Kia ora koutou,

Over the next few weeks, we will focus on our School Values. Our School Values underpin our decision-making as a school and our expectations for how we all act and treat each other. Our learning environments start the year by focusing on our Values, which are the basis of the class ‘Treaty’ or agreements that support a positive culture in each environment. 

It’s always a good time of year to revisit these Values, and on Monday's assembly, we chatted about each one and what it would look like in everyday life. We have also started a three-week initiative where students who are actively demonstrating our Values will be given a Values token. The Values token then goes into the draw to win a prize. We have some small prizes as well as 15 Ninja Valley vouchers to win. It’s a nice little motivator to be deliberate in demonstrating our Values throughout the day and to bring those beginning-of-the-year discussions back to the forefront. 

Our Puketaha Values are…

In other news, the passing of the Maaori King, Kiingi Tuuheitia, is a significant moment in New Zealand history. Puketaha School connects to Ngaati Wairere, Waikato Tainui and the King’s leadership has been a unifying force for the Tainui people and the wider Maaori community. The role of the Maaori King, established in 1858, is steeped in history and tradition, symbolising the enduring strength and resilience of Maaori culture. Kiingi Tuuheitia's legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Each of our learning environments took a moment on Wednesday to learn a bit more about the history of the Kingitanga and the traditions that have been taking place over the last few days at Tuurangawaewae Marae in Ngaaruawaahia. Kiingi Tuuheitai’s words last month at the 18th Anniversary of the Coronation were a positive message of unity…

 “There is room for everyone.”

I hope you have a lovely rest of your week.

Ngaa mihi nui,

Nyree Olliver