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Message from the Executive Principal
Kia ora koutou, good afternoon, 下午好, 안녕하세요
Welcome back to what promises to be an exciting, busy, and most importantly, successful Term 4. From year-end events, to trips, and, of course, exams, all of our students will have plenty to look forward to and I am sure they will all enjoy the challenges and rise to the occasion.
While many were able to relax over the holiday, our senior students remained hard at work with tutorial sessions running over the first week and examinations starting in the second. This week, I have seen a strong sense of resolve and optimism amongst the students as they have come into school each morning and the conversations in the afternoon suggest the optimism was well founded and that they are thoroughly prepared for these important assessments.
Also during the break, our students had some outstanding success on a national level with our Intermediate Chess team finishing 5th and the Primary team winning the national championship. This was followed by Noah and Zara putting in outstanding individual performances at the Intermediate Diving Championship placing first and second respectively and their combined score seeing them place first in the team competition.
Over the last week, we have seen terrible events unfold in the Middle East and our thoughts go out to everyone who has been impacted by this situation. I am aware that some of our families may be closely affected and if you or your child needs any support, please reach out, we are here for you. In recent days it has also become apparent that awful videos are being shared through social media channels and they may pop up on feeds without having searched them out directly. I encourage you to keep a close eye on your child’s social media activity and to have an honest discussion with them if they view such videos. Again, we are here to support you in any way that you need.
As you may be aware, we have begun our recruitment for next year with a range of jobs currently advertised, primarily for College staff. The field of candidates looks to be exceptionally strong for all positions and there is no doubt that we are attracting top quality people. I am looking forward to beginning the interviews and getting to know the people so that we can appoint those with outstanding skill sets and character to join our community.
Finally, a reminder that Monday, October 23rd is the Labour Day public holiday, as a result, the school will be closed on that day.
I hope you all enjoy the weekend ahead.
Dates for your Diary
Monday 16 October
- Year 9 Checkpoint Exams
- Year 4-5 Progression Testing
- Primary New Family Meet and Greet
Tuesday 17 October
- ID Catch-Up Photos
- Sports Photos
- Years 4-5 Progression Testing
Wednesday 18 October
- Years 4-5 Progression Testing
Thursday 19 October
- Year 9 Checkpoint Exams
- Year 4-5 Progression Testing
Friday 20 October
- Year 9 Checkpoint Exams
- Year 4-5 Progression Testing
Message from the Principal of Primary
Kia ora,
The final term of the year, hard to believe but we are here. Maybe because the seasons have all rolled into one and there isn’t the definition provided by the weather, it doesn’t feel like the last term. It would be easy to see Term 4 as the term where we do lots of non-structured work and utilise the outdoors to a greater level and to an extent this is true, but every child will be learning to the last minute of the last day of the school year. Holidays will come, and we will be ready for them no doubt but until then there is so much to learn about collaboration, resilience, friendship, fair play, social skills, reflection, and celebration. One of our values is excellence and we will be learning what that looks like in the water at Waterwise, on the fields at Athletics, in financial literacy at PrEP as well as prizegiving's and in our daily classroom programmes.
We welcomed ten brand new, New Entrants, this term which includes three new families. The first day of a child’s schooling is special for every family and there were a few tears from parents as well as students on the first morning this week. By the end of the day everyone had settled, and our Term 3 New Entrants did an amazing job of looking after their buddies and helping them to feel part of our school. Leadership starts at five years old and is not just a responsibility given to Year 6 students before they leave the Primary. Giving the Term 3 students the job of looking after our new students helps them to begin learning some of the skills required to be a leader. We were very proud of P5 this week and of their teachers, Mrs Rodrigues, Mrs Lay, and Mrs Aston who have been so supportive of their students and families.
This week saw the start of the Cambridge Primary Checkpoint tests for Year 6 and next week we begin the Cambridge Progression tests for Years 4 and 5. We have been so impressed with Year 6; they have been amazing. They have all worked hard to get to the point where they are ready to demonstrate their learning in timed conditions and to prepare themselves for what is to come in future years. Students have been focussed, calm and above all kind to each other this week. We are sad that they will leave the Primary at the end of this year but happy that throughout their six or so years with us they have grown into such outstanding young people who are ready for the next phase in their education. They seem so grown up in comparison to the beginning of the year and we sometimes forget they are only eleven. We will all enjoy these last few weeks with them and look forward to celebrating their achievements.
