and was adored by all of her mokopuna. The drawing shows the kōtuku savouring the last moments before taking off on her last journey. Ka hoki te kātuarehe, ki tōna Hawakitanga. E kore te aroha e mimiti. My kuia returns to her homeland of Hawaiki. My love for her will never wane.”

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Sharing Student Successes

I NT ERMEDI ATE CRICKET STARS

HOW MANY CUPS CAN YOU FIT IN ONE PHOTO? Tuhina Sambhus (Year 11) competed in the Hutt Valley Speech & Drama Competition in July.

As you can see from the silverware in the photo, Tuhina was sublime throughout the competition. She claimed first place in eight of the nine categories she entered and settled for second in another. Tuhina said that she was particularly proud of her Shakespearean verse, where she performed Juliet’s final monologue from 'Romeo and Juliet'.

Amazing work, Tuhina

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Earlier this year, QMC’s Year 7 & 8 cricket team beat Raroa Intermediate to win Wellington Regionals and claim the Shield Cup. It was a dominant performance from QMC, who restricted their opposition to 120, before chasing the required runs with eight wickets in hand and six overs to spare. Anvi Verma starred in both the semi-final and the final by scoring 50 in each game.

Although it is past the editorial deadline of QM Calling, the team will travel to Christchurch (pending Alert Levels) to contest the National Championship and we wish them all the best!

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MASTERS OF THE MOOT QMC had a remarkable eight teams competing in debating this year, including four in the Junior Certificate Levels (Year 9-10).

Amongst this surge of interest in debating, all students performed remarkably well in two competitions this year: Wellington Regionals and a new competition called The Moot Must Fall. A range of moots were covered in both competitions, including the introduction of performance pay for teachers, banning private healthcare, New Zealand becoming a pacifist state, doubling the voting power of individuals under 30 and more.

Divya Srinivasa (Year 10) was a standout debater all year for QMC. She was awarded Best Speaker at the award ceremony of both competitions.

MARVELS IN MANDARIN The Chinese Bridge Speech Competition is a big date on the calendar for several students studying the Chinese language.

This year, Muly Malavong won 1st place at the regional level, while Jaskiran Rahi and Maria Revelant claim 2nd and 4th respectively in the Year 7-10 category. Vanessa Snyder performed well to secure 3rd in the highly competitive senior category.

In the national finals, Jaskiran shone as she claimed 2nd place in New Zealand and was awarded the trophy for ‘Best Talent’, a prize she also won last year.

Congratulations to all these girls.

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WINTER SPORT (AND A BIT OF LOCKDOWN)

Winter Sport in 2021 has been the opposite of the year that preceded it.

Last year’s lockdown fell in April, meaning preseason ceased to exist and teams were thrust straight into the season. This year, preparation time was ample, only for a snap lockdown to cut the season short and take away the much anticipated Winter Tournament Week.

Despite the disappointment of tournaments and travel plans being cancelled, QMC sport teams delivered terrific results across plenty of codes in 2021. But more than just winning games, there was a clear appreciation for being able to play and compete alongside (and in front of) friends.

The crowning achievement in the QMC Winter Sport programme was the Senior A basketball team clinching the Sharp Cup – Wellington’s premier basketball league. They did so in a close final thanks to some three-point shooting against Sacred Heart, a team that had beaten them twice during the regular season.

Turning in their best performance of the season in the final was a credit to an amazing team and their fantastic coaches.

The future of football is in a good place for QMC. A relatively young 1st XI side bagged a number of victories in Wellington’s top football division. The Junior 1st XI went undefeated as they romped to victory in the Storm Cup. With these players gaining experience and feeding into the Senior 1st XI in the coming year, the future looks bright. Well done to Sam Woolley,

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who coached this team whilst also captaining the senior side.

Netball continues to be the most played sport at QMC, with more than a dozen registered teams in various grades. The Senior A side remained competitive in a tough competition and looked on track to play off for fifth before the season was cut short.

Several QMC players were named

in Wellington and Hutt Valley Representative sides, including Tia Pavihi, Meadow O’Dwyer, Lucy Singer and Chelsea Summers.

The hockey 1st XI made the top four of the Premier 1 Hockey Championship, ultimately going down by one goal against St Oran’s in a battle for third. Maia Kirikiri, Rachel Duston and Annabelle Aliprantis were each

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named in Wellington’s Under-18 Representative side – a testament to the great seasons they had.

Newer sports, including lacrosse and e-sports, continue to draw high levels of student involvement.

The QMC e-sport team made the final of their grade, while the Senior A badminton side were good enough to make it through to regional finals.

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From rhythmic gymnastics and rugby to aerobics and athletics, there are countless ways to get involved in sport at QMC and we encourage everyone to start thinking about what codes they might like to participate in next year.

students, and we truly appreciate

A big thanks to all the coaches that have made everything possible.

Your dedication fuels the fire in our

of zero fans on the sidelines,

how much you bring and the way you are able to elevate our girls. Finally, to all the families and supporters, we thank you for supporting your daughters in their sporting endeavours. We know there have been long periods but we hope to have you back and louder than ever in 2022.

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JUNIOR FOOTY TEAM

QMC Football’s junior team had an exciting season this year while competing in the Strom Cup – Wellington’s top junior football league.

