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Today we farewell Term 1! Whilst it has been a long term, there has been no shortage of opportunities for students to engage in a wide range of learning activities $$PLAIN_TEXT_PREVIEW$$
WORD FROM MS ADDISONToday we farewell Term 1! Whilst it has been a long term, there has been no shortage of opportunities for students to engage in a wide range of learning activities including education outside the classroom. Senior students have focused on internal assessments and it was pleasing to see the number of those who attended the parent-teacher interviews last night. Whilst these are quick-fire engagements it is a very important opportunity for subject teachers to connect with families and give feedback on student progress. Whilst I have already reported on the academic results from 2020, we include in this newsletter some comparative data analysis just released by NZQA which shows Whitby Collegiate exceeding, not only within the region, but also at a national level, and shows we had the highest percentage of scholarships awarded of all the independent schools in Wellington. Our committed and active Proprietor’s Board of Chair John Fiso, Keith Taylor, Tony Hanning and Api Fiso met on Tuesday at the school, and continue to focus on future sustainability, innovative programmes, and provide strong governance and leadership for the school. We are very fortunate to have such a high level of expertise at the Board level.
I was delighted to accompany our Head Boy, Alejandro, and Head Girl, Cassandra, to the Cullen Breakfast held at the Wellington Club on Thursday. The Hon. Chirs Hipkins was the guest speaker with a focus on the Covid 19 vaccination roll out and a lesser focus on education issues. Our Whitby Collegiate students were selected out of all the schools there, to attend a morning tea with the minister at Parliament early in Term 2.
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It was a milestone for the new classroom block this week, with scaffolding coming down yesterday, and the final touches being made to the building. It is looking fantastic and we look forward to the official opening in the coming weeks. Finally, I wish to acknowledge the staff at Whitby Collegiate and in particular the senior leadership team of Ms Sauvao, Ms Mitchell, Mr Powell, Ms Keenan and Mr Atkinson, all of whom who work tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcomes for our students, To all the students I trust that you will all take a good break over the holidays, recharge the batteries and look forward to tackling the upcoming challenges of Term 2. Shelley Addison
Chief Executive
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FROM THE PASTORAL DEANSNi hao to our Whitby Collegiate community! I am grateful for the opportunity to listen to our students during school assemblies as they share through music, speeches or virtues of the week, the importance of doing what they love to help improve aspects of their well-being and appreciating the people around them that help make this possible. This week, Cassidy Abbot’s virtue of the week was ‘Gratitude’ so it is very fitting that for my final newsletter of the term, I wish to express a big THANK YOU to our Whitby Collegiate whānau for your wonderful support, letters of appreciation, words of encouragement and thanks towards our staff and the continued hard work behind the scenes of our Board of Proprietors. I am always inspired by Cassidy’s sharing during assemblies as they highlight important reminders for our students. These include encouraging each student to be the best version of themselves with the care and support of their village at Whitby Collegiate. Part of their journey at school in becoming the best version of themselves includes showing thankfulness to those people who give of their time to care and support them with their personal, academic and well-being goals. Here is an excerpt from Cassidy’s speech on ‘Gratitude’ which he shared with us this week: “Hello, ladies and gentlemen! I’m back once again for the final virtue of the week for this term. It feels like this term has gone by so fast, but I guess that time flies when you’re having fun practicing your virtues of the week every week. Anyway, this week, let’s take stock of all the great things we have in life, because this week’s virtue of the week is GRATITUDE. “So, what does gratitude mean? Gratitude is essentially thankfulness. It is when we stop for a moment to appreciate what we have in life, and thank whoever is responsible for that. Living where and when we do is something in itself to be thankful for. We often don’t like to think about it this way, but we have food, water, housing, education and stability in our lives. We don’t live somewhere racked by wars, famines and so forth. We ought to be very grateful for the privileged positions we all find ourselves in, but also to act on that gratitude, and to return this gratitude back to our world through service, although, of course, I already discussed service for last week’s virtue. So, think about what you can do in terms of gratitude this week, and over these holidays. Thank someone for something good they have done for you, acknowledge something good that has happened in your life, and then try to do something good for someone else.”