Week 1 is done, have a great weekend everyone.
Ngā mihi, Sian
Primary News
Primary Specialists
The Primary has a dedicated team of specialist teachers who offer a range of subjects. Our specialist teachers develop relationships with students across the Primary. Here is a snapshot of three of our specialists subjects this term.
Year 5 and 6 Physical Education with Mr Taylor
In the Year 5 and 6 curriculum a strong emphasis is placed on both leadership and skill development. They are encouraged to develop a broad spectrum of athletic abilities. This includes mastering skills such as shotput throws, discus, long jump techniques, sprinting and long-distance techniques. These skills not only promote physical fitness but also serve as foundational elements for a well-rounded athlete.
The curriculum cultivates the positive leadership skills within a sporting environment. Students are encouraged to exhibit leadership qualities by setting a positive example for their peers during sports activities. This involves displaying sportsmanship, teamwork, and respect for fellow classmates, thereby fostering an inclusive atmosphere within the P.E class.
Additionally, the students are involved by teaching techniques to their peers. They are expected to demonstrate their leadership skills by instructing their peers in various striking games. This teaching component reinforces their understanding of games but also encourages them to communicate effectively, demonstrate patience, and provide constructive feedback.
Year 3 Spanish with Mrs Cadag
In the Year 3 classes this term students will be delving into the theme of ‘La Familia’ – THE FAMILY. They will be encouraged to grasp the fundamentals of basic Spanish vocabulary and sentence structures related to the topic of family. In addition, they will be exploring key traditions and cultural practices whilst exploring “La Navidad” (Christmas).
The Year 3 Spanish curriculum equips students with the essential language skills and cultural awareness to discuss family matters and the diverse holiday traditions of a Spanish speaking community.
Year 4 Music with Ms Pope
The Year 4 music curriculum nurtures musical skills whilst encouraging collaboration, self-reflection and continuous improvement, in the realm of music education. This term they will be diving into the enchanting world of lullabies as they explore the art of singing. This includes rounds, two-part harmonising and experimentation with various sounds. The students will be learning to listen attentively and use their voices along with musical instruments to create soothing lullabies. They will also begin to grasp the intricacies of constructing melodies and rhythms, using their bodies and visual symbols to establish connections between sound and notation.
As part of their exploration students will engage with the works of renowned composers Johannes Brahms and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. During the learning process they will explore various methods of evaluating their work, fostering an awareness of setting collective goals to enhance their musical performances.
Primary Chess team wins 1st place!
During the first weekend of the school holidays, the primary Chess team, made up of William J, Luna L, Isaac G, Ethan H and Eddie H attended the New Zealand Interschools National Chess finals at St Kentigern College.
Over the two days the students played seven rounds of Chess against other successful primary teams from all around New Zealand. As a team, their results meant that they won 1st place, making them the primary chess champions for the North Island and whole of New Zealand.
Luna also won as the best player of board 2, winning all seven matches and Isaac Gu was the best player of board 3, winning six out of seven matches.
Congratulations team on a very successful year of playing Chess!
0-2 Syndicate Term 4
Welcome back to the final term of 2023. It has been wonderful to see the students excitedly arrive back to school in their summer uniform this week. Again, our syndicate has grown with the addition of 10 new students who have joined P5.
Our first few days back in the junior school have seen our classes getting straight back into their learning and they have been very busy!
This term in P4, their writing mission is about a mysterious egg which has been discovered sitting in a strange nest. As part of a provocation into this unit, the students in P4 have worked together to make their own nests within the junior playground. Next, they will be describing the nests and egg using adjectives and will make some predictions about what could be inside the brightly coloured egg before it hatches!
In Junior Year 1 the Global Perspectives unit for the term is ‘Having a Job.’ This week in P2 they discussed and experienced what it might be like to be a hairdresser; how to serve customers, what tools to use, work and safety, cleaning and preparation tasks.
