Notes from the Year 7 and 8 Academic and Pastoral Care Leader – Ms Kate Veale

Read on for a brief check in on past events and some reminders too.

This term we have introduced fortnightly assemblies into the junior school. These are run completely by the students. Our focus is on celebrating achievement with certificates and a waka card draw. Thank you to our principal Mrs Reeves for coming along and presenting the certificates. We also address any relevant pastoral concerns and upcoming events.

Celebrating Parental Engagement at Year ⅞ Student-Led Conferences.

Your presence created a supportive and encouraging environment for our students, allowing them to confidently showcase their progress, goals, and areas of improvement.

These conferences provided a unique opportunity for our students to take ownership of their learning and develop vital skills such as communication, organization, and self-reflection. Your engagement during these sessions played a pivotal role in fostering their growth and development.

We understand the demands and commitments that come with being a parent, and we are incredibly grateful for the time and effort you invested in attending these conferences. Your active involvement sends a powerful message to your child about the value you place on their education, inspiring them to strive for excellence.

We hope that you found the conferences informative and meaningful, and we encourage you to share any feedback or suggestions you may have. Your input is invaluable as we continuously strive to enhance our educational practices and strengthen our partnership with you. Together, we can empower our students to reach their full potential

I wanted to take a moment to inform you about our parent concern process, which aims to ensure effective communication and support for addressing any concerns or questions you may have. We believe in fostering a collaborative partnership between home and school, and your input is highly valued.

When you have a concern regarding your child, we encourage you to follow the following steps:

• Classroom Teacher: In most cases, the first point of contact should be your child's classroom teacher. They have a deep understanding of your child's day-to-day progress, behaviour, and specific challenges. Reach out to the teacher through a note, email, or scheduling a meeting to discuss your concerns. They will provide insights, address your queries, and work with you to find suitable solutions.
• Whānau Teacher: If the concern persists or if you feel the need for additional support, please contact your child's whānau teacher. The whānau teacher plays a vital role in supporting the holistic well-being and development of your child. They have a broader perspective and can provide guidance and assistance in navigating any ongoing issues. Together, you and the whānau teacher can explore strategies to support your child's success.
• In some instances, if the concern remains unresolved or requires further attention, you may request a meeting with myself the Academic and Pastoral Leader. The APL serves as a resource for parents and offers additional support and guidance. They will collaborate with you and the teachers involved to find appropriate solutions and ensure a positive resolution.

Please note that this process is designed to promote effective communication and timely resolution of concerns. We encourage open and respectful dialogue throughout the process and appreciate your patience as we work together to address any issues that may arise.

Kate Veale
Year 7/8 Academic and Pastoral Leader