Author Archives: Reihana Dougherty

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto Schoolwide Newsletter, Rāmere (Friday) 16 May 2025

Posted on by

Principal's Patch

Opportunity for Feedback – Health Curriculum Delivery at Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto.
Click here to see what is covered in our Health programme and give your feedback. 

Kia ora koutou,

It is hard to believe we are already a third of the way through Term 2. Thank you to all the whānau members who attended our welcome assembly last Friday. We are privileged to have your children as students at our school, and we look forward to building positive relationships with you over the coming years.

Today, the Readathon culminated in our much-anticipated Book Character Day. The variety of creative costumes on display was truly impressive! A huge thank you to our dedicated PTA for their ongoing efforts to raise funds for our school. We hope everyone was able to get behind the Readathon as our first fundraiser of the year.

Book Character Day

Learning Conferences 

At Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto, we’re looking forward to connecting with you at our upcoming learning conferences, which will take place after mid-year reports are shared on Friday 6 June. These meetings are a valuable opportunity to celebrate your child’s progress, talk about their current learning and next steps, and explore how we can work together to support them both at school and at home.

During the conference, we’ll check in on how you found the school report and answer any questions you have about this. Your child will also share some of their learning and focus areas in class. There’ll be time to discuss general wellbeing, social or medical matters, and any support we can offer.

We’ll also take a moment to ensure you’re receiving all school and team newsletters, and that you can consistently access Hero. 

Lastly, we welcome anything else you’d like us to know - things that are especially meaningful to your child, or any updates to your contact information. If there’s anything you’d prefer to discuss without your child present, you’re welcome to email their home group teacher directly.

Learning Conferences will take place on:

Tuesday 10 June – between 1:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m.

Wednesday 11 June – between 1:30 p.m. and 5:45 p.m.

On both of the above days, classes will finish at 1:00 p.m. We thank you for accommodating this change to support the facilitation of learning conferences. Limited supervision will be available at school until 3:00 p.m., and we will be in touch over the next couple of weeks to confirm arrangements for those who require it.

To make a booking, please click the link here, or go to:

https://www.schoolinterviews.co.nz/code and use the following code: r3wt9

Or, use the QR Code below:
Booking QR Code

Parent Portal - Ministry of Education 

You may have seen in the media that the Ministry of Education has launched a new Parent Portal designed to help you better understand what your child is learning at school or kura, how they are progressing against the curriculum, and how you can support their learning at home.

This site offers a range of helpful resources, including information about the recent curriculum changes that we are currently working through at Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto.



Ngā mihi
Cade 

Principal / Tumuaki
Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto

Important Dates

Upcoming Events

Fri 16 May - Readathon Ends
Thu 22 May - Y5/8 Winter Sport Begins
Fri 23 May - School Cross Country
Wed 28 May - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Thu 29 May - Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room)
Fri 30 May - Staff Only Day (School Closed)
Mon 2 Jun - Public Holiday, School Closed (King's Birthday)
Fri 6 Jun - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am in the Hall)
Tue 10 Jun - Learning Conferences (school closes at 1pm)
Wed 11 Jun - Learning Conferences (school closes at 1pm)
Tue 17 Jun - Matariki Evening (5PM-7PM)
Thu 19 Jun - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am in the Hall)
Fri 20 Jun - Public Holiday, School Closed (Matariki)
Wed 25 Jun -  Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room)
Wed 25 Jun - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Fri 27 Jun - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am in the Hall)
Fri 27 Jun - Last Day of Term 2
Mon 14 Jul - First Day of Term 3

Citizen of the Week

Oscar Wood - Year 8

Oscar, you are an outstanding role model for all of our school values. You embrace challenges with enthusiasm, across the curriculum. You are proving to be a very confident and organised chairperson for our student council. Your ability to work with a wide range of people, with great focus on the task, is an example of your fabulous leadership. Tu meke, Oscar!

Cora Nuttall - Year 5

Cora, your bubbly personality is truly infectious and your passion for learning radiates in all that you undertake. As a fantastic self-manager and a positive role model, you lead by example. Your willingness to always lend a hand in class and take on extra responsibilities makes you such a valuable and inspiring member of our team. Tino pai tō mahi, Cora!

School Notices

Parking in the 3min area on Sandwich Road

A reminder please, that the drop off and pick up area on Sandwich Road (by the bike stands) is a 3min drop-off zone from 8:30-9:30am and 2:30-3:30pm on school days. This means drivers are not able to sit in their cars from 2:30pm waiting for children, or to park cars in this area and go into school. If you arrive early and wait for children, or if you need to get out of your car and come into school, please find an alternative place to park. Having this area just for drop-offs means that the traffic on Sandwich Road moves smoothly before and after school, and this is much safer for our children.

PTA Book and Clothing Sale

BOSCO

BOSCO is looking for new members to join our committee. If you are interested or have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Harriet Takamore via email or pop on in when you have the chance to chat.

You would be joining a lovely bunch of volunteers who are passionate about the service BOSCO provides and being a part of its future.

BOSCO currently has availability each day for before and after school care for regular or casual bookings.

If you have thought about using BOSCO for your tamariki but aren’t 100% sure what we're about or how we work, please feel free to pop in for a chat with Harriet or send through an email with any questions you may have.

A trial session is welcome if you would like your tamariki to give it a go first.

Harriet Takamore
Programme Leader
BOSCO Incorporated
office@bosco.org.nz
027 645 6632

Kupu Māori o te Wīki:

These are our Whakataukī (phrase), Instructions, and Kupu (words) for the last couple of weeks. Give them a go! 

Whakataukī:
- Whakarite ngā kete mō te haerenga! - This means filling our kete for the journey.
- Ahakoa he iti kete, he iti nā te aroha - This means it’s the thought that counts. 

Instruction:
- Titiro mai - this means look at me.
- Whakarongo mai - this means listen to me.

Kupu:
- Aroha - this means love.
- Hīkoi - This means walk.

If you are unsure of the pronunciation of a word, have a look at Te Aka (the Māori dictionary) where you can hear how the word is spoken correctly.

Matariki Evening - 17th June

Is your child cycling to school? Take the survey!

My name is Jaimita de Jongh, and I am an MSc student at Lincoln University. As part of a research project into cycling to school, I am conducting a short survey (approximately 5 minutes) among parents whose children cycle to school. Some of you may have already seen me at the school gate this week conducting  the survey among parents cycling with their children. However, I would also like to survey those parents whose children bike independently, without their parents. 

If you are happy to take part in this short survey, you can email me on the email below for a survey link:
jaimita.dejongh@lincolnuni.ac.nz

Or go to the survey directly:

Results will be used to better encourage cycling to school among other parents.

I will also be handing out leaflets about the survey to children biking independently to give to their parents.

Thank you!
Jaimita

BOT Update

Policy Review

  1. Visit the website https://beckenham.schooldocs.co.nz/1893.htm
  2. Enter the username (beckenham) and password (pride).
  3. Follow the link to the relevant policy as listed.
  4. Read the policy.
  5. Click the Start your review button at the top right-hand corner of the page.
  6. Select the reviewer type.
  7. Enter your name (optional).
  8. Follow the prompts to show that you've read the topic and enter your feedback if you'd like to comment.
  9. Agree to the privacy statement and click “Submit review”.
If you don't have internet access, school office staff can provide you with printed copies of the policy and a review form.

Community Notices

(Notices placed here are contingent on space and do not reflect the views or opinions of the school.)

Coming up for kids and families at the Isaac Theatre Royal in June and July

The Isaac Theatre Royal is gearing up for an exciting lineup of events this June and July, perfect for kids and families. Two standout shows you won't want to miss are the Matariki Glow Show and the Aunty Claus’ Mid-Winter Christmas Kids Gala

Matariki Glow Show

On Sunday 8 June, the Matariki Glow Show will light up the stage with its giant-scale, glow-in-the-dark puppetry. This year, the show tells the magical story of Matariki, sharing the magic behind the Māori New Year. The Matariki Glow Show brings the mythical tale to life with its unique puppets, which glow under UV lights in a black box theatre.

