Western News: August 17, 2023

8
Thursday August 17 2023
Assessment
preparation
moves into
high gear
Tēnā koutou katoa, warm greetings to you all
We've had a very busy past couple of weeks and we're
heading into an even busier remainder of the term. We
have many events scheduled, a number of these are
centered around student
achievement and planning
for next year.
With so much on, students
could almost be forgiven for
being distracted. However
this is a good time for
students to reflect on what
they have achieved this year
so far. Are you on track with
your internal assessments?
You should have gained
approximately half of your
required credits to pass
NCEA by now. If you need
further assistance, meet with
your Dean or specific subject teacher to work out an
action plan to ensure you meet your goals and succeed.
NCEA external examinations commence on November 6
(11 weeks of school left, excluding the holidays).
Derived grade examinations are fast approaching
(week of Sept 11 to 15). Students should be discussing
with their teachers what they need to be revising for
these exams. These are important examinations, so all
students need to attend and try their absolute best.
These examinations will be used if a student cannot for
genuine reasons attend the external NCEA examinations
at the end of the school year. If you need support or
are struggling you can see your teacher, your Dean,
the school Guidance Counsellor. Please ensure you
speak to someone. Students who are away during the
examination week will be provided the examination on
their return to school.
Over the next month, remember to persevere, keep
aiming high and refer back to our school values,
COMMITMENT, ACHIEVEMENT, RESPECT AND
RESILIENCE.
In a world that thrives on innovation,
knowledge, and the whirlwind of
constant change, education remains
steadfast as the heart and soul of
personal and societal growth. It's a
beacon guiding us towards a brighter
future, and regular school attendance is
the warm embrace that paves the way
for success.
A strong foundation for learning
Regular school attendance is the soil in
which the seeds of education flourish,
establishing a strong foundation for
lifelong growth. Every day spent in
the classroom becomes a place where
students engage with fresh ideas,
explore new concepts, and broaden their
horizons. By consistently participating
in this journey, they not only master
fundamental skills but also cultivate the
art of critical thinking and the craft of
problem-solving. Absences from school
create gaps in knowledge that hinder
their ability to grasp more complex
concepts as they journey further into
their education.
Iain Murray
Ngā mihi nui
Iain Murray
Principal
August 2023
Commitment,
Achievement,
Resilience,
Respect
SISS Junior Netball Tournament
During the school
holidays coaches Kana
Shedlock-Whiu and Ms
Bennett took our Junior
Netball Squad (pictured
at right) to the SISS
Netball Tournament.
Most Improved player
went to Ada MB
Most Committed player
went to Susie N
Most Valuable player
went to Shontai R
All our students played
incredibly well, we have
some amazing talent
coming through for
Junior Netball at Hornby
High School.
Trip restarts Japanese connection
Ten Hornby High School students, family
members and two school staff travelled to
Japan last month as part of our school's first
trip to the Asian country in more than five
years.
Departing Christchurch on July 8 for a
marathon journey across Australia to
Singapore, the group then flew north to Japan,
where they finally stepped off the aircraft into
the summer heat on Sunday morning, July 9.
Overall, it was a highly successful and
memorable trip.
We look forward to hosting students from
Tokiwagi next March, and of course our own
return trip in July 2025.
More pictures and details of the trip are
available to view on our facebook page and
newsletter.
Trio get set to join trip to Disneyland
Three Hornby High School students are
getting ready to travel to Los Angeles and
San Diego, thanks to Koru Care.
Max O, Brianna D and Kaea K will leave
Christchurch on October 14 and return
two weeks later.
While in the United States they will
be visiting Disneyland, Knotsberry
Farm, Hollywood, an ice hockey game,
Universal Studios and a number of other
events and activities.
The group comprises 11 carers, one
doctor and 22 young people from
throughout Christchurch supporting the
students.
"Koru Care" is an Air NZ charitable
organisation based that aims to fulfill
the dreams of seriously ill and disabled
children. The organisation arranges travel
and experiences for these children.
What an amazing opportunity. We wish
you all the very best.
Lifelong benefits of regular school attendence – a pathway to success
1 or 2 days a week doesn't seem like much but... Cultivating discipline and responsibility
Attendance at school instills a sense of
discipline and responsibility in students.
By adhering to a routine and fulfilling
commitments, young people learn
the importance of punctuality and
dedication. These qualities are not only
essential during the formative years
but also lay the groundwork for success
in their working life. Employers value
individuals who have a strong work
ethic and are reliable; traits often honed
through consistent school attendance.
How about 10 minutes late a day? Surely that won't affect my child?
Building social skills and networks
School is a microcosm of society,
providing students with opportunities
to interact with peers from diverse
backgrounds. Regular attendance fosters
the development of crucial social skills
such as communication, teamwork,
and conflict resolution. Moreover, the
connections made in school can evolve
into lifelong friendships and professional
networks. These relationships often
prove invaluable later in life, offering
support and opportunities.
Brianna D Kaea K Max O
Preparation for ongoing education, work
Consistent attendance in school prepares
students for the challenges of ongoing
education, work, apprenticeships and
the demands of seeking and successfully
starting a job. The continuity of learning
helps students build a strong academic
profile, enhancing their prospects of
attending university or gaining a job
of their choice. Additionally, a robust
educational background increases
employability, positioning individuals for
better job opportunities and high pay.
Breaking the cycle of disadvantage
Regular school attendance can play
a pivotal role in breaking the cycle of
disadvantage. Education is a powerful
tool that can uplift individuals from
challenging circumstances, providing
them with opportunities they might not
have otherwise. By attending school
consistently, individuals from challenging
backgrounds can access resources,
knowledge, and skills that empower
them to overcome barriers and create a
brighter future.