Dear Parents,

I begin my monthly newsletter and bring greetings to you on a Saturday (Queen’s Birthday) afternoon, in Wellington, at the annual Independent Schools’ Conference. Rather appropriately, in this anniversary weekend, our Governor General, The Honourable Anand Satyanand, declared at our conference opening that: “good education sits alongside in providing a child with love and care in his/her development” and, further, that “if it is every child’s right to be educated, it is every parent’s responsibility to provide the best education for his/her child.” At St Michael’s, in the implementation of our high quality programmes, it is always our prime objective that each pupil realises his/her potential in the four dimensions, which we pursue: academic, cultural, spiritual and sporting.

Roll:

It was pleasing to welcome at a recent Monday assembly our two newest Year 0 pupils, Sara Gillman and Tayla Harteveld-Heaslip and their parents, and Tomasi Rainima, who has joined our Year Two class from Nandi Airport School. We also bade farewell to Emily Brooklands (Year Two).

ACADEMIC

National Young Leaders’ Day:

Our ten School Prefects represented our School at this annual event, in the Town Hall, on 26 May. The five keynote speakers, who addressed the 1500 pupils on the day, were: Sophie Pascoe, Rob Harley, Justin Jones, Nick Tuitasi and Justin Vaughan. Our School will receive a report about each of these speakers, at a Friday assembly. One of the best pieces of advice came from Nick Tuitasi, one of the youngest policemen to receive a Q.S.M., who told his audience to:

• protect your integrity,
• choose your friends carefully, and,
• guard your reputation

Otago Problem Solving:

Last week the pupils sat Set 2 of this competition. Congratulations to Arwen Edgar and Caitlin Bee (Yr 7) who scored a perfect 5/5.

Leading scorers, after two sets, who have scored eight correct from ten questions are: Jacob Fitzgibbon (Yr 8), Rachel Chon, Arwen Edgar, Priyanka Nathu (all Y7).

Effort Assessments:

Again it was most pleasing to make a comment on each of our pupil’s effort assessments, having observed each student’s personal industry in the categories on their effort sheets. Thank you for working with us in encouraging your child to do his/her best.

Our Effort Assessment top contenders were:

March May

Year 0: Greer Evans Jasmine Winter

Year 1: Dylan Smith Dylan Smith

Year 2: Jessica Yu Jessica Yu

Year 3: Claudia Gale Imogen Antal

Year 4: Wone Jung Wone Jung

Year 5: Chelsea Yu Chelsea Yu

Charlotte-Jane Irwin Hannah Pearson

Year 6: Madeline Kendrew Madeline Kendrew

Year 7: Megan Lord Megan Lord

Jacqui-Lyn Welch

Year 8: Rory Wilson-Cartwright Emma Wong

CULTURAL

School Council:

We congratulate our pupil representatives on the School Council:

Year 2: Patrick Harrison Ruby Lee

Year 3: Geoffrey Kemp Ella Stewart

Year 4: Bennet Anderson Grace Mitchell

Year 5: Angus Jonker Charlotte-Jane Irwin

Year 6: Oscar Carnevale Madeline Kendrew

Year 7: Jed Scott-Stafford Simone Gale

Year 8: Ella-Jane Todd Sophie Mitchell

Special Choir Auditions:

Seven of our pupils represented themselves for these annual tests: Simone Gale, Priyanka Nathu, Jacqui-Lyn Welch, Rebekah Boyce, Laurel Gregory, Emma Pearson and Ella-Jane Todd.

“Jack”

Sharon Howells, our producer, will be announcing the main role selections, for our 2009 production, next week.

Kapahaka:

Our new tutor, Maaka Kahukuranui, has maintained the high standard achieved by our Kapahaka team in past years, and is putting in much practice time by way of preparation for the 27 August Cultural Festival presentation.

SPORTING ROUND-UP

Cross Country:

I congratulate the following pupils, who are our Cross Country champions for 2009.

8 Years: Grace Mitchell Bennet Anderson

9 Years: Hannah Pearson Nicholas Stevens

10 Years: Isabella Holden Davis Gale

11 Years: Simone Gale Joeman Chan

12 Years: Olivia Ong Alex Irvine

The House positions for Cross Country were:

1st Harper 2nd Averill

3rd Mathias 4th Perry

Huff n’ Puff:

I also congratulate the following pupils, who are our Huff n’ Puff champions for 2009.

5 Years: Emily Galbraith Brooklyn Muir

6 Years: Saskia Rankin Fletcher Anderson

7 Years: Talia Bee Jasper Savage

Hockey:

Our five hockey teams continue to produce some excellent skill standards in their Saturday games. Our Intermediate Eights remain unbeaten. Again we praise and thank our parent coaches: Suzanne Tuetue, Kim Kemp, Hitesh Ravji and our co-ordinator, Mr Michael Graveston for his careful organisation.

Netball:

The Future Ferns have certainly been ‘dogged’ by rain and bad weather. Both teams have played one round; hopefully the weather will be kinder to us this week.

The Under 13 team is well coached by Rhianna Graveston, a past pupil. Round 2 of the competition has commenced with the team being regraded into a grade that will offer teams of more equal ability. The Under 12 team continues to go from ‘strength to strength’. They have been moved up two sections. This is a strong team that play together as a unit and are well coached by Margaret Mattison.

Rugby:

Our Sports’ Vice Captain, Alex Irvine, has continued to display some excellent skills for his Saturday rugby team.

Mara'Fun:

Over 40 of our pupils competed in the Queen's Birthday event and I thank Mrs Jo Clarke for ensuring that our School was so well represented at this major local event.

Trampolining:

Shannel Cartwright, our Sports’ Captain, came 2nd in synchronised and 3rd in individual in her most recent Trampolining competitions.

SPIRITUAL

Year Eight Assembly Leaders this month have been: Jesse Rogers, Emma-Kate Gardenbroek, Rory Wilson-Cartwright, Emma Pearson, Kendra Dunstan, Jacob Fitzgibbon, Austin Poit, Samantha Clark, Laurel Gregory, Ella-Jane Todd and Raphaela Walsh.

Bible Readers at recent School masses have been: Georgia Rouch, Skylar Brown, Alex Irvine, Ella-Jane Todd, Sophie Mitchell and Austin Poit.

Bishop’s Visit:

Our new Bishop, Victoria Matthews on Wednesday 6 May. Bishop Victoria celebrated Mass and then visited each class and stated that it was wonderful to see the level of Christian content being taught in the School and remarked how St Michael’s lived the Christian Gospel and the Virtues. She had thoroughly enjoyed being in the School and talking to the children. Bishop Victoria’s visit proved to be one of this year’s highlights and memory moments.

SYNDICATE REPORTS:

Senior Syndicate:

Our senior classes are enjoying a new integrated Health and Social Studies unit about Disasters. Pupils are being asked to critically investigate historic disasters, to determine causes and effects, and to identify how those involved coped with the disaster and organised themselves in response.

Throughout this unit pupils are being introduced to Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligences Theory, and are using their own areas of intelligences to help in their learning.

Both classes are making extensive use of the new computers, with pupils using them to research information, design and draw graphs, create Power Point presentations, and present written work.

Over the last six weeks, the seniors have been attending the Christchurch School of Gymnastics for lessons and assessment in gymnastics. Pupils have been introduced to gymnastic movements and are developing their balance and co-ordination.

A P Kendrew

Middle Syndicate:

‘Food to Go’ is certainly alive and well in the Middle Syndicate. Each class surveyed stakeholders on varying food preferences and decided to make healthy food options that include: pizzas, wraps, and sushi. Each class has followed a technological scaffold to enable them to clearly set the process. This unit will culminate with each class manufacturing to order during Week 8.

The Mara’Fun was run on Sunday 31 May with many children from the Middle Syndicate competing. Well done on getting out there and being active to all the runners. The ISSA Cross Country was run on Wednesday at North Hagley again, with age group teams competing from the Syndicate. Thank you to Mrs Clarke for her overall school and syndicate organisation.