The performance is told in both te reo Māori and English, weaving together themes of whakawhanaungatanga, friendship, and family. It offers a truly uplifting and positive experience for all, making it a must-see event for children and families.


Aunty Claus’ Mid-Winter Christmas Kids Gala

On Saturday 19 July, join Aunty Claus (Santa’s Big Sister) for a merry Mid-Winter Christmas Kids Variety Gala. This fabulous cabaret extravaganza promises to warm your heart and tickle your funny bone. In collaboration with the Isaac Theatre Royal, the multi-award-winning Tessa Waters, the “Undisputed Queen of Stupidity” (TimeOut London), leads this rollercoaster of fun, featuring the best in comedy, cabaret, circus, and drag the country has to offer.

Aunty Claus and her mate Jeff Parsnips invite the whole family to a joyful afternoon of songs, games, circus tricks, bubbles, and maybe even a sheep herding lesson! Fun is guaranteed for all ages, making it an event you won't want to miss.

Both events are set to provide unforgettable experiences for the whole family. Be sure to mark your calendars and get your tickets early to enjoy these fantastic shows at the Isaac Theatre Royal!

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Isaac Theatre Royal website.

Workshop for parents from Allen Hou, Asian Community Transformation Trust

Opportunity for young orchestral players

Listening to Families

Listening to families site - https://www.listeningtofamilies.co.nz/

Listening to Families website has a series of videos which provide answers to everyday questions about health and wellbeing challenges facing children and adolescents. The questions the videos answer are real - they come directly from families. The answers are provided by trusted specialists.

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto Schoolwide Newsletter, Rāmere (Friday) 2 May 2025

Posted on by

Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

We hope you had the opportunity to spend some quality time with your children over the holiday break. Our staff have had a restful break and have returned re-energised, looking forward to reconnecting with each other and our students.

Mid - Year Reporting

As you may be aware, our teachers are currently transitioning their practices to align with the refreshed Mathematics and English curricula. They have demonstrated strong commitment and a constructive approach throughout this process.

One challenge we are facing is that consistent approaches to assessment for the refreshed curricula are still being developed and will, we hope, be shared with us by the Ministry of Education in the near future. This creates some uncertainty around how we might best report to whānau about student progress at mid-year.

Our interim plan is to report progress in Reading, Writing, and Mathematics through:
  • Two recent achievements in meeting curriculum expectations
  • A next step toward meeting a curriculum expectation
In addition, your child will receive one learning post showcasing progress in other curriculum areas, along with a general comment outlining your child’s demonstration of our school values and participation in learning during the first half of the school year.

Following the distribution of reports this term, we will be holding learning conferences. Details about how to book these will be shared soon.

Attendance

As part of your child’s mid-year report, you will also receive information about their attendance.

Regular attendance at school plays an important role in your child’s success. There is a strong link between attending school consistently and achieving positive outcomes in the classroom. Supporting student attendance and engagement is a shared responsibility between families and schools.

As a parent or guardian, you're encouraged to help ensure your child attends school each day. If your child needs to be away for any reason, please contact us as soon as possible. It’s important to confirm your child’s absence and share the reason. You can do this through the following communication channels:
Phone: (03) 337-1404 (Press 1 to leave an absence message)
Email: office@beckenham.school.nz
Text: 02102794107

We understand that there are times when students may need to be away from school, and we recognise that each family’s situation is unique. That said, regular attendance helps your child stay connected to learning and peers, and prolonged or frequent absences can make it harder for them to keep up.

If your child is often absent or away for an extended period, we may reach out to discuss how we can work together to support their attendance and learning.

We are here to help. If you're experiencing challenges getting your child to school, please don’t hesitate to reach out. 

We’ll work with you to develop a support plan that helps address any barriers to regular attendance.

More information on attendance, including your rights and responsibilities as parents or caregivers, is available on the Ministry of Education’s webpage: Attendance

Building Work

Work on the Kōmanawa block and the building used for the PTA Uniform Shop has progressed well over the school holidays. The renovation of the PTA Uniform Room building was completed today.

We are currently awaiting the delivery of new windows and doors for the Kōmanawa block. Once these have arrived, the remaining work will be completed. The projected completion date is around the middle of the school term.

Readathon

Today marks the start of our PTA’s first fundraising initiative of the year!
Your child will be bringing home information about the Readathon, an exciting event that encourages a love of reading while helping to raise vital funds for our school.

We kindly ask for your support with this fundraising effort. The money raised by the PTA plays a crucial role in helping us provide opportunities and resources that would not be possible without this additional income.

The Readathon will conclude with our much-anticipated Book Character Day on Friday, 16 May.

Ngā mihi,

Cade Englefield
Principal / Tumuaki
Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto

Important Dates

Upcoming Events

Fri 2 May - Readathon Begins
Fri 9 May - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am in the Hall)
Fri 16 May - Book Character Dress Up Day
Fri 16 May - Readathon Ends
Fri 16 May - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am in the Hall)
Thu 22 May - Y5/8 Winter Sport Begins
Fri 23 May - School Cross Country
Wed 28 May - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Thu 29 May - Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room)
Fri 30 May - Staff Only Day (School Closed)
Mon 2 Jun - Public Holiday, School Closed (King's Birthday)
Fri 6 Jun - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am in the Hall)
Tue 17 Jun - Matariki Evening (5PM-7PM)
Fri 20 Jun - Public Holiday, School Closed (Matariki)
Wed 25 Jun -  Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room)
Wed 25 Jun - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Fri 27 Jun - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am in the Hall)
Fri 27 Jun - Last Day of Term 2
Mon 14 Jul - First Day of Term 3

Citizen of the Week

Ross Herbst - Year 4

Ross, you are such a fantastic role model in the Kōwhai hub. You show 'We Get There Together' always by lending a helping hand to both your peers and the teachers. Ross, your enthusiasm knows no bounds and you are always willing to show that you care by offering your help to others.  Tino pai Ross! 

Lucas Joy - Year 6

Lucas, you are an outstanding role model and friend. You have a witty sense of humor and a spot on sense of social justice in knowing when and how to do the right thing by anyone around you. Your curious nature and wanting to do a good job are a fantastic combination helping you to work in a focused and meaningful manner. You are just an awesome human being! He mea whakamiharo koe!

PTA News

Readathon

It’s Readathon Time – Let the Reading Adventure Begin!

The Readathon kicks off today – check your child’s bag for their sponsorship form!

This exciting event is all about getting kids reading every day while raising funds for a great cause. Let’s make it fun and meaningful!
  • Help your Tamariki set a Daily Reading Target
  • Find sponsors to cheer them on
And don’t forget to Stop, Drop, and READ together as a family!

Need another form? No worries – grab one from the Office. 

The Readathon runs for 2 weeks, ending Friday 16th May with Book Character Day - Come to school dressed as your favourite book character and don't forget to bring back your sponsorship form and money.

Let’s turn pages and make a difference! 

Book and Clothing Sale


Time for a Clear Out? We've Got You Covered! 

Our Book & Clothing Sale is happening on 7th June – stay tuned for all the exciting details!

We're currently collecting donations and would love your support:
  • Gently used adult and children's clothing (no rips or stains)
  • Books of all kinds
  • Complete puzzles ready for a new home
Drop your donations in the box at the school office – thank you for helping us make this event a success!

School Notices

Staff Profiles


Hi, my name is Vivienne.  I have lived in Christchurch for the last 30 years.  I have three children and  eight grandchildren.  I enjoy reading,  doing jigsaw puzzles and cooking.  I am really looking forward to spending a lot of my time working with the children who are here at Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto. 
 
Parking and driver care on Sandwich Road

We know that everyone is keen to keep our children safe as they travel to and from school. To support this, please can drivers NOT try to undertake U-turns on Sandwich Road during the pick-up and drop-off times. We have witnessed some near misses recently and, ultimately, it is our children who are being put at risk.

Please also remember that the 3 min zone on the school side of Sandwich Road is MAX 3mins - not time enough for you to get out of your car and go into school to drop off or collect your child. If everyone can use this area as a drop-off/pick-up point, then all of the traffic will flow more smoothly.

