As we approach the end of Term 2, we want to take a moment to acknowledge our ākonga and their whānau over the first half of this year.

It takes a village, and we are incredibly grateful for your continued partnership and support. Before we head into the holidays, we would like to share a few updates and helpful resources with our community.

Last week, we celebrated the launch of our new brand with the Invercargill/Waihōpai community. The event was a wonderful opportunity to share our refreshed logo and cultural narrative, while connecting with our professional network about what this new identity means for our ākonga, both now and into the future.

With Matariki nearly upon us, this special time of year can hold different meanings for different people. Matariki invites us to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to the future.

• Matariki Hunga Nui reminds us of those who have passed and are no longer with us.

• Matariki Ahunga Nui encourages us to celebrate our loved ones and the things that are important to us today.

• Matariki Manako Nui focuses on our hopes, goals, aspirations, and dreams for the year ahead.

The star Pōhutukawa represents those who have passed on and may provide a meaningful opportunity for remembrance within your whānau. For others, gathering together for a mid-winter hākari may be the focus of celebration and connection.

Manawātia a Matariki- make it your celebration.

Check out the photo of the bake sale our student Olivia ran for the therapy dog Black Beauty. Olivia planned, advertised, and ran a successful bake sale at school to raise money for BB, the therapy dog (previously seen on TV!). Along with her small team, she baked and decorated a variety of cakes and other treats, creating eye-catching displays to encourage sales. Through her initiative, organisation, and hard work, she raised $201.80! for the charity, demonstrating strong leadership, commitment to helping others, and excellent planning skills.

Please note that during Week 2 of Term 3, we will be holding our whole-school professional learning and development over two days. Our teachers will be travelling to Christchurch to participate in important learning relating to curriculum updates, health and safety, and school operations. We will send a further reminder at the beginning of next term.

Netsafe – Helping New Zealand Stay Safe Online

With extra downtime over the holidays, many ākonga will naturally spend more time online. Navigating digital spaces can be challenging for parents and caregivers, and we encourage whānau to access the excellent resources available through Netsafe NZ.

Netsafe provides practical, New Zealand-focused advice on managing screen time, setting healthy boundaries, and supporting young people to stay safe online. We particularly recommend their podcasts,

Digital Guardian Podcast, and The Screen From Our Side (youth voice) or their parent guide toolkit.

Ngā mihi,

The SHS Team