Thank you everyone for such a fantastic year at Waltham School.
So many highlights and so many wonderful things happening in our school and in our area.
Our year has ended with a very positive ERO review which will be published early in the new year. The school has a copy and we are extremely thrilled with their feedback.
We are also very high on the priority list for a major new building project in 2015 as our roll grows and we update towards a state of the art modern learning environment.
It is indeed a very exciting time to be associated with Waltham School and the local area over the next few years.
2014
School opens for pupils on Tuesday 4th February. The office will be open for new enrollments and inquiries from Thursday 30th January.
We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Thursday 12 December 2013
Monday 18 November 2013
Monday 11 November 2013
Apologies and welcome back!!!!!
Hi all,
This is a quick post to say 'hello again' after an extended period 'off-line' in regards to my blog.
It's great to be back on-line again and being able to keep you in touch with the latest school news and views straight from the 'Principal's Desk'.
Athletics Sports for the whole school are approaching fast.
Weather permitting they will be next Tuesday 19th. It will be a great day for the family to enjoy so why not pack a picnic and come down and share in the fun with us. As usual the children will be involved in all the 'traditional' athletics events and maybe even the odd new event as well.
WOOSH will be selling refreshments and helping with a sausage sizzle on the day. We will get children to pre-order at school on Monday and adults and friends can purchase them on the day.
The following day (Tuesday) the Room 9 (and myself) are heading to Wainui for three days on their end of year camp and outdoor education experience. This camp is always a highlight of mine and I am really looking forward to it this year. We have a fantastic group of senior students to share this time with.
There are several events coming up as we near the end of the year. I will update you on some of these shortly.
This is a quick post to say 'hello again' after an extended period 'off-line' in regards to my blog.
It's great to be back on-line again and being able to keep you in touch with the latest school news and views straight from the 'Principal's Desk'.
Athletics Sports for the whole school are approaching fast.
Weather permitting they will be next Tuesday 19th. It will be a great day for the family to enjoy so why not pack a picnic and come down and share in the fun with us. As usual the children will be involved in all the 'traditional' athletics events and maybe even the odd new event as well.
WOOSH will be selling refreshments and helping with a sausage sizzle on the day. We will get children to pre-order at school on Monday and adults and friends can purchase them on the day.
The following day (Tuesday) the Room 9 (and myself) are heading to Wainui for three days on their end of year camp and outdoor education experience. This camp is always a highlight of mine and I am really looking forward to it this year. We have a fantastic group of senior students to share this time with.
There are several events coming up as we near the end of the year. I will update you on some of these shortly.
Tuesday 3 September 2013
Senior Trip to Orana Park Off Today
Due to the weather our Senior Trip to Orana Park is off today and classes are 'as normal' at school.
Our trip will now be NEXT Wednesday.
Our trip will now be NEXT Wednesday.
Monday 26 August 2013
Room 6 Camp
Last week I was lucky enough to accompany Room 6 on their camp. The first night was spent at the Rapaka Marae and the second night at Living Springs.
Yet again I came home from a Waltham School camp feeling so fortunate to have spent my time with such a fantastic group of children and adults. Everyone participated positively in the huge range of camp activities. Walks, climbing, weaving, archery, swimming, farm yard, horse riding.... it was an amazing time.
A huge 'Thank You' to Mrs Topp for the wonderful job she did organising and running the camp, and to Mr Deadmarsh and Sylvia for joining us to help supervise and care for the group.
A huge 'Thank You', also to the Red Cross who's grant meant we were able to provide the $200+pp camping experience completely free to all families this year.
I hope you enjoy some of these photos.
We now look forward to Room 9's camp next term.
Yet again I came home from a Waltham School camp feeling so fortunate to have spent my time with such a fantastic group of children and adults. Everyone participated positively in the huge range of camp activities. Walks, climbing, weaving, archery, swimming, farm yard, horse riding.... it was an amazing time.
A huge 'Thank You' to Mrs Topp for the wonderful job she did organising and running the camp, and to Mr Deadmarsh and Sylvia for joining us to help supervise and care for the group.
A huge 'Thank You', also to the Red Cross who's grant meant we were able to provide the $200+pp camping experience completely free to all families this year.
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| The class arrive and are welcomed on to the Rapaki Marae |
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| A little more tired the next day...but still having fun! |
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| Settling down for the night and story time at the Marae. |
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| Climbing Wall fun at Living Springs. |
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| Horse Riding at the farm. |
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| More horse riding. |
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| Cuddling up to the cute animals. |
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| Some of us got to share a sheep. |
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| Feeding the friendly sheep. |
I hope you enjoy some of these photos.
