Newsletter 27 February 2013

28 February 2013 Term 1 Week 5 13/5

Dear Parents & Caregivers

Kia ora koutou katoa

After School Behaviour

The teachers have asked me to write to parents about after school behaviours - they are concerned that the children are getting mixed messages about what behaviour is acceptable at school when teachers are not around.

Firstly, when school finishes at 3pm, the children are ‘handed over’ to the parent or caregiver. Teachers are not then responsible for children who mayremain at school to play - they become the responsibility of the parent or caregiver.

The problem teachers face is if they see children misbehaving in the school property while in their parents care they ask do they intervene or turn a blind eye?

Hence this comment! Please, when you are supervising your child after school, reinforce the school expectations: respect, responsibility and safety. Please keep children from being too rough, even if a game is good natured and fun; accompany children to the community garden; insist on helmets if your child wishes to skate, scooter or bike down the drive from the top of heart attack hill.

Kia Kaha tatou Katoa ki te tautoko o tatou tamariki, mokopuna hoki.

John McKenzie

Principal

Welcome

Welcome to Sam and Tim who have come from America to join R2. We welcome their parents to our school community.

Wheels Days

This Friday lunchtime is the turn of the senior classes to ride their bikes, scooters, skateboards etc at school. Children who bring their bikes will need to wear a helmet. It is recommended that children wear a helmet when riding their scooters or skateboards.

Assembly

Assembly will be held in the school hall this Friday commencing at 2.20pm. Assembly will be led by R8 with items from R11. Parents and caregivers are welcome to attend.

School Lunches

Thanks to the PTA who have organised a Friday sausage sizzle this term. Details are in the PTA News section.

A new group called Easy Lunch is taking over from Smart Food. Lunches will be available on Mondays & Thursdays. The lunches consist of sandwich or pizza bun, fruit, a muffin, popcorn, and a dessert. The cost is $3.50 or $4.50 for a larger lunch. Orders with money need to be into the office by 9am.

Road Patrol

Help! We still have vacancies on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings. It would be great if parents or caregivers could volunteer at any of these times as teachers are busy welcoming children into the class. If you can help at any of these times please contact Mrs Staynes or the school office.

 

Flippaball Results

Flippaball has started again on Sundays at Moana Pool. We thank Mrs Hesson who organises and coaches the teams.

Results: Last week the Stingrays lost 0 goals to 8, the Tunas won 20 goals to 0 and 18 to 0 and the Dolphins won 11 goals to 1.

This week the Stingrays lost 1 goal to 6; the Tunas lost 3 goals to 3 (Amelia played for the other team and scored 3 of their goals!) and the Dolphins lost 1 goal to 5.

Walk n Wheel to School Week

Monday 4 March to Friday 8 March

Walk n Wheel Week is a Sport Otago and DCC initiative
designed to promote and encourage active transport to school.

Children are encouraged to cycle, skate or scooter to school.

A Walk n Wheel Day will be held on Wednesday 6 March.

Please help and encourage you child/ren to walk/bike/scooter to school.

Children who walk or wheel everyday can enter in the draw to win a Stirling Sports voucher.

Learning Power Tip of the Week

“Be on Time for School”

Children have time to organise themselves
and socialize with their friends
and are ready to learn when the bell rings!

Dates to Note

February
28  Vision and Hearing Testing 9.15am-12.30pm

March
1   Assembly 2.20pm
4   Walk n Wheel Week
4   BOT Meeting 6pm
6   Walk and Wheel Day
7   Rainbow class 1.15-2.45pm
8   Assembly 2.20pm
12 Aquarium Trip - Junior School
14 PTA meeting 3.20pm
15  Assembly 2.20pm
21  Rainbow Class 1.15-2.45pm
22  Assembly 2.20pm
25  Otago Anniversary Day – School Closed
29  Good Friday - School Closed

April
2   Easter Tuesday - school closed
4   Rainbow Class 1.15-2.45pm
5   School Cross Country
5   Assembly 2.20pm
9   Art Gallery Trips R2 and R3
12   Art Gallery Trip R5
19 Last day of Term 1

PTA News
Friday PTA Sausage Sizzles

The PTA has decided to start a lunch sausage sizzle each Friday. Orders with name, room number, number of sausages required and money needs to be into the office by the start of school each Friday. The cost will be $2 per sausage.

New Sports Tops and ShortsThe PTA are applying for a grant to help cover the costs involved in the purchase of new school sports tops and shorts; which the senior school can wear to events outside the class.

Mum’s Movie Club
Thanks to all those that have put their names forward for the Movie Club. We look forward to our first movie soon.