The team won all of their games

granted their persistence to

QMC’s players, who kept a clean

in the league, including the final

win games – even in horrible

sheet for all of their games except

against Wellington East Girls'

Wellington weather conditions!

their first and last games against

College, which they won 7-1,

This teamwork also served to

Wellington East, who scored just

making them Wellington’s junior

resolve the team's lack of a fixed

one goal on both occasions. QMC’s

football champions for 2021. This

goalkeeper and every player was

backline provided an extremely

is the first time a QMC team

willing to spend time in goal to

reliable defence, making it often

has won the Strom Cup, with

help the team. Year 9 Captain,

impossible for oppositions to

QMC’s next best effort in the cup

Greer Wilson, was instrumental

create goal-scoring opportunities.

competition occurring last year

in maintaining this teamwork

Alongside Greer Wilson, Year 9

when the team finished second.

throughout the season. Greer’s

defender and 2020 team member

constant encouragement of

Bella Kay, was a superb backline

her teammates and excellent

leader through her composure and

work ethic always helped

consistency in winning tackles.

to inspire the same attitude

Throughout the season, the team

Although this year’s team included some members from the strong 2020 side, most players had never played with one another before the season’s start and many were

from the rest of the team.

has continued to improve and

new to the Strom Cup. Despite this

In combination with teamwork,

strive to be better. QMC’s 7-1 win

unfamiliarity, the team saw victory

a strong desire to win drove the

over Wellington East in the final

in their first game by beating the

team to success. Year 9 forward,

strong Wellington East side on

Iley Nunns, scored in every game

their home field, 3-1. The speed

of the season and scored a

with which the QMC players were

hat-trick in several games. Year 8s,

able to learn to play successfully as

Sienna Hastings, Kahurangi and

a team was really impressive and

Kahupotiki McDermott-Samuels

aided their further early-season

also scored an impressive number

wins against other strong teams,

of goals for QMC, and, as well

including Wellington Girls' College

as winning the cup, the team

and Wellington High School.

finished first on goals scored, with

True to any team sport, another

was a testament to their progress as a team and hopefully a glimpse of the success yet to come for QMC football. While some players from the junior team will bring strength to QMC’s 1st XI next year, most junior players will be able to compete in the Strom Cup for a couple more years and build on this season’s success.

a total of 46 across the season.

element contributing to QMC’s

Not only did the team impress

success this season was their

with their goal-scoring abilities,

teamwork. The positivity and

but also with their solid defence.

supportiveness of every player

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VOCES LUCE TAKES TALENT TO WHANGANUI

Voces Luce was selected to participate in the exciting festival, Cadenza.

This year’s festival was held in Whanganui from 12 to 14 August at the Royal Opera House and featured 12 choirs from the lower North Island, six of which were from Wellington.

During this festival, each choir sang two sets of music with two songs in each set. Timothy WayneWright, the former member of the world-renowned The King’s Singers, was the judge for the festival. In addition to the two sets of music performed, the choirs participated in three big rehearsals involving about 350 singers from the 12 choirs.

Voces Luce sang with a stunning tone, underlying excitement and energy, and presented their songs with poise and confidence at both performances. They were definitely a standout ensemble at the festival, and we were excited to be sharing our music and gifts with the other choirs.

There were many opportunities for the students to have fun, interact with the other singers, and finish our weekend with a Gala concert, followed by a student dance. One of the highlights for me as their conductor was the pride I felt as they led the charge for group involvement between sessions and at the dance. We all want our students to shine while demonstrating their talents, but it is an amazing feeling when they can interact, feel comfortable, and be leaders.

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At the conclusion of the Gala concert on Saturday evening, there were participation awards, and then the judge presented different levels of recognition. The levels were distinguished by a range of scores given by the judge.

The three awards were: Tui – the highest level of achievement (former gold medal) Bellbird – the next level of achievement (former silver medal) Korimako – the next level of achievement (former bronze medal) We were very honoured to receive the Tui award, and the singers were thrilled with the weekend, the spirit of the event, their performances, and the many new friends they met.

We feel very fortunate to have sung at this festival, especially considering lockdown came shortly after and the other two Cadenzas and the Finale were cancelled.

Our students are lucky to be at a school that is so supportive of the Arts and encourages their growth artistically.

Voces Luce has had a fantastic year with several highlights, and we look forward to 2022!

Mark Stamper

Director of Choirs

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Nothing can stop House Performing Arts Of all the annual events at Queen Margaret College, nothing is more highly anticipated than House Performing Arts.

It’s the blue-chip, primetime highlight of the year for so many students at QMC. For this reason, we are incredibly grateful that, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Alert Levels cooperated, and the event was able to go ahead with students singing and screaming at the top of their lungs.

Each year House Performing Arts has a different theme, with the 2021 event based around ‘Icons’.

House leaders were tasked with selecting an iconic individual that their house would represent and channel. After significant deliberation, Braemar chose

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Michael Jackson, Glamis selected ABBA, Lochleven chose Elton John, Berwick chose Queen and Stirling went with Madonna.

Although House Performing Arts is very much a day of unity, it is also the ultimate demonstration of House rivalry. There are intensely competitive undertones as all five Houses jockey for points and attempt to outdo their peers.