We now look forward to Room 9's camp next term.
Thursday 15 August 2013
Friday 16th continued...
Senior Winter Sport today at Hagley Park for our Rugby, Soccer and Netball Teams. This may be the final week of competition but i will let you know early next week for sure.
Room 6 Camp
Next Wednesday Room 6 students are off to camp at Living Springs. It will be my pleasure to attend this camp and share the experience with the other staff and students. Again we need to say a huge THANK YOU to the School BOT and Red Cross for working together to give this wonderful experience to our students at no cost to any of our families this year.
Room 6 Camp
Next Wednesday Room 6 students are off to camp at Living Springs. It will be my pleasure to attend this camp and share the experience with the other staff and students. Again we need to say a huge THANK YOU to the School BOT and Red Cross for working together to give this wonderful experience to our students at no cost to any of our families this year.
Friday 16th August
Hi to everyone out there in our school community,
Another week has zoomed by and it seems Spring is in the air!!!!
A huge THANK YOU to staff, parents and all the students who helped make our two weeks of swimming lessons so successful. It is an exhausting time for all but so worthwhile in the long term. A big thank you to the Red Cross as it was part of their 'Greater Christchurch schools Grant' that enabled us to deliver these lessons totally free of charge to all of our families.
Another week has zoomed by and it seems Spring is in the air!!!!
A huge THANK YOU to staff, parents and all the students who helped make our two weeks of swimming lessons so successful. It is an exhausting time for all but so worthwhile in the long term. A big thank you to the Red Cross as it was part of their 'Greater Christchurch schools Grant' that enabled us to deliver these lessons totally free of charge to all of our families.
Wednesday 31 July 2013
Thursday 1st August
Welcome to the first day of August!!!!
The first week of Term 3 here at Waltham School has started with the excitement of our full school swim programme at Pioneer Pool. Thanks to the wonderful support of the Red Cross and our own school BOT these two weeks of professional swimming lessons are being provided at no cost to all of our students.
The lessons are going really well and I am seeing and hearing daily success stories about so many of the children gaining skills and confidence in the water.
Well done to our own 'Waltham Pirates' basketball team who won their latest game on Monday night. It was a real pleasure to on the sideline cheering them on and seeing the teamwork and wonderful spirit developing between the children.
A reminder please about how important it is to ring and let the school office know when and why your child is going to be late or absent from school.
Our cell number is 027 379 3137 and landline 379 3137.
Have a fantastic end to the week.
The first week of Term 3 here at Waltham School has started with the excitement of our full school swim programme at Pioneer Pool. Thanks to the wonderful support of the Red Cross and our own school BOT these two weeks of professional swimming lessons are being provided at no cost to all of our students.
The lessons are going really well and I am seeing and hearing daily success stories about so many of the children gaining skills and confidence in the water.
Well done to our own 'Waltham Pirates' basketball team who won their latest game on Monday night. It was a real pleasure to on the sideline cheering them on and seeing the teamwork and wonderful spirit developing between the children.
A reminder please about how important it is to ring and let the school office know when and why your child is going to be late or absent from school.
Our cell number is 027 379 3137 and landline 379 3137.
Have a fantastic end to the week.
Sunday 28 July 2013
TERM 3
Welcome to the new term. It is great to have everyone back after the holiday break.
We already have several new enrolments which is wonderful so early on in the term. A big welcome back to Craig Gault, our DP in the Senior School and Room 9 Teacher. Craig has been on a Ministry of Education Sabbatical in Term 2.
Welcome back also to Hayley Goodman who has shifted her class in to Room 7 for the reminder of the year to make way for the new junior class in Room 4 being taught by Ms Darling and Mrs Wheeler.
The growth of our school is very positive for the future. Thank you so much for everyone working so hard together to adapt and make the necessary changes.
We already have several new enrolments which is wonderful so early on in the term. A big welcome back to Craig Gault, our DP in the Senior School and Room 9 Teacher. Craig has been on a Ministry of Education Sabbatical in Term 2.
Welcome back also to Hayley Goodman who has shifted her class in to Room 7 for the reminder of the year to make way for the new junior class in Room 4 being taught by Ms Darling and Mrs Wheeler.
The growth of our school is very positive for the future. Thank you so much for everyone working so hard together to adapt and make the necessary changes.