Next PTA Meeting
The next PTA meeting will be held on Thursday 14th March at 3.20pm in the Teaching Room (beside the
Library). Anyone is welcome to attend.

Community News
HAN MA UM DUNEDIN OLYMPIC TAEKWONDO: A fun way for the whole family to make new friends, get fit and learn new skills in a safe and friendly environment. Experienced instructors. Classes are held in the North East Valley Normal School hall from 6-8pm. Ph: 0274125770 or Email: dunedinolympictkd@hotmail.co.nz

"Stuff Everyone Should Know About ASD": Autism Spectrum Disorder Seminar. Pediatrician Dr Paul Taylor who specialises in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) will be coming to speak at our school on Wednesday 27th February 3-4.30pm. His PowerPoint presentation is aimed at parents, teachers and anyone who is interested in learning more about ASD. We are lucky to have him come in his last few weeks in Dunedin before he returns to Nelson. He will have copies of his book available for purchase.

Netball: starts in Term 2 for Year 3 – 6. Sacha will be running some skill sessions every Wednesdays at lunchtime, to give children a taste before games start. Please bring appropriate footwear.

Weight Loss: Don't lose weight and put it all back on. Lose it and keep it off! Affordable weight loss that really works. Free Wellness Evaluation and sample. PH Kathy 0800 401 828 or go to wwwsupershapeupnz.com

Catering for all occasions: contact Leanne, Cordon Bleu Catering 477 3330.

Learn to Programme Courses: The Computer Science Department, University of Otago, is offering Learn to Programme courses for senior primary and junior high school students. These use NXT Lego robots, are non-competitive and fun. Students will be well supported by enthusiastic tutors. For further information, or to sign up, visit the web page at http://www.cs.otago.ac.nz/student/robots.php

The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra: performs with James Hill, ukulele soloist, Saturday 9 March at the Regent Theatre. Tickets www.ukulele.co.nz

Northern Football (soccer): Registration day is at Chingford Park on Saturday 9th March, between 11 and 1pm, or register online http://www.footballsouth.co.nz/ and look for Northern Juniors under club directory. Club fun day will be on Sunday 17th March from 1pm, where there will be games and activities plus food and drink for sale. Talk to Sacha if you have any queries.

NEV Normal School Banking

is Proudly Sponsored by Credit Union South

NZCU SOUTH

26 Filleul Street

Dunedin 9059

Ph 03 4771473

www.nzcusouth.co.nz

email enquiries@nzcusouth.co.nz

Remember School Banking Day is Wednesday

Application forms are available at the school office

Newsletter 18 February 2013

18 February 2013 Term 1 Week 4 13/4

Dear Parents & Caregivers

Kia ora koutou katoa

Goal Setting Sessions this Week

I would like to remind parents that goal setting sessions are being held this week.

Whilst these sessions are only 10 minutes long, they serve an important purpose - the child and parents and teacher agree on what the goals for the first half of the year should be. These goals are then revisited and revised mid year in another round of meetings.

To prepare for these meetings, write down at least one learning goal (e.g. faster times tables; better spelling; tidier handwriting) and one behavioural goal (e.g. taking turns; coping with failure) and take these to the meeting. The teacher will also have some proposed goals and the idea is that a consensus is reached during the session.

If you have not made a time to meet the teacher please do so as soon as possible.

Kia Kaha tatou Katoa ki te tautoko o tatou tamariki, mokopuna hoki.

John McKenzie

Principal

Welcome

Welcome to Jade who has started in R11.

Parent/Teacher/Child Goal Setting

Goal setting interviews start today. If you have not received an appointment time please contact the office. Whaea Marama will be available to speak with the parents of children in the bilingual class after school this Wednesday 20 February.

Scholastic Book Club

Orders for Issue 1 with money need to be in to the office by Wednesday 20 February. If paying by cheque please make cheques payable to Scholastic NZ.

Rainbow Class

The first transition to school class for 4 year olds will be held this Thursday 21 February in R11 from 1.15-2.45pm. This class is taken by Mrs Will, the new entrant teacher. If you have a 4 year old who would like to join this group please contact the office.

Wheels Days

This Friday lunchtime is the turn of the junior classes to ride their bikes, scooters, skateboards etc at school. Children who bring their bikes will need to wear a helmet. It is recommended that children wear a helmet when riding their scooters or skateboards.

Assembly

Assembly will be held in the school hall this Friday commencing at 2.20pm. Assembly will be led by R2 with items from R10. Parents and caregivers are welcome to attend.

