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

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

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 MayBoard 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 JunPTA 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.

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

Principal's Patch

Ngā mihi e te whānau,

It’s hard to believe we’re already nearing the end of Week 4! The term is well underway, and it’s great to see so much positive learning happening across the school. Our new staff and students have been warmly welcomed by our community, which has been wonderful to see.

This newsletter is packed with important updates, and we hope you take the time to read it through.

Kauri Camp

Next week, the Kauri team will embark on their exciting camp adventure at Wainui, departing on Monday and returning on Friday. This camp is a fantastic opportunity for students to step outside their comfort zones, embrace challenges, and build resilience. We wish them all the best and extend our gratitude to Hugo, the Kauri team, and the dedicated parents who are joining them for the duration of the camp - your support makes this experience possible. 

PTA

Joining the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is a fantastic way to get involved in your child’s education and make a meaningful impact on the school community. The PTA provides a platform for you to contribute to school events and fundraising efforts that support important school initiatives. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to connect with other parents and stay informed about what’s happening at school. 

The first PTA meeting of the year will be held next Wednesday, February 26, at 7:30 p.m. in the Green Room, adjacent to the school hall. We would love to see you there.

If you are unable to attend meetings regularly but would still like to contribute, consider joining the PTA support group. This group assists the PTA by helping at events throughout the year. A strong support group is essential for the PTA to successfully organise events that benefit our school.

To join the PTA support group click on the link below: 

Weetbix TRYathlon

This weekend, more than 60 students from Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto will be participating in the Weet-Bix TRYathlon. We wish them all the best for the event and look forward to hearing about their experiences and results next week.

Celebration Assembly

Thank you to the whānau who attended our celebration assembly last Friday. It was great to come together and recognise our students’ achievements. Congratulations to those who received certificates for demonstrating our school values.

As a reminder, the values that are central to our schools vision are:

Arohaina te tāngata me te taiao - We care about people and the environment, fostering an inclusive community.
Nau mai te wero - Bring on the challenge.
Nā mātou he rerekē te ao - The world is different because of us.
He taonga te ako - The treasure is learning.
Mā tātou katoa te waka e hoe - We are all rowing this waka together.

Thank you for your ongoing support in role modelling and reinforcing these values with your children. 

Uniform 

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto requires students to wear a school uniform. Our uniform expectations outline what students can and cannot wear at school and when representing the school. Staff are actively reminding students about the correct uniform, particularly regarding tracksuit pants,  shorts and hats. The imagery below provides a clear guide on these uniform expectations, which you can use at home to support your child’s understanding.
Communication

Open and transparent communication is at the heart of a successful school. We value building strong learning partnerships with whānau. From time to time, you may have questions or concerns about your child’s learning at school. This is completely normal, and we encourage you to raise these promptly by following the steps below.

Step 1 - First point of contact
Home Group Teacher: Your child’s Home Group teacher should be your first point of contact for any important information or worries. They are best placed to understand your child’s individual needs and address your questions directly.

Step 2 - Second point of contact
Team Leader: If you feel the matter requires further attention after speaking with the Home Group teacher, please contact the relevant Team Leader. Contact details can be found on our website, linked here.

Step 3 - Third point of contact
Senior Leadership: If the issue remains unresolved at the Team Leader level, Senior Leadership can be contacted for further support. 

We also want to hear about any celebrations, cultural traditions, or achievements outside of school. Please share these with your child’s Home Group teacher so they can be acknowledged at school.

Ngā manaakitanga
Cade

Important Dates

Upcoming Events

Mon 24 Feb - Fri 28 Feb - Wainui Camp - Kauri (Y7/8)
Wed 26 Feb - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Fri 28 Feb - Celebration Assembly (10:00-10:30am, in the Hall)
Mon 3 Mar - Fri 7 Mar - Walk or Wheel to school week
Wed 5 Mar - Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room) 
Wed 5 Mar - School Swimming Sports
Fri 7 Mar - Kōwhai Top Team Challenge
Thu 13 Mar - Zone Swimming Sports Y5-8
Fri 14 MarCelebration 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

Citizen of the Week

Keira Ai - Year 4

Keira, your positive disposition shines through in everything you do. In your learning, you approach tasks with a growth mindset and are motivated to do your best. You are also a keen helper and love to make a positive difference by doing jobs around the hub and looking after your classmates. Kia kaha tō mahi, Keira! 

Jeremy Kemsley - Year 6

Jeremy, you are an incredible role model in the Pōhutukawa hub, in the way you consistently show all of the school values. You are a conscientious learner, keen to do your best, and you are highly organised, thinking ahead and making sure you are prepared. You are also an extremely caring friend, always looking out for others and helping where needed. Jeremy, you are an absolute star!

School Notices

PTA News

Join the PTA In 2025! 
We will be having our first hui next week 26th February, 7.30pm in the room next to the hall. We’ll be planning lots of fun fundraising and school community events for the year and we’d love some more hands. Don’t hesitate to get in touch via pta@beckenham.school.nz. If you can’t do meetings but would like to help with events we would also love to hear from you. 

The PTA meets monthly on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm at school. We raise money for the school through a variety of fundraising efforts (new ideas welcome!) and run events such as the Disco and the Bingo night. We also run the second hand uniform shop. 

We’re looking forward to seeing Weetbix Tryathlon participants on Sunday. Look out for the big black gazebo at Jellie park and don’t forget to come and get an iceblock after the run. 

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.

Garden Club

Some children put together some bags of beans last week grown with loads of aroha.

The year 1-4s hope to have more vege sales…so keep an eye out for our garden sale table in the mornings.

Any koha would be greatly appreciated to keep up the hard work!

There has been celery, apples & more beans, even some sunflower seeds in the mix! 