Swimming
Whole school swimming has started today and runs every day for the next 2 weeks at Pioneer Pool. Students need a swimming bag containing named togs and towel at school each day to take full advantage of this great opportunity. 'Free' swimming lessons (thanks to the Red Cross Grant and BOT support) are an opportunity to great to miss.
Basketball
Tonight's game for our senior team is at Pioneer Stadium at 3:30pm. The mini-bus will leave from school about 3pm and return children back as usual following the game.
Tuesday 9 July 2013
'What Eva' Wednesday
Hi all,
Not great weather today but we will go ahead with our Mufti Day and Soup. Not so brilliant for 'Wheels' so feel free to leave those at home today and we will find a nicer day early in Term 3. If you do decide to bring 'wheels' today we will try and get you out for a quick ride at some stage but no promises due to the rain.
Have a great day
Not great weather today but we will go ahead with our Mufti Day and Soup. Not so brilliant for 'Wheels' so feel free to leave those at home today and we will find a nicer day early in Term 3. If you do decide to bring 'wheels' today we will try and get you out for a quick ride at some stage but no promises due to the rain.
Have a great day
Sunday 7 July 2013
Monday 8th July
Welcome to another week-The final week of Term 2.
Wow this Term has flown past!!!!
To celebrate the last week of a great term we are having a 'What Eva Wednesday' which is a cool idea from our senior students. It will be a Mufti Day where we can wear 'what eva' and children are also welcome to bring along 'what eva' wheels they like (bikes, skate-boards, scooters etc) and we might even set up a few fun courses for children to ride and have fun on at various stages through the day.
The children have been designing posters to promote the day which are up around the school and we will send home a reminder note tomorrow.
Have a fabulous Monday!!!!
Wow this Term has flown past!!!!
To celebrate the last week of a great term we are having a 'What Eva Wednesday' which is a cool idea from our senior students. It will be a Mufti Day where we can wear 'what eva' and children are also welcome to bring along 'what eva' wheels they like (bikes, skate-boards, scooters etc) and we might even set up a few fun courses for children to ride and have fun on at various stages through the day.
The children have been designing posters to promote the day which are up around the school and we will send home a reminder note tomorrow.
Have a fabulous Monday!!!!
Thursday 20 June 2013
Latest Update!!!!!!!!!!
FRIDAY
We are now closed due to snow and road conditions
We have a small group of students still being supervised at school until parents can pick them up. If you have a child still at school please contact us as soon as possible on 379 3137 or 027 3793137
We are now closed due to snow and road conditions
We have a small group of students still being supervised at school until parents can pick them up. If you have a child still at school please contact us as soon as possible on 379 3137 or 027 3793137
Friday
We highly recommend children stay at home today but school is officially open if you need us.
This will be updated if things change.
This will be updated if things change.
Wednesday 19 June 2013
School for Thursday???????
Unless there is snow overnight and Police advise us all to stay off the roads Waltham School will remain open for children who can safely get to school tomorrow (Thursday). Safety of individuals is paramount though so Parents, if you feel it is dangerous to travel with your kids to school then please stay home even if school is officially still open.
I will update this information around 6:00am if there is snow in the air or sooner if at any stage an official closure is necessary.
Keep safe and warm tonight!
Gordon Caddie
I will update this information around 6:00am if there is snow in the air or sooner if at any stage an official closure is necessary.
Keep safe and warm tonight!
Gordon Caddie
Monday 17 June 2013
Tuesday 18th
Good morning All,
We have no flooding issues at school and the day ahead looks great.
School is open as normal today.
We have no flooding issues at school and the day ahead looks great.
School is open as normal today.
Sunday 16 June 2013
Monday 17th
Hi all.
It is a very wet start to the week and snow is in the forecast too!
A reminder that school is always open unless the Police advise the community to stay home (usually due to snow) or if there is a large risk students might be stranded at school and not be able to get home.
It is very important children attend school unless there is such a warning in place or if there is a genuine family emergency. If this is the case you must ring us on 379 3137 or text 027 3793137.
If you are in doubt about the school's status then this blog is the very best place to come to check if there are any special instructions around the school being open.
Basketball is cancelled tonight due to leaks at Pioneer Stadium.
It is a very wet start to the week and snow is in the forecast too!
A reminder that school is always open unless the Police advise the community to stay home (usually due to snow) or if there is a large risk students might be stranded at school and not be able to get home.
It is very important children attend school unless there is such a warning in place or if there is a genuine family emergency. If this is the case you must ring us on 379 3137 or text 027 3793137.