Numeracy is continuing with the domain Multiplication/Division being studied. The children are learning strategies to enable them to calculate answers to problems.

Year 6, visited Science Alive as part of our ‘Electricity’ unit. The session involved making series and parallel circuits and also constructing a night-light.

The Science Fair is only a matter of weeks away and children in Year 6 are busy experimenting and attempting to reach conclusions. Years 4 and 5 will present their technology unit for your perusal on the night.

J C Russell

Junior Syndicate:

Naturally, the highlight of the last month was the Junior Huff’n Puff.

We are very proud of the effort all children put into the practices and the race and the enthusiasm they had for participating. For many children it was a real personal learning experience in setting goals and striving to attain them, and experiencing the joy that comes from realising their goals (just like the Little Red Engine!). Thank you so much parents for your support and encouragement.

Our topic for the rest of the term is “Traditional Stories” as part of our Social Studies focus. Traditional Stories are part of any culture’s heritage and sharing them is a way of enriching our children’s learning.

S G Walker

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Open Day:

Our 15 May Open Day provided us with another opportunity to ‘showcase’ our School. Whilst our visitor numbers were down, our Year 8 guides again demonstrated their excellent: Knowledge about and pride in their School. Please cordially invite any prospective parents to contact us about visiting our School.

P.T.F.A. Annual General Meeting:

At our A.G.M., the following committee members and office holders were voted in:

Chairperson: Hamish Kenworthy

Vice Chairperson: Amo Perelini

Secretary: Moranne McIvor

Treasurer: Christine Scrase

Principal: Kevin Boyce

Staff Representative: Tony Kendrew

Committee: Angela Ellis, Anna Petterson, Bea Pickering, David Irvine, Dianne Boyce, Jenny Addis, Penny Warren, Robin Gardenbroek, Sonia Mountain, Vicky Barkway, Kim Kemp and Warren Kemp.

School Board:

It is with regret that I report to you of, Mrs Patricia Anderson, our Board Chairperson’s six-year tenure on our Board coming to a close. On your behalf, I thank Mrs Anderson for her caring, professional and thorough leadership of our Board and for her untiring commitment and contribution to our four million dollar rebuilding fundraising fund between 2002 and 2005.

Swine Flu:

The focus of the Ministry of Health and the efforts of the Public Health authorities are very much on containing any suspected or actual cases of this influenza. To date, there is no evidence of community spread of the virus here and numbers remain stable. All of the cases had recently returned from travel in affected areas including the original cluster from Rangitoto College.

(Ministry of Health: media release)

Principals’ Tips:

Routines and Security:

Having routines doesn’t mean an end to spontaneity; just that you have general patterns to the way your family does things, for e.g. How you prepare for an outing, get ready for bed, or where and when different games are played.

Babies and pre-schoolers are immensely comforted by the predictability of family routines. Older children appreciate the things that make their family unique and highlight their sense of belonging.

Being flexible is essential at times, but don’t underestimate the importance to your child of having some things ‘the way we always do them’.

(from Mary and Ian Grant’s Hot Tips for Parents)

I hope and trust that our School families had a restful Queen’s Birthday holiday. Thank you for your excellent support for our most recent long distant running events. Your children have achieved a high level of fitness. Well done!

K R Boyce

Principal

Friday 12 June

Save the Children Fund Mufti Day

Saturday 13 June

P.T.F.A.

QUIZ NIGHT

Richmond Working Men’s Club

Tuesday 16 June

Science Fair

School Hall

P.T.F.A. Raffle

Thursday 18 June

School Photographs

formal uniform

Dear Parents,

After a lovely ‘patch’ of weather during the Easter holiday, we have been gently reminded this week that we have now entered the winter months. Some of our pupils have shared their most recent experiences - abroad and local - with us and these ‘hands on’ activities do much to enrich their worldly growth and knowledge.

OPEN DAY

Our annual OPEN occasion is set for Friday 15 May from 11 am to 2 pm. It is an opportunity for prospective parents and pupils to see our School in action and observe extra-curricular pursuits such as choir, orchestra etc. Please draw this invite to the attention of your friends and relations, who may be considering our School for their children.

ACADEMIC

Otago Problem Solving:
Pupils in Years 6 - 8 are participating in this annual Mathematics Problem Solving Competition. There are five sets of problems, with the top achievers qualifying for the Final Challenge. We are still ‘basking in the glory’ of Tae Joon Kim’s success: 3rd in New Zealand for Otago Problem Solving (2008). While no-one achieved 5/5 in Set One, there were a number who scored 4/5. They are: Saskia Klinkenberg, Daniel Alexander, Freddy Wilson (Year 6), Austin Harrison Tyler Smith, Rachel Chon, Priyanka Nathu (Year 7) Jacob Fitzgibbon, Sebastian Gurobi-Hines, Jesse Rogers, Rory Wilson-Cartwright, Emma-Kate Gardenbroek, Sophie Mitchell, Olivia Ong and Raphaela Walsh (Year 8).

NZASE Primary Science Conference:
This conference, held during the School holidays,
was titled ‘Active Learning: Science Talk from the Classroom to the Dinner Table’. We were
represented by Tony Kendrew. The conference discussed current trends in Science education, and methods to raise children’s interest andengagement in Science. This conference centred on developing children’s discussion of Science and identified some key words: ‘Wow!’, ‘Why?’ and ‘Because’. Children love to be amazed by scientific things, and while enjoyment and interest is important, they must be challenged to make sense of what they see, and to offer ideas and reasons. Our scientists of tomorrow start with enquiring attitudes and an enthusiasm for Science today.

Effort Assessments:
Our second Effort Assessments for this year, will be sent home prior to the Queen’s Birthday holiday weekend.

Christchurch East School Technology Centre:
Students have settled well into programmes.
Alternate year Technology subjects for 2009 are Biotechnology, Structures and Mechanisms and Design Technology Wood. All students will receive a component of Food Nutrition and Design Technology Fabric.

CULTURAL

‘Jack’ our 2009 Production:
Our Musical Director, Elspeth Godfrey-Chatterton, and our Producer, Sharon Howells, have chosen a show called ‘Jack’, which was written by the same writers, who wrote ‘Ali Baba’. Ms Howells is conducting auditions on Wednesday 6 May.

Austin Harrison:
We congratulate Austin on his winning a role in ‘What Now’ as an animal care presenter.

Library:
In the holidays a number of staff assisted our Librarian, Jo Clarke to cull 900 books from the Library. Our pupil librarians also met in the holidays. Thanks to all those involved.

SPORTING ROUND-UP

Cross Country:
The annual cross country will be staged at North Hagley Park on Wednesday 12 May. Parents are welcome to witness this important event.

Huff n’ Puff:
Our Junior Syndicate compete in this event on Wednesday 27 May at 1.45 pm

Hockey:
Competition for our teams commenced last Saturday with some great results. The five hockey teams practised during the holidays in readiness for the upcoming season, so all bodes well for another great year.

Netball:
Saturday Netball has started with teams playing on Friday and Saturday. Future Ferns commences this week with a team from Year 4 and one from Year 5. Year 7 (under 12) and Year 8 (under 13) have already started a successful season.

Karate:
Alison Yee won a bronze medal at the recent New Zealand Karate open Championships in the 8 yr old Kumite (fighting).

Rugby and Soccer:
A number of our boys play rugby or soccer for a Club on Saturdays. We continue to recognise our players of the day and special achievements at our Mondays’ Awards’ Assemblies.

Tennis:
We congratulate Megan Lord on her successes:
Bishopdale Tennis Club:
• Intermediate Girls Doubles - Runner Up
• Best Performed Team 2009 - 11 year old girls
• Intermediate Mixed Doubles Winners
• Intermediate Girls Singles Winner
• Best Performed Interclub Girl 2009
Canterbury Junior Tennis
• 11 year old girls Junior Championship Interclub winners
Canterbury Junior Tennis Championships
• 2009 Girls 11 years Doubles Runner Up
Well done Megan.

SPIRITUAL

Year Eight Assembly Leaders this month have been: Jesse Rogers, Kendra Dunstan and Georgia Rouch.