The day consists of five different performances: Junior School Chant, Year 8 Dance, Year 10 Melodrama, Small Group and Whole House Song. Judges award points based on the quality and entertainment value of performances.

In 2021, and for the second year in a row, Lochleven and Berwick were announced as joint winners – an announcement that was met with rapture from the audience.

Tawhirikura Doyle and Bianca Martin led the campaign for

Berwick, while Sophia Hitchens and Melania Lui-Fai were at the reins for Lochleven.

Congratulations to all the House Leaders, as a tremendous amount of work goes into preparing all of the performances. This is a thankless job that involves hours of planning and endless energy, motivating and corralling others.

There is something truly magical about House Performing Arts.

Even though there are battle lines drawn between the Houses, the togetherness and spirit of QMC is on display in a warm and triumphant way. And knowing that just two weeks after the event we were heading back into another lockdown, the memories are even more special.

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S TA N D I N G R O O M O N LY

Queen Margaret Chorale sublime in Standing Room Only showcase – Supported by QMC Old Girl, Ella Monnery

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In July, the Queen Margaret Chorale was turning heads inside a packed QMC Hall at the ‘Standing Room Only’ showcase.

It was the first public performance for the group’s 47 members in 2021 – a year in which major events, including the Big Sing, were cancelled for safety reasons.

Chorale Musical Director Mark Stamper says that coordinating this year’s Chorale has been one of the more unique experiences in his career to date.

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“I am so proud of the group’s energy, commitment, focus and our eventual musical product. Everyone maintained a strong sense of determination and willingness to grow, despite the adverse circumstances due to Covid-19,” said Mr Stamper.

“We had over 30 singers audition for 17 solos, and most of them would have been amazing. There has been incredible growth inside our group over the past four years.”

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The Chorale showcased its talents with a diverse portfolio of music, including pieces from ‘Hairspray’, songs made famous by Disney princesses and a medley from ‘Les Misérables’, performed alongside the Wellington College Chorale.

‘Seasons of Love’ from ‘Rent’ was the final number - a song that speaks to all that can happen in a year and what a year 2021 has been.

Year 13 Chorale member, Sophia Hallum-Clarke, said that having the opportunity to perform in public, given the context of 2021, was certainly a privilege.

“Chorale means so much to all of us! Although we love the Big Sing experience, what we truly care about is the opportunity to learn new songs, grow as a group and show off our hard work. Not having the Big Sing gave us the opportunity to bring back SRO, an incredible night of music and celebration with our friends. We are so grateful we were able to perform for an audience, given the challenging environment of 2021.”

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Standing Room Only also featured outstanding performances from the Wellington College Chorale and QMC Old Girl, Ella Monnery.

Ella performed two numbers and is fresh from her success as a contestant on The Voice Australia.

She was heartbreakingly unable to continue in the competition due to travel restrictions.

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STUDENT GROUPS FURTHERING IMPORTANT CONVERSATIONS

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Eve Robertshawe and Minmini Karunanidhi, Year 11

Supporting students to feel empowered is important to the college, so it is heartening to see more student-led groups forming and growing which aim to break down barriers and challenge thinking and archetypes.

QMFem

Standing up for what you believe in is not just about voicing your opinions and perspectives, it’s about empowering and inspiring others to do the same. Feminism is a term that is often misunderstood.

But at its core, it’s really about standing up for equal rights and opportunities for all. We recognised the support and resources on offer at our school, so we thought, why not use them to make a positive change and advocate for something we believe in?

We’ve started a new association at Queen Margaret College called QMFem, which stands for Queen Margaret Feminism.

QMFem aims to prompt an important conversation and create an environment within Queen Margaret College and our wider community, where all gender identities are celebrated, relevant issues are discussed, and interesting ideas are exchanged.

QMFem is a way to empower students and encourage them to use their voices. We believe it is vital to match our aspirations and vision with hard work to create tangible outcomes.

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“Each time a woman stands up for

herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women” – Maya Angelou.

QMFem holds weekly meetings every Thursday. In these meetings, group members collaborate and work on tasks towards our goals. Our goals include initiating projects focused on awarenessraising, volunteering, and fundraising, as well as potential collaboration with teachers about the vibrant role feminism can play in their classrooms.

Each term begins with a ‘Starting the Conversation’ event, where guest speakers from the community are invited to share their stories. These events aim to spark discussion about a gender-related topic linked to an overarching theme. The theme for Term 4 2021 was ‘Inspiring the Future’. At the inaugural QMFem event, Naomi Ferguson, the first female Commissioner of the Inland Revenue Department, spoke to students, faculty, and parents.

QMFem is an inclusive association that embraces difference.

We are looking to grow as we continue to progress our vision next year and beyond. QMFem gives us goals to step up to, a platform to speak up from, and a community to stand up for.

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Maya Elmes & Imogen Kennedy-Smith, co-leaders of PRISM

PRISM

PRISM is a student-led club, formed in 2018 (named in 2019), with the purpose of representing the college’s LGBTQ+ community and providing a safe space for anyone who needs it.

The name PRISM comes from a shaped piece of glass which, when light passes through it, creates a rainbow of colours.

