Week 9, Term 3, 2023

Word from Ms Addison

Kia ora, Talofa, Bula vinaka, Malo e lelei, Fakatālofa atu kia te koulua, Kia orana, Hallo, Hola, Ni Hao, Namaste and Greetings - parents, caregivers and families of Whitby Collegiate,

As we approach the end of another successful term, we have certainly had some wonderful activities that our students have been involved in over the past week.

The Senior Ball held at The Lodge in Pauatahanui was a magnificent way to celebrate the end of term for our senior students. They danced the night away, creating lasting memories of their time at Whitby Collegiate and we would like to extend our appreciation to all the students, staff, and volunteers who made this event such a resounding success.

It was a very early start for our Whitby Collegiate Softball team on Thursday as they take their talents to an international stage representing our school and community in Japan. This incredible opportunity is a testament to their hard work and dedication and we wish them safe travels and success as they compete and build cultural connections abroad. The team has an amazing itinerary ahead of them including coaching sessions with professional baseball teams, games against local high schools and universities as well as the opportunity to experience all that Japanese culture has to offer.

We welcomed our parent community to the school for the senior school parent-teacher interviews where this very valuable opportunity to discuss student progress was very well attended and know that the feedback given will assist students in the pursuit of their final grades for their NCEA academic journey.

What a great way to end the term with our very own "Whitby's Got Talent", there were some amazing acts and special mention to the following students, Ishaan, Aanya, Kaavya Badiyani and Ayush Mistry for their Bollywood performance in third place, Jade Lin for her comedy act in second place and congratulations to Gabriel Chinoh as the overall winner for his amazing performance on the piano. Many thanks to Mr Bigwood our amazing MC and to the judges who had the most difficult job of all.

I want to give a special thanks to all those parents and community members who have assisted with the coaching and management of sports teams over the winter season. We have been very proud of the results of our teams and it is in no small way due to the dedication to all those who have contributed. We look forward to formally thanking everyone a little later in the year.

A special best wishes to our Chaplain, Reverend Chris who is taking a much deserved sabbatical for Term 4. We hope that he enjoys his time away from Wellington and look forward to seeing him back in time for Prize Giving.

As we conclude this term, we want to express our gratitude to the entire Whitby Collegiate community - students, parents, and staff - for your continued commitment to excellence and growth. Together, we create a nurturing environment that allows our students to flourish and achieve their full potential.

Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable holiday break. We look forward to welcoming you back for the start of the new term with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

Shelley Addison


Deputies’ Updates

From the Deputy Principal (Pastoral and Wellbeing)

Kia ora parents, caregivers and families,

I am extremely grateful and proud of our students who have stepped up to organise a Can Collection for families in need, the school formal, participated in our very first ‘Whitby’s Got Talent’ show and have continued to serve our school community by putting into action our school values.

This week, Gabriel Anthony and Jade Lin coordinated a Can Collection for some of the local Porirua primary schools as well as the Kiwi Community Appeal organisation. It is heartening to witness our students actively demonstrating the significance of assisting those in need within our local community. I would like to extend my gratitude to Gabriel, Jade and the House Leaders for organising the Can Collection.

“Our Can food collection this week was a huge success. We had hundreds of food items brought in by students. Glenview School & Corinna School in Porirua and the Kiwi Community Service (KCA) were very appreciative and thankful to all our students for their kind donations and generosity. You've helped kids and their whānau during a very difficult time. We are all looking forward to doing it again next year. Thanks to all of the Prefects who helped encourage students to bring in food, and thank you to all of the students who brought in a can. Ms Sauvao, Jade Lin and I were blown away at how many cans there were. You guys are amazing!” - Gabriel Anthony

Staff and students had a wonderful time at the school formal last weekend. A vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to get dressed up can make such events truly memorable and enjoyable. Thank you to our wonderful Ball committee and staff involved.

Photos by Elias Rodriguez from Mark Tantrum Photography

Jade Lin

“Term 3 was probably the most interesting term as the stress from Derived Grade exams was balanced with the fun, super chill and relaxing school formal. It was amazing to see everyone in their outfits, all dressed up for an unforgettable night in the beautiful Pauatahanui Lodge. I am looking forward to a very busy yet fun Term 4!”