School Sun Hats

Sun hats are now available at the office for $13.00.

Road Patrol

Thank you to those wonderful parents/caregivers who have volunteered to supervise road patrol. There are still vacancies on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings. If you can help at any of these times please contact Mrs Staynes or the school office.

After School Care

Kidz Inc OSCAR after school care is held in the school hall. Please contact Andrew Bowen for details, ph 021982216.

School Lunches

We have been advised that Smart Foods is no longer offering school lunches.

Unfortunately Sushi for Schools have also advised that sushi will not be available this term.

Flippaball Fees

There are still a number of children who have not paid their $25 flippaball fee. Flippaball is not part of the school activity donation and needs to be paid as soon as possible as flippaball has started.

Towel

If you loaned a towel to the woman who was knocked off her bike last week, it is available at the office for collection.

Walk n Wheel to School Week

Monday 4 March to Friday 8 March

Walk n Wheel Week is a Sport Otago and DCC initiative designed to promote and encourage active transport to school. Children are encouraged to cycle, skate or scooter to school. A Walk n Wheel Day will be held on Wednesday 6 March. Please help and encourage you child/ren to walk/bike/scooter to school. Children who walk or wheel everyday can enter in the draw to win a Stirling Sports voucher.

Dates to Note

February
18  Goal Setting Interviews 3.10-5.30pm
19  Goal Setting Interviews 3.10-5.30pm
20  Goal Setting Interviews 3.10-5.30pm
20  Book Club Issue 1 closes
21  Rainbow Class 1.15-2.45pm
22  Assembly 2.20pm
26  Senior Classes Golf
28 Vision and Hearing Testing 9.15am-12.30pm

March
1  Assembly 2.20pm
4  Walk n Wheel Week
4  BOT Meeting 6pm
4  Walk and Wheel Day
7  Rainbow class 1.15-2.45pm
8  Assembly 2.20pm
12 Aquarium Trip - Junior School
15  Assembly 2.20pm
21  Rainbow Class 1.15-2.45pm
22  Assembly 2.20pm
25  Otago Anniversary Day – School Closed
29  Good Friday - School Closed

April
2  Easter Tuesday - school closed
4  Rainbow Class 1.15-2.45pm
5  School Cross Country
5  Assembly 2.20pm
9  Art Gallery Trips R2 and R3
12 Art Gallery Trip R5

Community News

HAN MA UM DUNEDIN OLYMPIC TAEKWONDO: A fun way for the whole family to make new friends, get fit and learn new skills in a safe and friendly environment. Experienced instructors. Classes are held in the North East Valley Normal School hall from 6-8pm. Ph: 0274125770 or Email: dunedinolympictkd@hotmail.co.nz

Opoho Scout Group is holding a meeting for those Interested in forming a Kea Club at the Scout Hall in Opoho Road at 4.00 pm on Tuesday 26th February 2013. Keas is for children in school years 1- 3. A Kea leader will be present to lead children through some Kea activities whilst the parents meet. Enquiries can be made to Kevin McRae on 03 477 6644 (bus).

"Stuff Everyone Should Know About ASD": Autism Spectrum Disorder Seminar. Pediatrician Dr Paul Taylor who specialises in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) will be coming to speak at our school on Wednesday 27th February 3-4.30pm. His PowerPoint presentation is aimed at parents, teachers and anyone who is interested in learning more about ASD. We are lucky to have him come in his last few weeks in Dunedin before he returns to Nelson. He will have copies of his book available for purchase.

Netball: starts in Term 2 for Year 3 – 6. Sacha will be running some skill sessions every Wednesdays at lunchtime, to give children a taste before games start. Please bring appropriate footwear.

Bike Wise Family Fun Day: Sunday 24 February from 11am to 2pm at Forrester Park. Cycle skills challenges, mountain bike skills course, BMX racing demonstrations. Special guest Olympic silver medalist Sarah Walker. Spot prizes.

30th Dunedin Girls’ Brigade Company - Pine Hill: are starting again on Wednesday 20 February at 6pm in the St Marks Presbyterian Church hall.

Weight Loss: Don't lose weight and put it all back on. Lose it and keep it off! Affordable weight loss that really works. Free Wellness Evaluation and sample. PH Kathy 0800 401 828 or go to wwwsupershapeupnz.com

Catering for all occasions: contact Leanne, Cordon Bleu Catering 477 3330.