If you are in doubt about the school's status then this blog is the very best place to come to check if there are any special instructions around the school being open.
Basketball is cancelled tonight due to leaks at Pioneer Stadium.
Tuesday 11 June 2013
Wednesday 12th
Good morning all!
Meeting Reports
Yesterday was a real day of meetings for me. Below are a few things that may be of interest to you.
Ministry of Education Property Cluster Meeting
As part of the Ministry of Education Greater Christchurch Renewal Programme following the Earthquakes all schools have been divided in to groups or 'clusters'. The vision is that we will work together in our new clusters to improve the educational outcomes for all of the students. The big advantage in a 'cluster' model is that schools can work together, share ideas, share resources and share expertise to help each other achieve our goals. The cluster approach is not a new idea, in fact our school has been involved, and still is involved in several extremely successful clusters over the past ten years.
Property development in schools are going to be delivered through these new geographical clusters over the coming years. This will mean decisions about what building happens in schools, what new property projects are undertaken etc will be made by the Ministry of Education based on our group plan and not our individual school plan as was the case in the past.
These changes are large and the new approach has many potential benefits and disadvantages.
At the meeting Jeff (our BOT Chairperson) and I attended last night we heard from the Ministry that our 'Opawaho Cluster' has been chosen as one of the first clusters to advance towards the stage where new projects will actually be able to happen. This is great news for our school and our area as many parts of the city will have to wait a lot longer before money is invested in the property and buildings of their schools.
I will keep you posted of new and exciting plans that will improve our school and community learning environments in the near future.
Board of Trustees
Last night was the first meeting of our 'new' Board of Trustees following the recent election process. The only 'new' face on our team is Rochelle Atherton our new 'Staff Representative'. A warm welcome to Rochelle and we look forward to working alongside her in the future. Other members of our board are Jeff Moreton (Chairperson), Heather Blaikie (Deputy Chair/Finance), Tom Dowie (Property) and myself as Principal.
We had a very positive meeting and the new BOT are excited and enthusiastic about their role in helping our school to be the very best that it can be.
If you ever have any questions about BOT issues or school governance please do not hesitate to contact me and I will assist in any way i can.
Meeting Reports
Yesterday was a real day of meetings for me. Below are a few things that may be of interest to you.
Ministry of Education Property Cluster Meeting
As part of the Ministry of Education Greater Christchurch Renewal Programme following the Earthquakes all schools have been divided in to groups or 'clusters'. The vision is that we will work together in our new clusters to improve the educational outcomes for all of the students. The big advantage in a 'cluster' model is that schools can work together, share ideas, share resources and share expertise to help each other achieve our goals. The cluster approach is not a new idea, in fact our school has been involved, and still is involved in several extremely successful clusters over the past ten years.
Property development in schools are going to be delivered through these new geographical clusters over the coming years. This will mean decisions about what building happens in schools, what new property projects are undertaken etc will be made by the Ministry of Education based on our group plan and not our individual school plan as was the case in the past.
These changes are large and the new approach has many potential benefits and disadvantages.
At the meeting Jeff (our BOT Chairperson) and I attended last night we heard from the Ministry that our 'Opawaho Cluster' has been chosen as one of the first clusters to advance towards the stage where new projects will actually be able to happen. This is great news for our school and our area as many parts of the city will have to wait a lot longer before money is invested in the property and buildings of their schools.
I will keep you posted of new and exciting plans that will improve our school and community learning environments in the near future.
Board of Trustees
Last night was the first meeting of our 'new' Board of Trustees following the recent election process. The only 'new' face on our team is Rochelle Atherton our new 'Staff Representative'. A warm welcome to Rochelle and we look forward to working alongside her in the future. Other members of our board are Jeff Moreton (Chairperson), Heather Blaikie (Deputy Chair/Finance), Tom Dowie (Property) and myself as Principal.
We had a very positive meeting and the new BOT are excited and enthusiastic about their role in helping our school to be the very best that it can be.
If you ever have any questions about BOT issues or school governance please do not hesitate to contact me and I will assist in any way i can.
Sunday 9 June 2013
Monday 10th June
Welcome to another great week ahead.
Well done to all our Sports Teams on another great effort at Hagley Park on Friday. 'Results wise' we were not as successful as the previous week but our effort, sportsmanship and team spirit was right up there once again!! Awesome effort to you all-The smiling faces on the bus coming home make all the organisation worthwhile.
Good luck to our Basketball team playing at Pioneer Stadium tonight. Today's game starts at 3:30pm.
