Tēnā koutou katoua ngā whānau,
Each week as the newsletter deadline rolls around it amazes me that only a week has passed since I put words together and yet within a week so much can happen. It certainly makes you realise the strength of community in the life of Garin College
I’ll start this week by mentioning that Saturday 24 September is ‘Mercy Day’ which is celebrated internationally and is important at Garin as is it a day to remember and reflect on our house patron Catherine McAuley, founder of the religious order, Sisters of Mercy. Catherine McAuley devoted her life to serve those living in poverty, encouraging the importance of education and health – particularly women and children, promoting more equitable outcomes and lives for all.
In recent weeks it has been amazing to again meet in full school assemblies without wearing masks, and to truly see the faces of our students and staff. Wearing masks has been a significant barrier for us all. Building our learning focused culture and living the Garin values has been a key message for us when we gather. It is wonderful to see learners responding positively in their interactions with others and embracing collectively the wearing of school uniform with renewed emphasis on seeing the blue and white of the uniform and wearing it with pride.
Derived grade exam week is a big week in our school calendar for all involved. I would like to acknowledge all whānau for the support you put behind your children in encouraging their study and application over this exam period. Our teachers are now busy marking these assessments with the aim of supporting learners in understanding their next steps for learning in preparation for their NCEA external exams. We hope this time has been beneficial and a confidence builder to the students, especially those experiencing their first round of external examinations. Thank you to Jeremy Marshall, Tracy Stock and Amanda Jones-Allen our Exam Centre Manager, exam supervisors and reader/writers for providing the safe, supportive and organised environment that enabled learners to engage positively in their assessments.
Congratulations to all our winter sports codes as your seasons have come to a close. There were some great achievements in our final weeks of play and a huge sense of satisfaction that a full season has been achieved. Again thank you to all our coaches and managers, sports coordinator, teachers, parents and community members who have contributed so much to our teams across many sporting codes this season.
I wish our Yr 12’s an enjoyable Leadership Journey camp next week as they reflect on their journey through Garin College over the last four years and prepare as a cohort of students for their leadership as our Yr 13’s in 2023. I trust their time in the outdoors and their activities and reflections create a positive time for this year group.
Enjoy your Memorial Day holiday on Monday for Queen Elizabeth II, I look forward to our return on Tuesday for our final week of term 4.
Have a restful weekend,
God bless,
Ngā manaakitanga
John Maguire
Take a moment
“Peace begins with a smile – Mother Teresa – 18 September Wellington