Parish A.G.M:
It was a pleasure to be present and speak to one’s report about our School in 2008 at our St Michael’s Church A.G.M. on Sunday 3 May and again highlight the comments made by E.R.O. after their visit last year: “students learn in a culture that has a strong New Zealand Anglican tradition”, “assemblies and church services are an integral part of the school's Christian values and virtues” and we have a “learning rich environment” where “our pupils love their learning”.

Bishop’s Visit:
We are looking forward to receiving our new Bishop, Victoria Matthews on Wednesday 6 May.

SYNDICATE REPORTS:

Senior Syndicate:
The Senior Syndicate has settled into the new term well. We have a focus on P.E. at the moment with pupils enjoying the first of six sessions of Gymnastics last Thursday, as well as training for the Cross Country.
A P Kendrew

Middle Syndicate:
Welcome back to another exciting term in the Middle Syndicate.
A highlight this term is the Middle Syndicate Technology Unit ‘Food To go’. It is looking at technological practice, in particular the children developing a brief plan, looking at outcomes and evaluating the final outcome. We will be sharing the results on Science Fair night later on this term.
It is certainly shaping up to be another busy term with much to keep our children’s minds alive and exploring for ways to solve problems that will arise along the way.
J C Russell

Junior Syndicate:
Term Two has started enthusiastically and the children look so smart in their winter uniforms. We have welcomed Sophie Stewart, Sara Gillman and Dominic Johnson into Year Zero and Imogen Antal in to Year Three.
The Juniors have begun training for our ‘Huff and Puff’ river run on the afternoon of Wednesday 27 May (please note changed day). Our Science topic for this term is ‘Electrifying Electricity’.
We have enjoyed sessions at Science Alive exploring static and stored electricity, constructing simple circuits and learning about safety with electricity.
We are all conscious of catching our coughing, sneezing and hand-washing before meals and after toilets.
B M Byers

Pandemic:
Dr Julia Peters says “We are taking this very seriously and doing everything necessary to manage this situation. The Ministry of health is managing the response to this issue at a national level.”
“The best things you can do to stop the spread of any type of influenza virus is to:
stay at home and away from others if you are sick
cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue
put used tissues into a rubbish bin
avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth - germs spread that way
be careful to wash hands often with soap and dry them thoroughly - hand hygiene is critical: even when you start to feel better there is still a risk of infecting others, so keep to the 20/20 rule - 20 seconds washing and 20 seconds drying
keep surfaces clean at home, school and work.

(Health Alert: media release)

Again thank you for promoting our School so positively in Christchurch and beyond. It continues to be an honour and a privilege to be your Principal and represent our ‘cause’ wherever I can: together we have a special School to be proud of.



K R Boyce
Principal

Dear Parents,

As we embark upon our last week of Term One and enter the lovely picturesque season of Autumn, it is timely to reflect on the accomplishments and activities, which have been the hallmark of the start to 2009.

Roll
It was pleasing to receive six pupils at their orientation day, by way of preparation for their start with us next term:
Year 0:

Sara Gillman
Tayla Harteveld-Heaslip
Paige Smith
Sophie Stewart
Dominic Johnson
Year 3:

Imogen Antal

Sadly we bid farewell to Taylor-Jane and Lochlan McNicholl, who are leaving us to join their local school Swannanoa.

Staff:
Our Year 1 teacher, Mrs Raylene Tennant, will be absent for the first week of next term for personal reasons. I am pleased to report that Mrs Alison Nystad, who taught our Year 1 class at the beginning of the year, will be the Year 1 teacher for this week.

ACADEMIC

Otago Problem Solving and I.C.A.S. (New South Wales University:
Individual letters will be sent home for each of the categories in these prestigious National and International competitions.

Character References:
It is always a pleasure to write a character reference for any of our Year 8 students, which can be included in their applications for a place at the Secondary School(s) of their choice.

Science Fair:
Our Year 6, 7 and 8 students have brought home a letter which again sets out the conditions and criteria for this year’s Canterbury-Westland Science Fair.

Afghanistan Talk:
Last Monday, our Year 5 - 8 classes were privileged to receive an enlightened and informative power point presentation and talk from Jeremy Packham, who will be part of the N.Z. peacekeeping force in Afghanistan for the next eight months. Jeremy is going to keep in touch with our School, by email, sending information and updated photographs.

Excellence in Teaching:
I am pleased to report that Mr Jon Russell, our Associate Principal and Middle Syndicate Leader, is a candidate for the 2009 Independent Schools’
Excellence in Teaching (Primary School) award.

CULTURAL

Special Choir:
A number of our Year 5 and 6 (Christchurch Music Festival Junior Choir) and Year 7 and 8 (Christchurch Music Festival Senior Choir) pupils have made application for places in these special groups. Our children have received many reminders that these applications close on 3 April (webmaster@musicfestival.school.nz) with Kailash1 being our password.

2009 Production:
Mrs Elspeth Godfrey-Chatterton and Ms Sharon Howells have kindly agreed to offer their expertise as the Musical Director and Producer for our 2009 production. The intention is to again stage our production at the Majestic Theatre, during the second to last week of Term Three

SPORTING ROUND-UP

Cricket:
Our 1st XI came up against Cathedral Grammar in their Milo Cup (Round Two) game and were well beaten on the day.

Tennis:
Our programme of coaching for Years 5 - 8 at Hagley Club and Years 3 - 4 at St Michael’s will conclude this week and recommence during Term Four.
Touch:
Our boys’ team acquitted itself quite well in the Friday afternoon competition at St Andrews. This programme will recommence in Term Four.

Rugby League World Cup

Alex Irvine Sports’ Captain and Shannel Cartwright Deputy Sports’ Captain with Mr Boyce and Te Wairua photographed with the Rugby League World Cup won by the New Zealand Kiwis in 2008

Surf Life Saving Championships:
Congratulations to Simone Gale who was 1st= in Beach Flags and 2nd= in the Beach Sprint at the recent Canbury Surf Life Saving Championships.

Hockey:
Hockey is well underway with teams selected and practices underway. Numbers have grown this year to five teams. This bodes well for the future. Competitions will be starting on 2 May with trials and practices to continue through the holidays. Thank you to all those parents and past pupils who are helping in some way. If it wasn't for the volunteers in our sport not much would be achieved.
Netball:
This year we are entering four teams in the Friday and Saturday competition. An Under 13 team (Year 8), Under 12 (Year 7) and two Future Ferns teams. Play will commence after the holidays for all teams. Again thank you to all who have offered help to coach/manage teams. A number of our Year 7 and 8 players are also becoming 'Whistlers'. They will be learning how to umpire netball on a Friday night. It is pleasing to see players wishing to upskill themselves. See you all on the courts next week.

SPIRITUAL

Year Eight Assembly Leaders this month have been: Blake Clark, Georgia Rouch, Emma Wong, Sophie Mitchell, Alex Irvine, Skylar Brown, Shannel Cartwright, Rory Wilson-Cartwright and Georgia Hetutu.
Bible Readers at our School Masses: Rory Wilson-Cartwright, Emma Pearson, Rebecca Tang, Jesse Rogers, Georgia Hetutu, Olivia Ong and Jacob Fitzgibbon.

Mothering Sunday 22 March:
This again proved to be a colourful, enriching service. In keeping with tradition, all lady members of our congregation received a floral spray.

Servers’ Badges:
Badges were presented to our Altar Servers at a recent School Service:
Rory Wilson-Cartwright
Austin Poit
Jesse Rogers
Raphaela Walsh
Blake Clark
Emma-Kate Gardenbroek
Olivia Ong
Alex Irvine
Jacob Fitzgibbon
Kendra Dunstan
Congratulations to these pupils.

