Dear Parents/Guardians,

We have had a great week at school with plenty happening in and out of the classroom. The whole school coming together for a photo on Tuesday morning was a highlight and I can’t wait to see the proofs very soon. 

Last night, it was very special to see our Cambridge Award winners receiving their awards in the Pinehurst theatre. It was an outstanding event, seeing so much incredible talent from across the country. During the afternoon, a Principal’s roundtable spent time discussing education in New Zealand and there is a clear commitment from a growing number of schools to see Cambridge thrive as a leading curriculum. 

Our Silver Duke of Edinburgh students have been on their practice expedition since Wednesday. This trip is both fun and challenging, and I am sure they have had a fantastic few days. Due to weather conditions further down the country, a late change to the Hunua Ranges was needed to ensure the safety of the group. All staff leading trips are empowered to make the best decisions for the safety of the group and we work closely with them to make sure they are well supported in the field. 

This week, I have been able to visit a number of lower primary classes and a read one of my favourite stories ‘The Dragon Hunters’ to them. I always enjoy spending time in classrooms and getting to know our youngest learners has been great, especially because you never quite know what you are going to be asked! 

I also enjoyed attending Primary assembly on Tuesday afternoon, and was very impressed by the confidence shown by the students with a microphone in hand. Two of our College students performed on the violin, showing the pathway for our aspiring musicians. The relationships our students form across the school are very important and even small moments like this can have a lasting impact on young minds.  

Next week, our younger students can look forward to their time with Conscious Kids. This is an excellent gateway to outdoor education, with creativity and time in nature being very important parts of their learning. Year 7 and 8 will be competing in the pool at Northern Arena on Wednesday and I hope to see many of you at Coffee Connect on Friday. 

To all of you who have celebrated Chinese New Year this week, I wish you a safe and prosperous year of the horse. 

I hope you have a great weekend. 

Regards,
Mike Waller

🗓️ Dates for your Diary

Monday 23 February

• Year 10 DOE Bronze Practice, Monday & Tuesday (Tawharanui)

Tuesday 24 February

• AKSS Aquathon Championships, 12.00 - 3.00pm (Saint Kentigern College)

Wednesday 25 February

• Year 4-5 Swimming Lessons (AUT Millenium)
• Year 7-8 Interhouse Swimming Spots (Northern Arena)

Thursday 26 February

• Sprint Orienteering

Friday 27 February

• Coffee Connect, 8.15am (Reception)
• Year 4-5 Swimming Lessons (AUT Millenium)

Primary News

Kia ora,

It has been wonderful to attend our Primary assemblies this term, each one proudly centred on our value of Respect. Every week, a different class has shared their learning about our school values of respecting themselves, respecting others, and striving for excellence. It is clear that these values are becoming deeply embedded in the way our students speak to one another and how readily they include others, something we are impressed to see growing across the school.

We were happy to see how students came together for the first House competition of the year. Football was the sport and teams were chosen to represent. The team spirit, encouragement, and energy on display set a fantastic tone for the year ahead. Thanks Mr. Taylor and Mr. Cox for kicking off the year of competition and team togetherness.

Coming up next week:

• Tuesday 24 Feb: Y5–6 Basketball Trials, 7.20am in the Arena
• Tuesday 24 Feb: Leadership Assembly, 2.20pm in the Theatre
• Wednesday 25 & Friday 27 Feb: Swimming lessons for Y4–5
• Thursday 26 Feb: Conscious Kids Day Camp on the back field
• Friday 27 Feb: Vision & Hearing Tests for selected Y0–2 students

Ngā mihi nui,
Sian Coxon

🎓 Primary Upcoming Events

💫 New Entrants to enjoy Conscious Kids experience 

When: Thursday 26 February (all day)
What to bring: Sunhat, sunblock, plenty of water and a full lunch box

Our New Entrant classes will enjoy a full‑day Conscious Kids experience on Thursday 26 February, where tamariki take part in child‑led, nature‑based play designed to help them explore, imagine, and build confidence outdoors. The programme focuses on giving children freedom and time to play in natural spaces, encouraging creativity, resilience, and connection with the environment through activities such as open‑ended “junk play”, shelter building, and traditional Māori games that foster wellbeing and teamwork. To ensure they are comfortable and safe throughout this active day, children will need their sunhat, sunblock, plenty of water, and enough food to keep them energised.