Additionally, to keep everyone safe when arriving and leaving school, please do not walk through the staff car park. This area is for staff cars, taxis, and accessibility parking only. 

Offsite Learning Agreements

We are updating our records to reflect the number of children who regularly attend Offsite learning opportunities. Could you please confirm if your child is taking part in any offsite activities by picking up an offsite learning agreement from the Office.  This will then be filled out by you, signed, and returned to school so Cade is able to review and sign these off. This process is a requirement from the Ministry of Education and helps inform our attendance data for your child.

Garden Club

Here are some more gardening club photos from Last Term. The black construction is a vege pod which we won through Quizzle!  Amazing!
Thanks Lucy for supporting our wonderful tamariki and helping our outdoor spaces to look so beautiful.

Kupu Māori o te Wīki

This is our Whakataukī (phrase), Kīwaha (saying), and Kupu (word) for the week. Give it a go! Remember, Nau mai te wero, We Love Challenge!

Whakataukī: He rā whatiwhati kō - This means a day of hard work.

Kīwaha: Ka mau te wehi! - this means That’s amazing!

Kupu: Nui - this means big.

If you are unsure of the pronunciation of a word, have a look at Te Aka (the Māori dictionary) where you can hear how the word is spoken correctly.

ESOL News

The Community Partnership team arm of the Ministry of Education organises a webinar for ethnic communities which offers a closer look at an aspect of education in New Zealand.

The Term 2 webinar is 'Navigating NCEA: Literacy, Numeracy, and Your Pathway to Tertiary Study'.

We are helping to spread the word by sharing the registration link with families and community groups that could benefit from this kōrero.

Monday 19 May, from 6:00pm- 7:30pm: Register here

Joseph Houghton from the Ministry will lead the discussion around navigating NCEA.

Food Allergy Guidelines

Across our school, we have a number of children with different food allergies.

To support the wellbeing of these students we have the following guidelines in place which we ask you to follow:
  • All students should only eat lunches and snacks that have been provided by their caregivers.  
  • Bottles, other drinks, and lunch boxes provided by caregivers should be clearly labelled with the name of their child.  Home group teachers and caregivers will decide where the children’s bottles and lunch boxes will be kept during the day to ensure no cross contamination occurs.
  • Parents are asked not to bring food into school to be shared with other children.  Whilst we understand that there are times you want to celebrate special events for your children with their friends at school, e.g. birthdays or being awarded prizes, by bringing food and treats for them to share, we have a policy of children only eating the food that their whānau have prepared and sent with them.  We have a number of students with food allergies and also need to respect the wishes of some families who want to monitor what their children are eating and prefer their children just to eat food they have prepared. From time to time, there may be an event that teachers have organised that will involve food (cultural or learning activities) and they will have advised families in advance that this will be happening.  
  • At the beginning of each year caregivers will need to check the expiry dates on any medication to be held at school.  
  • On the first day of school, caregivers will need to bring their child’s medication to the school office.  Caregivers will need to sign a medicine authority form (School Docs).  The responsibility of monitoring the expiry dates of medications rests with the parent.
  • Caregivers may be asked to come and talk to staff about their child’s specific health needs and ways we can support them at school.
We will inform you during the year if specific guidelines for your child’s hub change. 

Our full allergy policy and guidelines are available on the Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto website under Information - Policies - SchoolDocs, then search ‘allergy’.
Enter the username (beckenham) and password (pride).

If you have any questions or concerns, please discuss them in the first instance with your child’s home group teacher.

Community Notices

(Notices placed here are contingent on space and do not reflect the views or opinions of the school.)

Te Puna Wai o Waipapa - Hagley College Year 9 Enrolments for 2026

Thinking about Hagley for Year 9 2026? 10 key points about us:
  1. We're a Designated Character School. To join us, you must agree to engage with our culture and our values of Whakamarumaru (Responsibility), Mana (Respect), Whakawhirinaki (Trust) and Tika (Integrity). We also need to be confident that Hagley has the resources to support you in your learning, that there is a programme that will meet your needs, and that there is a place for you in that programme.
  2. We have an inclusive and diverse learning environment.
  3. All Year 9 students study Te Reo Māori, Health and PE each week. They also all take English, Maths, Social Sciences and Science. Students also choose from a wide range of Kete Wana courses to complete their programmes.
  4. For students who may find literacy or numeracy challenging, we can provide an intensive acceleration programme within Kete Wana.
  5. We are a restorative school.
  6. Social action and student leadership are actively promoted and celebrated.
  7. Our Targeted Learning class is very small. Only 2-3 places will be available for new students in 2026 due to returning students.
  8. GATE students are able to excel in their specialty fields.
  9. Enrolment for Year 9 2026 opens on 19 May 2025 and closes on 19 June 2025 at midday. It is essential to apply during this time.
  10. A ballot is usually required and will occur in the week of 28 July-1 August 2025. Criteria for priority enrolment for those with family/whānau links to Hagley is on our website www.hagley.school.nz.

Storybox Drama - Afterschool process drama classes

Storybox Drama is a new local business in the area, offering after school drama classes to children 5-10yrs old.
Our classes are perfect for children new to drama. We provide a playful approach, with a focus on story, imagination and creative process.
Our learning is focused around a story, and we unpack the themes and ideas explored in the book over the term.
In Term 2 we will be exploring the story of Oliver and the Night Giants by Kitty O'Meara.

Find out more & enrol here:


Term 2 classes
Wed 07 May to Wed 25 Jun (8 weeks)
Wednesdays 3:30 pm to 4:40 pm, 1 hour
Somerfield Community Centre, 47 Studholme St, Christchurch

$180 

Find us on Facebook, Instagram or email us:
facebook.com/storybox.chch
instagram.com/storybox.chch
storybox.chch@gmail.com

We look forward to exploring the stories with you!

Does Your Child Love Music?

The Muse Community Music Trust runs an after school music programme on Wednesday afternoons for five to seven year olds that builds general musicianship and music literacy skills, through fun games and songs. Our classes are at the Beckenham Methodist Church Hall, 52 Martin Ave from 3.45pm - 4.30pm. We welcome visitors to observe or join in for a trial class. The Muse fundraises to create a scholarship fund for families who can't afford our fee.  See themuse.org.nz/children for more information. 

Maths 

I'm a qualified and registered maths teacher, who is passionate about making maths fun, and teaching young people maths and logic skills. 

I have spaces available for students from years 4-6 to come and learn and play games. If maths is your child's favourite subject, why not give it a go?
Contact Kirsty Frew for more details
Ph/text 0210722939

ACTT Bilingual Seminar - Emotion Validation in Parenting

School Newsletter Mandarin Version
(Title) 你吼的那一刻，孩子在怕什么？
华人父母普遍缺乏对情感发展的了解，而这种缺乏会影响亲子互动，甚至夫妻感情。
本次研讨会将帮助家长理解情绪在大脑发展中的关键角色，学习如何营造“让孩子感受
到安全”的家庭氛围，并提供适合多元文化背景的育儿策略。
 主讲人：
Yvonne 博士 – 英国与新西兰注册心理学家
Judith – Aidanfield小学学校资深辅导老师
 时间：5月17日（六）下午2点
 地点：Halswell Library
 附设5–12岁儿童看顾服务
 免费参加，立即报名：

School Newsletter English Version
Title: Rising Resilient and Secure Children
Join us for a transformative seminar on; Raising Happy & Secure Children”. This seminar aims to bridge the gap between traditional Asian/Chinese parenting and modern approaches to emotional development. Learn about the importance of emotional awareness, validation, and regulation in children, and discover practical tools for nurturing a healthy, emotionally-aware environment at home. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your parenting skills to raise resilient children in a cultural
diverse New Zealand.