SYNDICATE REPORTS:

Senior Syndicate:
I would like to congratulate and thank the senior pupils for their contribution to a wonderful camp at Wainui in Week 6. The way they worked together, encouraged others, and participated in the challenging activities, was a credit to themselves and to our school. There is plenty of creative talent in our

syndicate if the camp concert is anything to go by. We were fortunate also to have excellent parent help throughout the week doing all manner of tasks. On behalf of Mrs. Horwood, I thank you for giving your time and expertise. There is plenty to look forward to

next term. We will be studying an integrated Social Studies / Health Topic of ‘Disasters’, and we will have six sessions of Gymnastics instruction. In Science, the senior pupils will be involved in designing a Science investigation or Technology solution for the annual Science Fair in Week 8.

Enjoy the holidays and keep safe.
A P Kendrew

Middle Syndicate:
We look over the term and wonder where the time has gone with so much happening and packed into the term.
Year Five recently enjoyed a great day sailing at Lake Rua. From reports, which I can verify personally, several children were seen to be deliberately attempting to capsize their yachts. Thank you to Mrs Godfrey-Chatterton and a great group of parents for making this a day to remember.

With the Year 7 and 8 pupils on camp we sent a smaller team to the ISSA Swimming Sports. The young team performed really well with Nicholas Stevens and Vincent Kenworthy getting into their respective finals.
Numeracy is thriving in the Middle Syndicate with all types of questions being asked, such as, 'how do you know?' where did that come from?' 'show me', 'let me'. These are questions being noted to delve into one's thinking and to identify strategies being used. This term has seen an emphasis on basic facts, which are tested daily. We cannot emphasise enough, the importance of revising basic facts daily.

Term Two will be a great opportunity for parents and children to spend some quality time together. How about an early morning run together. Cross Country and the SBS Mara'fun will be happening next term so let's get out there and give it a real go.
This term, the children have worked hard and always (well nearly always), had a cheerful grin on their faces. What has been clear is the positive attitude our children are bringing to their work. This is brought about through an ongoing partnership between home and school.
We hope you all have a happy and restful holiday .

J C Russell

Junior Syndicate:
As Term One comes to a close we reflect on the busy, productive and rewarding first nine weeks of the School year.
Most junior children have made a smooth transition to their new classes and have settled down to new routines and expectations. There is a happy 'buzz' both in and out of the classrooms as children interact positively with one another.
There have been two major highlights in the last month. We have a greater understanding of Christchurch as the Garden City from celebrating the Ellerslie Flower Show in our own unique way with city walks, creative floral activities and Science experiments.
As we go into Holy Week and the Easter Celebrations we have a wonderful memory of Year Zero's and Year One's depiction of the Easter Story.

Teachers are preparing activities for Term Two and we can already look forward to visits to Science Alive and the 'Huff 'n Puff'.

S G Walker

Year One ‘Admiring the Flowers’ in the City during Ellerslie Flower Show Week

PUBLIC RELATIONS

‘Open Hour’:
We were pleased to receive five families at this inaugural event on Monday 30 March. We intend to hold one of these occasions each term, in addition to our Open Day on Friday 15 May.

Principals’ Tips:
The Summer Jar or the Winter Jar
Little things come up every day that spark a child’s curiosity.

Children are quick to spot new things and masters of ‘Let’s stop everything - I’ve got a great idea’ approach to life.
Here’s a way to capture that spontaneity yet also live within the constraints of our real day to day life. This plan gives the children the immediate feedback and concrete action they need and it gives you the time to plan.
When something comes up - instead of responding with a quick conversation or a dismissal of the idea; act. Suggest that the idea goes into the ‘Summer’ jar or ‘Winter’ jar.
“Hey Mum, look at these neat windows in this book!” “Those are called stained glass windows. they have them in the big church downtown. Would you like to go and see them? Let’s put the idea in the ‘Summer’ jar or the ‘Winter’ jar. “Look what we made at School today. It’s an ABC book. Can we make one?” “This is a neat book. Should we put this idea in the ‘Summer jar or ‘Winter’ jar.

(from Mary and Ian Grant’s Hot Tips for Parents)

Ms Nicky Wagner, our Christchurch Central M.P. after her visit to our Monday Awards’ Assembly, with Olivia Ong, our Head Prefect, Rebecca Tang, our Deputy Head Prefect and our Principal, Mr Kevin Boyce.

On behalf of our hardworking staff team, may I wish our School families a happy and meaningful Easter break.


K R Boyce
Principal

26 February 2008


Dear Parents,

As we conclude the fourth week of this term, we also need to appreciate that we are almost at the halfway checkpoint of this nine week term.
During the course of this first month, much has happened and I commend all members of our community for the positive start to our 2009 School year.

Roll:
We have begun our new year with 185 on our roll, which is two pupils above the 2008 commencement total. We have welcomed the following new pupils:

Year 0:

Byron Antal, Holly-Paris Beard, Sophie Bennett, Benjamin Bruerton, Lara Chiswell, Greer Evans, Itsuki Kashima, Alexander Stolzenberger, Jasmine Winter.

Year 3: Paige Stolzenberger

Year 4: Grace Budge, Ethan Cotterell, James Dwyer, Alisa Ikenaga, Grace Mitchell

Year 5: Hannah Pearson

Year 6: Anna Ikenaga

Year 7: Ben Mitchell

Staff:
Our two new academic staff members: Mrs Brigit Craig (Year 2) and Mrs Raylene Tennant (Year 1) have had a smooth start with their respective classes. I thank our School parents for their warm welcome of these two new staff members.

Parent-Teacher Interviews and Meetings:
Thank you for your attendance at these important meetings in such large numbers. It is a time to establish a rapport with your daughter’s/ son’s class teacher and to be informed about the programme that your child/children will pursue.
Our interviews’ appointment times have also received a very good response. This is a time for you to discuss your daughter’s/son’s individual abilities and talents and to set or share in her/his goals for 2009.

Leadership Appointments:
House Leaders: In keeping with our School’s tradition, our pupils have selected their two House Leaders for 2009. I congratulate the following who were ‘voted in’ at the first meeting of our four School Houses:
Averill: Rebekah Boyce Shannel Cartwright
Harper: Laurel Gregory Sophie Mitchell
Mathias: Ella-Jane Todd Georgia Rouch
Perry: Kendra Dunstan Samantha Clark

Librarians:
Our new teacher librarian, Mrs Jo Clarke, called for applications for the eight librarian positions and, accordingly, received a healthy response. The following are wished ‘well’ in their new roles:

Head Librarian: Emma-Kate Gardenbroek
Deputy Head Librarian: Skylar Brown
Librarians: Emma Pearson, Sophie Mitchell, Jacob Fitzgibbon, Laurel Gregory, Rory Wilson-Cartwright, Kendra Dunstan, Raphaela Walsh, Emma Wong

CULTURAL

Chess:
It is pleasing to continue this important club, which meets at lunchtimes on Mondays. Again, I thank Mr Hamish Kenworthy for his coaching and organisation of this group.

Choirs:
Our Music Specialist, Mr Murray Lennox, has started his auditioning for our Junior Choir (Years 4 and 5) and our Chapel/Senior Choir (Years 6,7 and 8).

Kapahaka:
We have pursued a replacement for our Kapahaka tutor, Mrs Suzanne Pitama and, over the last two weeks, we have invited possible replacement tutors to attend our Wednesday practices. We will announce our permanent tutor in due course. I thank Ms Sarah Mahoney for her commitment to our Kapahaka group, as our Tutor Teacher.

After School Activities:
Our pupils pursue a myriad of activities after our classes have concluded for the day. I thank, on your behalf, those parents and staff, who offer their time to nurture these various skills and talents with our pupils.
Writers’ Group: Mrs L Horwood
Extension Mathematics: Mr T Kendrew
Science Badges: Mr J Russell
Visual Art: Mrs E Godfrey-Chatterton
German: Ms N Lauenstein/Dr A Werno
Spanish: Miss B Byers
Explorers’ Club (Terms 2 & 3) Mrs S Walker

SPORTING ROUND-UP

Cricket:
Our 1st X1 and Colts’ squads are being well coached by Mr Jon Russell and Mr Tony Kendrew and Mr Hamish Kenworthy. Our 1st XI has a game in the Milo Cup schedule, Round Two. We won our Round One game with Christchurch East by default and have been informed that our opponent, for the Round Two game, is Cathedral Grammar.

