Week 5, Term 1, 2025

Kia Ora e te Whanau,

Parent Teacher Meetings

Your Parent-Teacher Meetings are happening this Thursday and Friday, and we look forward to connecting with you. Each class has a different start time to accommodate student numbers, and you’ll see available time slots when you log into Parent Interviews to book your appointment. Please note that school remains open as usual, and students do not attend these meetings. Meetings are 10 minutes long and will take place in your child’s classroom. This is a great opportunity to meet with your child’s teacher one-on-one. (For shared discussions with your child about their learning progress, our Akonui Hui in Terms 2 and 4 will provide that space.) If your meeting is after school, your children are welcome to play in the school grounds during your appointment.

These meetings focus on how your child has settled into their class. We encourage you to share your hopes, dreams, and aspirations for your child—what are their strengths, passions, and interests? What do you believe their teacher should know to build a strong and productive learning relationship for 2025? The more you share, the better we can shape a learning environment that excites and engages your child.

To ensure all whānau have their allocated time, please keep to the 10-minute slot.

📅 Book your appointment at: https://www.schoolinterviews.co.nz
🔑 Use the code: un52f

We look forward to seeing you at the Parent-Teacher Meetings and working together to support your child’s learning journey

Gala

Our much-anticipated Gala is just around the corner, happening next weekend! We look forward to seeing you all there for our biggest fundraising event of the year. Be sure to enter at least one of our many exciting competitions and join in the fun. A separate gala notice with all the key details will be sent out this week. In the meantime, we would greatly appreciate any donations towards our grocery raffles, general raffles (meat packs, big-ticket items, experience vouchers), or items for our White Elephant stall. Every dollar raised goes directly back into educating our children, supporting their learning and school experiences. Thank you for your generosity and support—we can’t wait to see you there!

Digital Citizenship Evening

Thank you to all our whaanau and staff who attended our Digital Safety Evening last Thursday. Your thoughtful feedback highlighted the importance of this kaupapa and reinforced our shared commitment to keeping all our tamariki safe online. It was heartening to see our school values in action as we worked together to ensure the best outcomes for all our children. For those who were unable to attend, I will be sending out further information this week so that everyone has access to these valuable insights. Ngaa mihi for your ongoing support in making our school a safe and informed digital community.

Swimming Sports

Congratulations to all our aakonga who competed in the swimming sports! It was a fantastic day filled with determination, competitiveness, and incredible whaanau spirit. Our super swimmers gave it their all, and we wish them the best of luck at Group Day on Thursday. One of the highlights of the day was seeing students who stepped out of their comfort zones, showing bravery and giving it a go—especially those who, in the past, may have found reasons not to participate. Ka pai to the parents who encouraged their children to be part of the day, reinforcing that school is about embracing all opportunities, not just picking and choosing. I shared with our students how proud I am of them, how much I admire their courage, and how important it is that they know they are seen. As Nelson Mandela once said, “I never lose. I either win or learn.” This was a powerful lesson in resilience and participation—one that will stay with them far beyond the pool.

Sponsorship

We are reaching out to our valued community partners for sponsorship to support two important initiatives at our school: the redevelopment of our playground and assisting students to attend camp. Whether big or small, every contribution makes a meaningful difference in creating enriching experiences for our tamariki. If you or your business are able to support us in any way, we would be incredibly grateful. We can also provide an invoice if required. Your generosity will directly impact our students by enhancing their learning environment and ensuring all children have the opportunity to participate in these valuable experiences. Thank you for your support!

Parent Volunteers Needed

We are looking for parent volunteers to assist in our classrooms and support our students’ learning. If you have an hour a day or even an hour a week to spare, we would love your help! Volunteers can support students with reading, Toe by Toe, maths facts, and other classroom tasks that make a big difference in our tamariki’s learning. Your time and support are invaluable in creating a positive and enriching learning environment. If you’re interested or would like more information, please get in touch—we’d love to have you on board! 

At the heart of our school is the strength of our community—our whanau, staff, and akonga—working together to create the best possible learning environment. Every moment we spend supporting, encouraging, and being present with our tamariki makes a difference. Whether it’s helping in the classroom, cheering them on at events, or simply taking the time to listen, these small but powerful actions shape their journey. Let’s continue to embrace these opportunities, working together to ensure that every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. Ngaa mihi nui for your ongoing support, dedication, and partnership in creating a strong, connected school community where our tamariki are Realising Potential.

Ngaa Mangaakitanga,

Ms Lysandra Stuart

Principal: Glenbrook School

Lead Principal: Waiuku Kaahui Ako

President: Franklin Principals Association