Well done to all our Sports Teams on another great effort at Hagley Park on Friday. 'Results wise' we were not as successful as the previous week but our effort, sportsmanship and team spirit was right up there once again!! Awesome effort to you all-The smiling faces on the bus coming home make all the organisation worthwhile.
Good luck to our Basketball team playing at Pioneer Stadium tonight. Today's game starts at 3:30pm.
Wednesday 5 June 2013
Friday Sport this Week
Below is the draw for our inter-school teams playing at Hagley Park Friday 7th (tomorrow)
Rugby v North Brighton Christ College Fields South Hagley Park (near cricket pavilion)
Netball v Opawa B Court 13 at Hagley Netball Centre
Football v St Pauls Carlton Corner (North Park) field 12
All games start at about 1:30pm.
Friends and supporters are always welcome.
Tuesday 4 June 2013
Wednesday 5th June
Greetings to you all-It's great to see the Sun out and be able to watch the classes participate in their outdoor fitness games and P.E. this morning.
Our Life Education lessons are underway today. Harold was 'stuck in Kaiapoi' yesterday so we are a day behind schedule but that is no problem at all.
We have quite a large number of students off sick with normal Winter 'bugs'. Please remember to give us a buzz or text if your child needs to be away. This saves Lynda a lot of time following up absences and checking everyone is safe and accounted for.
Our Life Education lessons are underway today. Harold was 'stuck in Kaiapoi' yesterday so we are a day behind schedule but that is no problem at all.
We have quite a large number of students off sick with normal Winter 'bugs'. Please remember to give us a buzz or text if your child needs to be away. This saves Lynda a lot of time following up absences and checking everyone is safe and accounted for.
Room One were our class of the week in the playground. At assembly on Friday they were awarded their prize of a bag of tennis balls and a 'Giant Tennis Ball'. Well done Room One!!!!
Monday 3 June 2013
Tuesday 4th June
I trust you all had a great long weekend.
It is wet and miserable on the weather side of thing today but NOT inside our classrooms. I have just been for a visit to most rooms and the fun, focused and friendly learning that is going on here makes me feel very warm on the inside. Yes, our classrooms are the 'places to be' today.
A huge "WELL DONE" to our senior sports teams who did us proud on Friday afternoon. They all had a first up win against other schools but that wasn't the part that really made us proud. It was the great spirit and team work they all showed on the field and their 'will to be the best they could be' that was our focus. All teams achieved these aims and we are looking forward to a new challenge this week.
Rugby Team beat Bamford School
Netball Team beat Christchurch East School
Football team beat Isleworth School
Thank you so much to the parents who helped by providing gear and support for the teams and to Mrs Wheeler for doing a lot of work during the week getting uniforms, boots and gear all ready to go. Our Teams looked fantastic due to her wonderful organisation.
LIFE EDUCATION
We are pleased to be hosting the Life Education Team (Anna and Harold the Giraffe) this week and next. Each class will visit them twice and participate in fascinating learning programmes focusing on a range of Health Topics.
It is wet and miserable on the weather side of thing today but NOT inside our classrooms. I have just been for a visit to most rooms and the fun, focused and friendly learning that is going on here makes me feel very warm on the inside. Yes, our classrooms are the 'places to be' today.
A huge "WELL DONE" to our senior sports teams who did us proud on Friday afternoon. They all had a first up win against other schools but that wasn't the part that really made us proud. It was the great spirit and team work they all showed on the field and their 'will to be the best they could be' that was our focus. All teams achieved these aims and we are looking forward to a new challenge this week.
Rugby Team beat Bamford School
Netball Team beat Christchurch East School
Football team beat Isleworth School
Thank you so much to the parents who helped by providing gear and support for the teams and to Mrs Wheeler for doing a lot of work during the week getting uniforms, boots and gear all ready to go. Our Teams looked fantastic due to her wonderful organisation.
LIFE EDUCATION
We are pleased to be hosting the Life Education Team (Anna and Harold the Giraffe) this week and next. Each class will visit them twice and participate in fascinating learning programmes focusing on a range of Health Topics.
Thursday 30 May 2013
Friday 31st May
Many of our Seniors are off to Hagley Park this afternoon to pay their first inter-school game of the season.
Good luck to our Rugby, Football and Netball Teams.
If you are a parent of school friend and you would like to come down to the Park and watch any of the games you are always most welcome. Games start around 1:30 and just give the office a call for details on which fields or courts we are on. (Hagley Park is a big place!!!!)