Tennis:
We have recommenced our Thursday coaching (Years 5 - 8) and practice sessions at the Hagley Tennis Courts, with about 30 students in this programme.
I thank Mrs Ray Tennant for the coaching that she has begun with our Year 3 and 4 pupils on Thursday afternoons.

Touch:
We have maintained an entry in the Friday Touch competition at St Andrews. Our team is being: coached by Edward van der Pol, a Year 12 at Christchurch Boys’ High School and a St Michael’s old boy and managed, by Mr Tony Kendrew.

Annual Swimming Sports:
Our 2009 Sports again ‘ran like clockwork’ and I pay tribute to the organisation and planning skills of our Sports’ Co-ordinator, Mr Jon Russell. I herald our 2009 Champions:

8 years: Chelsea Yu Roman Kenworthy
9 years: Karenia Anderson Nicholas Stevens
10 years: Madeline Kendrew Millie Clifton
Caitlin Bee Jesse Simkin
11 years: Megan Lord James Nicholls
12 years: Olivia Ong Alex Irvine

For the first time in 23 years, we had a ‘tie’ in our House points:
Averill: 106
Mathias: 106
Harper: 98
Perry: 78

SPIRITUAL

Year Eight Assembly Leaders this month have been: Kendra Dunstan, Austin Poit, Sebastian Gurobi-Hines, Olivia Ong, Rebecca Tang, Jesse Rogers, Rebekah Boyce, Laurel Gregory, Ella-Jane Todd.

Bible Reader at our School Mass: Rebecca Tang.

Mothering Sunday 22 March:
This is one of our three compulsory services for the year and is a wonderful occasion, when we acknowledge the special ladies in our lives.

SYNDICATE REPORTS:

Senior Syndicate:
We have enjoyed a settled beginning to the new school year in the Senior Syndicate. The Year Seven pupils are proving to be enthusiastic Assembly and Playground monitors, while the Year Eight class has taken on their responsibilities and duties wholeheartedly.
Our Syndicate Touch Rugby team is now underway after a couple of rained out Friday afternoons, and there were many pleasing results from Senior pupils at the Swimming Sports last week.
The major focus for our Syndicate is next week's
Camp at Wainui. Pupils will experience a number of challenging outdoor activities while learning to live together in a large group for a week, and making sure the sanity of their teachers remains intact! We appreciate the assistance of a number of parents who are spending the week with us. Thank you all.
With our P AT assessment behind us, we look forward to meeting many parents during interviews and discussing your children's progress and learning goals.

A P Kendrew

Middle Syndicate:
It has certainly been a hectic and positive start to the beginning of another school year.
EOTC played a large part in the second week of the term. Year 6 spent a wonderful week at Living Springs involving yachting and challenge by choice activities. Year 5 joined us later in the week, unfortunately their yachting was postponed because of the weather but has been rescheduled for later in the term.
Our swimming sports have just concluded with some excellent aquatic skills in evidence. Congratulations to Chelsea Yu, Roman Kenworthy, Karenia Anderson, Nicholas Stevens, Madeline Kendrew and Jesse Simkin who were our age group champions. A team will be selected for the ISSA swimming sports and a large number of competitors will feature from the Middle Syndicate.
Syndicate wide numeracy starts next week. Each child has been assessed and groupings arranged. It was pleasing to see that testing at the end of 2008 had seen significant shifts in children’s achievements, so this bodes well for 2009.

J C Russell

Junior Syndicate:
Our year began by welcoming new people to our Syndicate, both pupils and staff. Mrs Ray Tennant has joined us in Year 1 and Mrs Brigit Craig in Year 2 and it is good to have them with us.
Swimming at Aquagym saw big improvements in both the children's confidence and techniques. Thank you to those parents and grandparents who came and helped with changing.
Our Topics this term include Celebrating Me,
Our City and a Health perspective on how we are growing and changing.
We intend to have our own version of “Ellerslie” by having a display of floral based sand saucers. A walk through the gardens will show us how exciting a time this is.
It was good to talk with so many parents at the parent meetings and get to know the children’s personal side which gives us a more rounded view of the children their personalities.

B M Byers

Drop Off Zone:
We would ask again that our School parents park in or near the Oxford Terrace Drop Off Zone when they bring their child/children to and from
School. We nearly experienced an awful accident this week in our Durham Street visitors carpark, with a backing vehicle just missing a small child.
Please do not use this car parking area as a Drop off zone.

School Fee Automatic Payments:
If you have not already done so, could you please ensure that you have set up the new amounts for 2009: Our School Bank is Westpac Trust Bank Canterbury Centre and our Account Number is:

03 1593-0012094-00
1 Child 2 Children 3 Children
Weekly $124.70 $248.25 $371.25
Fortnightly $249.25 $496.50 $742.50
Monthly $540.00 $1,075.80 $1,608.75

Emergency Clothing:
Any donations of good clean uniform and underwear, particularly in the smaller sizes, would be greatly appreciated for use in our School sick bay when pupils are sick or have accidents. Thank you.

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Year 8’s 2008:
On Friday 20 February, it was pleasing to receive 20 out of 22 (90%) Year 8 leavers for a lovely pizza tea, which was organised by our P.T.F.A. committee members: the ‘buzz from past parents and pupils was wonderful to hear.

Principals’ Tips:

What Makes Kids Angry?

Often children are angry because they can’t have what they want: a treat, a cuddle, or something they wanted to do. Other times, it can be because the parents seem too distant and they feel abandoned. Of course, affection makes a child feel loved, but so, too, do guidelines, rules and limits. Remind your child that he/she is loved and cared and that he/she matters to you.

(from Mary and Ian Grant’s Hot Tips for Parents)

Thank you for your loyalty and continued support of all that we do, and remind your children ‘The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.’ (Eleanor Roosevelt).
All the best.

Yours sincerely


K R Boyce
Principal

Dear Parents, 

As the ‘dust settles’ on a purposeful and rewarding year, it was appropriate again to use the grand occasion of our Prizegiving to: award, honour and thank various members of our community.

Chess Badges:  

We congratulated the following pupils on the passing of their Chess Badges.

  

Pawn Passes: Harry Grossi

Bennet Anderson

George Addis

Thomas Pearson

Thomas Bennett

Knight Passes: Henry Rouch

Roman Kenworthy

Once again we thank Mr Hamish Kenworthy for his training and nurturing of our Chess pupils.

Our Leaders for 2009 will be: 

Assembly Monitors: Samantha Clark Raphaela Walsh

Emma Wong Austin Poit

Jesse Rogers

Flag Monitor: Jesse Rogers

Sports:

Captain of Cricket: Rory Wilson-Cartwright

Captain of Chess: Olivia Ong

Captain of Hockey: Sebastian Gurobi-Hines

Captain of Netball: Kendra Dunstan

Captain of Rugby: Alex Irvine

Captain of Soccer: Blake Clark

Captain of Tennis: Olivia Ong

Captain of Touch: Blake Clark

Sports' Captain: Shannel Cartwright

Deputy Sports' Captain:Alex Irvine

Head Girl Chorister: Laurel Gregory

Head Boy Chorister: Sebastian Gurobi-Hines

Orchestra Leader: Rebecca Tang

Head Librarian: Emma-Kate Gardenbroek

Deputy Head Librarian:Skylar Brown

Kapahaka Leader: Georgia Hetutu

Prefects: Rebekah Boyce

Sophie Mitchell

Emma Pearson

Georgia Rouch

Ella-Jane Todd

Blake Clark

Jacob Fitzgibbon

Rory Wilson-Cartwright

Deputy Head Prefect: Rebecca Tang

Head Prefect for 2008: Olivia Ong

Congratulations to these pupils.

Again: ‘May the humility of the shepherds, the perseverance of the Wise Mean, the joy of the angels, and the peace of the Christ-child be God’s gifts to you this Christmas time, and always.’

All the best.