This week, as part of our phonics learning in P1, we have been learning all about the special friends ur, as in nurse in a purse. Some of the words that students have been reading and writing this week are hurt, Saturday, purple, purse and bursting.
Yesterday, P22 and P23 went on a trip to Stardome to support their learning in Science this term. They will share more of their learning from this day with you in next week’s newsletter.
This term in Art, the Year 2 classes have a unit called ‘Portraits’. The students will use different materials and techniques to make their own, and explore the work of Pablo Picasso and Andy Warhol to create artwork inspired by them. This week, the children started by creating a self-portrait. They used a mirror to look closely at their features before working step by step to draw them in the correct place and in proportion, and finally adding more detail.
Middle Syndicate Learning in Term 4
This week has been a very exciting, energetic return to school by Year 3 and 4 students.
The culminating experience this term in Global Perspectives is our Market Day where each class sells the products they have designed and created as part of our Financial Literacy component. This is always a very exciting and rewarding experience for everyone.
The Year 4’s are busy reflecting and revising learning from throughout the year in preparation for Cambridge tests next week. As teachers, our role is to reassure our classes as much as possible not to worry about this experience as it is just that: a positive introduction to Cambridge tests and how to use learning from throughout the year to complete these.
In Writing the Year 4’s will be exploring adding depth to character descriptions and further developing skills on how to monitor how well they are understanding the texts they are reading.
In Reading, the Year 3 classes are very excited to begin their new class novel called “The Iron Man” and are enjoying making connections to other novels they have read this year such as ‘The Wild Robot Escapes’. During this term’s writing mission they will be exploring playscripts and learning how to write their own. In Science, the classes are exploring magnets as part of the forces and energy unit.
Words from the students
Year 4’s shared that they are looking forward to:
- Athletics
- PREP and Market Day
- The Cambridge tests next week and feeling proud when they have completed these
- Art – they are excited about exploring colours that match pieces of music
Year 3’s shared that they are looking forward to:
- Doing plays
- Athletics
- PREP
- Art
- Computer Science (as they love working with the IPADS to create things)
The Year 3 and 4 Teachers
Nau mai hoki mai from Year 5 and 6!
Year 5 and 6 would like to welcome everyone back to school and we are very much looking forward to the final term of the year! Year 5 begin to prepare for their transition into Year 6, while Year 6 prepare for their transition into the Junior College! In light of these upcoming changes, we have been looking back and reflecting on the terms that have passed, acknowledging and celebrating all of our learning and growth thus far. Each class would like to share some highlights from Term 3 as well as what they are most looking forward to in Term 4!
P15 - Reflecting on Term 3, a highlight for P15 was the writing and performing of our speeches. Each student made a tremendous effort to craft a persuasive speech and then deliver it to their peers. Their increased confidence and sense of achievement was evident following the delivery of their speeches and Ms Shaw is very proud of all students for their hard work and diligence. Another highlight for P15 was our Global Perspectives trip to the Zero Waste Zone. It has been wonderful to see the students apply their learning from the trip to their own lives. We have been bringing trash free lunches on Tuesdays and Thursdays and our current record stands at 17 people with trash free lunch on these days! Our goal for Term 4 is for our whole class to have a trash free lunch! This term, we are also looking forward to PrEP, Athletics Day and the Christmas Picnic!
P16 - Term 3 was a fantastic term for P16 filled with lots of wonderful learning opportunities, activities, and chances for the children to showcase their talents and sporting abilities. A highlight for us was our trip to the Zero Waste Zone at the Waitakere Refuse and Recycling Transfer Station. It was such an excellent learning experience for us all and it has been great to see the commitment to helping our environment from the children ever since. We also thoroughly enjoyed listening to the Year 5 Speeches. The children all worked so hard and should be so proud of themselves. Term 4 is a busy one! We are looking forward to all of the learning that we will cover and we are especially excited for the athletics day!
P17 - In term 3, P17 loved writing mystery narratives about occurrences at the Red Cafe. We built up suspension and tension and used a flashback as a technique to engage the reader. P17 are really looking forward to seeing the marble runs that we design and create. Last term we investigated the stability of structures, joins, bends and played with commercial marble run sets to help us be aware of advantages of certain designs. This term we get to build our own runs and reflect on what works well and what doesn’t and make adaptations accordingly. We are really looking forward to seeing how long we can keep the marbles running for.