The club meets once a week, during Friday lunchtime to congregate, discuss any current events regarding the LGBTQ+ community, and just be a safe space to be yourself comfortably.

PRISM is a place for students of all ages to connect through shared experiences. It is open to anyone from Year 7-13, with both LGBTQ+ students and allies welcome to come along!

In addition to tackling topical and challenging issues through discussion, the group runs fun activities, including craft days (creating badges, bracelets, and origami), movie sessions and end-of-term shared lunches – all underpinned by a focus on education and advocacy of issues that affect the LGBTG+ community.

“Equality means more than passing laws.

The struggle is really won in the hearts and minds of the community, where it really counts” – Barbara Gittings.

Maya Elmes (Year 11) is one of the students that facilitates and organises PRISM’s meetings and says the group serves an important purpose within the college and engages in meaningful conversation.

“The more awareness and discussion about the different identities and stories from the LGBTQ+ community, the better. PRISM is a place where members feel comfortable sharing experiences, advocating for fairness and enjoying time and activities together!” said Maya.

“Prism is a fun and welcoming initiative to help educate the community and provide a safe space” says PRISM’s co-leader, Imogen Kennedy-Smith.

If any students are interested in attending a PRISM meeting, they are invited to contact Maya or Imogen.

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C O M M U N I T Y

F R E S H FA C E S I N T H E FA C U LT Y

Q&A

QMC has been joined by several wonderful new team members in recent months. To help our community get to know them a little better, we asked three newbies a series of four questions: What were you doing before joining QMC? I was teaching at Epsom Girls' Grammar School in Auckland.

What made you excited to join the QMC family?

Returning home to Wellington was rather exciting for me as well as joining a school that has a rich history and a reputation for success.

Who was the best teacher you ever had and why?

Mrs Wickham, my Year 5 & 6 primary school teacher. She showed me how learning can be fun. She encouraged curiosity and she really cared.

Rebecca Hickey Head of Learning Area – Science

Kent Hogan Physics Teacher

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If you could only eat three foods for the rest of your life, what would they be?

Hmm this is a tricky one. Date scones, peanut butter on toast and black forest chocolate.

What were you doing before joining QMC? For the first three terms of 2021 I taught Science and Physics at St Patrick's College (Kilbirnie). Before that, I taught Science, Physics and Electronics at Onslow College in Johnsonville for 20 years.

What made you excited to join the QMC family?

Over the years I have met several QMC students at different science competitions, such as Science Fair. They were always interested and keen to talk about their projects. I was excited about working with students with that level of enthusiasm for science.

Who was the best teacher you ever had and why?

The best teacher I ever had as a school student was Asha Peppiatt, a Health and PE teacher at Paeroa College.

The fact that she was the best teacher I ever had was nothing to do with anything she taught me, in fact, I can't actually remember if I was even in her class. She directed the school productions every year and was always enthusiastic and supportive about whatever students were involved in. She remains a good friend of mine today.

If you could only eat three foods for the rest of your life, what would they be?

Sandwiches, grapes, and golden queen peaches.

C O M M U N I T Y

Head of English at a secondary school located in South London.

Before making the big move to the UK, I worked at Wainuiomata High School where I taught English and Media Studies.

Ellen Eales English Teacher What were you doing before before joining QMC? My fiancé and I moved back home to NZ in April this year.

Previously I was based in London where I lived, worked, and travelled for four and a bit years (if I include the year of on and off lockdown). My previous role was

Soraya Rigney What were you doing before joining QMC? Before joining QMC, I worked in Corporate Services at the Australian Embassy in Bangkok. My work involved providing services to diplomatic officers and Australian agencies regarding property management, procurement, and importation and exportation of diplomatic shipments. After

What made you excited to join the QMC family?

I grew up in the Wellington region and have always known about the great reputation the school has. Always a great competition on the hockey field from what I can remember!

Who was the best teacher you ever had and why?

The best teacher I had was Ms Watts at Presbyterian Ladies’ College in Perth (I’ve moved around a fair bit).

She was the Head of Media

leaving my job and moving to Jakarta, Indonesia, I volunteered at IDGuides to promote and help local communities make a living from ecotourism. I also spent time being a stay-at-home mum to my daughter, who is now in the QMC preschool, while also managing my rental properties in Thailand as a side job.

What made you excited to join the QMC family?

First of all, after being a full-time parent for a while, I am happy to return to the workforce. I am excited to be working with such a professional and supportive team. The staff have been very welcoming and helped me settle in well in the College.

at the time, which of course was my favourite subject.

Her lessons were always the most interesting because she was such a Media Studies expert. She let us have a go at everything, from photography and journalism to film noir.

Little did she know she was helping me find my own passion for teaching the subject.

If you could only eat three foods for the rest of your life, what would they be?

I will happily settle for an endless supply of Vogels toast, classic kiwi lolly cake and berry biscuit chocolate blocks.

Who was the best teacher you ever had and why?

The best teacher I ever had was my English Literature teacher, Ms Chingchayanurux. Although most students might think Literature is full of boredom, on the contrary, my teacher made the class super fun and exciting.

She gave us all sorts of activities, such as dramatic plays, which made the learning experience enjoyable and helped develop my love for Literature. I truly appreciated her great sense of humour and the laughter she shared in the classroom.