Hannah Kansara

"Term 3 is always the most stressful term, with exams and last minute internals it does get tough at times. The one thing that has kept the workload a bit less terrifying are the school events. Planning, managing and attending these events is always so much fun. For me, the best events that happen in Term 3 are Swimming Sports and the Senior formal"

I enjoyed meeting with parents at the Parent Teacher Interviews this week. These meetings provide a valuable opportunity to discuss student progress and wellbeing, fostering a collaborative relationship between parents and teachers. Thankyou for your continued support and if you have any further questions and would like me to follow up on feedback from your son/daughter’s subject teachers, please let me know.

Finally, what a way to end the school term with our very own school talent show. It was a fantastic way to celebrate and showcase the various talents of our students. Congratulations to all the students who participated, and special kudos to those who secured 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in our ‘Whitby’s Got Talent’ show. This event not only was entertaining but it also helps to foster a sense of community and appreciation for the diverse talents within the school.

Wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday and I look forward to connecting with you all again next term.

Soifua ma ia manuia.

Ainslie Sauvao


Upcoming Events

Term 4 Activities/Events (Week 1)

Key dates are located on the website calendar. Please check for your activities.
Subscribe to the Whitby Collegiate calendar from the school website calendar page here by clicking the button that reads “subscribe to this calendar”.

ACTIVITY/EVENT DATE
Start of Term 4 Monday 9 October
L3 Biology Zoo Trip Wednesday 11 October
CSW Senior Volleyball Div 2 and below starts Friday 13 October

The Whitby Collegiate Foundation warmly invites you, your colleagues, friends and whānau to our Gala Dinner on Saturday 28 October 2023, from 6:30pm at the Hotel InterContinental Wellington. The dress code is formal.

 Please join us for an evening of sport, celebration and fun on the eve of the Rugby World Cup final. Indulge in a sumptuous three-course meal and be entertained by guest speaker and Silver Fern world champion Karin Burger, stand-up comedian Tofiga Fepulea'i, special guests and our talented students.

The evening also includes a fundraising auction. Funds raised will facilitate the inclusion of a diverse array of students at our school, encompassing those seeking academic, excellence, sport and cultural scholarships, enhancing the richness and diversity of our community.

Join us as we bring together our community, celebrate the occasion of the Rugby World Cup, and fundraise for scholarships.

Tickets are $185 each. If you prefer, you can book a table for ten for $1,850.

You may also know businesses in your network who would like to support the fundraiser through sponsorship of the event - of a table, or an auction prize. If so, please let us know at foundation@whitbycollegiate.school.nz.

TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE


School News

Senior Ball

Saturday night's "Enchanted Forest" Senior Ball at The Lodge in Pāuatahanui was a night to remember, filled with lots of dancing! Hats off to Head Girl Madeline Wareham, the Committee, and the incredible staff — Señorita Huertas, Ms Lindsay and Ms Keilty - for what was an enchanting night.

Thank you to Elias Rodrigues from Mark Tantrum Photography, we look forward to seeing all of the photos from the evening!

Learnwell Revision Workbooks

Senior students who want to make an order for Learnwell revision workbooks can order via this order form. Parents / caregivers must pay directly with a credit card when ordering. Level 1 and 2 books are $20, Level 3 books are $21, and Scholarship books are $24. Mrs Mitchell will make a final order on Friday 20 October. See the range via the Learnwell website.

Derived Grade Summary Reports

Parents and caregivers of Y11-13 students will receive, via KAMAR, their child’s summary report from the Derived Grade examinations 2 weeks ago. Please take the time to look over these results with your child/ren, and discuss any necessary steps for improvement. Please note, some teachers, at their discretion, may offer another DG opportunity next term. Any questions, please contact subject teachers or Mrs Debbie Mitchell.

Community Market Day - Saturday 25 November

We (the school parent community) will be hosting our inaugural Community Market Day at school on Saturday 25 November to help fundraise for school scholarships.