Learn to Programme courses: The Computer Science Department, University of Otago, is offering Learn to Programme courses for senior primary and junior high school students. These use NXT Lego robots, are non-competitive and fun. Students will be well supported by enthusiastic tutors. For further information, or to sign up, visit the web page at http://www.cs.otago.ac.nz/student/robots.php

The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra: performs with James Hill, ukulele soloist, Saturday 9 March at the Regent Theatre. Tickets www.ukulele.co.nz

NEV Normal School Banking

is Proudly Sponsored by Credit Union South

NZCU SOUTH

26 Filleul Street

Dunedin 9059

Ph 03 4771473

www.nzcusouth.co.nz

email enquiries@nzcusouth.co.nz

Remember School Banking Day is Wednesday

Application forms are available at the school office

Newsletter 11 February 2013

11 February 2013 Term 1 Week 3 13/3

Dear Parents & Caregivers

Kia ora koutou katoa

What a great turn out to the fish’n’chip evening. It was lovely and warm, well attended, and a nice way for us to get together.

One of the strengths of our school is the generally positive relationships between the school staff and the parents.

There is a healthy and friendly activity atmosphere at school and new parents often comment on this.

I reckon it is important to air our views early on so as to avoid problems escalating. If you have a problem with something at school, talk to the classroom teacher first. If you don’t get any joy, see Mrs Staynes or me. If we don’t sort it out to your satisfaction, you can make a formal complaint to the Board of Trustees.

Sorting out issues early develops such a positive atmosphere as is evident at the picnic.

Kia Kaha tatou Katoa ki te tautoko o tatou tamariki, mokopuna hoki.

John McKenzie

Principal

Welcome

Welcome Finlay who has started in R11. We welcome his family to our school community.

Parent/Teacher/Child Goal Setting

The dates for the 3 way teacher/parent/child conferences are Monday 18, Tuesday 19 and Wednesday 20 February. Booking forms were sent home on Friday and should be returned to school by this Wednesday. An appointment time will be sent home with you child.

Beach Education

Many thanks to all the parents and caregivers who volunteered to help supervise the children at St Kilda beach.

Arrival Time at School

School opens each day for the children at 8.30am. Please, if your child needs to be dropped off earlier you must make an arrangement with either the office or the classroom teacher to accommodate this.

Free Books

A number of surplus Ready to Read books will be displayed outside the school hall tomorrow (Tuesday) after school. These books are suitable for all ages and are free.

School Activity Donation

Thank you to all the families who have paid the school activity donation. Payment may be made in full at the start of the year, termly or weekly. If you wish to pay by automatic payment or by internet transfer the account is 03 1726 0055515 00.

Scholastic Book Club

Orders for Issue 1 with money need to be in to the office by Wednesday 20 February. If paying by cheque please make cheques payable to Scholastic NZ.

Road Patrol

Thank you to those wonderful parents/caregivers who have volunteered to supervise road patrol. There are still vacancies on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings. If you can help at any of these times please contact Mrs Staynes or the school office.

After School Care

Kidz Inc OSCAR after school care is held in the school hall. Please contact Andrew Bowen for details, ph 021982216.

Assembly

Assembly will be held in the school hall this Friday commencing at 2.20pm. Assembly will be led by R3 with items from R8. Parents and caregivers are welcome to attend.

Wheels Days

This Friday lunchtime is the turn of the senior classes to ride their bikes, scooters, skateboards etc at school. Children who bring their bikes will need to wear a helmet. It is recommended that children wear a helmet when riding their scooters or skateboards.

School Lunches

We have been advised that Smart Foods is no longer offering school lunches.

Unfortunately Sushi for Schools have also advised that sushi will not be available this term.

Contact Details

Please check your child’s student profile form, amend details if necessary and return to school as soon as possible.

2013 Term Dates

Term 1 Monday 28 January - Friday 19 April
Term 2 Monday 6 May - Friday 12 July
Term 3 Monday 29 July - Friday 27 September
Term 4 Monday 14 October - Thursday 12 December

Statutory Holidays
Otago Anniversary Day: Monday 25 March
Good Friday: Friday 29 March
Easter Monday: Monday 1 April
Easter Tuesday: Tuesday 2 April
Queen's Birthday: Monday 3 June
Labour Day: Monday 28 October

Statutory Holidays not affecting the school term
Anzac Day: Wednesday 25 April

Dates to Note

February
12  Senior classes Beach Education Trip
14  PTA Meeting 3.20pm
15  Assembly 2.20pm
18  Goal Setting Interviews 3.10-5.30pm
19  Goal Setting Interviews 3.10-5.30pm
20  Goal Setting Interviews 3.10-5.30pm
20  Book Club Issue 1 closes
21  Rainbow class 1.15-2.45pm
22  Assembly 2.20pm
26  Senior Classes Golf
28  Vision and Hearing Testing 9.15am-12.30pm

