Dear Parents and Guardians

Whenever I have a chance to walk the campus, I am continually inspired by what is taking place in and out of the classroom. From the energy of the Year 9 Market Day to the dedication students show in their learning, there is always a positive atmosphere and a deep willingness to make the most of every opportunity. 

Year 5 and 6 students have had a big week of rehearsals for Mary Poppins and are looking forward to the performances in two weeks. All of the students have put considerable effort to their preparations, and there is no doubt that tickets will sell quickly when they go on sale. Please keep an eye on your messages for ticket details to avoid disappointment. 

I am delighted to share that Tony Yu has been selected to represent New Zealand at badminton in the upcoming Youth Olympics in Dakar. Tony is an exceptional talent and has proven his ability on the courts over many years. Tony brings the same dedication to all aspects of school life and is an excellent example of what a well-rounded education can look like. We look forward to following his progress later in the year. 

On Monday afternoon, our orchestra performed exceptionally well at the KBB festival held at the Holy Trinity Cathedral. The quality of the music was incredible, and all of the students and staff involved should be very proud. Reflecting on our music programme, it has come a long way over the last couple of years, and I can see the determination to continue on that path. The arts are flourishing across the school, adding a real richness to the student experience. 

Yesterday, it was great to host Simon Hyde, Chief Executive of HMC, as part of his visit across Australia and New Zealand. HMC was formed in 1869 and is a network of over 400 outstanding schools across the world, which we joined earlier this year following our accreditation. Membership gives us access to more than 20 groups covering all aspects of the school, connecting us to like-minded educators who all bring unique experiences and perspectives to the conversation. This is particularly important as our strategic plan drives us to find the very best evidence-based approaches to teaching and learning and put them into practice in our classrooms. 

Year 6 students completed progression tests this week, and while the assessments will have been difficult for them, they represent the level of challenge needed at this stage of their learning. While there is a natural temptation to focus on a score, the real learning will take place when they review their work, respond to the feedback and plan for how to improve throughout the remainder of the year. 

Each Monday morning at our staff briefing, I share results and highlights from the previous week and recently this has become very difficult. The performance of our teams across every year level has been exceptional through the winter season and many of our teams will be appearing in playoffs over the coming weeks. It is important that our athletes remember that success is built through the work completed in training. While they may face strong competition, they can take confidence from the preparation and commitment they have already shown throughout the season. 

It is the turn of our senior students for assessments next week with the start of their mock exams. It is important these tests are taken seriously as they represent the start of the run toward the external exams in October. You will have seen the message regarding Daffodil Day and the various activities, please show your support toward a very worthy cause. 

With a very busy calendar over the next few weeks, there is likely to be additional pressure for many students that they may not face at other times. If your child is showing signs of not coping, please reach out, and we will make sure they feel well supported at school. 

I hope you all enjoy the weekend ahead. 

Regards
Mike Waller

🗓️ Dates for your Diary

Monday 17 August

• Year 11, A-Level Options Evening

Tuesday 18 August

• Year 7-8, North Harbour Girls' Basketball Zone Day 
• Year 5-6, Girls Netball Super Cluster

Wednesday 19 August

• College Mathex Auckland 2026
• Year 7-8, North Harbour Boys' Basketball Zone Day 
• Daffodil Day Baking Competition Judging
• Daffodil Day Shared Lunch - College

Thursday 20 August

• Blues Leadership Program
• AKSS Table Tennis Championship
• Year 11 Mock Exams

Friday 21 August

• Year 11-13 Mock Exams

Primary News

Kia ora tātou

Many of you may have noticed a new yo-yo addition to your household this week! Following the NED Show, students have been enthusiastically practising their skills while embracing the show's important message of making positive choices. Thanks to the pay it forward philosophy, we have also been able to fund visits to other schools, which is wonderful news and a great example of giving back to the wider community.

We were particularly proud of our Year 6 students this week as they completed their progression tests. They approached the assessments calmly, and their effort was commendable.

Thank you to P23 for an enjoyable assembly centred on our Term 3 value of unity. It was action packed and showcased the importance of working together and supporting one another. There were also some hip-hop and skilled musical performances in there too. Well done P23!

Our Year 5 and 6 students are now in the final stages of preparation for Mary Poppins. Tickets go on sale next week for performances on Tuesday 25 August and Thursday 27 August. The cast are very excited, and we look forward to sharing this production with you.

Selected Year 5 and 6 students will be competing at the Supercluster Netball event at Pinehurst on 18 August. We wish them all the very best.

Ngā mihi
Sian Coxon

🎓 Primary Upcoming Events

🎵 Primary Solo and Duo Performance Showcase

Who: Year 0 to 2 students
When: Thursday 10 September, 3.30 pm
Where: School Theatre

We are looking forward to celebrating our Year 0 to 2 musicians at our Term 3 Primary Solo and Duo Performance Showcase.

Students who would like to perform are invited to register their interest by Monday 24 August by completing the registration form and uploading an audition video of their chosen piece.

