18 September 2003

A school is as strong as its community

Dear Parents, 

It was wonderful to be part of the Year 5/6 production last night, opening night. The hall was full as the night began … however, the sound system did not behave! The technical glitches aside, the first night performance was a good one. It was great to see all the hard work of staff, parents and children coming together into the finished product.

Energetic dance, wonderful singing and expressive acting combined to produce a memorable evening.

Cameo performances were also delivered before the main production - we had a gifted pianist, dancers, an Irish dancer and a Scottish Highland dancer all showcased on the night.

I spoke to the audience by way of introduction and highlighted the fact that the performance they were about to see should display the special character of the Primary School. We need to constantly display what the ’heart’ of our school is … our faith and foundation in God. I shared some well known verses from Psalm 127.

“Unless the Lord builds the house,
it’s builders labour in vain.

Unless the Lord watches over the city,
the watchmen stand guard in vain.”

So, our special character should be our heart. We display our heart through what we say and do.

It was great to see the story of Rahab and the spies, as told through “I Witness News: Live from Jericho”. The story clearly conveys the message of faith in God and His power as Joshua leads his people around Jericho … their faith and trust is built on a sure foundation.

There are many people to thank for their input into the production and they have been recognised through the programme. I would especially like to mention Mrs Andrea Richardson (Director), Mrs Kaye Lawn, Mrs Heather Kench, Mrs Karen McCormack, Mr Nick Pomare, Mrs Michele Woollands, from the staff for their great work. Also significant parent help from Mr Chris Martin (Sound Lighting), Mrs Frances Sutherland (dance/choreography), Mr Simon Barnett (CD/music production). Their hours of work/support has been superb. Also, to parents for costuming and your support in so many ways. Special thanks also to Amy Kench, Gareth Seabourne, and Mark Squire (Spectrum Lighting) for their work. It’s fabulous to see such a team effort.

Some time ago I wrote about the importance of prayer underpinning all we do. Recently I had an interview with parents of a new entrant child and they related to me how they pray with their children regularly for the school, staff and children. This was great to hear. I would encourage you to do the same ... build up the school in prayer. I have included in this Update a handout I issued earlier in the year as a reminder of the crucial element of prayer.

The staff are looking forward to their holiday, although I know staff do a lot of work during the holidays anyway! The South Island Christian Schools Conference begins Thursday night and continues all day Friday and Saturday morning. This is a great opportunity to meet with Christian teachers from many other Christian Schools. A great time of sharing and professional development.

We look forward to seeing you all next term … Term 4!!!

John Stackhouse, Head of Primary School

Fiesta
Do you like coming to Fiesta?

If the answer is yes, then you could help raise some money, recycle old bottles and have some fun as well.

Find a clear jar or bottle at home.

Fill it with home baking, sweets, shells - anything you think would sell.

Bring it to school Week 1, Term 4.

Filled bottles will be sold at Fiesta for $2.00.

Come to Room 1 to see some ideas for your bottles.

Junior Syndicate - Road Safety

Road Drill … Constable Meg Moynihan has been working with the New Entrant to Year 2 pupils in Rooms 1,2,4,6,7 on road safety, including ‘Road Drill’. As you can see we had a very focussed group of pupils concentrating on the all important road survival skills!

Perceptual Motor Programme

What a mouthful! This year the Junior Syndicate have developed this programme to assist children in their fine and gross motor skills, balance, eye tracking, etc. It really boosts children’s perceptive motor development and enhances learning through carrying out a wide and varied repertoire of exercises and ‘games’. We are already seeing the benefits to children’s learning of this programme. Thanks to staff and parents who set up and take activities in this programme.

Fantastic Artwork Mrs Margaret Martin, who has been teaching in Room 6 recently, took the children out to draw the Old House in the Primary School. The results were fantastic! Two superb efforts are produced here. Well done Room 6!

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

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