Kia ora koutou,

We have been very lucky with the sunshine this week and the children are in full swing of their Swimming Programme, both enjoying the water and practising their swimming skills. 

This week we started with a bit of fun at assembly with some volunteer actors demonstrating the difference between polite behaviour and impolite behaviour. 

Our actors modelled what not to do, and then the rest of the school suggested a more polite and respectful way of doing it. It was a bit of a laugh but with some good reminders in the background.

This included…

• Asking to borrow something, as opposed to just taking it.
• Going to the back of the line, as opposed to pushing in front.
• Stepping aside for an adult in a doorway, as opposed to going first before an adult.
• When they don’t hear something well, responding with ‘excuse me’, as opposed to saying ‘what?’.
• When someone greets them or asks them a question, respond to the person, as opposed to ignoring them.
• Using patience when waiting for an adult's attention, saying excuse me, as opposed to interrupting.
• As well as how staring and pointing at someone is not polite.

By learning manners and basic etiquette, students develop the ability to communicate effectively, show respect to others, and navigate various social situations with confidence. It also links to our School's Value of Respect. Our teachers have been reinforcing these messages over the week and we have been noticing the students making an effort to remember their manners and etiquette. It’s been lovely to see. It is obvious that manners and respect are valued and reinforced at home and we can support this with our reminders at school as well. 

This week we have had whaanau come in and meet with the teachers for our Teacher/ Whaanau Catch Up’s. It’s been a positive experience for our teachers, to be able to connect with families, discuss goals for the year and feel the sense of a partnership, with the child in the centre. Thank you if you were able to come in. If you were not, please feel free to email your child’s teacher and arrange another time. 

We hope you have nice plans for the weekend ahead. Thanks again for your contribution to our school.

Ngaa mihi,

Nyree Olliver