6 April 2005

A school is as strong as its community

Dear Parents,

Once again Term 1 is almost over … this is my eighth Term 1 at Middleton Grange - I arrived here in April 1997.

In all the time I have been at Middleton Grange, I have not taken for granted what we have in the way of resources.  This was reinforced this week by a little snippet from New Hope News, an email newsletter I receive.

Under the heading, “Play dough impresses school inspectors” there is a salutary reminder of the impact of small improvements in countries which do not have much.  This article speaks of the Education Department Inspectors visiting the Hope Primary School in Uganda.  “Last week the Education Department came to inspect the schools.  They were very impressed with everything, but what got their attention most was the play dough!”  Such a small thing but obviously making an impact!  Compare this with our own resources here at Middleton Grange.  (Webpage:  www.newhopeinternational.net)

We really need to thank God for the provision He makes for us and also to pray for His provision for other Christian Schools in less fortunate countries than New Zealand.  New Hope School is currently looking for a new Principal to begin 2006.  They are also building a new School, but funds are tight!

John Stackhouse, Head of Primary School

Well done to all those children who undertake leadership/service roles around the Primary School.  From student council to lunch monitors to librarians, a huge number of our pupils take on extra voluntary roles.  These children show great attitudes which bode well for the future.

Special congratulations to the following children who recently received their council and/or house leader badges:

 School Notices

Unfortunately …

There will be no future ferns netball team for this season in the Primary School.

New Block - Landscaping

In Terms 2 and 3 we will be undertaking extensive landscaping behind Rooms 8-11.  This will involve the planting of ferns, pungas and other native plants.  Installation of a watering system will also be undertaken.  Keep an eye on future Primary Updates for information on how you can be involved in this project.

Parent Survey

We try very hard as a staff to get things right!  We have had a very smooth beginning to 2005 but we do want your input as to how effective our year has been so far.

Next term a survey will be issued to all parents to gain feedback for the staff about how 2005 has gone so far.  Your contributions to the feedback are read, are discussed and considered seriously by the staff.  This will be another opportunity for you to be part of the process in trying to do the best for each child in the Primary School or Middleton Grange.

Look for the survey Term 2.

Hillmorton Kindergarten Celebrating 60 Years If you or your family came to this kindergarten then you are invited to an Open Afternoon on Saturday 14 May, 2.00-4.30pm.  Enquiries to Margaret or Lynda, phone 338 9597. Sharp Programmes (ages 5-14 years) Holiday - Cost $60-80.00/week.  Afternoon care provided at $8.50/afternoon.  Breakfast - Begins 7.30am.  Children are provided with breakfast, toothbrushes and dropped off at school.  Cost $4.50/morning. After School - Cost $8.50-9.00/afternoon CSA Ski & Board Sale 30 April-1 May at Addington Raceway.  Bring second-hand gear to be sold on your behalf on Saturday (10.00am-4.00pm).  Valuers present. Sunday the sale itself starts (9.00am-3.00pm).   Annie Musical Villa Maria and St Thomas of Canterbury musical, 13-16 April.  Tickets available from Villa Maria.

Drama Academy Helen O’Grady Children’s Drama Academy offers self development classes for 5-17 year olds.  Enquiries to Denise Davidson, phone 351 4957.   Science Alive Holiday Programmes Chocolate Factory and/or Lego Zoo 21/26 April, $10.00/session.  Robotic Soccer Lego 18/19 April and Robotic Mouse Trap Lego 27/28 April.  $20.00.  Bookings are essential.  Enquiries phone 365 5199. Family Assistance (IRD and Work & Income) Significant changes to the Family Assistance programme means extra money for more families.  FA rates have gone up by $25/week for the eldest child and $15/week for each other child.  Weekly payments available and income thresholds have been raised, so families who weren’t previously entitled may now find they are.  If you are already receiving FA, your payments will be automatically adjusted.  If you think you may now be entitled to FA or any other Working for Families entitlements, please visit our website www.workingforfamilies. govt.nz or pick up a brochure from the school office.

"In thy light shall we see light." 
                                        Psalm 36:9

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