Dear Parents, Caregivers and Children,

Last week we were very fortunate to have been able to take 34 Year 7 and 8 children to Totara Springs for a modified Sports Camp. We attended with one other team, 'Matamata Combined' and were able to compete in a wide and varied range of sports and activities. We were grateful to the team at Totara Springs for being creative and ensuring a modified camp was able to take place.

Over the week, we saw lots of examples of TEAM. I was delighted with how our children showcased their ability and willingness to come together, value the strengths of each other, support the areas of development and work towards a common goal. I know I can speak on behalf of Miss Mateni and Mr Harper when we say we were very proud of them. In addition, I would like to thank Mrs Jessica Dobbs and Mrs Rachel Moetara for the time and care over the 3 days. As a staff we were grateful for your support and I know the children were also. 

As a result of that week, I have been able to reflect on the notion of TEAM and how important it is in so many contexts. No one person is or should be an island. At Puketaha School there are lots of examples of teams. We team teach, we have syndicate teams, our team as a staff and the greater team of our learning community. 

Each team is made up of parts and we rely on the strengths and support of each member so as a team we are achieving positive outcomes for all, most importantly our children. I have before and I will again today, speak fondly of our team of teachers. The coherence, support, positive challenge of each other and ability to act as one, never surprises me. However, consistently impresses me. 

As a learning community, lets continue being a great team. Our community thrives and our children continue to benefit from the connectedness we have. I feel very proud to be apart of our team both as the Principal and as a parent. The logic of 'what can I do for the team' vs 'what can the team do for me' is a powerful one. TEAM (Together everyone achieves more). 

Warm Regards

Geoff

Entries for Calves, Lambs & Kid Goats are now open, due date Thursday 17 Spetember so that judges can be organised.

Information about ordering calendar art online was sent out last week.  Each child's art work has a unique number.  If you have not recieved your information sheet please get in touch with the School Office.