All students love her dearly.

If you could only eat three foods for the rest of your life, what would they be?

Pad Thai, sushi, and Thai spicy jackfruit salad! :)

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C O M M U N I T Y

H O L LY PAY N E ANNOUNCED AS DEPUTY PRINCIPAL , LEARNING AND TEACHING

After a spontaneous all-faculties meeting was called during a lunch break in October, staff were in raptures as Holly Payne was announced as Deputy Principal, Teaching and Learning, from January 2022.

Holly has had a varied career that involves all of her passions in life – education, service, physical activity, celebration, fun and critical thinking.

She has previously taught Theory of Knowledge, English, Language A, Humanities, Drama, Physical Education and Health across Years 7 to 13.

“ “

Queen Margaret College is thrilled to announce that Holly Payne, BA, BPhEd (1st class Hons), GDipTchg, will assume the role of Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching beginning in January 2022.

Holly has led the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) at Queen Margaret College since 2015. Holly has always been a tenacious advocate of the benefits of the Diploma Programme for all students, but what many may not know is that she is also an experienced Level 3 English NZQA and IB examiner. Holly, and the other coordinators, led QMC through our recent IBO evaluation with flying colours. This year she was also nominated for a National Excellence in Teaching Award.

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Since first joining QMC 13 years ago, Holly’s tenure has been broken up by two leaves of maternity, a stint as a volunteer teacher in rural Tanzania and two years working at a transition school in Wellington for students that had been stood down.

“I couldn’t be more excited and ready for this

challenge. I’ve been developing my experience and building my own leadership identity over the past six years, which is founded on being entrusting, inspiring and collaborative,” said Holly.

“I’ve witnessed incredibly positive change since

first arriving at 53 Hobson Street. The college is progressive, future-focused and innovative. I feel at home here, and I am so excited to be a part of the leadership team that is continuing to elevate the education we are providing for our young people.”

Please join us in congratulating Holly. We look forward to working with her over the coming years.

C O M M U N I T Y

Grandparents’ Day in spirit for 2021 Grandparents’ Day is a highlight in the calendar for many within the QMC community. For this reason, we were devastated as changing circumstances forced the cancellation of this year’s event.

Year 2 student, Myra Bhavin, was one of six students chosen to read out a message for their grandparents on camera and said she was extremely nervous.

““

So many students, in particular the youngest, were beside themselves with excitement at the chance to perform on stage with their friends to an audience of their tupuna.

In lieu of the day not being able to go ahead as normal this year, the Junior Schools performances were recorded and posted on Seesaw for parents to share with their daughters’ grandparents.

“I had stage fright. I was nervous about speaking in front of the older girls,” said

Myra, who in reality showed little evidence of nerves on camera!

“I miss my grandparents because they live in India and I last saw them when I was five. I wrote this for my Grandma. Cooking, dishes, cleaning and gardening, caring and playing with me lots. Love Myra,” she added.

QMC is examining possible dates for a rescheduled Grandparents’ Day in Term 1 of 2022.

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C O M M U N I T Y

QM House Lockdown When the snap lockdown was announced in Term 3, most students were quick to venture home and spend lockdown with their families. This wasn’t the case for a handful of QMC’s boarding students, who were required to form their own bubble at QM House for a variety of reasons. Some of those students have kindly shared their experiences of being locked down at school.

When we were in lockdown, I got to know more people in the dorm because we lived like a family. We did a lot of fun activities together, including badminton matches, night parties, making banana sundaes, and even getting vaccinated together. We also ate countless delicious dishes from the chef. Being far away from my family is very difficult in this COVID-19 situation but being in QM House made me feel like I was with family.

Sarocha Ruangsuvan, Year 10

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17 August was when it all began, after one Delta case was found in Auckland.

Everyone was trying to get the first available flight home. Except for all the international students who were known as the Lockdown Gang. Of course, this was a really hard time, but the QM House staff made everything better. We loved the QMH Nightclub, where we had Becky’s Bar (non-alcoholic drinks), Bronwyn was the Bouncer, and Tasha was the DJ (aka DJ Wypych). We had lots of fun that night, as everyone gathered around and sang to the songs they love.

Amy Zhao, Year 10

C O M M U N I T Y

During the 2021 lockdown, I was one of the thirteen boarders in the QM House bubble. I found it fun and a better way to ease into boarding. After my first three weeks in a full house, lockdown sent more than half of the boarding house away. This made it less intimidating, and I was able to make friends and settle in. The food was really good during the lockdown, and we got dessert every night!

The boarding house staff were also very fun. We had to start online classes and continue them for three weeks. During the breaks, such as lunch, some of the borders would dance together or go outside and climb on the playground.

Thankfully, a system was created where if we needed any essentials, we wrote down what we needed, and one of the boarding house members would go to New World and get it.

This was so we were COVIDconscious and limited the amount of exposure outside our bubble. Thank you to the boarding house for keeping all of us safe during these stressful times.

Lockdown in the boarding house was quite an interesting experience and maybe even helpful for me, who’s new, to connect with a few more people who I, otherwise, might not have found myself talking to. When Alert Level 4 was announced, more than half of the boarders left the very same night so that they could spend lockdown at home. Girls who normally wouldn’t interact as often now got the chance to get to know each other better!