Finally, please check that your son/daughter has their correct winter uniform ready to wear on Monday 3rd May when they return to school as per our school uniform policy below:
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Have a safe and restful weekend and I look forward to seeing you all again in Term 2. Ngā manaakitanga, Ainslie Sauvao
Senior Pastoral Dean
ainslie.sauvao@whitbycollegiate.school.nz
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Kia ora Students, Parents & Caregivers, When I look back on the past eleven weeks I am amazed by the number of events and activities that have shaped the term. To name just a few, we have had: our meet the teacher BBQ, our athletics day, our life education classes, our year 9 camp, our numerous field trips, our open day, our Easter service, our mentoring day, our parent teacher interviews and the list goes on. When you combine these events with the day to day teaching and learning that happens at Whitby Collegiate it is easy to conclude that everyone is entitled to a well-deserved break. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me in my first term here as the Junior Dean. I would especially like to acknowledge the very clever, kind-hearted and humorous students who make up our junior school. It has been an absolute pleasure being your dean and look forward to seeing all your refreshed faces after the holiday break. Nga mihi nui Maurice Atkinson
Junior Pastoral Dean
maurice.atkinson@whitbycollegiate.school.nz
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FROM THE ACADEMIC DEANKia ora e te whānau o Whitby Collegiate, As Term 1 draws to a close, it is a good time for students to reflect on their work and study habits, and think of ways to improve to make upcoming assessments more achievable. Having SMART goals and diligent revision strategies will help set up a successful academic year. I have been pleased to see the engagement of students in class, their commitment to doing the best they can, and wonderful participation in a wide range of opportunities outside the classroom as well. The upcoming school break is a good time for students to take a breather, reconnect with family and friends, and participate in some healthy activity. It is also important that our students, especially the seniors, keep revising regularly and use this time to complete and catch up on any assignments that are due or outstanding. Please recall that on Google Classroom all subject classes have year planners that outline assessment dates, and the current Internal Assessment planner for Years 11, 12 and 13 is available as well. Any concerns about deadlines must be directed to the subject teacher in the first instance, and if necessary (and following our NCEA Assessment Policy and Procedures) students may apply to me for a formal extension of a due date. Unfortunately, we have noticed an increase in students using their devices for non-school related activities during the school day, including the use of YouTube. While teachers are vigilant in checking students are using their devices correctly in class, please remind your children that the onus for staying on task and avoiding distractions is on them. NZQA has provided all our Year 11-13 students with an NCEA information booklet for students and parents, and the end of year examination timetable. Tutor teachers have distributed these resources this week. As we are once again offering digital examinations for English, History, and Spanish, it is important that students are proficient in typing quickly and accurately. I have had a try with this website https://www.typingclub.com/ that helps to develop typing skills, and I recommend that students have a go too. This will also be quite useful for our students who have Special Assessment Conditions and may use their computers for assessment purposes. And finally, our wonderful Exam Centre Manager from 2020 will not be available for this year’s exam period, so we have a vacancy for a reliable, organised person. If you would be interested in the role, or know someone who would be suited, please see the particulars of the role under School Announcements below. Wishing all our students a safe and well-deserved break, and I look forward to seeing everyone back refreshed next term. Ngā mihi, Debbie Mitchell
debbie.mitchell@whitbycollegiate.school.nz
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2021 TERM DATESTerm 1 Monday 1 Feb – Friday 16 April Term 2 Monday 3 May – Friday 9 July Term 3 Monday 2 August – Friday 1 October Term 4 Tuesday 19 October – Tuesday 7 December
Key dates are located on the website calendar. Please check for your activities.
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YEAR 10 TRIP TO HE TOHUYear 10 students visited the He Tohu exhibition National Library on Wednesday this week as part of their Social Sciences programme. Students were able to view the original documents of our Declaration of Independence 1935, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the Women’s Suffrage petition. The exhibition is open to the public and an excellent opportunity for everyone to view our founding documents.
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RELAY FOR LIFEOver the course of 17 hours on the 11th - 12th April Whitby Collegiate participated in Relay for Life 2021. With a small team of 35 students, we kept our baton going for 15 hours and 30 minutes and did a total of 234 laps of the 450 metre circuit… A gallant effort by everyone involved. Juniors and seniors combined all took turns running, jogging and walking making sure the baton never stopped, even through heavy rain and cold in the early hours of Sunday morning. Whilst the main focus of this event was to keep the baton going we also enjoyed other activities which included watching Mamma Mia at 2am, the food and company. A special mention to our Head Boy, Alejandro Garcia for participating in the Chop the Mop shaving his hair for such an amazing cause. We are also pleased to announce that so far Whitby’s team has raised $8,467 with an added $400 from our in-school bake sale. We really appreciate all of the support and effort by the students, parents and teachers that have gone into helping make this year’s efforts for Relay for Life a massive success, we couldn’t have done it without you! Charlotte and Eden
Service and Events Committee
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SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTSExamination Centre ManagerWhitby Collegiate is seeking an Examination Centre Manager to run the NCEA and NZ Scholarship examinations in 2021. The smooth and successful running of an exam centre is important for all students participating in these examinations. The position requires you to complete an online training programme and attend a one-day training session with NZQA in August. The position requires you to complete several administrative tasks to plan and prepare for the exams from August to October. You must be available to work for the entire exam period (Friday 6 November to Wednesday 2 December). A high level of organisational skills with great attention to detail, strength in following processes precisely, confidence leading people of all ages, proficiency in using a computer, and learning to use new computer programmes are essential qualities for this role. For further information, and/or to apply with CV and cover letter, please email debbie.mitchell@whitbycolleigate.school.nz. Applications close June 10. University of Canterbury Kiwi CompetitionsIn Term 2 the Kiwi Competition run by the University of Canterbury will take place during the last 3 weeks of term. These online tests on English, Maths and Science challenge students within their appropriate curriculum level. Students receive certificates and the top students also receive prizes. The cost per subject is $9.50. If you wish to enter your child into any of these competitions please use the link below to do so. The last day for entries for these competitions is Friday May 7. Entry for Kiwi Competition Extension Opportunity Join the Foundation CommitteeCommunity support is vital to the success of our school. The Whitby Collegiate Foundation has been established to manage this support. The Whitby Collegiate Foundation looks beyond the day-to-day running of the school, anticipating the ever-changing needs of students and staff. It is responsible for the running of the scholarship and bursary programme, offering school access to both outstanding students and those facing financial hardship. Additionally, a comprehensive building plan will ensure the best possible facilities for students and staff. We are seeking expressions of interest to contribute to the Whitby Collegiate Foundation to support the school community. If you are interested, please contact communications@whitbycollegiate.school.nz
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REGIONAL RIP RUGBY TOURNAMENTTwo Whitby Collegiate mixed teams competed in the Regional Rip Tournament at Cannons Creek Park on Thursday. Our mixed teams were very competitive playing against other teams which consisted of all boys. Although neither team came home with medals they both played extremely well and were commended on their skills by a WRFU referee. Many thanks to our fabulous coaches John Silva and Kelly Field.