Presenters：
Dr. Yvonne Chow – Registered Psychologist in UK and NZ
Judith Keir – Guidance Counsellor at Aidanfield Christian Primary School

Time: 17/May (Sat) 2pm
Location: Halswell Library (Hao Hall)
 childcare for 5-12 years old

 Free seminar – register below：

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto Schoolwide Newsletter, Rāmere (Friday) 4 April 2025

Posted on by

Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

Welcome to the final newsletter of Term 1! With just one week left before the holiday break, we reflect on all that has been achieved this term. It’s been amazing to see the growth in all of our students. Our staff have worked incredibly hard and truly deserve a well-earned break. We hope you enjoy the holiday time with your children and are able to prioritise some quality family moments together.

Kapa Haka

Every Friday, Whaea Cath visits Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto to support both students and staff in growing their understanding and performance of kapa haka. Learning about Māori culture and enhancing our proficiency in te reo Māori helps us all to become strong and valued Treaty partners.

Recently, under Cath’s guidance, we’ve gone through a process to design new kapa haka uniforms for our school. We are very fortunate that the PTA has generously agreed to fund the first rollout of these uniforms for Te Whānau Mahitahi, our senior kapa haka group. 


Sporting Success

A huge congratulations to two of our Team Kauri students, Zach and Daniel, who placed 1st and 5th respectively in the U13 cross country race at the South Island Mountain Biking School Championship in Methven. Well done, Zach and Daniel - you should be incredibly proud of your outstanding achievements!


A big congratulations to our Year 5/6 Touch Rugby team for winning their division in the local touch rugby competition! The time, effort, and teamwork you've all put in throughout the season truly paid off. We are incredibly proud of your achievements!


Building Work

During the school holidays, building work will begin on the Kōmanawa Block and the PTA Uniform Shop. Perimeter fencing will be installed around both sites, and we are hopeful that all work will be completed by mid-term next term. While construction is underway, the scooter/bike pen adjacent to the Kōmanawa Block will be unavailable for use.

New Staff Members 

At the beginning of Term 2, we are excited to welcome two new staff members to our school. Niquita Dalley will be joining our New Entrants team to support our roll growth, and Kate McGregor will be joining the Kauri team, filling the role left by Jenny at the end of last year. We are thrilled to have Niquita and Kate on board and look forward to them becoming integral members of our team.

Kate

Niquita 
Have a great holiday break.

Ngā manaakitanga,

Cade Englefield
Principal / Tumuaki
Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto

Important Dates

Upcoming Events

Thu 3 Apr - Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room)
Fri 11 Apr - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am, in the Hall)
Fri 11 Apr - Last Day of Term 1
Mon 28 Apr - First Day of Term 2
Fri 23 May - School Cross Country
Wed 28 May - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Thu 29 May - Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room)
Fri 30 May - Staff Only Day (School Closed)
Mon 2 Jun - Public Holiday, School Closed (King's Birthday)
Tue 17 Jun - Matariki Evening (5PM-7PM)
Wed 25 Jun -  Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room)
Wed 25 Jun - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Fri 27 Jun - Last Day of Term 2
Mon 14 Jul - First Day of Term 3

Citizen of the Week

Luna Clark - Year 4

Luna, you are an amazing role model in the Kōwhai hub and you consistently show all of the school values. You particularly embrace the value We Love Challenge, putting your best foot forward when facing challenging situations. You are a caring. helpful, inclusive and conscientious student, always putting your best effort into your learning. Congratulations, Luna. You are an absolute star!

Lucy Lee - Year 5

Lucy, you are a superstar in the Pōhutukawa Team! Your positivity, enthusiasm, and dedication to learning inspire those around you. You always put in your best effort and show great enthusiasm in everything you do. Your kindness and thoughtfulness make our hub a wonderful place to be. Keep up the amazing work!

School Notices

Legacy Dance

Reo Māori o te Wīki

This is our Whakataukī (phrase), Kīwaha (saying), and Kupu (word) for the week. Remember, Mauria te pono - believe in yourself and give it a go!

Whakataukī: Whaowhia te kete mātauranga - this means to fill the basket with knowledge!

Kīwaha: Kia Tau! - this means relax, or settle petal!

Kupu: Ngahuru - this means Autumn.

If you are unsure of the pronunciation of a word, have a look at Te Aka (the Māori dictionary) where you can hear how the word is spoken correctly.

Community Dental Service - Holiday Clinics April 2025

The Community Dental Service will be closed for some of the upcoming school holidays

Closed On:        Friday 18th April,
                           Monday 21st April &
                           Friday 25th April

Reopening on:  Monday 28th April

Five of our community dental clinics will be open during this School Holiday period:

     Burnside (96a Memorial Avenue)
     Woolston (11 Hopkins Street)
     Rangiora (163 Ashley Street)
     Northcote (24 Tuckers Road)
     Timaru (18 Woollcombe Street)

If your child is experiencing any dental pain/discomfort, you can call us on 0800 846 983 and/or email: commdental@cdhb.health.nz and one of our clinicians will contact you.

General Shelter in Place and Lockdown Information

Please find below our school's approach to managing situations safely when we are required to either shelter in place or move our school into a lockdown scenario. Please take the time to familiarise yourself with the information outlined below.

General Whānau Communication about Shelter in Place and Lockdown 

If a situation arises that people need to remain inside for safety, Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto has two levels, Shelter in Place and Lockdown. 

A Shelter in Place directive is issued when the threat is external and not directed at the school. For example, the school may activate the Shelter in Place plan if there is a report of a swarm of wasps, toxic smoke from a nearby fire, or active armed offender in the community (but not in or near the school grounds).

A Lockdown instruction will be less commonly used and is only likely to be issued if the threat is directly to the school or in the school grounds. This will generally happen on instruction from Police.

LOCKDOWN PROCEDURES FOR PARENTS
Lockdown procedures are determined by Police advice and require the cooperation of students, staff and parents. We ask all parents to please follow the protocol outlined below to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
  • When the school goes into lockdown, all parents will be notified via both a text message (via Hero) and HERO App alert (which will generate an email for those who don’t use the app). Please ensure the contact details the school holds for your child’s caregivers are current.
  • The school will continue to communicate through these channels, plus on the school Facebook page.
  • Students will not have access to laptops or other devices during a lockdown situation. This is for their own protection until the school ascertains the severity of the situation in consultation with the Police.
  • School phones may not be manned, so please do not try and contact the school, or your child. All information will be sent to you through the channels outlined above as soon as it becomes available. We will be doing the best that we can do to keep everyone informed. 
  • The school will remain in lockdown until advised by the Police or other authorised personnel that it is safe to be lifted.
  • Please do not, under any circumstances, come to the school until you are advised it is safe for you to do so. You may be putting yourself and others in danger.
  • Once the lockdown is over, parents will be contacted immediately.
Thank you for your understanding and for taking the time to familiarise yourself with this protocol as we work together in an emergency situation to keep everyone safe.

2025 Canterbury Primary Schools Swimming'

Congratulations to all of our swimmers who represented Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto at the 2025 Canterbury Primary Schools Swimming! You all swam valiantly!

Gardens

Our children are having more of an input into the gardens.  Building an awareness of looking after our environment, nurturing our special places and growing food at school.
Great heavy work breaks with purpose. 

PTA News

Our fundraising plans are up and running! This year we are raising funds for new blinds for the hall (which should help those disco lights!), new sports uniforms as well as contributing to all the buses needed for camps and school trips. We'll kick off next term with the Annual Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto Readathon so look out for sponsorship forms at the beginning of next term and getting reading and planning a costume. 

We are also planning a book sale in June and a Colour Run in November - we're always keen for helpers with these fundraisers, as well as events like the School Disco so if you're keen to get involved don't hesitate to join our Messenger Group or email us via pta@beckenham.school.nz

Uniform Temporary Relocation

From Monday next week (April the 7th), the PTA Uniform Shop will be temporarily housed in the Green Room, adjacent to the Hall. This will take place until the work on the PTA Uniform Room has been completed.

Staff Profiles

Fynn Skelton - Teaching Assistant

Kia Ora Beckenham Whānau! My name is Fynn, back in 2018 I graduated from Beckenham, went on to study at Cashmere High School, travelled the world, experienced a lifetime of amazement, and I find myself back at Beckenham as a TA and am loving it! A bit about me, I’m a massive theatre nerd, music nerd, sports nerd and a regular nerd; I love talking about anything and try to learn something from everyone! Happy to be back in a place near and dear to me!

