Ngaa mihi nui kia koutou,

It's been all go here at Puketaha with the Roopuu Puaawai Productions. The tamariki have such a sense of ownership over the production as they have been involved right from the beginning of the process. A lot of work goes into the writing, preparation and performing of the shows, and it’s lovely to see all the students shine in their own way. We are looking forward to the show tonight! 

Unfortunately, for our Puketaha whaanau, we have a couple of staff moving on next year. Blair Harper and his family have purchased their first home in Tokoroa. They have always wanted to own their own home, and although it’s a great loss to us, we wish Blair and his whaanau all the best for their new life in Tokoroa next year. 

Hannah Richardson is also fulfilling one of her dreams. Hannah has always wanted to travel, and now international travel is more accessible; she is off to Camp America next year. Again, a great loss to us here at Puketaha, but we are excited for her and look forward to hearing about her adventures overseas. 

Blair and Hannah have been such an integral part of our team, and we thank them both for their positive impact on our tamariki and our school. We will miss them both.

We have recently been interviewing for the Assistant Principal role for 2023. We were pleased with the interest in this position, with a high calibre of applicants. We are delighted to announce that Nicky Khoo has been appointed our new Assistant Principal. Nicky has been teaching at Puketaha School for the last four years and has taught in both Roopuu Maahuri and Roopuu Puaawai. She has a long education career and has previously held leadership roles. Congratulations, Nicky, on this appointment. We know you will do a fantastic job. Nicky will oversee Roopuu Puaawai next year, while Jason Boobyer, our Deputy Principal, will be released from the full-time classroom role. Jason will be working across the school, releasing teachers and having more time to focus on his Deputy Principal role. 

Also, on good news, Hannah Mould has been teaching in Roopuu Maahuri on a fixed-term maternity leave contract and has successfully been awarded a permanent position at Puketaha School. Congratulations, Hannah Mould. We are pleased to have her as part of our permanent team.

Enjoy your Friday and your weekend, 

Ngaa mihi,

Nyree