P19 - Throughout Term 3, the students in P19 continued to display their dedication to learning, striving to do their best in all subjects. They illustrated their flair for creative writing by composing gripping adventure stories, skilfully using techniques such as flashbacks and future gazing. In art, they demonstrated a strong commitment to social justice, producing thought-provoking pieces that aimed to inspire change, on issues like climate change, pollution, and littering. They also enjoyed the NED Show, the Ukulele jam, and the supercluster sporting events. As they get ready for their final term in primary, they are eager to get going with PrEP and to start visiting the tuckshop! Additionally, they can’t wait for Athletics Day and getting back out onto the water with Waterwise. Finally, with a combination of excitement and sadness, the students are contemplating their upcoming graduation and the opportunities that await them in Junior College.
P20 - Term 3 was a whirlwind of preparation for the upcoming Cambridge checkpoint tests, with dedicated hours spent honing our skills in various subjects. It was a period of hard work and determination as we aimed to excel in these important assessments. However, as we enter Term 4, there's a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. The prospect of fun-filled activities, such as sailing at Murray's Bay Beach, ignites our enthusiasm. Moreover, we're eager to explore our entrepreneurial talents by creating small businesses, fostering creativity and innovation. And as we wrap up the school year, thoughts of the Year 6 graduation ceremony linger on the horizon, promising a fitting conclusion to our primary school journey.
P21 - Term 3 was another busy term, with the students in P21 getting involved in many different learning experiences, from winter sports and engaging in progression testing to taking part in a lively ukulele jam, participating in Young Leaders Day, exploring the intricacies of math through circles, and embarking on creative writing missions. As the school year winds down, the students in P21 eagerly anticipate upcoming events such as the much-anticipated Waterwise day, Market Day, Year 6 graduation, transition day to Junior College, prize givings and celebrations. However, with these exciting milestones come a mix of emotions as the students say goodbye to their primary school years and prepare to embark on the next chapter in Junior College.
Senior Year 1 Stardome trip
Thank you Yolanda for putting this awesome video together.
Table Tennis Term 3 Success
Last night, the finals for the North Harbour Year 5-8 Table Tennis Competition were held for the Term 3 League. We had four out of our five teams in the finals for their respective grades which is an awesome achievement for our teams. Pinehurst Blue took out 1st place in the A Division after that overcome a very close semi-final match. Pinehurst White also took out 1st place in their respective grade and Pinehurst Silver were runners up in their respective grade. A huge congratulations to all our teams that played in a final, we look forward to our teams adding to their success in Term 4.
Message from the Principal of College
Kia ora e te whānau
It was a sunny start to Term 4 with College students arriving on Monday looking great in their summer uniforms; there were lots of happy, smiling faces as students reconnected with their friends and readied themselves for the term ahead. Term 4 is a busy term for our students, whether they are on study leave and sitting examinations or continuing their in-school learning. Year 9 are preparing for their Checkpoint assessments during week 2 and Years 7, 8 and 10 have their school examinations in week 4. During this time, it is important for students to remember to look after their health. Getting enough sleep, eating well and getting some exercise each day are all as important in achieving their best as is a rigorous study programme. Students are reminded to talk to their POD teacher, Dean or subject teachers if they are struggling with anything through the assessment period; we are here to help.
Whilst it might have been expected that the campus was quiet over the school break, the College was alive with students attending tutorials in readiness for their Cambridge examinations. Teachers offered 70 tutorials over 5 days of the break. Each tutorial was well attended with students taking the opportunity to ask those last remaining questions and seek advice from their teachers. The Cambridge examinations started last week and will continue over the next six weeks of term. The examination process is now very much a part of our daily routine under the watchful eye of our examinations officer, Ms Perrin.
With our Year 11-13 students currently on study leave, it was a good opportunity to hold an assembly for Years 7-10 on Thursday at which we had a visit from representatives of the Saving Hope Foundation and four of their very cute puppies. The Saving Hope Foundation does a wonderful job rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming abandoned puppies, and our non-uniform day this term will be a fund raiser for the foundation. At the assembly, we were also able to celebrate lots of student success and hear from the sports council about House points. Also, Cher Yang of Year 7 did a wonderful performance of the song “Naughty” from Matilda.