Kate McGregor - Y7/8 Teacher

Kia ora! My name is Kate McGregor, and I am excited to be joining the Kauri team and working alongside the Year 7/8 students. I recently got married and have a beautiful six-month-old daughter. I grew up locally in Cashmere and have just returned after spending the last two years in Upper Hutt. I love going on walks with my sister and friends, playing and watching all types of sport, and spending quality time with my little family. I am thrilled to be joining the Beckenham whānau. 

Niquita Dalley - New Entrants Teacher

Kia ora koutou,

I'm Niquita Dalley and I'm so excited to be joining the Koru team! Most recently I have been teaching year 7/8 students, but I've always had a soft spot for working with little learners. There's just something special about their curiosity, excitement, and those awesome “aha!” moments when they figure something out — I love being part of that!

Creating a classroom where ākonga feel safe, loved, and ready to give things a go is super important to me. I want my students to feel proud of themselves every step of the way.

My husband Jacob and I have two gorgeous girls, Anastasia and Tallulah, who are both under two — so life at home is busy but full of aroha (and plenty of giggles). When I'm not in the classroom and I get some time to myself, you'll probably find me painting or curled up with a good book.

I can't wait to meet you all and get stuck into this exciting journey together!

BOT Update

Policy Review

From time to time we ask you to review one of our policies that come up on our review cycle. A policy for whānau review is the Recording and Reporting Accidents, Injuries, and Illness policy. You will find it on School Docs at this link. Click on current review, start review and follow the directions. 

Username: beckenham
Password: pride

Instructions for reviewers
  1. Follow the link to the policy.
  2. Read the policy.
  3. Click the "Start Review" icon at the right-hand top corner of the page. A new screen will appear.
  4. Select your role (board member, staff member, student, whānau or other) from the drop-down list.
  5. Enter your name (optional).
  6. Submit your ratings and comments.
If you don't have internet access, school office staff can easily provide you with printed copies of the policy and the review form.

Concerns & Complaints Procedure

BOSCO - April School Holiday Programme

BOSCO April school holiday Programme is open for bookings
Head to bosco.aimyplus.com to register and book
For any further information please contact Harriet
027 645 6632
office@bosco.org.nz

Mana Ake

Tuning into Kids
Term 2 Tuning into Kids Parenting programmes – parents can register directly here: https://manaake.health.nz/tuning-in-to-kids/

Pāpā to Pāpā – A Supportive Drop-in Space – see the flyer below
When: Tuesdays, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Philipstown Community Hub - 39 Nursery Rd Christchurch 8011

Pāpā to Pāpā is a welcoming, drop-in space where pāpā can connect, share experiences, and learn together in a kaupapa Māori setting. Each week, we explore different parenting topics, with a focus on whanaungatanga - building strong relationships and community support. Whether new to fatherhood or experienced, this space provides an opportunity to kōrero, uplift one another, and strengthen our role as pāpā and whānau.

School Holiday Activities

https://my.christchurchcitylibraries.com/holiday-programmes-events-and-activities/
https://thekindfoundation.org.nz/what-we-offer/holidayprogrammes/
https://www.artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/school-holiday-fun/
https://olympia.org.nz/holiday-programme
https://christchurchadventurepark.com/experiences/school-holiday-programmes/

Community Notices

(Notices placed here are contingent on space and do not reflect the views or opinions of the school.)

Storybox Drama - Afterschool process drama classes

Storybox Drama is a new local business in the area, offering after school drama classes to children 5-10yrs old.
Our classes are perfect for children new to drama. We provide a playful approach, with a focus on story, imagination and creative process.
Our learning is focused around a story, and we unpack the themes and ideas explored in the book over the term.
In Term 2 we will be exploring the story of Oliver and the Night Giants by Kitty O'Meara.

Find out more & enrol here:


Term 2 classes
Wed 07 May to Wed 25 Jun (8 weeks)
Wednesdays 3:30 pm to 4:40 pm, 1 hour
Somerfield Community Centre, 47 Studholme St, Christchurch
$180 

Find us on Facebook, Instagram or email us:
storybox.chch@gmail.com

We look forward to exploring the stories with you!

After-School Squash Coaching – Join the Fun! 

Looking for a fun and active way for your child to build skills, confidence, and fitness? Our after-school squash coaching sessions are perfect for beginners and experienced players alike!

Location: Christchurch Squash Club, 52 Colombo Street
Days & Times: After school Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays
Ages: 9+
All equipment provided

Spaces are limited, so get in touch to book your spot. Contact Tim McVie at coaching@christchurchsquash.co.nz  for more details and to sign up! 

Methven Scarecrow Trail: Saturday April 12 – Sunday April 27, 2025

The Methven Scarecrow Trail is a hugely popular and fun family event run in the April school holidays. It is suitable for all ages!

Every year, members of the Methven community build scarecrows to a particular theme and these scarecrows, over 30 of them, are scattered around the town for families to find and try to identify the name of the character.  This year's theme is HEROES/HEROINES AND VILLAINS (characters from children’s movies). Families or small groups purchase a Trail Map/Entry form from the iHub Information Centre and there are sponsored prizes for the most correct entries and for the most popular scarecrows.

Don't forget to like the Scarecrow Trail FB page if possible - this is where we post messages and the results - https://www.facebook.com/MethvenScarecrowTrail/
Thank you so much for your support!

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto Schoolwide Newsletter, Rāmere (Friday) 21 March 2025

Posted on by

Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

Welcome to our week 8 Newsletter. It is hard to believe we are coming towards the end of Term 1.

Building a Strong Sense of Community and Service

At our school, we believe that community and service are essential to shaping compassionate, responsible individuals. Giving back and practicing reciprocal kindness helps us care for others, and in turn, care for ourselves. When we extend a hand to help someone, we not only improve their lives but also enrich our own, fostering a sense of connection and well-being.

Caring for others is a valuable life skill we encourage in our students. Whether supporting a classmate or volunteering in the community, kindness helps build a more compassionate world. We also emphasise the importance of caring for our environment. Teaching our students to be stewards (kaitiaki) of the planet ensures a sustainable future for everyone.

By nurturing these values, we are preparing our students for a lifetime of compassionate living, where caring for others and the world around them is just as important as caring for themselves.

At last week's celebration assembly, we acknowledged the service of our road patrollers and the contribution they make to keeping our school safe. We also thanked a group of Year 1 students who have taken it upon themselves to be responsible for rubbish collection around the school. Additionally, we recognized the large group of students from across the school who participated in the Weetbix Tryathlon under our school name. These are all great examples of students supporting a strong sense of community at Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto.


Celebration of Culture Day 

As you will have seen through a HERO community post, next Friday will be a Celebration of Culture Day at Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto. 

Students are invited to wear clothing that represents their cultural heritage on this day, whether it's a traditional outfit, something symbolic, or an item that has cultural significance. We want to embrace and honour the many cultures within our school community.

Throughout the day, teachers will provide opportunities for students to share about their culture, fostering an environment of learning, understanding, and appreciation for one another’s backgrounds.

We are really looking forward to this day of celebration, where the diversity within our community will be showcased and celebrated.

Have a great weekend.

Ngā manaakitanga,

Cade Englefield 

Important Dates

Upcoming Events

Wed 26 Mar - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Fri 28 Mar - Celebration of Culture Day
Fri 28 Mar - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am, in the Hall)
Wed 2 Apr - Fri 4 Apr - Living Springs Camp - Pōhutukawa (Y5/6)
Thu 3 Apr - Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room)
Fri 11 Apr - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am, in the Hall)
Fri 11 Apr - Last Day of Term 1
Mon 28 Apr - First Day of Term 2
Fri 23 May - School Cross Country
Wed 28 May - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Thu 29 May - Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room)
Fri 30 May - Staff Only Day (School Closed)
Mon 2 Jun - Public Holiday, School Closed (King's Birthday)
Wed 25 Jun -  Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room)
Wed 25 Jun - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Fri 27 Jun - Last Day of Term 2
Mon 14 Jul - First Day of Term 3

Citizen of the Week

Walter Stallworthy - Year 6

Walter, you are a calming and positive influence on those around you. You consistently demonstrate what it means to be an upstander, living out our values of We Care and We Make a Difference every day. Your dedication and determination to always do your best make you a truly diligent student. Ka pai tō mahi, Walter!