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WINTER SPORT MATCH/TRAININGHOCKEY: Training – Wednesdays 4:00 – 5:00pm at Elsdon Turf, Porirua Matches – Tuesdays (venues as per draw) First game – Tuesday 18 May
FOOTBALL: Training – Mondays 3:30 – 4:30pm on school field/gym Matches – Saturdays (venues as per draw) First game – Saturday 8 May
NETBALL: Snr A: Thursday 3:30 – 4:30pm in the school gym Snr B: Thursday 3:30 – 4:30pm in the school gym Snr C: Tuesday 3:30 – 4:30pm in the school gym Jnr A: Monday 3:30 – 4:30pm in the school gym BASKETBALL: CSW Junior Team (YR 9 & 10) Training: Friday 3:30 – 4:30pm in the school gym Matches: Tuesday (venues as per draw) First game: Tuesday 4 May
Junior (YR 7/8): Training: Monday during lunch break in the school gym Matches: Wednesdays at Rangikura Primary School, Ascot Park First game: Wednesday 5 May
ROWING - GIVE IT A GO WEEKThe Mana Rowing Club will be hosting a Give It A Go week from Monday 19 – Friday 23 April. The sessions will run from 8:00 – 10:00am at the Mana Inlet (Ngati Toa Domain) and will cost $25. No former rowing experience is necessary. Please register your interest by completing the attached form here.
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STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTSMUSIC - FREYA DIGGLEMusician Freya Diggle, Year 10, was fortunate to be able to play with Orchestra Wellington in their "Big Bash" performance at the Te Rauparaha Arena last weekend. The orchestra gave the opportunity to aspiring musicians to sit alongside professional players and perform some great orchestral pieces including an epic performance of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture! "This was the biggest orchestra I have ever played in and was an amazing experience"
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SOFTBALLRaine Menzies, Mesha Shaw-Wallace, Bailey Symons and Ngapera Uden McFarlane
Four Whitby Collegiate softball players have been nominated to participate in the Softball NZ Regional trainings prior to naming of the 2021 JWSX squad. Congratulations and best of luck to Raine Menzies, Mesha Shaw-Wallace, Bailey Symons & Ngapera Uden McFarlane who will attend their first regional training on Sunday 18 April. Bailey Symons
Over Easter weekend Bailey Symons attended the U15 NZ Developing Sox Camp and her squad played in the Easter Classic Tournament in Auckland.
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GOLF – LONASEI LOLOBest of luck to Lonasei Lolo who will be competing in two golf tournaments over the April school holidays. Lonasei will be playing in the McDonalds Junior Masters 18 hole Tournament 2021 at the Manuwatu Golf Club and the 2021 Manuwatu/Wanganui U16 Age group Champs & 18 hole Participation event at Rangitikei Golf Club. SAILING – CAELAN TAYLORCaelan came 3rd in the Optimist Open Fleet division at the Wellington Schools Fleet Sailing Championships on Wednesday at Paremata. Caelan has also been notified by the Worser Bay Boating Club that he will have the honour of racing in the clubs Champion of Champions at the end of the season. The Champions of each class race each other in the club’s Sunburst yachts over 8 races to be declared the club’s overall champion sailor. Caelan has had a busy few weeks of sailing. He competed in the Toyota Optimist National Championships in Auckland over the Easter break and sailed in 12 races over the weekend. His national ranking in the Optimist fleet for 20/21 is 51 out of 100 ranked sailors. Caelan is currently the top ranked Optimist sailor from the Paremata Boating Club and the second top ranked Optimist sailor from Wellington. Caelan is pictured with the Americas Cup which was on display at the event held at the Maraetai Sailing Club in Auckland. We look forward to following your sailing progress Caelan.
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We love to celebrate our students’ achievements. For inclusion in the Whitby Collegiate newsletter, please forward student achievements to communications@whitbycollegiate.school.nz and sporting results to the Sports Coordinator, sally.rose@whitbycollegiate.school.nz
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COMMUNITY NOTICESThe North Porirua Care Centre is hosting a 90 minute talk by Nigel Latta on safety for our children on the internet. Tickets can be purchased through Eventfinder here that has some more information on the event.
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