Are you having a spring clean? Thinking of decluttering over the school holidays? We would love to re-home your unwanted goods. 

Our organising team is collecting books, clothing and household items for the upcoming Market Day on 25 November. We greatly appreciate your family's support in our vision to create a vibrant marketplace.

Email events@whitbycollegiate.school.nz to arrange drop off or pickup of your donations.       

Seeking an NCEA Examination Supervisor

Whitby Collegiate is in search of a casual NCEA examination supervisor. Required dates at this stage are Tuesday 7 November (morning and afternoon sessions), Thursday 9 November (morning session), Tuesday 14 November (afternoon session), and Thursday 16 November (morning session). There may be the possibility of more dates as required. Training is provided by NZQA on a date yet to be determined. Applicants will need to undergo Police Vetting. If this sounds like you, please email Debbie Mitchell debbie.mitchell@whitbycollegiate.school.nz with your details and resume, before Friday 6 October.

whakatauki o te wiki
proverb of the week

Kāore te kumara e kōrero ana mo tōna ake reka. The kumara does not brag about its own sweetness.

This whakataukī reminds us that our reputations are formed by the quality of our character and deeds. We need not speak about our goodness when it shines powerfully through in our actions.


Sports Update

Summer Sport (Term 4) Registrations

Summer sports online registrations will be officially closed from Monday 25 September. For further information, please contact Sports Director, Sally Rose - sally.rose@whitbycollegiate.school.nz.

Thank You, David Mackay: A Legacy of Excellence in Whitby Collegiate Hockey

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to David Mackay, whose dedication as the Whitby Collegiate school hockey team coach has left an indelible mark.

After seven remarkable years of coaching, David will step down as our school team coach in 2024. His journey began when his son, Ethan Mackay, initiated the formation of our hockey team, and it's been a journey of growth, unity, and success.

David's coaching prowess extends beyond the sport, uniting players of varying abilities, ages, and backgrounds. Under his guidance, our team's journey from R3 to R2 and finally to R1 is a testament to his coaching skills and our players' commitment. Through David, Ethan, and Ella, we've built a hockey legacy at Whitby Collegiate that embodies excellence and camaraderie. David, your impact will inspire generations to come, and we thank you for your passion and commitment. Best wishes in your future endeavors, and know that you will always be a part of our Whitby Collegiate family.

“Dave possesses an innate ability to bring a team together whether its team members with varying degrees of ability, different ages or other team players from different schools as shown on Tournament. He builds confidence in the younger members and encourages the older players to lead and teach the younger less experienced team members.” - Megan Rowe, Hockey Convenor

For all sports information, latest draws & results, sport clubs and registrations please visit our online sports hub here.

Join the Whitby Collegiate Sport Facebook Group

Keep up to date with all Whitby Collegiate sport news, draws & results, achievements, and LIVE updates at facebook.com/groups/whitbycollegiatesport


Student Achievements

Gabriel Anthony
Porirua Youth Awards

Gabriel Anthony was recently honoured with the Porirua Youth Award for his outstanding community service and leadership. His commitment to serving others through volunteer work and leading various initiatives has had a positive impact, inspiring fellow youth to get involved and make a difference. Gabriel's leadership and dedication have truly enriched our community.

Lonasei Lolo

Golf

We are thrilled to share that Lonasei has been selected, along with five others, to represent Wellington at the Girls National Interprovincial Golf tournament. The tournament will take place at the stunning Rotorua Golf Club's Arikikapakapa course from Sunday, October 1st to Friday, October 6th.

Isla Teasdale
Equestrian

Congratulations to Isla Teasdale for her performance at the Solway Interschool Dressage Day in Masterton! Isla successfully achieved her goal of giving Ava two positive test experiences in only their 2nd show together, and she did an exceptional job piloting Ava, a young horse, to receive glowing feedback from the judges. We're looking forward to their next competition in the Wairarapa this Sunday. Keep up the amazing work, Isla.

We love to celebrate our students’ achievements. For inclusion in the Whitby Collegiate newsletter or on our Facebook page, please forward student achievements to communications@whitbycollegiate.school.nz


Community Notices