Zakhar Voinov - Year 8

For demonstrating outstanding kindness, respect and responsibility within our Kura. Zakhar, you lead by example, treat everyone with fairness and compassion, and embody the values we hold dear at Beckenham. Thank you for being a role model and an exceptional member of our community!

School Notices

Absence Text Line

Thank you for your patience this term while our text line has not been working. We appreciate you adjusting to emailing or phoning the office about any absences during this time.

We are happy to let you know that our text line is now working again!

Please contact the school office if your child will be absent from school. When contacting us please remember to include; your name, your child's name, the reason for their absence and how long you expect your child will be away from school.

If you do not provide a reason for your child's absence, we are required to mark this as an unjustified absence on their attendance report.

Phone: (03) 337-1404
(Press 1 to leave an absence message)
Email: office@beckenham.school.nz
Text: 02102794107

Cultural Diversity

On Wednesday, the student council organized a whole-school chalk project to advocate for cultural diversity. Years from 1-8 were invited to come and add symbols from their culture. The result is a beautiful mural, just inside the school gates. 

Unity Week: 15th - 21st of March

Launched in 2022, award-winning Unity Week NZ holds a special place in our hearts as we come together to reflect on the lessons of the 15 March mosque attacks and renew our commitment to strengthening our connections with one another.

Unity Week NZ comes to life through a series of impactful events, made possible by the collaborative efforts of Unity Week NZ champions in Christchurch and across Aotearoa New Zealand.

The message of Unity Week NZ is simple: See the humanity in one another, honour the ties that bind us, and respect our differences.

Unity Week NZ embodies the values of Understanding, Nationhood, Integrity, Trust and You. We call on you to commit to building a future where the lessons of 15 March are not only remembered and where unity, compassion, and respect are not just ideals, but actively woven into the lived experiences for everyone in Aotearoa New Zealand.

See more here: https://www.unityweek.co.nz/ideas


Reo Māori o te Wīki

This is our Whakataukī (phrase), Kīwaha (saying), and Kupu (word) from last week. Give it a go! Remember, He taonga te ako, We Love Learning!!

Whakataukī: Mauria te pono - this means to Believe in Yourself!

Kīwaha: He reka! - this means Yummm!

Kupu: Wero -  this means challenge

If you are unsure of the pronunciation of a word, have a look at Te Aka (the Māori dictionary) where you can hear how the word is spoken correctly.

Scooters

Please ensure you are taking your child's scooter home at the end of each school day. There have been a growing number of incidents where scooters are being left at school overnight or over the weekend and are not there on return to school the following week, or morning. This does take a lot of time and resources to investigate each incident so if whānau could please be diligent about ensuring the collection of scooters at the end of each school day, it would be greatly appreciated. Our bike and scooter areas are locked from 9.15-2.45 each school day.

Thanks Qizzle - a new vegepod!

We have been incredibly fortunate to win a new Vegepod and stand from Qizzle following their Back to School 2025 competition! We can't wait to put this to good use and see what wonderful kai our keen Garden Club tamariki can grow with the help of our incredible Teaching Assistant, and garden whizz Lucy! Qizzle is where our stationery packs can be ordered from - https://qizzle.co.nz/

South Zones Swimming

We had our swimming sports earlier in the month at Wharenui pool and selected students then participated in the South Zones last week on Thursday the 13th of March. Our students represented our school amazingly. A special shoutout to the sportsmanlike conduct displayed at the pool, and to Hugo for supporting this endeavour. Congratulations to all the students who took part in both days, and please see below the placement results from South Zones.

South Zone Swimming Results 2025

50m Freestyle

Year 8 Boys 
2nd Place - Kawariki Taylor

Year 7 Girls 
2nd Place - Sarah Welch

Year 6 Boys 
3rd Place - Haydn O'Connor

50m Backstroke

Year 8 Boys 
1st Place - Zakhar Voinov
2nd Place - Kawariki Taylor

Year 8 Girls 
3rd Place - Imogen Orchard
4th Place - Emeline Henderson

Year 7 Boys
3rd Place - Sebastian Blane
4th Place - Samson Nutall

Year 7 Girls
3rd Place - Sarah Welch

Year 6 Boys
2nd Place - Haydn O'Connor
4th Place - Jack Hurst

Year 5 Girls
1st Place - Chloe Sayer
3rd Place - Cora Nuttall

50m Breaststroke

Year 8 Boys
2nd Place - Kawariki Taylor

Year 7 Boys
4th Place - Sebastian Blane

Year 6 Boys
4th Place - Jack Hurst

Year 5 Girls
4th Place - Chloe Sayer

50m Butterfly

Boys Open
2nd Place - Archie Chapman

Girls Open
1st Place - Tish Gillman
2nd Place - Sarah Welch

Celebration of Culture Day

We are excited to announce that our Student Council is leading a Celebration of Culture Day on Friday, 28 March. This event is a wonderful opportunity for our school community to come together and celebrate the rich diversity that makes Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto such a special place.

Students are invited to wear clothing that represents their cultural heritage on this day, whether it's a traditional outfit, something symbolic, or an item that has cultural significance. We want to embrace and honour the many cultures within our school community.

Throughout the day, teachers will provide opportunities for students to share about their culture, fostering an environment of learning, understanding, and appreciation for one another’s backgrounds.

This event aligns with our school values:

We Love Learning (He taonga te ako) – We celebrate learning about the unique cultures that make our community strong.

We Love Challenge (Nau mai te wero) – We encourage students to explore new perspectives and challenge their thinking.

We Care (Arohaina te tāngata me te taiao) – We show care and respect for each other’s cultures and traditions.

We Get There Together (Mā tātou katoa te waka e hoe) – We work as a community to create an inclusive and supportive environment.

We Make a Difference (Nā mātou he rerekē te ao) – Together, we make the world a better place by celebrating and valuing the differences that make us unique.

We look forward to celebrating this special day with our students and whānau.

Congratulations Ivy!

2nd place at her Karate Club Championships!

CSM Outreach Recorder Lessons

Join us every Wednesday morning for our engaging recorder lessons, a fantastic way to introduce your child to the world of music! Not only is the recorder a fun and accessible instrument for kids, but it also lays a solid foundation for learning more complex woodwind instruments like the saxophone, flute, clarinet, oboe, and bassoon.

Exciting Performance Opportunity: Strum Strike Blow
Our recorder students will have the thrilling chance to participate in the Strum Strike Blow festival in September, where they'll perform alongside hundreds of other young musicians playing ukuleles and marimbas. This event is always a hit!

Enrolment Details:
Cost: $97.50 per term
Enrolment: Visit the Christchurch School of Music website to enrol online. Simply scroll to the bottom of the page to secure your child's spot in our outreach recorder programme.

Don't miss this wonderful opportunity!

BOT Update

Policy Review

From time to time we ask you to review one of our policies that come up on our review cycle. A policy for whānau review is the Recording and Reporting Accidents, Injuries, and Illness policy. You will find it on School Docs at this link. Click on current review, start review and follow the directions. 

Username: beckenham
Password: pride

Instructions for reviewers
  1. Follow the link to the policy.
  2. Read the policy.
  3. Click the "Start Review" icon at the right-hand top corner of the page. A new screen will appear.
  4. Select your role (board member, staff member, student, whānau or other) from the drop-down list.
  5. Enter your name (optional).
  6. Submit your ratings and comments.
If you don't have internet access, school office staff can easily provide you with printed copies of the policy and the review form.

BOSCO - April School Holiday Programme

BOSCO April school holiday Programme is open for bookings
Head to bosco.aimyplus.com to register and book
For any further information please contact Harriet
027 645 6632
office@bosco.org.nz

Community Notices

(Notices placed here are contingent on space and do not reflect the views or opinions of the school.)