Charlize Murphy-Boyes, Year 10

I really enjoyed this lockdown, and we had lots of activities, including playing badminton in the gym, walking in the park, and having QM House parties, where we also made dessert. I enjoyed the party night most of all, it was a fantastic night. Although it was a lockdown, I was still very happy. The boarding house is like home, and I felt relaxed and warm. I am thankful to our boarding house staff for always taking care of us and accompanying us. I’m very grateful to them for making lockdown a happy time. That was a really good experience.

Lili Handai, Year 12

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C O M M U N I T Y

FROM THE FOUNDATION TRUST

Dear Community The QMC vision is to empower its students to stride into their future with the confidence, curiosity and courage to adapt to change and lead rewarding lives. The Foundation Trust seeks to enable this vision by supporting campus development and scholarships, and enhancing the school's special character.

We are passionate about working with the college to maximise the quality of education and to achieve a thriving teaching and learning environment. We are driven by community, integrity and passion, and despite facing uncertainty in the midst of the pandemic, we are constantly learning and seeking ways to improve what we do.

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We've taken 2021 to really examine what we are and do in collaboration with the Board and the Principal, to make sure our efforts are targeted to supporting the College. We will be working alongside QMC in the coming year to help enable key initiatives as the strategy is brought to life.

Please reach out if you would like to support the Foundation Trust in any way you can, and join us in helping our next generation of influencers and leaders at QMC. Please visit our web page at https://www.qmc.school.nz/ about-qmc/giving/ if you would like to find out more or if you would like to make a donation.

Warm regards Leila Dunphy

Chair of the Queen Margaret College Foundation Trust

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Y E A R 1 3 L E AV E R S ' A S S E M B LY

The Audience-less Assembly Typically taking place on the first Monday of Term 4, the Year 13 Leavers Assembly is traditionally quite a party. The entire cohort is normally on stage as everyone enters the Hall, belting out power ballads and the latest pop tunes at the top of their voices.

This year was much the same.

Crunchie bar to another student,

hand for your two years of school.

The only difference… nobody

or staff member, that has made

Despite this, you’ve faced up to

was there to see it (in person).

an impression on them during

every challenge with a smile and

the past year. With nobody in the

shown remarkable resilience

Although students and staff are considered one bubble at QMC, we have all been eager to abide by the restrictions of no more than 100 people indoors for a gathering.

Fortunately, this is quite a convenient number for a cohort of

Hall to receive these tokens of recognition, prefects took turns on the mic to shout out their selection to let them know about the ‘I.O.U’

So, for the first time ever, our

virtually. It wasn’t quite the high-

There were hilarious rap videos, photo montages, and Hobson Prefect, Georgia Thirkell, spoke

of the school from tuning in tech live streaming set-up that will be used for prizegiving this year, but a laptop was set up in the audience, complete with Microsoft Teams ready to capture

eloquently and fought back

every moment and feed it through

tears and reflected on the

to the rest of the college safely.

Class of 2021’s time at QMC.

be prouder of the women you are.

Although it was a Year 13-only assembly, it didn’t stop the rest

to an audience of nobody.

prepare to leave QMC, we couldn’t

chocolate bar coming their way.

98 students (plus a photographer).

Year 13 leavers danced on stage

beyond the years you have. As you

Congratulations to all our Year 13

Another favourite tradition of this

students for being excellent role

assembly is how each member

models throughout 2021. You’ve

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C O M M U N I T Y

FROM THE OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION

In our e-news to Old Girls back in May, we asked if there were any alumnae who could share their time and talent to support the annual QMC Careers Expo.

Thank you so much to those of you who put your name forward.

Your life experiences post QMC are invaluable to our current students as they navigate their final years of college education.

We are looking to expand this programme in 2022 and we’d love to hear from any Old Girls who could offer a couple of hours to share your career journey with our Year 12 and 13 students. The more career choices we can present to them, the better.

Once again, our grateful thanks to those who have already given their time.

Jayne-Ann Young opening QMC's new digital microscope

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Also back in May, we received a wonderful email from old girl Jocelyn Robson (Class of 1963).

Jocelyn’s mother, Katharine Robson (nee Hoby), was also an Old Girl, starting here in 1925.

Jocelyn had been left a bequest from Katharine’s younger brother, who passed away last year, and she wanted to gift it to the college in memory of her mother.

Given Katharine’s passion for biology, New Zealand flora and fauna, and her science degree, it was agreed that the funds would go toward purchasing a new digital microscope. It’s taken a little bit of co-ordinating as COVID-19 lockdowns have delayed its arrival, but we are so pleased it’s finally here and in use.

Katharine’s story is fascinating.

She started at QMC in Form 3 (Year 9) in 1925 and completed her secondary education after two years in Form 6 (Year 12/13) in 1928/1929. She won the form prize in Form 5, was Dux in 1928, and Head Prefect in 1929. Of course, 1929 saw the celebration of QMC’s 10th birthday and looking back at our archives, Katharine, as Head Prefect, joined Miss Wilson for the cutting of the cake. Having just celebrated this year’s Queen Margaret Day with cake, it seems the cake tradition well and truly lives on!