On Wednesday evening, Mr Johansen and Ms Anderson hosted an information evening detailing a 2024 trip to Borneo through Camps International. There is lots of interest and excitement about this trip and I am sure it will turn out to be a fantastic opportunity for students.
There is lots to look forward to this term with prizegivings, the Valedictory Dinner, Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, zone days, House events, Year 12 camp and an art exhibition amongst other things. Students have started the term very well, embracing opportunities and getting on with their learning whilst still taking time to have some fun. I look forward to another successful term ahead and hope you have a lovely weekend with your families.
Ngā mihi nui
Dawn
College News
Table Tennis Term 3 Success
Last night, the finals for the North Harbour Year 5-8 Table Tennis Competition were held for the Term 3 League. We had four out of our five teams in the finals for their respective grades which is an awesome achievement for our teams. Pinehurst Blue took out 1st place in the A Division after that overcome a very close semi-final match. Pinehurst White also took out 1st place in their respective grade and Pinehurst Silver were runners up in their respective grade. A huge congratulations to all our teams that played in a final, we look forward to our teams adding to their success in Term 4.
Year 7-8 Sport
Over the holidays, Noah (8PL) and Zara (8NR) competed at the Diving New Zealand Intermediate Schools National Championships. Individually, Noah placed 1st overall in the Boys Intermediate division and Zara placed 2nd overall in the Girls Intermediate division. Their combined scores meant that they finished in top place for the team division and took home the Diving New Zealand Intermediate Schools National Championships trophy. Pinehurst are now National Champions for the 2nd year running in the Intermediate Division. A huge congratulations to both Noah and Zara, we are very proud of your achievements this season.
Movie Competition
Last term, students in Years 7-8 took part in a movie competition entitled “Be the Change”. This was an initiative partly driven by the Year 7-8 student council who came up with several different categories to be awarded. The videos produced challenged different aspects of both school life and those with a wider social impact. This week we got to recognize the winners in our Year 7-10 Assembly. Well done to everyone who gave the challenge a go!
Students from Years 7-8 enthusiastically participated in the "Be the Change" movie competition last term. This creative initiative was spearheaded by our Year 7-8 student council, who designed a variety of award categories to honour excellence.
The cinematic productions crafted by our students were nothing short of exceptional. They delved into diverse aspects, encompassing both school life and broader societal issues, demonstrating remarkable artistry and insight.
This week, during the Year 7-10 Assembly, we had the privilege of recognizing and applauding the deserving winners of the competition. Heartfelt congratulations to these individuals for their outstanding achievements. Nevertheless, it's important to underscore that every student who embraced this challenge warrants our admiration. Your dedication and creative expression have not gone unnoticed.
Creative Writing Club
If I Could Change the World… by Felicia Shen Year 7
If I could change the world,
There is a lot that I would change.
I would get rid of sexism,
And stop animals from being caged.
But, alas, I can only do one thing,
And I can’t make up my mind.
Though I would change everything if I could
(I know, I’m way too kind).
I want to stop climate change,
So plastic won’t wash up on the shore.
But then I also want to raise money
So clean water is provided for the poor.
I want to put an end to racism,
Make people know their mistakes.
But I also want to end Covid,
So we won’t have headaches.
I want to change the world,
In so many different ways.
We need to change it now,
Before it goes up in flames.
Although I can’t do anything,
I really wish I could.
I’d take up any chance to
Do something for the world.
Junior volleyball gets off to a smashing start!
Our Boys and Girls Volleyball teams participate in the North Harbour Volleyball league run by College Sport. Our teams got off to a great start with our Boys 1 team winning both their games convincingly and the Girls 1 team making it look easy and winning both their games too. Our other teams played well winning some sets and doing Pinehurst proud.
Toi o te Wiki
These stunning pencil and watercolour works have been created by our talented Year 7 students, Arina, Audrey and Jessica. Students have been exploring shading skills and Te Taiao - the natural world.
Well done, Jessica, Arina and Audrey. Your work shows your commitment to achieving personal excellence.