🏀 Year 3 & 4 Primary Basketball Trials

When: Thursday 26 February ready to start at 3.30pm
Where: Arena

If you have registered for Year 3 & 4 Basketball, the trials will be held on the Thursday 26 February in the arena. Be in your PE uniform and basketball shoes ready to start at 3.30pm. Coach Bart and Ms McIntosh look forward to seeing you there.

🎹 Primary Solo & Duo Performance Showcase

When: Thursday 12 March, 3.30pm
Where: Pinehurst Theatre

We are looking forward to another year celebrating the musicians in our Primary School, beginning with our Term 1 concert for our Year 5 and 6 students on Thursday 12 March at 3.30pm in the School Theatre. This term our Marimba Group will also join us to perform.

Our concert in Term 2 will showcase our Year 3 and 4 students, while our Year 0 – 2 students will perform in Term 3, and finally, in Term 4, students from all levels may apply for a performance opportunity.

Year 5 and 6 students who would like to perform this term should register their interest by completing this form AND upload an audition video showing them performing their intended piece here by Friday 27 February.

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

Please note that places are limited to 16 students for this one-hour concert and performances should be three minutes or less. We look forward to seeing you and your children at our upcoming performance showcase.

If you have any questions, please email Mrs Jaques Cynthia.jaques@pinehurst.school.nz

College News

Tēnā koutou katoa,

As we move into the middle part of the term, it has been wonderful to see so much learning happening across the school with students settled, focused, and demonstrating our school values.

On Monday, our Year 10 students will head to Tāwharanui for their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh adventurous journey practice. This exciting experience gives the entire year group the opportunity to work together while developing valuable outdoor skills, confidence, and resilience. It is an important step as they prepare for the challenges ahead in this prestigious qualification. We are proud of the positive attitude they have shown in the lead-up to this event.

Next week also brings a highlight for our Year 7 and 8 students with Swimming Sports on Wednesday. With many strong swimmers across these year levels, we look forward to a fantastic day of participation and House spirit.

Community time on Thursday will see Year 7 and 8 students in assembly with Mr Reynolds, Years 9 and 10 will be making preparations for buddy class visits and Years 11-13 will be in the theatre learning more about the ethics and societal applications of AI.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Ngā mihi nui,
Dawn Sullivan

🎓 College Upcoming Events

🧮 Upcoming Mathematics Topic Tests

In the coming weeks, topic tests will be taking place across the College in Mathematics. These assessments provide an important checkpoint for students - an opportunity to see how they are progressing and to identify areas of strength as well as areas that may need further consolidation.

While tests can sometimes feel daunting, they are not something to fear. Rather than viewing them as high-pressure events, students should see them as useful indicators of understanding. They are designed to guide learning, not define it.

Preparation is key. Students are encouraged to revise thoroughly using the resources available in their class OneNote, review worked examples, and complete consistent practice in the lead-up to their test. Good preparation builds both confidence and competence.

Most importantly, the outcome of a topic test should be used constructively. It provides valuable feedback on what to revise, what to refine, and how to approach the next stage of learning. Progress in Mathematics is built step by step, and each assessment is simply part of that journey.

We encourage all students to prepare diligently, approach their test calmly, and use the experience as a positive step forward in their learning.

🐠 Year 9 Global to take part in the Young Ocean Explorers 21-Day Challenge

When: Monday 23 February

Our Year 9 Global classes are going to start exploring what it means to live in Aotearoa New Zealand, with a special focus on our relationship with the ocean. As a nation with the 5th‑largest ocean jurisdiction in the world, students are learning about the importance of understanding and caring for our marine environment.

On Monday 23 February, students are also taking part in the Young Ocean Explorers 21‑Day Challenge, joining schools across the country in picking up one piece of rubbish each day. This simple action helps students see how small daily choices can contribute to healthier oceans and encourages them to think like global citizens.

Alongside this, students are building their knowledge of the marine world so that when they head out on their sailing camp later in the term, they have a deeper appreciation for the incredible environment beneath them - and the privilege of living where we do.

🧬 Year 10 Combined Science - Find out more!