It was at this same celebration that the Old Girls’ Association gifted the beautiful lectern that still resides in the Old Hall today.

Jayne-Ann Young (Principal), Rebecca Hickey (Head of Science), and Robyn Eden (Science Technician) were all on hand for the “official” parcel opening.

Katharine was also our first QMC Old Girl to gain a Masters degree with First Class Honours (Science).

She also won the Jacob Joseph Scholarship, awarded by Victoria University, in 1934; Jocelyn thinks this was for her post-graduate work. In 1935 she joined the staff at QMC and, with the exception of a short stint in London (19381939), she stayed on staff until she married in 1944. While in London, she was reported to be canoeing down the Danube when war was declared in 1939! Also while in London, she was Secretary of the Old Girls’ Association’s first official “branch” (founded in 1939). She was back at QMC for the opening of the school year of 1940 and our 21st birthday, and the unveiling of the

C O M M U N I T Y

Robyn Eden and Rebecca Hickey setting up their new equipment

Sophia Gittings – Junior Champion, and Iris Ma – Senior Champion, pictured here with Jane Ball (Alumnae Relations), Tim Jenkin (Head of Arts), Jayne-Ann Young (Principal), and Lynne Speight (OGA President)

Several planned events have been

can support our current students,

interrupted in recent months;

we hope to create great old girls.

however, we still managed to achieve all we could for the college and students. Between Alert Level changes, we hosted another very successful annual Mentors’ Breakfast for our Year 13 students Year 13 students test out the new microscope

brand-new Old Girls’ Honours Board. Katharine’s name was one of 12 to be included in the inaugural unveiling. She then re-joined the teaching staff in 1955, holding the Head of Science role for a time and teaching Science right through until 1979 with a short break between 1974 and 1977. Jocelyn recalls QMC was a large part of her mother’s life, and here we are some 90 odd years later, and Katharine is still supporting Science at QMC.

“

“The gift is for mum, to mark her contribution to the school she loved,” says Jocelyn.

Jocelyn is the author of the book 'Radical Reformers and Respectable Rebels – how the two lives of Grace Oakeshott defined an era', published in 2016. An autographed copy of this book now lives in our library, another generous donation from the Robson family, for which we are very grateful.

and their Mentors; an Old Girls day

We believe very strongly that the mental and physical wellness of the students, and also the staff, is so important. With this in the front of our minds, the Old Girls’ Association have created two new

in June (assembly and lunch); most

wellness spaces within the college.

recently we agreed to sponsor, and

These are breakout and wellbeing

then hosted, a brand new event

treatment/teaching spaces, which

for current students. This new

are proving to be very popular. We

event, the Queen Margaret College

felt with the pressures of COVID-19

Aria and Concerto Competition,

on everyone the college was in

is a showcase of our top singing

need of places for the students

and musical students across two

to feel safe and get the care they

year group categories. The junior competition for Years 9 and 10, and the senior competition for Year 11 to 13. We look forward to inviting old girls to join us in the audience

need. These places are not only for students, but we hope that staff will get to benefit from them when students are off-campus.

next year as it was a special night.

To support this work, we have a

Our inaugural winners were Sophia

new wellness fund launching in

Gittings – Junior Champion, and

2022 and we can’t wait to share

Iris Ma – Senior Champion, pictured

this with you in more detail soon.

here with Jane Ball (Alumnae

Essentially this is a fund we wish to

Relations), Tim Jenkin (Head

grow through donations from our

of Arts), Jayne-Ann Young, and

community to help support the

Lynne Speight (OGA President).

College, students and our Old Girls

Like everyone, the effects of this

in appropriate ways. We’ve already

year’s lockdown have caused us to

had several generous contributions

pivot. As an Association, our main

from Old Girls to get us started.

aim is to support our Old Girls community, but with extended pandemic restrictions, we’ve had to pivot ourselves. By this we mean we have looked to focus our efforts

If you too would like to contribute ahead of the launch, please get in touch with us oldgirls@qmc.school.nz.

within the college for ways to

Jane Ball

support our current students. If we

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LOKOTUI SHINES IN DEBUT PROFESSIONAL SEASON

QMC Leaver from 2019, Paris Lokotui, had a remarkable year in her first season of professional netball. A standout campaign with the Central Pulse resulted in a call-up to the Silver Ferns Development side. Paris will be back with the Pulse in 2022 and kindly responded to some of our questions.

What was your reaction when you

much been the same, but most

first found out about making the

of the scheduled conditioning

Silver Ferns Development side?

sessions are now done together

I was actually quite shocked and didn’t realise what had just happened. I guess you dream of moments like these growing

with the wider Silver Ferns group based in Wellington. This helped us lead into the Sliver Ferns tour against England.

up, and to have made the Silver

You’ve obviously played a lot of

Ferns Development side in my

Prem grade netball at school.

first year of being a professional

What is the most significant

netball player was unreal. My

difference between that and

family shed more tears than I did,

the professional level?

but I guess they are the people

The most significant change

that have gotten me where I am today and the people who allow me to be my best self, so really, this achievement was for them.

What does your training schedule look like these days? It must be full-on!