Art Competition: Design a frame for one of the city’s favourite paintings!

Ākonga from Years 3–8 are invited to enter a competition to design an imaginative frame for one of Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū’s most treasured paintings, Burial in the Winter on the Island of Marken (also known as The Dutch Funeral).

Ākonga from Years 3–8 are invited to enter. One winner will be selected from Years 3–4, Years 5–6 and Years 7–8.

Prize winners must be able to be at Christchurch Art Gallery on Thursday 17 April (during the school holidays), from 10am until midday, and have parent or guardian consent for a photograph of the children to be made available to media for publication. Full details will be provided to the winning entries.

How to enter

1. Download and print the entry form, linked here. Entry forms are also available from the Gallery foyer.

2. Design a frame using any materials – and plenty of imagination! All entries must be on the official entry form.

3. Drop completed entries in the drop-box in the Gallery foyer or hand them to the front counter by Wednesday 9 April. Please get in touch if we can help you by collecting entry forms.

Winning entries will be announced on Friday 11 April.

Entries that do not win a prize can be collected from the Gallery until 1 May. (Entries not collected after this date will be disposed of.)

Any questions? 
Email emma@christchurchartgallery.org.nz.

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto Schoolwide Newsletter, Rāmere (Friday) 7 March 2025

Posted on by

Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

The Stretch Zone 

The Stretch Zone is that space just beyond our Comfort Zone, where we are encouraged to push our boundaries, take risks, and step outside of our usual routines. It's a place where we can challenge ourselves, acquire new skills, and experience personal growth. At Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto, our goal is to help all our students expand their comfort zones through a diverse range of learning experiences and opportunities.

Last week, I had the privilege of visiting our Year 7/8 students at camp. This environment provided the perfect setting for our senior students to push themselves in a "challenge by choice" context. Activities like high ropes, the giant swing, and coasteering allowed students to set both individual and group goals, fostering growth and teamwork.

We are incredibly grateful to our teachers and whānau who attended camp and dedicated their time and effort to making this experience possible. Without your support, this valuable opportunity wouldn’t have been possible. Thank you! Below are some photos from the camp. 

Annual Plan

The school's Annual Plan for 2025 is now available on our website. This plan outlines focus areas for 2025 that build towards the achievement of our strategic plan for 2024-2025.
The Annual Plan can be viewed here: 

Building Work

We are in the final stages of planning for renovations to the Kōmanawa Block and the PTA Uniform Shop. If all goes to plan, work will begin during the school holidays and is expected to be completed by early Term 2, allowing these spaces to be reopened. Once the start dates are confirmed, we will notify the community.

Uniform 

We’ve seen a positive improvement in students wearing the correct uniform, and we’d like to thank everyone for supporting this effort. As a reminder of our expectations, please refer to the graphics below.
Ngā mihi
Cade Englefield
Principal / Tumuaki
Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto

Important Dates

Upcoming Events

Thu 13 Mar - Zone Swimming Sports Y5-8
Fri 14 Mar - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am, in the Hall)
Wed 19 Mar - School Photos TBC
Wed 26 Mar - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Fri 28 Mar - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am, in the Hall)
Wed 2 Apr - Fri 4 Apr - Living Springs Camp - Pōhutukawa (Y5/6)
Thu 3 Apr - Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room)
Fri 11 Apr - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am, in the Hall)
Fri 11 Apr - Last Day of Term 1
Mon 28 Apr - First Day of Term 2
Wed 28 May - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Thu 29 May - Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room)
Mon 2 Jun - Public Holiday, School Closed (King's Birthday)
Wed 25 Jun -  Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room)
Wed 25 Jun - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Fri 27 Jun - Last Day of Term 2
Mon 14 Jul - First Day of Term 3

Citizen of the Week

Aayan Adhikari - Year 8

Aayan, it has been a delight to see your commitment to the Kauri Team. You demonstrated the value of We Love Challenge at camp by tackling new experiences. We have seen how you Make a Difference through your high standard of work, setting an example for others. Congratulations on an amazing start to the year. Me he tī!

Charlie Windsor - Year 6 

Charlie, your bright smile and kind nature are noticed by many. You have a positive outlook and see the best in all situations. You step up and help when needed and you do it with an extremely cheerful attitude. You show our school values consistently and are a wonderful role model for all. You are a shining star, Charlie!

School Notices

Before School

Please remember that classrooms are open to children from 8.30am. This is to allow teachers time to prepare for the day.
Prior to 8.30am there is no supervision of children and they should not be left on site.

If you need to drop your child/ren off before 8.30am BOSCO provides before-school care. 
Please contact them for more details 
Phone 027 645 6632
Email office@bosco.org.nz

PTA Uniform Room

Autumn is on its way! With the change of season and cooler temperatures now is the time to stock up on warm winter uniform.
Come and check out what the PTA uniform hub has to offer: sweatshirts, polar fleeces, gumboots and more. We are well supplied at the moment so make the most of what we have to offer!
We are open Mondays 2:45 - 3:15pm and Fridays 8:45 - 9:15am.
Please feel free to drop off any donations at the office

Financial Statements - Year 5 & 6 Camp

If you have a student in Year 5 or 6 who is going to Living Springs Camp in early April, you will have received your student's financial statement this week, with the Camp donation request added.

Payments can be made in part or full to the school bank account - ASB Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto Board of Trustees 12 3148 0131641 000 using your child's name as a reference. The school office also has Eftpos facilities available.

This is just a reminder that donation payments (including camp donations) are able to be submitted for the Donation Tax Credits from the IRD. This scheme entitles you to claim back 33% of your donation payments, if you meet the eligibility criteria. Payments made by 31st March, can be submitted as part of your application for the financial year ended 31st March 2025.

If you need any assistance logging into Hero to view your statement or if you wish to find out more about setting up payment instalments and claiming the donation tax credits, you can refer to the Finance and Annual Donation page of our website.

If you have any queries, please email accounts@beckenham.school.nz

Communicating Absences

Our Text Line for reporting absences is currently not working. Please contact the school office if your child will be absent from school via the below methods instead:

Phone: (03) 337-1404
(Press 1 to leave an absence message)
Email: office@beckenham.school.nz

When contacting us please remember to include; your name, your child's name, the reason for their absence, and how long you expect your child will be away from school.

Thank you for your patience and understanding while we sort this matter.

Bananas from The Funky Pumpkin

We want to say a massive 'thank you!' to The Funky Pumpkin, who donated 140 bananas to the Kauri camp. The tamariki and adults on camp enjoyed some banana splits for dessert one night! We really appreciated this kind and generous offer from The Funky Pumpkin.

Walk or Wheel to School Week

This week was 'Walk or Wheel to School Week', this is a fun week that encourages primary school children and their whānau to walk, cycle, scoot or skate to school.

Well down everyone for giving it a go, rain or shine!

Hardship Fund Contributions

We know that sometimes families, and others in our community, would like to contribute towards the costs for students whose families might be experiencing some hardship, and are not able to readily fund uniform, stationery or even lunches. If you, or anyone you know, would like to make a contribution to our hardship account, please email accounts@beckenham.school.nz or simply deposit funds into the school bank a/c, Beckenham Te Kura o Pūtoro Board of Trustees - 12 3148 0131641 000, with the reference "Hardship donation". We will ensure that these funds are used to support those families who need support. 

Getting support from our Hardship Fund

If you are a family who would appreciate some support with uniform, stationery or food, please contact the office or email accounts@beckenham.school.nz and we will do the best we can to support you. We want to ensure that all of our tamariki have everything they need to succeed at school.

Lost Property

We have a collection of smaller or special items in a Lost Property box in the Office. This is not put out for children to go through like the Lost Property clothing rack is, so please pop in to the Office to have a look through if you or your child are missing any items. This has been accumulating over the years so please do check this space even if you haven't lost anything recently!


Reo Māori o te Wīki

This is our Whakataukī (phrase), Kīwaha (saying), and Kupu (word) for the week. Give it a go! Remember, Nau mai te wero, We Love Challenge!