 

Kevin Boyce

Principal

Dear Parents,

As we begin our penultimate week, it is timely to bring you up to date with our most recent School events and happenings, as we put a closure on this 2008 School year.

Roll:

It is with pleasure that I report the short stay of Alana Hamilton in our Year Five class, owing to a positive response by her Dad to his bone marrow treatment.  The Hamiltons made a most generous donation to our Library funding and, in her letter to us, Mrs Hamilton stated:

Dear Mr Boyce and Staff

Once again many thanks for allowing Alana to attend your wonderful School, albeit for a shortened time!  Alana enjoyed her experience at another school.  She had a wonderful teacher and friendly students who all made Alana feel very welcomed.

Jocelyn Hamilton

Save the Children Function with Royalty:

Our Head Prefect, Courtney Clyne and Deputy head Prefect, Florence Fournier, accompanied me to the Cashmere Club, on 18 November to meet the Princess Royal Princess Anne, who has been President of the U.K. Save the Children Fund since 1970.  I quote from our two leaders’ reports to a recent Monday Awards’ Assembly:

When Princess Anne spoke to all of us she said how fantastic and how amazing the work that Save the Children is doing and how it is really making a difference in our world today.

She thanked a few select members for their input in Save the Children Fund over the years and said thank you for their great hospitality.  She then exited the building.

Florence and I really enjoyed the privilege and experience of meeting Princess Anne.  

We will remember it always.  Thank you St Michael’s for this great opportunity. 

Courtney Clyne

On Tuesday Courtney and I accompanied Mr Boyce to the Cashmere Club where we would meet Princess Anne.  The event was being held 

by Save The Children, which Princess Anne is the Patron of and has been for many years.  

There was a reasonably large amount of people there. 

There were a few students from other schools but the rest ranged between middle aged and elderly people.  We were given name tags for identification, and we spent about half an hour waiting in the crowded foyer.  We then got moved to the morning tea room and were pleasantly surprised to see long tables supplied with food and drink.  Courtney and I had many conversations with elderly women about school and Save The Children Fund.  When Princess Anne arrived we all clustered at the back of the room and went into silence.  She gradually made her way around the people, greeting and making small conversation.  When she got to where we were standing she asked us our school, and how we supported Save The Children Fund. I just stood there staring at her so thankfully Mr Boyce answered her.  She moved on and I relaxed again.  Later, when Princess Anne had finished her round, Mr Boyce introduced us to the Princess' Lady In Waiting.  She has been travelling around with the Princess for three years, and left the army as Captain.  She talked to Courtney and me about school, Save The Children Fund and her job.  Then it was time for Princess Anne's speech.

Florence Fournier

Courtney and Florence at the Save the Children Fund function at the Cashmere Club in the company of Princess Anne

ACADEMIC 

Science Competition at Christ’s College:

Four of our pupils represented the School in the Christ's College Year 7 Science Competition.  They were Georgia Rouch, Raphaela Walsh, Emma Pearson, and Sebastian Gurobi-Hines.  The competition was held at Christ's College and was limited to nine schools.  There were three sections - Chemistry, Biology, and Physics.  Pupils were to work together to solve scientific problems within 30 minutes.  Our team competed well, with a strong showing in Chemistry, but was not placed in the top three overall.                              

A P Kendrew

Portfolios:

These important folders will be sent him this Friday: 5 December.  Please ensure that you peruse these documents with your son/daughter and return them to School signed next week.  Thank you.

Otago Problem Solving 

As mentioned in our last newsletter, the following pupils were most successful in the five set Problem Solving Challenge in 2008:

Blake Morgan Year 8 22/25

Callum Salt Year 8 21/25

Florence Fournier Year 8 20/25

Tae-Joon Kim Year 7 20/25

These four pupils competed against other top candidates across New Zealand in the Final Challenge, a very difficult test indeed. Results will be published in next week’s newsletter.

Prizegiving:

This important event takes place on Thursday 11 December at 7 pm.

CULTURAL

World Vision:

The following pupils received Cambodian bands for raising over $80.00 of sponsorship:

Callum Salt, Samantha Knegt, Emma Pearson, Austin Poit, Laurel Gregory, Anastasia Loeffen, Charlotte-Jane Irwin.

Pupils and staff received a Cambodian band and a badge for raising over $100.00 of sponsorship; they were: Lucas Perelini, Florence Fournier, Austin Harrison, Shaun Graveston, Taylor-Jane McNicholl, Louis Holden, Priyanka Nathu, and Mrs Horwood.

Connor Lindsay deserves special recognition for raising over $300.00 of sponsorship.  He receives a World Vision T Shirt, cap, badge and Cambodian band.  Well done Connor.

Music Recital:

Our annual recital, where our itinerant Music teachers prepare our instrumental learners to present an item, took place on Wednesday 19 November.  There was a good standard of performance.  Our year 4 8 pupils, who performed, were:

Violin Ensemble:  Kookaburra 

Rebecca Tang, Sebastian Gurobi-Hines, Simone Gale, Anna Parry, Henry Rouch, Freddy Wilson, Meg Byers, Megan Lord

Guitar Ensemble: 16th Century Dance: 'Bransle De Champagne' - (Claude Gervaise)  

Connor Lindsay, Oscar Carnevale, Thomas Bennett, Cameron Lord

Piano:  

Stargazing  Cara Keohane 

The Magic Man George Warren 

Rockin' Roberta Chelsea Yu  

Toymaker's Dance Vincent Kenworthy 

Drifting Clouds Karenia Anderson 

Freight Train Tyrelle Tonihi-Pitama 

Guitar Ensemble: ‘Spring' from 'The Four Seasons' - (Antonio Vivaldi)  Rebekah Boyce, Logan McConnel, Emma Pearson, Joshua Duddy, Ella-Jane Todd

Piano:

The Lost Cat Isabella Holden 

Caravan Madeline Kendrew 

The Can-Can Yu Jin Ji

Malaguena Saskia Klinkenberg 

18th Century Dance Millie Clifton 

Beauty and the Beast Phoebe Brosnan

Chimes Arwen Edgar

Sunshine Rag Jacqui-Lyn Welch 

Prelude in F (Bach) Joy Kang

Guitar Ensemble: Those Magnificent Men in their Flying machines - (Ron Goodwin)

Ashleigh Macdonald, Lucas Perelini, Georgia Rouch, Rory Wilson-Cartwright

Piano:

Ol' Rockin Chair Blues Jesse Rogers 

Samba in the Sixth Thomas Pearson 

Indians Skylar Brown 

Mysterious Story Emma-Kate Gardenbroek  

Minuet in G Thomasina Loeffen 

Tarantella Te Teira Pitama

Garage Sale Olivia Ong

Bonny Bobbie Bluetoe Rebecca Tang 

Our thanks go to all the Music Teachers involved:

Juliet Johnston, Michael Crowther, Laurie Searle and Ian Bolton.

Spellathon:

I am pleased to report that $3,197.10 was raised in the recent Spellathon.  I thank the staff for ensuring the smooth running of this event.

SPORTING  ROUND-UP

Independent Schools’ Athletics Sports:

We had the following successes at the ISSA annual championships.

Karenia Anderson 1st 9 years High Jump

3rd 9 years 50 m

3rd 9 years 80 m

Simone Gale 2nd 11 years Long Jump

2nd 11 years 60 m

3rd 11 years 100 m

Aaron Smith 2nd 13 years Long Jump

2nd 13 years 60 m

3rd 13 years 100 m

Anastasia Loeffen 1st 10 years 1000m

Jed Scott-Stafford 3rd 10 years 50 m

3rd 10 years 80m

Aaron Li 3rd 9 years 80 m

Ashton Finlayson 3rd 11 years 100m

Canterbury Primary Schools’ Athletics Sports:

2008 would see the largest number of children to compete at the recent CPSSA Athletics at QEII.  Anastasia Loeffen ran in the 1000 metres, placing 9th in a large field.  Aaron Smith jumped a personal best in the Long Jump and was 3rd in the 13 years 60 metre final.  Simone Gale jumped a personal best in the 11 years Long Jump to place 2nd and she was 3rd in the 11 years 100 metres.  Jed Scott-Stafford and Aaron Li ran well in the heats of the 50 metres.  Karenia Anderson competed in the High Jump and ran well in the heat of the 50 metres.  Thank you to Monique Gale for her encouragement and technical advice to our athletes on the day.