On behalf of all the Staff I would like to wish you all a safe and happy long weekend and thank you for your tremendous on-going support.
Good luck to our Rugby, Football and Netball Teams.
If you are a parent of school friend and you would like to come down to the Park and watch any of the games you are always most welcome. Games start around 1:30 and just give the office a call for details on which fields or courts we are on. (Hagley Park is a big place!!!!)
On behalf of all the Staff I would like to wish you all a safe and happy long weekend and thank you for your tremendous on-going support.
Tuesday 28 May 2013
Wednesday 29th
When does school close for snow????
We have had several inquiries this morning about snow closures and if school is open.
I did not put any information on the website or answerphone this morning about this issue because school opening was never in question today.
It did make me think that you might be interested to know what conditions would stop school opening because of snow.
There are really only two main criteria...Are the roads covered and therefore the police are telling people to stay home.
Is there are real risk children and staff could be stranded at school and unable to return home.
Other than in the above circumstances, a small amount of snow is highly unlikely to stop school operating as normal throughout the Winter.
However if you ever feel it is unsafe for you to get to school because of your own individual circumstances please put your safety first and give us a call.
Thursday 23 May 2013
Monday 20 May 2013
Tuesday 21st
BREAKING NEWS!!!
Our Board of Trustees Meeting tonight has been postponed due to illness. We will be in touch ASAP with a new meeting date which will be scheduled over the coming week.
Yesterday our senior school went on a fantastic outdoor education trip to the Halswell Quarry. As part of our Social Sciences Topic we are learning about how people use the world around them to create features that serve a purpose and how this might change over time.
Thank you so much to the Staff and Parent Helpers who joined us and helped make the day a great success.
Photos coming up....as soon as possible....
Our Board of Trustees Meeting tonight has been postponed due to illness. We will be in touch ASAP with a new meeting date which will be scheduled over the coming week.
Yesterday our senior school went on a fantastic outdoor education trip to the Halswell Quarry. As part of our Social Sciences Topic we are learning about how people use the world around them to create features that serve a purpose and how this might change over time.
Thank you so much to the Staff and Parent Helpers who joined us and helped make the day a great success.
Photos coming up....as soon as possible....
Thursday 16 May 2013
Friday 17th May
A busy day ahead at Waltham School....
Senior Sports Team training this morning in preparation for the upcoming inter-school competition. This year our teams will compete in Rugby, Netball, football and basketball at the competition level.
At 11:25 we have our weekly whole school assembly. As always parents and community members are warmly invited to this event.
Let's hope the wet weather holds off for weekend sport and outdoor activities.
A reminder to students in Rooms 6 and 9 that we are off to the Halswell Quarry on Monday. Warm jackets, tidy uniform and the usual drink bottle and food are the main requirements to remember.
Have a great weekend everyone.
Senior Sports Team training this morning in preparation for the upcoming inter-school competition. This year our teams will compete in Rugby, Netball, football and basketball at the competition level.
At 11:25 we have our weekly whole school assembly. As always parents and community members are warmly invited to this event.
Let's hope the wet weather holds off for weekend sport and outdoor activities.
A reminder to students in Rooms 6 and 9 that we are off to the Halswell Quarry on Monday. Warm jackets, tidy uniform and the usual drink bottle and food are the main requirements to remember.
Have a great weekend everyone.
Wednesday 15 May 2013
Thursday 16th May
Looks like we are enjoying the last day of sunshine for a while!!!
The senior Rugby Team are having their first training today...Winter must really be here.
The Senior Classes are planning their trip to the Halswell Quarry on Monday. We are studying 'Wonders of the World' and while a trip to Stonehenge or the Taj Mahal would be nice, the Quarry will still be a great chance to see a local example of 'Man's' influence on the landscape through
technology.
We are coming up to our Board of Trustees elections. Thank you for those of you who have already nominated yourselves (or agreed to be nominated). Nominations close at lunchtime today and our returning officer will then be in contact with all of us in regards to the next step in finalising our new Board of Trustees.
On a Thursday afternoon each week our Year 7 and 8 Students travel to the Philipstown Technology Centre for specialist learning in cooking and sewing rooms and workshops. Our thoughts and support goes out to the Philipstown School and it's community as they fight for the future of their primary school. These are such difficult times for those school's facing possible closure and we wish them all the very best.
Check out our individual class blogs NOW !!! They show, in a very small way some of the innovative teaching and learning that happens in our school. These blogs are a great new way to keep up with the news from each room and we welcome your thoughts and comments.