Arina
Jessica
Audrey
Biology and Chemistry Olympiad Results
Towards the end of last term, groups of Year 11 and 12 students entered the Biology and Chemistry Olympiad competitions. Their ultimate goal is to qualify for a place on one of the teams representing New Zealand at the international Olympiad competitions next year. Preparing for these competitions adds a significant volume of work to students who are also in the final stages of preparing for their Cambridge examinations and every student who entered should be commended.
I would like to congratulate the following students for achieving a Bronze award or higher in either the Biology or Chemistry Olympiads (or both!), certificates will be presented in an assembly next term:
Biology
Oren Dabbach, Kevin Guo, Amy Jang, Percy Kuang, Emma Liang, Kelly Liu, Seina Murakami, Christian Patterson, Jennifer Zheng
Chemistry
Jax Jiang, Kevin Guo, Bobby Zhang, Seina Murakami, Eason Dong, Reena Wen, Sunny Chen
Jennifer Zheng, Kelly Liu, Luna Cui, Oren Dabbach, Sophia Zhou
Young Enterprise Team wins regional award!
ECOH is a company that produces and sells a sustainable chess pieces to meet their customer needs. They are using 3D printing and commercially biodegradable PLA materials to custom-make chess sets. They also offer one-off replacement pieces and foldable chess boards.
Kohtaro N, Edward Z and Raymond Z are taking the Chess community by storm. After only 8 months of being in business, these Year 11 boys have already turned a profit! They will be receiving an award for their efforts at a ceremony later this term. Who knows where this business will develop over the next few years!
To see more of their work or make an order, follow them on Instagram @ecoh_team
Community News and Events
Northshore Performance Arts Vocal competition
During the school holidays, Cruz ( Year 6) won the Vocal Solo at The Northshore Performance Arts Vocal competition in his age group.
He also came 2nd in the Sacred Solo and the National Folks Song category. Congratulations Cruz.
Well done Cruz!
Notices and Events
Snowplanet Term 4 Program Options
Open Schools
- Term 4 program will run on Thursday 5:30pm-6:30pm.
- The program will run for 6 weeks starting Thursday 26 October.
- Open schools program is a great starting point for those aged 5 years to 12years. It’s a shorter program so perfect for those families with a full schedule.
- $252.00 includes 1hr access to the snow, 1hr hire of helmet, skis/snowboard and boots and 1hr group lesson.
To book please click on the link: ttps://bookings.snowplanet.co.nz/book/groups-schools-parties/schools/term-programs/523
High Flyers
- Term 4 program will run on Tuesday 6:30pm-8:00pm.
- High Flyers is ideal for children 12 years to 17 years of age to learn and improve with students of a similar age.
- The program will run for 5 weeks starting Tuesday 26 October.
- $305.00 includes 1.5hr access to the snow, 1.5hr hire of helmet, skis/snowboard and boots and 1.5hr group lesson.
To book please click on the link: ttps://bookings.snowplanet.co.nz/book/groups-schools-parties/schools/term-programs/high-flyers/526
RSVP - https://forms.gle/6PVkWWUtCa6tXpxe (Max 150 seats)
The North Harbour Club has gifted over $3 million to date to talented North Harbour rangatahi demonstrating EXCELLENCE in the fields of Arts, Innovation (Science & Technology), Music, Education, Sport and Service to the Community (AIMES).
Cash grants of up to $30,000 are awarded to individuals to support them in their pursuit of excellence. Criteria includes:
- Demonstration of EXCELLENCE in chosen field
- Aged between 13 and 25 years old
- Lives or trains in the North Harbour region
Previous winners include Lydia Ko, Lorde, Eliza McCartney, Michael Brake, Moses McKay, Melanie Bracewell, Hollie Smith, and many more.
Nominations are open now until 5.00pm, Friday 19 January 2024. Although the application period is lengthy, it has been opened earlier this year, so students can apply before their extended exam and holiday period in Term 4.
For more information visit aimesawards.co.nz
Applications can be completed on the website above or via this Google Link – https://forms.gle/F1aqdTgKH6RNor81A
If you have any news or submissions you’d like considered for our newsletter, please contact news@pinehurst.school.nz