Tennis:

We have continued our eight year association with the Hagley (United) Tennis Club and again over 30 of our years 5 - 8 pupils have received the coaching services of Mark Belcher (Professional) and his team.  Mrs Teresa Price is suitably thanked for her coaching of our Years 2 - 4 tennis players from 3 - 4 pm on Thursdays.

SPIRITUAL

Nativity:

Our Junior Staff have put much practice into this play, which will feature next Tuesday at 2 pm in St Michael’s Church.

‘Praise Be’

We have received a copy of the DVD recording of our Choir.  Parents may purchase copies from 

Television New Zealand at $29.00 each.  Order forms are available at the School Office.  

Year Eight Assembly Leaders this month have been: Drew Mathieson, Taylor Alexander, Olivia Martin-Savage, Thomas Pearson, Ashleigh Macdonald, Annabelle Priddy, Oliver Dunne and Olivia Parker.

Bible Readers at recent School masses have been:

Victoria Allan, Beatrix Loeffen, Pippa Nicholls, Drew Mathieson, Callum Salt and Te Teira Pitama.

SYNDICATE REPORTS:

Senior Syndicate:

As usual in our Syndicate, the last few weeks have been very busy.  On Wednesday, we enjoyed an outing with a difference.  Many would not have tried windsurfing and surfing before, so it was with a little trepidation we took to the waters of the Estuary and New Brighton.  However, the weather was brilliant, the children were amazing, and a good day was had by all.  Another first for our Syndicate was the Drama sessions run by Helen Moran.  Skills developed in these sessions included characterisation, body movement and facial features, and showing a scene through a freeze frame, or snapshot.

At the time of our last newsletter, the results of our class elections were not known.  The Year 7 Election was won by the Pacific 3 Party, with Georgia Rouch as winning candidate.  The Year 8 Election was won by Freedom Gold, with Te Teira Pitama as winning candidate.  These elections were an excellent way for the classes to learn about the process of our General Election.

Staff are already busy planning next year, and in particular, our School Camp at Wainui, but we will take some time away to relax, and we hope that during this Christmas / New Year Season, you will also find time to slow down, reflect, and enjoy!  Have a safe and happy Christmas.

A P Kendrew

Middle Syndicate:

This term has certainly raced along for those children in the Middle Syndicate.  Looking back, much has been accomplished.  At the time of writing the children are looking forward to our Big Day Out at Jellie Park and Pirates Cove Mini Golf: just reward for a years hard work.

We have completed our second year of sustained numeracy and in reflection we are pleased with the shifts in pupil achievement.  Our own professional development will continue in 2009.

Simone Gale, Aaron Li, Jed Scott-Stafford, Karenia Anderson and Anastasia Loeffen represented our School and the Middle Syndicate at the recent CPSSA Athletics.  They all  performed really well with Simone placing 2nd in the 11 Year Girls Long Jump and 3rd in the 100 metres.

EOTC will feature next year with Years Five and Six annual camp at Living Springs.  Planning for this event is currently underway and the New Year will see a Camp meeting in Week One of next term to explain the rationale for our EOTC experience and programme.

On behalf of Julie Lee, Elspeth Godfrey-Chatterton and myself I would like to wish you a blessed Christmas and a well earned restful holiday.  We look forward to seeing you all again in 2009.

J C Russell

Junior Syndicate:

Swimming at Aquagym was enjoyed once again by the junior children. The programme kept the children busy and focused. It was pleasing for teachers to note the increased confidence that children showed in the water. Thank you to all those parents who assisted during the swimming week. 

On Thursday December 4th the Junior Syndicate went  to the Botanical Gardens for their end of year outing. Thank you to the parents who were able to join us at this time.

The children are currently practising for the Junior Christmas Celebration on Dec 9th. We hope that you will also be able to join us for this event. 

As this will be the last newsletter for the year, on behalf of the junior teachers, I would like to thank you all for your support this year and to extend to you and your families, best wishes for a safe and enjoyable holiday.

T V Price

Principals’ Tips:

‘My Story’ by K Taylor and A Leggat (Parents Inc)  

Your child's story is unique.  As they grow their personal story unfolds into a wonderful journey we call life.  ‘My Story’ is the best way to start recording your child's own story by presenting their photos, cards, certificates, special memories and treasures in one album.  For the child it reminds them that they are special, loved and only one of a kind.  It reminds them they are part of a family that loves them.  It reveals a history of their progress and development and connects them to knowing they are loved and enjoyed by the people who matter most. 

‘My Story’ is a great gift for a new family starting out or a wonderful organiser for families who want to collate their child's journey in one special place. 

More information about My Story can be found on the Parents Inc website: www.Parentslnc.org.nz.

The staff and I look forward to sharing our end of year events with you.

All the best.

Kevin Boyce

Principal

Dear Parents,

I begin our monthly newsletter to you, one week ‘out’ from the 8 November date when our country’s voters will make a claim to a government, which will lead us for the next three years.  Recently, I have attended a number of electioneering campaign meetings to ascertain and glean the political party(ies) which will best meet the needs and operation of ‘our’ Independent school.  I would encourage you to do likewise.

Grandparents’ Morning: Friday 24 October:  

It was again a pleasure and a privilege to receive about 120 of our honoured guests: our pupils’ grandparents.  Amongst the guests was Mrs Button, the granddaughter of A. Walter Averill, a past: Bishop of Christchurch and Vicar at St Michael’s, who gave his name to one of our four School Houses.  Mrs Button, who is Taylor Keys’ (Year 5) grandmother, brought a family Bible, which had an inscription recognising A. Walter Averill’s appointment as the Bishop of Waiapu.  The age range, for our 2008 grandparents, was: late 40’s to 94.  Our 94 year old, Mr Ian  Mathieson, Drew Mathieson’s (Year 8) grandfather, shared some of his lifelong pearls of wisdom with our present day pupils.  Mr Mathieson was presented with a book, on St Michael’s history, to mark the occasion.

Library:

Our heartfelt and sincere thanks are extended to those grandparents, who bought books for our Library:  $2,300 worth sold on the day.

Roll:

We welcome Alana Hamilton, who has joined our Year Five class from Oamaru, whilst her father receives treatment at Christchurch Hospital.  Please remember Mr Hamilton in your prayers and also Mr Harold Petrie, grandfather of Laura Brown (Year 4) and, Mr Heine Jonker, father of Angus (Year 4) and Kevin (Year 6); both gentlemen have recently had large operations.  We pray for a speedy recovery for all of these members of our St Michael’s School community.

ACADEMIC 

Assessment Week:

Our Year Six, Seven and Eight classes complete their annual assessments, during Week Four: 3 - 7 November.  We wish these students ‘well’ as they prepare and pursue this important part of our learning and teaching process.

Effort Assessment: High Flyers:

The following pupils, who recorded the highest aggregates in our final Effort Assessments for 2008, are suitably congratulated:

Year 0: Jacky Chen

Year 1: Daniel Jung

Year 2: Anoushka Chiswell

Year 3: Harry Kendrew

Year 4: Chelsea Yu

             Charlotte-Jane Irwin

             Jane Kim

Year 5: Madeline Kendrew

Year 6: Jacqui-Lyn Welch

Year 7: Rebecca Tang

Year 8: Courtney Clyne (59.5/60!)

Otago Problem Solving 

Final results have arrived and the following pupils deserve special mention.  The scores are out of 25.