March
1  Assembly 2.20pm
4  BOT Meeting 6pm
7  Bikes for Fun day
7  Rainbow class 1.15-2.45pm
8  Assembly 2.20pm
15  Assembly 2.20pm
21  Rainbow Class 1.15-2.45pm
22  Assembly 2.20pm
25  Otago Anniversary Day – School Closed
29  Good Friday - School Closed

April
2  Easter Tuesday - school closed
4  Rainbow Class 1.15-2.45pm
5  School Cross Country
5  Assembly 2.20pm

PTA News

First meeting for the New Year

Our first meeting will be held on this Thursday 14th February at 3.20pm, in the Teaching Room (beside the Library). New members are very welcome!

Mums Movie Club

Abby and Paula (mums from room 2) are interested in starting a social movie club at the Rialto movie theatre. We would like to see at least one movie a month (probably the last Saturday of each month). If we get enough people to join us we may be able to get discounted tickets. We will meet before the movie to have a glass of bubbly and a bit of a chat; then get our ice creams, pop corn, etc and enjoy a good movie. If you are interested please email Paula at: paula.phil@clear.net.nz or text 027 2730932; with your name and contact details (email and/or cell phone number).

Community News

HAN MA UM DUNEDIN OLYMPIC TAEKWONDO: A fun way for the whole family to make new friends, get fit and learn new skills in a safe and friendly environment. Experienced instructors. Classes are held in the North East Valley Normal School hall from 6-8pm. Ph: 0274125770 or Email: dunedinolympictkd@hotmail.co.nz

Opoho Scout Group is holding a meeting for those Interested in forming a Kea Club at the Scout Hall in Opoho Road at 4.00 pm on Tuesday 26th February 2013. Keas is for children in school years 1- 3. Keas interact with nature and learn to share through co-operation and teamwork. A Kea leader will be present to lead children through some Kea activities whilst the parents meet. Enquiries can be made to Kevin McRae on 03 477 6644 (bus).

"Stuff Everyone Should Know About ASD": Autism Spectrum Disorder Seminar. Pediatrician Dr Paul Taylor who specialises in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) will be coming to speak at our school on Wednesday 27th February 3-4.30pm. His PowerPoint presentation is aimed at parents, teachers and anyone who is interested in learning more about ASD. We are lucky to have him come in his last few weeks in Dunedin before he returns to Nelson. He will have copies of his book available for purchase.

Netball: starts in Term 2 for Year 3 – 6. Sacha will be running some skill sessions every Wednesdays at lunchtime, to give children a taste before games start. Please bring appropriate footwear.

Otago School of Piping and Drumming: Free snare drumming and bagpipe beginners classes starting Tuesday 12 February at 5.30pm and Thursday 14 February at 4.30pm. Contact Victoria 4891650 or www.ospd.org.nz

Newsletter 4 February 2013

4 February 2013    Term 1 Week 2     13/2

Dear Parents & Caregivers

Kia ora koutou katoa

Week 1

The year has started well. The children have got down to work very quickly. This term is a long one - 12 weeks - but we have a few short weeks to break the monotony including of course Waitangi Day this week and the Easter holidays later in the term.

The school roll is strong. We enrolled 21 new students over the break and we currently have 145 children on site. We will open a second new entrant class mid year as we did last year and Mrs Robyn Cleland will once again teach that class. Whilst we hope that this will minimise children being shifted during the year, we cannot guarantee that yet.

Mrs Will is having another sabbatical break this year, during Term 2. Mrs Cleland will take Mrs Will’s class in her absence.

Elections for the Board of Trustees are due this year in May. Anyone interested should talk to a current trustee or see me of Sara in the office for further information.

Positive Behaviour for Learning

We have included learning and behaviour expectations with this newsletter. These form the basis for our Positive Behaviour for Learning (PB4L) contract with the Ministry of Education which has been operating in the school for the past 3 years. There is also a plan to extend these guidelines for school families to use at home.

Kia Kaha tatou Katoa ki te tautoko o tatou tamariki, mokopuna hoki.

John McKenzie

Principal

Welcome

A big welcome to the children who have started this year. In R11 we welcome Rhiannon (who started during the last week of last term), Sarah, Charisse, Tawera, Aiden, Finn, Thomas, Ben and Jay; in R10 we welcome Maria, Rion, and Callum, in R8 we welcome Dennis and Lochy; in R3 we welcome Kurt; in R2 we welcome George, Benedict and Tamahori; and in R5 we welcome Jack, Josh, Ben and RV. We also welcome their families to our school community.

