Friday 1 August

Message from Mike

Kia ora koutou, good afternoon, 下午好, 안녕하세요 

Dear Parents/Guardians,

The unsettled weather this week has been at real odds with the steady focus of our students. All of the students I have spoken to have been able to talk with clarity about how they are going in all facets of school life and have the key areas where they are looking to improve throughout the term.

It was great to see so many of you at the College parent conferences on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. The engagement between home and school is so important, not just for academic, but for all facets of school life. While these formal engagements create the opportunity to work together, please remember we are always here to work with you in the support of your child.

It was also lovely to host our new Primary parents for a meet and greet on Monday. With a growing number of children completing their entire education journey with us, it is amazing to think they will be the graduating class of 2038!

The traffic around the Bush Road entrance is very busy in the afternoon, and it is important that students only enter their cars in a designated parking area. Getting into a car when there are moving vehicles on the road is very dangerous, and any misjudgment from any driver could lead to very serious injury. While I understand everyone is trying to get away from school on time, the safety of everyone must be a priority.

A highlight earlier in the week was spending a few minutes listening to a College orchestra rehearsal. The quality of the performance was incredible, with all the students focused on perfecting the smallest details. We were fortunate to have the APO in with us today, working with our Primary orchestra. There is little doubt that great things are happening in our music programme.

Following the consultation sessions during Term Two, discussions have now begun with the board to consider the next steps of our strategic plan. The initial discussions are naturally very broad as we develop project parameters, and I will keep you updated with any key decisions that are made.

I hope you have a lovely weekend.

Regards,
Mike Waller

Dates for your Diary

Monday 4 August

Year 6 Progression Testing (Throughout week)
Primary Snowsport Competition
IGCSE Options Evening (Theatre, 6pm)

Tuesday 5 August

College Open Day
Years 7-8 AKSS Road Race Championships (All day)
Arts Week Piano Competition (Theatre, 6pm)

Wednesday 6 August

College Club Photos & ID Catch-up Photos
Year 7-8 North Harbour Cross Country Zone Day (All day)
Argentina Exchange Host Parents Information Evening (5pm)

Thursday 7 August

Primary Open Day
Buddy Classes (College)
Year 12 Blues Leadership Program (10.30am-2.30pm)
AKSS Badminton Championships
Arts Week Movie Night (Arena, 5.45pm session & 7.30pm session)

Friday 8 August

Whole School Non-Uniform Day: Bring gold coin donation or warm items
(gloves, beanies or socks) to support Orange Sky
Year 7-13 Final day for Auckland City Mission Donations

SEE MORE DATES

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Stay up to date with exceptional achievements, standout student moments, event highlights, and celebrations of our school spirit and community values.

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Message from Dawn

Tēnā koutou katoa

As we move into Week 3, Arts Week, organised by our Arts Council, is creating a buzz of excitement around the College. There will be lots of opportunities for students to get involved, including guitar tuition, theatre sports, the annual school Piano Competition, crafts, a movie night and some fun games to finish off the week. Throughout the week, there will also be small musical groups and soloists performing during break times.

On Monday we have the first of our options evenings for parents and students, and we are looking forward to welcoming Year 9 families to the theatre to discuss IGCSE options. Our second information evening of the week will be on Wednesday for parents who have offered to host Argentinian students during the upcoming school exchange.

On Thursday we have buddy classes, and we finish the week with non-uniform day on Friday at which we will be supporting the charity Orange Sky.

Ngā mihi nui,
Dawn Sullivan

College News

Year 8 First Aid Training

When a thoughtful Year 8 student asked, “Should we learn First Aid?” after witnessing a few challenging situations in her own life, it sparked action. The school reached out to Hato Hone St John, who delivered an engaging two-hour workshop to all Year 8 students this week.

Each class was guided through the basics of how to respond to an emergency, including CPR skills, in a practical, hands-on session. The enthusiasm and maturity shown by students was outstanding.

This initiative not only equipped our young people with vital skills but also laid the foundation for First Aid training to become a regular part of the Year 8 programme.

Cross Country Success

This week’s Junior College assembly was a celebration of perseverance and athletic achievement, as we recognised our Year 7 and 8 cross country champions.

Last term, and in difficult conditions, these students demonstrated exceptional determination and school spirit on the course. Congratulations to all our winners for their outstanding efforts!

Xavier W Climbs to the Top at National Bouldering Series

Pinehurst student Xavier W (Year 9) had a phenomenal day at the National Bouldering Series, held last Sunday at Northern Rocks climbing gym. Competing in the U15 category, Xavier successfully topped five black Grade 7/8 climbs, earning a 2000-point lead over the second-place competitor.