Certificates of Merit go to:

Georgia Rouch      Year 7    15

Pippa Nicholls      Year 8   13

Samantha Knegt    Year 8   13

Lucas Perelini        Year 8   14

Thomas Pearson    Year 8   14

Kempton Haitana   Year 8   16

Te Teira Pitama      Year 8    16

Certificates of Excellence go to:

Jacob Fitzgibbon    Year 7   17

Tae Joon Kim        Year 7   20

Aaron Smith          Year 8 19

Courtney Clyne      Year 8 19

Florence Fournier Year 8 20

Callum Salt            Year 8 21

Blake Morgan        Year 8   22

Tae Joon Kim, Florence Fournier, Callum Salt, and Blake Morgan have been selected to take the Final Challenge, where top pupils win prizes.

Science: Year 7 at Christ’s College:

We have a Year 7 team entered in the 2008 Intermediate Schools' Science Competition at Christ's College on Wednesday 19th November. The competition consists of three practical activities - in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics/Technology.

Representing St Michael's will be Sebastian Gurobi-Hines, Raphaela Walsh, Emma Pearson, and Georgia Rouch.

Learnz School:

We are now registered for virtual educational experiences, which ensures that our pupils can receive a learning experience from the confines of an ICT link up e.g.  One of our classes has been invited to travel under the Antarctic Icefield and the cameras and return footage will ensure that they receive the experience first hand.

CULTURAL

Christchurch Music Festival:

Our Senior Choir contributed to the Mass and Special Choir performances at the Town Hall, on the evening of Friday, 17 October.  At the close of this evening’s concert, Charles Levings, one of the Musical Directors, confirmed that we had witnessed one of the most outstanding standards of performance in all of his years with the festival. This had been doubly endorsed with standing ovations by the audience on the night. 

Choir at St Mary’s:

As indicated in a previous newsletter, our choir will record their input, for the Christmas Day special of “Praise Be”, on Wednesday 12 November in St Mary’s Anglican Church (Merivale).  A notice will come home regarding transport arrangements.

Interhouse Chess:

We thank Mr Hamish Kenworthy for his control and organisation of our Chess club’s activities.

SPORTING  ROUND-UP

Athletics Sports:

Owing to inclement weather, our 2008 annual sports was held on our postponement date: Friday 31 October, at Christ’s College on the Upper Field.  A near perfect day resulted in: excellent attendance by our parents, optimum participation by all of our pupils, perfect weather conditions and, sublime performances of our parents and staff in their respective races!

Please join with me in commending our 2008 champions:

Junior Syndicate:

5 year old girls’ champion: Saskia Rankin

5 year old boys’ champion: Fletcher Anderson

6 year old girls’ champion: Claudia Gale

6 year old boys’ champion: Lochlan McNicholl

7 year old girls’ champion: Anoushka Chiswell

7 year old boys’ champion: Bennet Anderson

8 year old girls’ champion: Maleka Smith

8 year old boys’ champion: Liam Scrase

Middle Syndicate:

8 year old girls’ champion: Meg Byers

8 year old boys’ champion: Harry Grossi

                                           Do Hyung Lee

9 year old girls’ champion: Karenia Anderson

9 year old boys’ champion: Aaron Li

10 year old girls’ champion: Madeline Kendrew

                                           Anastasia Loeffen

10 year old boys’ champion: Jed Scott-Stafford

11 year old girls’ champion: Simone Gale

11 year old boys’ champion: Ashton Finlayson

Senior Syndicate:

12 year old girls’ champion: Florence Fournier

12 year old boys’ champion: Oliver Dunne

13 year old girls’ champion: Samantha Knegt

13 year old boys’ champion: Aaron Smith

Touch:

Our touch team has had a sound start to the season.  We have been lucky to have had the expertise of Mr Te Wairau, (a student teacher in Year Six), who is also the Junior Development Officer for Canterbury Rugby league.  He has been able to upskill the boys in a variety of tactics and strategies.  Unfortunately Lucas Perelini suffered an injury to his knee; we hope you recover quickly Lucas.  Thank you also to Mrs Clark, who takes the boys for a fitness run on Tuesdays.

J.C. Russell 

Pupil Successes:

Pippa Nicholls is congratulated on her selection in the Junior Nationals’ Swimming standards for her 400m freestyle.

Shannel Cartwright: Fifth in Synchro and tenth in Individual at the Nationals’ Trampolining in Hamilton.

Megan Lord: Bishopdale Tennis Club Age Group Champion for the 2008 season.

Olivia Mattison: recent second placing in North Canterbury horse riding event.

Jordan McIvor: Well done on your Highland Dancing awards.

Annabelle Priddy: Annabelle will sing in the “Christmas in the Park” concert again this year.

Tyler Smith: Second place in the local “Lord of the Rings” battle competition.

SPIRITUAL

Year Eight Assembly Leaders this month have been: Thomasina Loeffen, Victoria Allan, Aaron Smith, Kempton Haitana, Courtney Clyne, Pippa Nicholls.

Bible Readers at recent School masses have been:

Thomas Pearson, Annabelle Priddy and Florence Fournier.

SYNDICATE REPORTS:

Senior Syndicate:

The Senior pupils have been hard at work revising for examinations in English, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science, and we look forward to that effort resulting in individual success. There is certainly an art to examination revision, as most of us can appreciate. 

As a syndicate we have enjoyed our Decision Makers unit - each Senior class is running their own election, complete with Parties, Journalists, Pollsters and Electoral Office staff. We will announce the winning parties in the next newsletter. It has been great to see the pupils learn about our electoral system by taking part. I can see a few budding politicians in our ranks!

This term Year Eight are involved in Technology classes at Hagley Community College, studying Food and Nutrition. I doubt you will get to see any of the wonderful goodies that are created, but at least you know they will have recipes up their sleeve when called upon. 

Finally, please support the Year Eight class as they arrange and run the disco next week. We appreciate the thoughtful donations that they make each year to the life of the school. So grab your tickets and dust off those dancing shoes!

A P Kendrew

Middle Syndicate:

It has certainly been a busy start to the term with many different and varied activities being undertaken.

Swimming Week starts this week and provides an ideal opportunity for the children to further refine their stroke techniques and build endurance and confidence for the summer ahead.

Our athletic sports was a great day for both individual performances and intense Interhouse rivalry.  Quite a few athletes from the Middle Syndicate will be competing at the upcoming ISSA Athletics next week.

Children’s progress in Numeracy was assessed last term in a whole school review.  The results showed that many of our children have an increased understanding in the varying strategies to solve problems.  We are pleased with the progress in the Middle Syndicate and will continue syndicate numeracy and review this for 2009.

Year Six is lucky enough to be going to the Science Roadshow so we will include an update on this in our December “round-up”.  

J C Russell

Junior Syndicate:

The junior children have settled back quickly to school routines this term and the New Entrant children appear to be enjoying their first taste of school life! At break times the children are enjoying the new playground sports equipment, funded by the PTFA, and also the opportunity to play in the gully on Fridays.

The Science trip to Travis Wetland was a very worthwhile and enjoyable experience. Both teachers and children were impressed by the standard of programme offered by the Learning in Action team.

Children have their Spellathon lists now and are hopefully busy learning their words and collecting sponsors.  

Grandparents Day was once again well supported by the juniors. Thank you to those grandparents who joined us on this day. We hope you enjoyed your time with us.

Thank you, parents, for joining us on Athletics Day. The children put in a lot of effort practising for this occasion. We hope you enjoyed the day as much as we did! Thank you also to the junior staff for their efforts and in particular, Mrs Clarke, for organising the junior section of this annual event.

T V Price

Principals’ Tips:

Pocket Money/Allowance 

Establish clearly that in every family there are regular tasks to do that are part of being in a team.  The tasks are not attached to any monetary payment.  When your child is old enough work out an amount for a regular allowance.  Use this allowance to teach the child about saving, giving and spending, and establish what your child will be responsible for buying (e.g. bus tickets, presents, treats and prepay phone).  Have a list of 'extra' jobs that enable your child to earn additional pocket money for special projects. 

(from Mary and Ian Grant’s Parenting Tips)

Lots of adults are still waiting to hear the words “I love you” from their parents.

It may not come easily but your children need to hear you say: “I love you”.  Be bold, don’t wait for them to deserve it, just tell them.  It will make a difference.

(from Mary and Ian Grant’s Hot Tips for Parents)