Waitangi Day

School will be closed on Wednesday 6 February to observe Waitangi Day.

Fish and Chip Evening

The Board of Trustees is hosting a family fish and chip evening to be held at school on this Friday 8 February at 5pm. Families are welcome to visit the community garden and see the great development that has been made to our upper field playground! Families associated with the school are also invited to attend.

School Stationery

It is expected that all children have their stationery now. Class stationery is available from the office.

School Activity Donation

School activity donations for 2013 are: Senior School $85, or $21.50 per term; Junior School $75 or $19.00 per term. The family discount donation for a 2 child family is $130, or $32.50 per term; and a 3 child family is $160, or $40.00 per term.

Already there are trips planned to St Kilda for beach education and the senior school are going to Toitu Early Settlers Museum and the Chinese garden in support of curriculum study. Prompt payment will be appreciated. Payment may be made in full at the start of the year, termly, by automatic payment or by internet transfer to account 03 1726 0055515 00, or by other arrangement with the office staff.

A receipt will be issued and can be used with the donations part of your tax return.

Scholastic Book Club

Leaflets for Issue 1 are being sent home this week. Orders with money need to be in to the office by Wednesday 20 February. If paying by cheque please make cheques payable to Scholastic NZ.

Road Patrol

Thank you to those wonderful parents/caregivers who have volunteered to supervise road patrol. There are still a few gaps on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings and Thursday afternoons. If you can help at any of these times please contact Mrs Staynes or the school office.

After School Care

Kidz Inc OSCAR after school care is held in the school hall. Please contact Andrew Bowen for details, ph 021982216.

Dental Service

Visits to the Dental School for oral health checks will recommence in March. If you have a concern about your child’s teeth at any time you are able to phonethe Community Oral Health Service Hub Clinic for an appointment Ph 471 6080. They are located on the 2nd floor of the Dental School.

No Hat No Play

Children must wear a wide brimmed hat this term. No caps please. Children without sun hats will sit in the shade during break times. School bucket sunhats are on order and will be available in about 2 weeks. Please ensure your child has a bucket type hat with a full brim or a legionnaire type sun hat.

Chinese Gardens & Toitu Early Settlers Museum

A notice has been sent home today about visits by R2, R3 and R5 in support of their study on Chinese New Year. Parent help is needed on these trips.

Beach Education

If you are able to assist with our beach education days on 11 and 12 February please return the notice to school with your details.

Assembly

Assembly will be held in the school hall this Friday commencing at 2.20pm. Assembly will be led by R5 with items from R3. Parents and caregivers are welcome to attend. Dates for T1 are enclosed.

Wheels Days

This Friday lunchtime is the turn of the junior classes to ride their bikes, scooters, skateboards etc at school. Children who bring their bikes will need to wear a helmet. It is recommended that children wear a helmet when riding their scooters or skateboards.

BOT News

The Board of Trustees met last Monday to discuss the school’s vision and strategic plan for 2013. Board succession planning is also under review as two board members plan to stand down at the next election. Board members are Steve O’Connor, George O’Brien, (both outgoing members), Jesseme Jones, AJ Woodhouse, John McKenzie and Karen Sintmaartensdijk.

The date for the Board of Trustees election is Thursday 30 May.

School Lunches

We have been advised today that Smart Foods is no longer offering school lunches.

Sushi for schools will restart on Friday 15 February.

Contact Details

Student profiles have been sent home today. Please check the form and amend contact details if necessary and return to school by Friday.

Dates to Note

February
6   Waitangi Day - school closed
7   R2 Trip to Early Settlers Museum 10.10am
8   R3 Trip to Early Settler Museum 10.10am
8   Assembly 2.20pm
8   Family Fish and Chip evening 5pm
11 R5 Trip to Early Settlers Museum 10.10am
11 Junior classes Beach Education Trip
12 Senior classes Beach Education Trip
14 PTA Meeting 3.20pm
15 Assembly 2.20pm
20 Book Club Issue 1 closes
21 Rainbow class 1.15-2.45pm
22 Assembly 2.20pm
26 Senior Classes Golf

March
1 Assembly 2.20pm
7 Rainbow class 1.15-2.45pm
8 Assembly 2.20pm
15 Assembly 2.20pm
21 Rainbow Class 1.15-2.45pm
22 Assembly 2.20pm
25 Otago Anniversary Day – School Closed
29 Good Friday - School Closed

PTA News

First meeting for the New Year

We would like to welcome anyone who might be interested, to come along to our first PTA meeting for the year. There will be lots of fundraising to be done this year (as with every year), so that we can provide additional financial support for our great school! Our first meeting will be held on Thursday 14th February at 3.20pm, in the Teaching Room (beside the Library).