Even more impressively, his score would have won the U17 division and placed him third in the U19s—a remarkable achievement that highlights his exceptional skill, determination, and passion for the sport.

Congratulations Xavier, on this outstanding result!

Success at the North Shore Chess Championship

This week, three teams of four students competed at Takapuna Grammar in the North Shore Chess Championship.

Our A team came third against some very strong opponents. The students were fantastic representatives of Pinehurst School—we congratulate them for their hard work.

College Students Shine at Northern Secondary School Fencing Tournament

We’re proud to share the outstanding results from our students who competed in the recent Northern Secondary School Fencing Tournament.

Julie X (Year 12) achieved an impressive 2nd place in the Women’s Epee event. Yilia W (Year 9) followed closely, earning a strong 3rd place in the same category.

Both girls fenced exceptionally well and demonstrated true determination throughout the day. While our other students didn’t place in the top eight, each one showed commendable effort, resilience and sportsmanship—supporting their teammates and representing Pinehurst with pride. Congratulations to all our students for their hard work and dedication.

AS and A2 Classics Day Out

In the last week of term, the AS and A2 Classics classes went to Massey University for their biennial Classics Day.

We got to hear lectures about what made someone a 'good' Roman, love and death in ancient Greek art, and whether or not Augustus was an emperor. We also competed in the quiz, and one of our teams placed in the top three! This was a fantastic day out and we got to experience what it might be like to study Classics at university, as we start to make plans for what comes after Pinehurst. It also gave us some extra information on topics that we'll be revising for the upcoming examinations!

AS P.E. Getting Tough in the Mud!

Over 1,100 runners took part in this year’s thrilling 6km Tough Guy/Gal Challenge, and our students rose to the occasion with enthusiasm and resilience.

Alex O and Ashlee B delivered standout performances, placing impressively among a competitive field. The event was not only a muddy, adrenaline-filled adventure, but also a valuable learning experience, supporting our students as they work towards completing their AS P.E. coursework. A fantastic day of fun, challenge, and personal growth.

Term 3 is a crucial time for Year 13 students as university applications, both in New Zealand and overseas, should be completed before the end of the term.

Each Year 13 student will have an individual meeting to ensure their applications are progressing well. Where students require reference letters for accommodation, scholarships and overseas programmes, these will be included as part of that process.

Term 3 is a busy term with numerous Open Days, webinars and events happening. Please check the Pinehurst Career Education website to check all upcoming career events.

Message from Sian

Kia ora tatou,

Another great week in the Primary, classrooms are buzzing with learning, and everyone is a little bit smarter than last week. It is a privilege to work with children and to see how much progress they make across the year.

It is a busy week ahead with progression testing for Year 6 in Maths, English, and Science in preparation for their Cambridge Checkpoint tests in Term 4. The tests give students an opportunity to work in timed conditions, and the data teachers collect helps them to look for any gaps and adjust their programmes to ensure that further opportunities for learning are created. We wish our Year 6 students all the best next week and look forward to their success.

On the 5^th of August we have several students competing in Snowsport Championships at Snowplanet, we wish them all the best. On the 6^th of August we have student ID photos for new students, and it is Primary Open Day on the 7^th.

College and Primary buddies are getting together on Thursday, and on Friday 8 August it is non uniform day.

Enjoy the weekend!

Ngā mihi nui,
Sian Coxon

Primary News

Year 3-4 Production Aladdin JR.
The Magic is Building!

With just four weeks to go, rehearsals for Aladdin JR. are in full swing.

We've had our first run-through in the theatre, costumes are being gathered, and the props team is working hard, everything is looking fantastic. There’s a real buzz of excitement among both students and teachers as we bring this magical story to life.

Adapted especially for young performers, Aladdin JR. is packed with adventure, humour, and heart. Get ready for mystical caves, magic carpet rides, and unforgettable songs like Friend Like Me, A Whole New World and Prince Ali. Our performances will take place in Week 6 and we can’t wait to share the magic with you!

2025 China International Young Singers Choral Competition

Two of our Year 4 students, Denis X and Mikel P, and a Year 9 student Doris X, recently participated in the 2025 China International Young Singers Choral Competition, as part of The Cloud Choir's competition group.

This choir won in the Children's Choir category, competing against 37 other children's choirs from 8 different countries. It was a great experience for them all! The Cloud Choir will also be performing from 4-6 August at The Kids Sing at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell.