The senior Rugby Team are having their first training today...Winter must really be here.
The Senior Classes are planning their trip to the Halswell Quarry on Monday. We are studying 'Wonders of the World' and while a trip to Stonehenge or the Taj Mahal would be nice, the Quarry will still be a great chance to see a local example of 'Man's' influence on the landscape through
technology.
We are coming up to our Board of Trustees elections. Thank you for those of you who have already nominated yourselves (or agreed to be nominated). Nominations close at lunchtime today and our returning officer will then be in contact with all of us in regards to the next step in finalising our new Board of Trustees.
On a Thursday afternoon each week our Year 7 and 8 Students travel to the Philipstown Technology Centre for specialist learning in cooking and sewing rooms and workshops. Our thoughts and support goes out to the Philipstown School and it's community as they fight for the future of their primary school. These are such difficult times for those school's facing possible closure and we wish them all the very best.
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| Juniors at the Antarctic Centre this week |
Tuesday 14 May 2013
Wednesday 15th May
We are looking ahead to a great day at school today.
I have just recieved an email from the Antarctic Centre to say how wonderful our students were on our recent trips.
"Your classes were well mannered, respectful and polite. Many of them thanked us personally and we loved having them".
What a great email to receive! Well done to all the students and teachers involved. And well done to the Antarctic Centre for passing on their views and comments.
I have just recieved an email from the Antarctic Centre to say how wonderful our students were on our recent trips.
"Your classes were well mannered, respectful and polite. Many of them thanked us personally and we loved having them".
What a great email to receive! Well done to all the students and teachers involved. And well done to the Antarctic Centre for passing on their views and comments.
Monday 13 May 2013
New Enrolments
If you have a pre-schooler or are moving in to this part of the city we would love to hear from you. We are currently accepting enrollments, doing tours of the school and answering questions about our great place to live and learn.
We are experiencing exciting growth at the moment with our school roll already reaching our projected high for 2013 (and it's only May!!!). This is wonderful for the school and our students. We are currently planning to open a new classroom so we can keep class numbers low and help give our children the very best educational and social opportunities.
We would love to talk with you about what makes Waltham special and our vision to 'Reach for the Stars'.
Call us on 379 3137 or email me principal@waltham.school.nz to have a chat and find out more. You can also check out our Waltham School Website .
Learning about sustainable resouces in our school 'Edible Garden'
Our Year 8's carving limestone for a school display
Our annual school-wide athletics sports day
Senior School Camps and Outdoor Education Programme
We are experiencing exciting growth at the moment with our school roll already reaching our projected high for 2013 (and it's only May!!!). This is wonderful for the school and our students. We are currently planning to open a new classroom so we can keep class numbers low and help give our children the very best educational and social opportunities.
We would love to talk with you about what makes Waltham special and our vision to 'Reach for the Stars'.
Call us on 379 3137 or email me principal@waltham.school.nz to have a chat and find out more. You can also check out our Waltham School Website .
School Cultural Group
Tuesday 14th May
It's Room 1 and Room 10's turn to go off to the Antarctic Centre this morning. They leave by bus at 9am and get back to school at lunchtime.
Here at school it is looking like a positive day of learning and fun ahead.
There are a lot of colds and 'Winter Bugs' around at the moment. If your child is unwell and can't come to school please remember to give us a call or text. It is so much quicker for Lynda in the office to get your messages rather than having to call you all herself.
Our phone number is 379 3137 or text us on 027 379 3137
Here at school it is looking like a positive day of learning and fun ahead.
There are a lot of colds and 'Winter Bugs' around at the moment. If your child is unwell and can't come to school please remember to give us a call or text. It is so much quicker for Lynda in the office to get your messages rather than having to call you all herself.
Our phone number is 379 3137 or text us on 027 379 3137
Sunday 12 May 2013
Monday 13th May Junior Antarctic Centre Visit
Today was one of those days where I am sure I have the best job in the world!!!!...
I had great pleasure in being an adult helper on Room 3 and Room 10's trip to the Antarctic Centre.
What a fantastic start to our 'Cold Places' Topic it was. We saw Penguins, rode across hills and through a lake in a Hagland Vehicle and even experienced an Antarctic Storm (-20 degrees). You just can't have experiences like that in a classroom!!!!!
Many thanks to the wonderful teachers and teacher aides who came with us and to our awesome students who were just so eager to learn and have fun.