When: Wednesday 25 February
Where: Classroom 511

Combined Science is for Y10 students who enjoy learning about science who are taking three Science subjects this year. It is for students with excellent ability in Science who also enjoy sitting examinations. 

During lunchtime Wednesday 25 February there will be a meeting in 511 with interested Year 10 students. This will be advertised in the daily notices/news. During the meeting a full explanation to students about the Combined Science programme, and an opportunity to speak to students who participated last year. Y10 parents have been emailed further information.

🏸 Years 9–11 General PE: What’s Coming Up

The Physical Education Department is looking forward to an exciting few weeks ahead as students across Years 9–11 begin new learning focuses designed to challenge their thinking, build their skills, and highlight our school values in action.

Year 9: Invasion Games - Applying Strategy and Teamwork

Over the next fortnight, Year 9 students will continue to build on their understanding of invasion games as they move into more complex, game‑based scenarios. Students will begin applying tactical concepts such as creating space, pressing in defence, and making decisions under pressure. These lessons will emphasise teamwork and communication, with strong links to whanaungatanga and manaakitanga.

Year 10 & 11: NZ Summer Unit - New Activities Ahead

In the coming weeks, our Year 10 and 11 students will be rotating through a new set of NZ summer activities. These will include a mix of competitive and recreational options to keep students engaged, active, and challenged.
Students will also be introduced to new “challenge by choice” tasks, offering opportunities for both skill development and personal goal‑setting. A continued emphasis will be placed on demonstrating our school values through participation, contribution, and positive team interactions.

Looking Ahead

As the weather remains warm, we plan to make the most of outdoor learning opportunities wherever possible. Students can expect a blend of high‑energy practical sessions, social skill‑focused activities, and to continue to develop their 'In, through, and about' movement understanding.

🏥 UCAT Registrations Opening Soon...

The University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT ANZ) is an admissions test which helps universities select applicants with the most appropriate abilities and professional behaviours required for new doctors and dentists to be successful in their clinical careers.

It is used in collaboration with other admissions processes such as interviews and academic qualifications. Students applying to study Medicine or Dentistry in NZ will sit UCAT in Year 1 of university but are encouraged to practice by sitting in Year 13. UCAT is required for all direct-entry applicants to medicine for Australia. Preparation material is available here: Prepare | UCAT ANZ

The UCAT ANZ Consortium does not work with or endorse any companies that offer UCAT coaching. Please be cautious about claims they can help you do well in the test. Bookings for students to register to sit the UCAT open 3 March 2026 and registrations close on 15 May 2026. The 2024 UCAT ANZ must be sat between 1 July and 5 August 2026.

Community News

☕️ Stop by for Coffee Connect on Friday morning!

When: Friday 27 February, 8.15am
Where: Outside Reception

Join us on Friday 27 February, from 8.15am–9.15am in front of the Pinehurst Main Reception Building, for another relaxed morning of coffee and conversation.

Coffee Connect is a simple but special way to pause, connect and enjoy the company of fellow Pinehurst parents and friends. Whether you stay for five minutes or the full hour, we’d love to see you there.

Everyone is warmly welcome! 🌿

⛑️ Changes to School-Based Immunisations from 2026

From 2026, our school will follow Health New Zealand’s nationally consistent immunisation delivery model. This means Year 7 students will be offered both the Tdap (Boostrix) and HPV vaccines together at school. 2026 will be a transition year.

• Year 7 students will be offered Diphtheria, Tetanus and Whooping Cough (Boostrix) and HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccinations.
• Year 8 students will be offered the HPV vaccination.

From 2027 onwards, Year 7 students will receive both vaccines, and any Year 8 students who missed out in Year 7 will have another opportunity to receive them.

Students will be bringing home immunisation information and consent forms. Please return the signed consent forms to school by Wednesday next week. Participation remains optional, and parents and caregivers decide whether their child receives immunisations at school or at their General Practitioner. We do require that all parents complete the forms.

Immunisation dates for our school:

• Year 7: 04/03/2026 and 12/08/2026
• Year 8 (HPV only): 04/03/2026 and 12/08/2026

This model reduces disruption to learning, decreases follow-up for school staff, and provides more opportunities for students to catch up if they miss a scheduled vaccination day.