We welcome students of all ability levels and encourage a variety of instruments and musical genres, including voice, to create a balanced and entertaining programme.

Please note that performances should be three minutes or less, and places are limited to 16 students. Families should also be aware that pedal extenders cannot be used on the grand piano in the theatre, so this should be taken into account when selecting a piece.

If you have any questions, please contact cynthia.jaques@pinehurst.school.nz.

We look forward to seeing our young musicians take to the stage.

College News

Tēnā koutou katao 

As we move into Week 4, our primary focus in the College is the upcoming mock examinations which commence this Thursday for Year 11 students. After Thursday, all Year 11–13 students will be on study leave and are only required to attend school for their scheduled examinations. Please not that study leave does not start until Friday and students are expected to attend school as normal from Monday to Thursday of next week.   

I spoke with students during this week’s assembly about our school value of Respect for Self and how they need to take care of their wellbeing during this busy term which includes examinations for all students in Years 9-13. It is important that they protect their sleep and ensure that they get opportunities to reset and recharge each day.  

On Monday at 6pm in the Theatre, we are holding an information evening for families of students who will be entering Year 12 or 13 in 2027. This session will feature presentations from our Deputy Principal of Teaching and Learning, Tony Berghuis, and our Careers Counsellor, Lila Pulsford. They will provide valuable insights into AS and A2 subject options for students’ final two years at school. 

The Citizenship Council’s annual Daffodil Day Shared Lunch is taking place on Wednesday, 19th August at lunchtime. The Council have worked very hard to organise this event and details about ticket purchase are in the College news.  

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend. 

Ngā mihi nui
Dawn Sullivan

🎓 College Upcoming Events

💉 Year 7 and 8 School Based Immunisations

New Zealand’s school-based immunisation programme has moved to a single dose HPV vaccination schedule, replacing the previous two dose schedule.

This national change is supported by evidence showing that a single dose provides a high level of protection against HPV and aligns with World Health Organization recommendations and international practice.

Our Year 8 students received their HPV vaccination earlier this year, while Year 7 students received both the Boostrix and HPV vaccinations. Students who missed the school vaccination clinic were followed up this week by the community nursing team.

What parents and caregivers need to know:

• Only one HPV vaccine dose is now required through the school-based immunisation programme.

• Students who have already received one dose do not require a second dose.

• Catch up vaccinations will continue to be available for students who have not yet received their HPV vaccination.

• Parents and caregivers who would still like their child to receive a second dose can arrange this free of charge through their GP or healthcare provider.

More information about the changes can be found here.

🧁 Fundraising Lunch + Baking Competition

The Pinehurst Citizenship Council is proud to support the Cancer Society this August with a range of fundraising activities for our school community.

🌼Daffodil Day Fundraising Lunch

Our annual Daffodil Day Fundraising Lunch will be held on Wednesday 19 August at lunchtime.

Students can pre-order tickets for $7, which includes lunch and a raffle ticket. A limited number of tickets will be available on the day for $10, subject to availability.

Pre-order tickets here

🌼Daffodil Day Baking Competition

There is still time to enter our Daffodil Day Baking Competition!

Students, parents/caregivers, and staff are invited to create a Daffodil Day-inspired cake, cupcakes, slice, biscuits, or other sweet treat. 3 categories: Students, Parent/Caregiver, Teacher/Staff.

📅Key Dates

• Cake boxes available now from Reception
• Wednesday 19 August (8.00am - 9.00am): Drop off entries to Reception
• Wednesday 19 August: Winners announced during the Lunch Fundraiser

🏆 Prizes will be awarded in each category (over $100 value), and everyone who submits a baking entry will receive prizes. 

🎓 Upcoming Careers Events

Students and families may be interested in the following upcoming university and career opportunities.

Massey University Open Day

When: Saturday 15 August

Explore study options across a wide range of subject areas, meet academic staff and current students, and learn more about the support services available to students. 
Open Day details and registrations.

Overseas Medical Placements Webinar

When: Monday 17 August

Students interested in studying health related subjects can learn more about the overseas medical placements offered by Projects Abroad. Open to students in Years 10 to 12, these programmes combine practical hospital and community experiences with the opportunity to explore a new country and culture alongside other students. Please join the free webinar for more information.

University of Otago Accommodation Webinar

When: Wednesday 19 August

Learn more about accommodation options at the University of Otago and what students can expect from residential college life.

Register at University of Otago Accommodation

UAL Presentation

When: Thursday 20 August

An introduction to UAL, including portfolio advice and an opportunity for students to ask questions. Please register to attend.

Victoria University of Wellington Open Day

When: Friday 21 August

An opportunity for prospective students to explore the university, learn more about study options and get a feel for student life in Wellington.

Register at:  Victoria University of Wellington Open Day

Community News

🎮 Gaming Without the Parental Guilt

Is your child gaming more than feels healthy? And how do you know when it becomes too much?

This short video looks at finding a healthy balance around gaming, including how parents can set realistic boundaries without the constant battles or feeling guilty about screen time.

A useful watch for parents navigating gaming at home.

Watch the video here