Community News

HAN MA UM DUNEDIN OLYMPIC TAEKWONDO: A fun way for the whole family to make new friends, get fit and learn new skills in a safe and friendly environment. Experienced instructors with internationally recognised qualifications. Classes starting February 4 at North East Valley Normal School hall from 6-8pm. Ph: 0274125770 or Email: dunedinolympictkd@hotmail.co.nz

NEV Normal School Banking

is Proudly Sponsored by Credit Union South

NZCU SOUTH

26 Filleul Street

Dunedin 9059

Ph 03 4771473

www.nzcusouth.co.nz

email enquiries@nzcusouth.co.nz

Remember School Banking Day is Wednesday

Application forms are available at the school office

Newsletter 29 January 2013

29 January 2013    Term 1 Week 1     13/1

Dear Parents & Caregivers

Kia ora koutou katoa

Happy New Year

Our neighbours dropped off some apricots to our house last week. They had been to Roxburgh on their annual pilgrimage and kindly brought us back a bag of fruit. Apricots always remind me of my childhood. Our family would travel to Alexandra so Mum and Dad could get fruit for jams and preserves.

I have memories of impossibly hot nights, sunburn, swimming and of course juicy fruit. Mum and Dad were far more relaxed than usual and everything including curfews and tables manners seemed similarly more relaxed.

While my parents wouldn’t have realised it at the time, the yearly fruit gathering trip would become something memorable in the lives of their seven children. They were creating memories for us; good memories; memories we would find comfort and joy in.

These are precious times for us as parents - lets work at making good memories for our children and lets support each other, the school staff and the families so we can achieve the very best for our children.

After School Care

Kidz Inc OSCAR after school care is held in the school hall. Please see Andrew Bowen for details, contact 021982216.

Dental Service

Not all children were seen by the Dental School last year. If you have a concern about your child’s teeth please contact the Community Oral Health Service Hub Clinic Ph 471 6080. They are located on the 2nd floor of the Dental School.

No Hat No Play

Children must wear a wide brimmed hat this term. No caps please. Children without sun hats will sit in the shade during break times. School bucket sunhats are on order and will be available in about 2 weeks. In the meantime please ensure your child has a bucket type hat with a full brim or a legionnaire type sun hat. Caps are not suitable.

School Wide Expectations

The school wide expectations are included with this newsletter for parents and caregivers to read with your child/ren. These expectations also form the basis of the class contracts the teachers will be discussing with the children during the week.

Kia Kaha tatou Katoa ki te tautoko o tatou tamariki, mokopuna hoki.

John McKenzie

Principal

Waitangi Day

School will be closed on Wednesday 6 February to observe Waitangi Day.

School Stationery

The class stationery lists have been sent home today with you child. Stationery packs are available from the office. We have had a delay on the school sun hats but hope to have them in shortly. We do not have eftpos so payment must be made by cash, cheque or by internet banking. It is expected that children have their stationery by the end of the week.

School Activity Donation

School activity donations for 2013 are: Senior School $85, or $21.50 per term; Junior School $75 or $19.00 per term. The family discount donation for a 2 child family is $130, or $32.50 per term; and a 3 child family is $160, or $40.00 per term.

The activity donation is requested for extra curricular activities such as trips to the museum & art gallery, school swimming, and performances by various groups at school. Prompt payment will be appreciated. Payment may be made in full at the start of the year, termly, by automatic payment or by internet transfer to account 03 1726 0055515 00, or by other arrangement with the office staff.

A receipt will be issued and can be used with the donations part of your tax return.

The Board of Trustees has not increased the donation this year in recognition of the financial demands on many families. However it is hoped that all families make a contribution as all children benefit

School Newsletter, Website and Blogs

The school will continue this year with the use of the school website for publishing the newsletter and blogs giving updates of happenings in the school and in individual classrooms. Photos of children and their first names will be used. If you do not want your child’s name or image to be used please let us know.

Road Patrol

If you are able to assist with supervising the road patrollers before or after school for 15-20 minutes please contact Mrs Staynes or the school office. Teachers really appreciate this help as it is difficult to leave the classroom before school and at 3pm. Many parents/caregivers like to speak to the class teacher at this time and the children often need this time with the teacher.