Whakataukī: He rau ringa e oti ai - This means many hands make light work. So, let’s focus on working together as a team!

Kīwaha: Wananei - This means Wicked!

Kupu: Ako - this means to learn

If you are unsure of the pronunciation of a word, have a look at Te Aka (the Māori dictionary) where you can hear how the word is spoken correctly.

Toys at School

We have noticed a large number of toys being brought to school lately. This includes keyrings, Pokemon cards, special notebooks etc. Please could you ensure these stay at home. It might help to check the backpack in the mornings. Thank you for your support with this.

Seeds from Mitre 10 Beckenham

Thank you Stacey M for nominating Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto to win a seed pack from Mitre 10 Beckenham last week. We were selected and are very excited to have some seeds for Lucy and the Garden Club to grow!

Garden Club

Another successful Garden Haul - thanks to Lucy and our tamariki! 

On Thursday morning there was another Vege Market from our keen gardeners.
There was celery, beans, potatoes and some apples on offer.
A koha is always much appreciated!  If you have any spare seeds at home, we will warmly welcome these contributions to our gardens, these can be dropped off at the Office!

Sports News

2025 School Swimming Sports Results

FREESTYLE

Year 5 Girls FREESTYLE - 1 LENGTH FINALS (25m)
  1. Moana Humphreys
  2. Florence Cross 
  3. Meera Verma
Year 6 Girls FREESTYLE - 1 LENGTH FINALS (25m)
  1. Clara Shaw
  2. Vienna Aldridge
  3. Harriet Scott
Year 7/8 Boys & Girls FREESTYLE - 1 LENGTH FINALS (25m)
Year 7 Girls - Minah Malak 1st Place
Year 7 Boys - Dylan Batchelor 1st Place, Mitchell Trotter 2nd Place

Year 5  Boys FREESTYLE - 1 LENGTH FINALS (25m)
  1. Simon McKean
  2. Terence Lee
  3. Leo Davies
Year 6 Boys FREESTYLE - 1 LENGTH FINALS (25m)
  1. Walter Stallworthy
  2. Toby Johnston
  3. Emerson Wood
Year 8 Boys FREESTYLE - 2 LENGTH FINAL (50m)
  1. Kawa Taylor
  2. Archie Chapman
  3. Zakhar Voinov
Year 5 Girls FREESTYLE - 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
  1. Chloe Sayer
  2. Cora Nuttall
  3. Molly McGuigan
Year 6 Girls FREESTYLE - 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
  1. Mietta Turnbull
  2. Harriet Scott
  3. Amelia Soppit
Year 7 Girls FREESTYLE - 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
  1. Sarah Welch
  2. Minah Malak
Year 8 Girls FREESTYLE - 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
  1. Imogen Orchard
  2. Ella Hamilton
  3. Emeline Henderson
Year 5 boys FREESTYLE - 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
  1. Laurence Blane
  2. Jethro Henton
Year 6 boys FREESTYLE - 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
  1. Haydn O’Connor
  2. Hamish McCrae
  3. Jack Hurst
Year 7 Boys FREESTYLE - 2 LENGTH Final (50m)
  1. Sebastian Blane
  2. Daniel McKean
  3. Zach Guise

BACKSTROKE

Year 5 Girls BACKSTROKE - 1 LENGTH FINALS (25m)
  1. Moana Humphreys
  2. Florence Cross
  3. Julia Wallace
Year 6 Girls BACKSTROKE - 1 LENGTH FINALS (25m)
  1. Clara Shaw
  2. Harriet Scott
  3. Lily Hale
Year 5, 6 & 7 boys BACKSTROKE- 1 LENGTH FINALS (25m)
Year 5
  1. Leo Davies
  2. Terrence Lee
Year 6
  1. Toby Johnstone
  2. Emerson Wood
  3. Soren Durrant
Year 7 
  1. Mitchell Trotter
Year 5/6 Girls Backstroke - 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
Year 5
  1. Chloe Sayer
  2. Cora Nuttall
  3. Molly McGuigan
Year 6
  1. Vienna Aldridge
  2. Mietta Turnbull
Year 7 and 8  Girls BACKSTROKE - 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
Year 7
  1. Sarah Welch
  2. Nelly Palmer
  3. Jessica Kaur
Year 8
  1. Imogen Orchard
  2. Emeline Henderson
  3. Tish Gillman
Year 5 and 6 boys BACKSTROKE - 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
Year 5
  1. Laurence Blane
  2. Terence Lee
  3. James Newland
Year 6
  1. Jack Hurst
  2. Haydn O’Connor
  3. Hamish McCrae
Year 7 Boys BACKSTROKE - 2 LENGTH Heats (50m)
  1. Samson Nuttall
  2. Sebastian Blane
  3. Vinnie Firmedow
Year 8 boys BACKSTROKE- 2 LENGTH FINAL(50m)
  1. Kawa Taylor & Zakhar Voinov
  2. Archie Chapman
  3. Lukas O’Connor

BREASTROKE

Year 5, 6 & 7 boys & Year 6 Girls BREASTROKE- 1 LENGTH FINALS (25m)
Year 5 Boys
  1. Jethro Henton
Year 6 Boys
  1. Emerson Wood
  2. Levi Bunting
Year 7 Boys
  1. Mitchell Trotter
Year 5/6 girls BREASTROKE - 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
  1. Chloe Sayer
  2. Cora Nuttall
Year 7 and 8 Girls BREASTSTROKE - 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
Year 7 
  1. Sarah Welch
Year 8
  1. Imogen Orchard
  2. Tish Gillman
  3. Emeline Henderson
Year 5 and 6 boys BREASTROKE- 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
Year 5
  1. Laurence Blane
  2. Simon McKean
  3. James Newland
Year 6
  1. Haydn O’Connor
  2. Jack Hurst
  3. Hamish McCrae
Year 7 and 8 boys BREASTSTROKE - 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
Year 7
  1. Samson Nuttall
  2. Sebastian Blane
  3. Daniel McKean
Year 8
  1. Kawa Taylor
  2. Archie Chapman
  3. Lukas O’Connor

BUTTERFLY

Year open mixed  BUTTERFLY - 2 LENGTH FINALS (50m)
Year 5 Girls
  1. Chloe Sayer
Year 7 Girls
  1. Sarah Welch
Year 8 Girls
  1. Tish Gillman
Year 8 Boys
  1. Archie Chapman
  2. Kawa Taylor

HOUSE RELAY

1st Place - Heathcote
2nd Place -  Fisher
3rd Place - Waimea
4th Place - Tennyson

BOT Update

Policy Review

From time to time we ask you to review one of our policies that come up on our review cycle. A policy for whānau review is the Recording and Reporting Accidents, Injuries, and Illness policy. You will find it on School Docs at this link. Click on current review, start review and follow the directions. 

Username: beckenham
Password: pride

Instructions for reviewers
  1. Follow the link to the policy.
  2. Read the policy.
  3. Click the "Start Review" icon at the right-hand top corner of the page. A new screen will appear.
  4. Select your role (board member, staff member, student, whānau or other) from the drop-down list.
  5. Enter your name (optional).
  6. Submit your ratings and comments.
If you don't have internet access, school office staff can easily provide you with printed copies of the policy and the review form.

Community Notices

(Notices placed here are contingent on space and do not reflect the views or opinions of the school.)



SEEN: The Film – A New Parenting Documentary

This film is about the lives of four parents with 6 experts (one being New Zealander Nathan Wallis) providing insights into children’s needs and the science of understanding them. It not only explores the transformative power of personal healing for parents but also delves into the scientifically supported effects of such healing on parenting and its impact on child brain development.

It is a film about learning to see who we are, where we come from, the impact we have and how to change.

The film is being screened throughout Australia and in Auckland, Dunedin and Christchurch.

In Christchurch, the Neighbourhood Trust is screening the film on Thursday 27th March at 7pm at the McFaddens Centre, 64 McFaddens Road, St Albans.

To watch the trailer please go to https://seenthefilm.com/

Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite and are appx $19.