Children  can access books online through the Wheelers e-books platform that school has a subscription for.

Log in using the childrens full name eg John Smith, the password is Library1

A warm welcome to Louie Bradstreet and Leo Redgate

Dear Parents, Caregivers and Students,

For the first time ever, I woke up Sunday Morning (quite early thanks to two little treasures) content that the All Blacks had lost! The reason was not that it is good for rugby (although it probably is), but more, being given the opportunity to share with our children and families the respect and gracefulness of their Coach Steve Hansen. Not once did I hear him make an excuse or look for reasons that were outside their control, nor did he look to target any individual performance. He took the opportunity to acknowledge others as well as use it as a platform to learn and hopefully now respond. I chose to show part of a media interview with the children at Monday Morning Assembly and used it as an example of how to react when things do not go your way. We often talk about being in the learning pit, what it feels like, the skills we have to draw on and/or ideas we may have to let go of to pull ourselves out. I felt the example of Steve was a nice one for our children to relate to and see that learning never stops and even the best have to overcome tough times.

Over the next week and a bit, we will no doubt feel a little tired, worse for wear and struggle with our normal energy levels as the Winter Months and term draws to a close. So my challenge to the children was this... How aware are we of how we feel and how might we respond when we found ourselves in the learning pit? I have left the answer over to them. I encourage you to ask them the same question and see what they come up with. 

As mentioned previously we have some changes happening with our team. Over the past 6 weeks we have been going through the appointment process and am delighted to inform you of the appointments we have made. We were very fortunate to receive over 65 applications for the positions, which bucks the trend with the current employment climate in our sector around recruitment. I would like to welcome Mrs Hayley Barnes back for 2019. Hayley has been on a fixed term contract with us until the end of year supporting our Rōpū Kākano 9 learners, we are delighted to have her back with us on a more permanent basis. We are additionally excited to welcome Miss Kelsey Gillespie to our team. Kelsey did her second year training here with us last year and really showcased her skills and capabilities when partnering children. Prior to studying her Bachelor of Teaching Kelsey has worked as the Head Supervisor for before and after school care programmes, as well as a teacher assistant in London. We would also like to welcome Mr Jason Boobyer to our team. Jason has spent the last 7 years working for Sports Waikato as their Golf Facilitator, which then moved into a role with Waikato Golf as the School Facilitator. A significant part of this role was working with children across a range of schools and designing a programme that was both engaging and challenging. In addition to Hayley, you will see both Kelsey and Jason here in Term 4. Kelsey will be replacing Alison at the start of Term 4 and Jason will be completing his final practicum with us in Ropu Mahuri. Please take the time to introduce yourselves to them. In regards to the staffing Matrix for 2019 we are yet to sort this. Essentially, we take a position that we want to employ great teachers and we feel we have done this. Our next step is to start working through the process of who teaches where, which I know you can appreciate takes time and consultation. 

Finally, I hope you enjoy our new digital platform and find it simple to navigate through. At our end we are excited by how it will connect with a larger majority of our families. 

Warm Regards

Geoff

The closing date for calendar orders is Monday 5th November 9am. No late orders will be taken.  If you have any problems with ordering or have lost your childs unique code please get in touch with Christine at the School Office or via email office@puketaha.school.nz.

Pre Ordering by Friday 21st September

Either on Kindo or at the School Office

Cost $5

Cash or Kindo payment by Thursday 27th September

More information about the day will go home with your child on Monday 15th October.  If you are wishing to attend Group Day this year you will need to enter by Tuesday 16th.  Forms available from the School Office.

Cash for Communities Programme

Farmers who nominate a school will get $1 from each tonne of fertiliser donated to the school.  Register and nominate your school at www.cashforcommunities.co.nz 

Holiday at Whangamata Beach

Bach available from Jan 3rd  to Jan 16th.  Two bedrooms, Sleeps 4, excellent location, walk to town, beach, supermarket and marina.  Contact Roger on 855 9184  or 027 303 2942