Community News and Events

Auckland City Mission Food Drive

Alex S (Year 12) is running a non-perishable food and hygiene product drive to support the incredible work of the Auckland City Mission.

If you'd like to help, Alex is welcoming students in Years 7-13 to bring donations of items such as:

Canned food, rice, pasta
Shampoo, conditioner
Toothpaste, toothbrushes

Students can drop donations into the collection boxes placed in their PODs and Homerooms. Donations will be collected on Friday 8th August (end of Week 3). Your kindness can make a real difference—thank you in advance for your support!

Notices and Events

Non-Uniform Day – Friday 8 August

Next Friday, the whole school is invited to wear non-uniform clothing in support of Orange Sky—a charity offering free laundry, warm showers, and care to people experiencing homelessness.

To take part, students are encouraged to bring either:

A gold coin donation or
Warm items such as gloves, beanies, or socks

Every donation helps provide warmth, dignity, and practical support to those doing it tough. Your contribution—big or small—can make a real difference. Let’s come together as a community to support this important cause.

Join us for a Parent Session: Supporting your Child through Anxiety and Worry

Exam season can be a particularly stressful time for students and their families. To help, we’re hosting a special presentation by Clinical Psychologist and Paediatric Neuropsychologist Megan Fowler, who will share insights into how children and teens experience anxiety, and offer practical strategies to support them through high-pressure times.

Parents of children at any school age will find this session valuable and informative.

On-site childcare is available during this event at $10 per child.

Business Networking at Pinehurst

Introducing the Pinehurst Community Business Directory

At Pinehurst, we value the strength of our close-knit community and the power of connection. That’s why we’re excited to launch the Pinehurst Community Business Directory—a platform designed to support, promote, and connect businesses within our school community.

This platform and affiliated events will offer opportunities for parents and caregivers of the school to connect, collaborate, and support one another professionally within our vibrant school community.

The aim is to bring together business owners, industry experts, and professionals across a range of fields to:

Share insights and ideas
Explore collaboration and referral opportunities
Inspire future generations through student mentorship or career talks

Whether you're looking to grow your network, share your expertise, or simply connect with like-minded members of our community, we’d love to hear from you.

If you’d like to be involved—as a guest speaker, participant, or directory listing—please contact Carmen Stella via email: carmen.stella@pinehurst.school.nz with a brief overview of your business, your role, and contact details.

Let’s build stronger connections through shared knowledge and support.

Arts Week 2025 Day Schedule

Arts Week is back and bursting with creativity, fun, and opportunities for students to participate, compete, and enjoy! With music performances, games, arts and crafts across the school—there's something for everyone to get involved in.

There will be daily activities available every lunchtime:

Music Monday Lunchtime
Head to the music room to try out an instrument! Join a fun beginner guitar workshop with your friends—lolly prizes included!

Theatresports Tuesday Lunchtime
Join the Arts Council and Theatresports leaders in the Drama room for easy, high-energy games like Ninja and Grandma’s Keys.

Workshop Wednesday Lunchtime
Create your own bracelets with friends—supplies and guidance provided in the Drama room.

Flower Thursday Lunchtime
Learn how to make pipe cleaner flower bouquets or purchase one made by the Arts Council. Find them at the Amphitheatre.

Fun Games Friday Lunchtime
Grab your laptop and head to Room 301 for a round of Gartic Phone. Bring your friends for some laughs and lollies to end the week!

Arts Week 2025 Evening Highlights

🎹 Piano Competition - Tuesday 5 August (6pm)

Our annual Piano Competition will be held on the evening of Tuesday 5 July in the Theatre.

This is a wonderful opportunity to perform in front of an audience and showcase your musical talent. An external judge will be joining us for the event and there are prizes to be won! Performers can prepare a piece up to 8 minutes in length.

Ready to take the stage? Sign up here

🎬 College Movie Night - Thursday 7 August (5.45pm)

As part of Arts Week 2025 there will be a Movie Night held on Thursday 7 August in the Arena.

Students in Years 7-13 are invited to come along for a night of fun! BYO Bean Bag, snacks available below:

Junior Movie (Years 7-10): 5.45pm
Senior Movie (Years 11-13) 7.30pm

🍕 Pre-Order Pizza Only: Charged to your school account
🍿 Popcorn: $2 on the night (Eftpos only)

Visit Schoolbox to pre-order your pizza and check out which movies will be screened on the night!

If you have any news or submissions you’d like considered for our newsletter, please contact news@pinehurst.school.nz