Training over the lockdown period was hectic, but I enjoyed my time and spent it mostly with family. Most days, I only had one training, but three days a week, I had two. These would include court conditioning with netball specifics, a strength workout, and

would have to be the shift in intensity. During school, I guess we only trained once or sometimes twice a week but moving into a professional environment, you’re training at least once or twice a day every day for for nine or ten months. Whether it’s an early morning gym session, a team training mid-afternoon or match play Thursday evening, everything was done with maximum effort as we were always looking to better ourselves and our mates.

What is your fondest

some long-distance runs, but

memory of QMC?

it varied nicely. We were lucky

My best memory at QMC would

enough to use Microsoft Teams

have to be when Tiuana-Marie

as a communication channel,

and Mia became Head Girl and

and this is where we were able to

Deputy. Those two had the

have live gym and rehab sessions

best connection, and to see

with the trainers. However, since

two Samoan Head Prefects

coming out of lockdown, it’s pretty

leading Queen Margaret College

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was amazing – it definitely changed the perspective of many people about QMC. What advice would you give to any up-and-coming netballers who are dreaming of becoming a pro?

Train hard, soak up as much information as you can from your coaches and be confident in what skills you have. Enjoy the highs and the lows and use your strengths to your advantage. Being a professional athlete takes time, and if people are willing to put in the hard work, results will follow.

Who do you think is the best player you’ve ever gone up against?

100% Ameliaranne Ekenasio (Meels). Her ability to create space as a shooter and her shooting range is incredible. She does everything to her best and she loves to learn and broaden her knowledge. Meels treats you as an equal in any environment and wants you to learn like a sponge and absorb everything. It’s still crazy to think from a young age she was someone I looked up to, but now she’s a friend who loves a good coffee catch up.

She’s someone I aspire to be.

C O M M U N I T Y

QMC PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION

Kia ora, e te whānau _ parents, caregivers and families of Queen Margaret College Once again, the latter half of 2021 has provided the Parents’ Association with opportunities to think quickly on our feet! We have seen a number of our calendar events postponed, but this has not diminished our intent on bringing our community together.

The Parents’ Association has always been about connecting our parent community; we continue to look at new opportunities to provide a social and enjoyable way for families to be involved and participate.

Since 2018, the Parents’ Association has facilitated the sale of secondhand uniforms. The funds raised from the sales during the year help to facilitate projects that benefit current students. We welcome good quality uniforms to be sold on behalf of parents. Parents receive a return of 70% of the purchase price for any items sold, whilst we retain 30% commission.

If you would like to provide any uniform items for sale, please email secondhanduniform@ qmc.school.nz.

We were delighted to celebrate Matariki for the whole school in June. It is a time to come together with friends, whānau, and communities. It’s about eating, reflecting, having fun, and looking forward to the year ahead.

In the Hall, long tables were set

with lights to represent the bright stars of Matariki and harakeke.

230 Students and staff enjoyed the hangi, whilst Te Whānau o Kuini Makareta performed and provided interactive activities for students to participate in.

It was a huge success, and the Parents’ Association is grateful to CJS Hangi, Whaea Ra, Te Whānau o Kuini Makareta and the many helpers on the day.

After a false start due to an unexpected snap lockdown in August, the Parents’ Associated hosted another fun-filled Quiz Night. Without a doubt, our most successful yet with 16 teams participating in a the hall. “Mrs C”, our Quiz Master, set the platform for what was a competitive but humour-filled evening, and we could not be more grateful to Lynda and her merry band of helpers who ran a tight ship and kept us all entertained.

Congratulations to the winners on the night, a team aptly named “Low Expectations” (Lynda Lester, Sarah Wales, Sarah Burke, Dean Burke, Caroline Carter, Tracey Ramanathan, Jane Roberts and Shaun Roberts). The total amount raised was in excess of $5,700, which included the ever-popular Silent Auctions. A huge thank you to all of our Sponsors and The Old Girls’ Association, who generously supported the Quiz Night. Lastly, we must thank the Parents’ Association Committee for the

Term 3 and the start of Term 4 has hindered our ability to finish the school year with our usual flurry of events for students and the parent community.

Thankfully, we continue to provide financial support for the QMC Sports Awards and the QMC Arts Awards. These significant events celebrate the breadth of success amongst our students; it is a real honour for the Parents’ Association to continue to support students who are celebrated at these awards ceremonies.

We congratulate every student recognised at these two events.

The annual QMC Golf Day at Shandon Golf Club has been rescheduled to be hosted on Friday, 4 February 2022. Thank you to all golfers, sponsors and supporters of this postponed event; we are forever grateful for your generosity in support of our fundraising efforts and welcome any new golfer registrations or businesses’ that would like to be involved in February 2022. Please contact us at qmcpapresident@qmc.school.nz Your support means so much to us! We are already in the throes of planning for a busy 2022, and our small committee always appreciates any support.

If you wish to donate any time to assist us with our planning and activities, please do not hesitate to contact the committee on qmcpapresident@qmc.school.nz.

many hours spent organising the

Nga mihi,

event, especially Nicky Jackson,

Alana Bicknell

Jill Clibborn and Lynda Lester.

QMCPA President QM Calling

I s s ue 6 8

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