Road Safety & Parking Around the School

When walking children to or from school please use the patrolled crossing to get children across North Road. The instruction is to wait for the second whistle and the barrier arms to go out across the road before stepping off the footpath. This is teaching children safe road crossing skills.

Would parents who pick up children from the Longworth Street entrance please not park in the residents’ driveways or on the yellow no parking areas.

Update Contact Details

Please let the office know if you have changed your landline or mobile numbers and/or your emergency contact names and numbers.

Advance Notice

Our beach education days will be held at St Kilda beach during Week 3 on February 11th for the junior school and February 12th for the senior school. We will need parent help on these days as the children go in the water. A notice will be sent home shortly with further information.

School Lunches

There are no school lunches available this week.

Assembly

There is no assembly this Friday.

Wheels Days

This Friday lunchtime is the turn of the senior classes to ride their bikes, scooters, skateboards etc at school. Children who bring their bikes will need to wear a helmet. It is recommended that children wear a helmet when riding their scooters or skateboards.

Te Reo Class

Tēnā koutou katoa,

Enrolment is still open for the reo class (Bilingual Unit) if your child or children are interested. The class begins on Wednesday 30th January. Our programme focuses on the development of Māori language and tikanga (culture) and is open to year 3 children and above.

Please contact the Office if you are interested.

Nga mihi nui

Whaea Marama

2013 Term Dates

Term 1 Monday 28 January - Friday 19 April

Term 2 Monday 6 May - Friday 12 July

Term 3 Monday 29 July - Friday 27 September

Term 4 Monday 14 October - Thursday 12 December

Statutory Holidays

Waitangi Day: Wednesday 6 February

Otago Anniversary Day: Monday 25 March

Good Friday: Friday 29 March

Easter Monday: Monday 1 April

Easter Tuesday: Tuesday 2 April

Queen's Birthday: Monday 3 June

Labour Day: Monday 28 October

Statutory Holidays not affecting the school term

Anzac Day: Wednesday 25 April

PTA News

End of Year Prizegiving Assembly Special Awards

Congratulations to all those students who received awards at the end of last year. The PTA would like to acknowledge those students who received the PTA sponsored awards: “Creative Arts Award” went to Chloe Robertson; “Xavier Award” went to Justice Harvey-Helsloot and the “Ben Wright Cup” went to Emma Andrew.

Thanks to Shelley Kennedy

appreciation for the amazing work she has done for the PTA over the years that her children have been at the school. Thanks Shelley and we know where you work when we need you again!!

Newly painted playground equipment

Thank you to Mr Harvey for overseeing the re-painting of the playground equipment that was undertaken during the holidays.

First meeting for the New Year

We would like to welcome anyone who might be interested, to come along to our first PTA meeting for the year. There will be lots of fundraising to be done this year (as with every year), so that we can provide additional financial support for our great school! Our first meeting will be held on Thursday 14th February at 3.20pm, in the Teaching Room (beside the Library).

School Banking

Banking day with NZCU South is each Wednesday. At the end of each term all children with active (minimum of 6 deposits per term) accounts will be mailed a Hoyts movie voucher. Banking is fun and teaches your child the merits of putting some money in the bank regularly and watching the total grow! Forms are available from the office.

Community News

HAN MA UM DUNEDIN OLYMPIC TAEKWONDO: A fun way for the whole family to make new friends, get fit and learn new skills in a safe and friendly environment. Experienced instructors with internationally recognised qualifications. Classes starting February 4 at North East Valley Normal School hall from 6-8pm. Ph: 0274125770 or Email: dunedinolympictkd@hotmail.co.nz

Port Chalmers Junior Golf: will resume Sunday 3rd February 2013 10.00am at Port Chalmers Golf Club, Reservoir Rd. Sawyers Bay. For any information please phone 4727611 or email fionamck@xtra.co.nz

Children’s Art Classes: All school terms 2013: Mon-Fri 3:00-6:15pm, Sat 10:00am-12:00pm & 2:00-4:00pm. $22.50 2-3hrs @ $225 10 week term. Enquiries/Enrolments: Ph 477 6112/Hm 472-8072/Cell. 021-114-7971. Tutors: Matthew Robertson BFA, Dip.Tchg, and Fiona Shaw-Robertson BFA. OSCAR approved.

Girl Guides at St Martin's 2013: Pippins 5 & 6 year olds. Brownies 7 & 9 ½ year olds. Guides 10 to 13 year olds. Meetings are on Mondays at St Martins Hall. All girls are welcome. Enquires to Emma Reeves

emmareeves12@hotmail.com or 0274 676 805.