I look forward to posting some of the great photos on here for you to see over the next few days.
I had great pleasure in being an adult helper on Room 3 and Room 10's trip to the Antarctic Centre.
What a fantastic start to our 'Cold Places' Topic it was. We saw Penguins, rode across hills and through a lake in a Hagland Vehicle and even experienced an Antarctic Storm (-20 degrees). You just can't have experiences like that in a classroom!!!!!
Many thanks to the wonderful teachers and teacher aides who came with us and to our awesome students who were just so eager to learn and have fun.
I look forward to posting some of the great photos on here for you to see over the next few days.
Thursday 9 May 2013
Friday 10th May
All the best for a great Friday everyone!
As usual for a Friday we have our weekly school school assembly at 11:25 this morning in our school Hall.
Who will win our classroom superstar certificates this week?
Which class will be awarded the sought after 'Golden Brush and Shovel' from our famous Caretaker Mr Deadmarsh?
Who will win the weekly 'Playground Superstar' awards?
And.........
Which House will win the weekly battle for supremacy.....and go one step closer to the grand prize of 'Yearly Winner'?????
The excitement continues at Waltham School today.....
Interesting Fact..
It has been wet and stormy two mornings this week...Monday and Friday. Guess which staf fmember is on road patrol duty BOTH these mornings?????
You guessed it......ME!!!!
Have a great Friday,
As usual for a Friday we have our weekly school school assembly at 11:25 this morning in our school Hall.
Who will win our classroom superstar certificates this week?
Which class will be awarded the sought after 'Golden Brush and Shovel' from our famous Caretaker Mr Deadmarsh?
Who will win the weekly 'Playground Superstar' awards?
And.........
Which House will win the weekly battle for supremacy.....and go one step closer to the grand prize of 'Yearly Winner'?????
The excitement continues at Waltham School today.....
Interesting Fact..
It has been wet and stormy two mornings this week...Monday and Friday. Guess which staf fmember is on road patrol duty BOTH these mornings?????
You guessed it......ME!!!!
Have a great Friday,
Wednesday 8 May 2013
Waltham School Strategic Aims
The full school 'Strategic Plan' is available for you to view and comment on at our school office. However you may be interested in seeing our 'Big 3 Aims' at Waltham School as set out by our supportive Board of Trustees. These are as follows...
· Strategic Aim One-Student
Achievement-To raise student achievement levels
in line with National Standard expectations through high quality teaching
practice and classroom programmes.
· Strategic Aim Two-Social Skills and Values-To improve the quality
of students’ social interactions and positive behaviour for learning.
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· Strategic Aim Three-Learning Environment-To develop a supportive,
attractive and stimulating environment for all of the school community.
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Thursday 9th May
Good morning everyone,
The first week of term is flying by! A couple of frosts this week are a sign of things to come but the clear blue skies are worth the chilly start.
It has been a wonderful start to the term and I would like to sincerely thank all of you (students, parents and staff) for your great attitudes and humour this week. Waltham School is a very special place to live and learn thanks to all of YOU!!!!
Basketball Update:
The Senior Basketball Team starts their Monday Competition not this Monday but the following one, at Pioneer Stadium (20th May). Apologies for the delay to the start of the season which we are really looking forward to.
Antarctic Centre:
Rooms 1, 3 , 4 and 10 are off on a very exciting trip to the Antarctic on Monday or Tuesday next week. Their study this term on 'Cold and Mysterious Places' will 'come alive' for them on this adventure.
The first week of term is flying by! A couple of frosts this week are a sign of things to come but the clear blue skies are worth the chilly start.
It has been a wonderful start to the term and I would like to sincerely thank all of you (students, parents and staff) for your great attitudes and humour this week. Waltham School is a very special place to live and learn thanks to all of YOU!!!!
Basketball Update:
The Senior Basketball Team starts their Monday Competition not this Monday but the following one, at Pioneer Stadium (20th May). Apologies for the delay to the start of the season which we are really looking forward to.
Antarctic Centre:
Rooms 1, 3 , 4 and 10 are off on a very exciting trip to the Antarctic on Monday or Tuesday next week. Their study this term on 'Cold and Mysterious Places' will 'come alive' for them on this adventure.
Tuesday 7 May 2013
Welcome to Waltham School
A huge welcome to the Waltham School Website and my personal Principal's Blog.
Here is where I will post regular updates about our school and current news and issues that may be of interest to you.
This blog will also serve as a first 'port of call' for emergency information, school closures due to weather, and last minute changes to school events.
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