Also if anyone has any leftover seeds at home they are happy to donate to the garden club, we would love to get growing this term.

Thank you for your ongoing support!

The munch bunch!

Financial Statements

You will have received your student's financial statement this week.

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 a student in Kauri, you will see the camp contribution request for the Wainui camp has now been added to your account. Thank you very much to the PTA for the kind contribution towards the buses! If you have chosen to pay your school donations in instalments over the year, please consider increasing these to allow for additional contributions towards the cost of camp.

Payments may 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.

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

Reo Māori o te Wīki

Have a go at saying these every day, throughout the day. “We Love Learning ”, "He taonga te ako”!

Whakataukī: Ahakoa he iti kete, he iti nā te aroha - This means it’s the thought that counts. 

Kīwaha: Mē he tē! - this means like a boss! An expression used to say that someone does something very well.

Kupu: Kāore - this means no.

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

CSM Band programme try-an-instrument

CSM try-an-instrument afternoon was a busy success! Thank you to everyone who came along to try out an instrument!

If your child is interested in learning an instrument with the Christchurch School of Music School Band Programme in 2025, we encourage you to enrol using the google form https://forms.gle/pJ322wdRYh44hPZ77

Con Brio band was filmed by What Now last year: https://youtu.be/t17V1suMMMY?si=U0_FXDOem8kWuU__

Lunch Orders

Lunches are delivered to the school office for children to collect at 1.20pm

Monday – Sushi Factory is available through LunchOnline.

Tuesday – Subway is available through LunchOnline

Wednesday – Subway is available through LunchOnline.

Thursday – Sushi Meets Dumplings is available.

Friday – Sushi Factory is available through LunchOnline.

Lunch Online

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto uses Subway and Sushi Factory through the Lunchonline web based ordering system.
LunchOnline orders  need to be placed by 8:30am on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Please ensure that you update your child's details on their database so lunches can be matched up with your child more easily if they need to be delivered.

To access this, you will need to set up an account with LunchOnline here.

Sushi Meets Dumplings

Sushi Meets Dumplings is delivered on Thursdays.
To place an order, please complete this form – Sushi meets Dumplings order form.
Orders for Sushi Meets Dumplings need to be placed the night before, and latest by 9am on Thursdays.

'Kiss & Go' Drop Off Area - 3 min Parking

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.

Staff Profiles

As part of promoting the teaching profession, interviews were carried out with new teachers, and published on the Education Magazine - The Education Gazette.

This article features our very own Georgia. 

Well done Georgia.

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.)

Events/Activities: for Caregivers and tamariki

Christchurch City Libraries, what’s on:  https://my.christchurchcitylibraries.com/holiday-programmes-events-and-activities/
Sparklers at Home: https://sparklers.org.nz/wh%C4%81nau/
www.nooknz.com : Keeping families up-to-date with ‘what to do’ : https://nooknz.com/

Community Services Quick links:

Foodbanks: https://www.foodbank.co.nz/links
Family Services Directory - The Family Services Directory is a searchable online database.  It lists information about family support organisations and the services/programmes they offer to support New Zealand families (we call the organisations in the Family Services Directory "providers").  The purpose of the Family Services Directory is to connect people with providers who can help them to cope with common issues and problems.  https://www.familyservices.govt.nz/directory/
Community Law: https://communitylaw.org.nz/

 Wellbeing Support:

Safe to Talk: https://www.safetotalk.nz/
Youthline: https://youthline.co.nz/  Call: 0800 611 116  Call: 1737
Te Whatu Ora - Health NZ: https://info.health.nz/

Food Support:

Kairos: https://www.foodb Kairos Free Store: Mondays and Fridays 5:30-6:30, 284 Tuam St  Free Store: Kairos Food Rescue foodbank.co.nz/canterbury
Christchurch City Mission foodbank: via appointment 0800 787 855
Salvation Army foodbanks and other welfare services: Central, Sydenham, Linwood, Aranui.
St Ambrose Church foodbank: 03 388 6699
Hoon Hay Foodbank: 14A, 12 McCarthy St, Hoon Hay
Lyttelton Community House: 03 741 1427
Pataka Kai:(community pantries)
The Housing First Christchurch Office: 242 Ferry Road
111 Barbour Street Waltham

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

Principal's Patch

Ngā mihi e te whānau,

It has been truly wonderful to welcome our students to the 2025 school year. There's been a positive energy around the school, and it’s been a pleasure to see new connections form and learning getting underway. A huge thank you to all our staff who have worked tirelessly to prepare our environment for the community. I also want to acknowledge the Mihi Whakatau (welcome) on Tuesday morning, which officially welcomed me to Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto. It was a truly humbling experience. A big thank you to Sampson, Marcel, for your words of support, Te Whānau Mahitahi for their performance and to Whaea Cath, Sue, and Jo for your organisation.


Welcome to Our New Staff Members for 2025!

We are excited to introduce the newest members of our team for the upcoming year:

Talia - Kahikatea Team
Kendall - Kōwhai Team
Hazel - Kōwhai Team
Chris - Pōhutukawa Team
Chloe - Kauri Team
Hugo - Kauri Team

Each of our new staff members has shared a brief bio in this newsletter, so you can get to know them a little better.

Welcome Assembly
This morning, we had the pleasure of welcoming our new students and their whānau to our school. It was inspiring to see the diverse cultures and countries represented in our flag ceremony. We are thrilled to have you all join us and become part of the Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto community.

Staff Only Days
Leading up to the start of the school year, the staff spent four days engaged in professional learning and preparations. One of these days was spent with colleagues from schools within the Te Mana Raupo Kāhui Ako (Community of Learning), receiving professional development from Kathryn Burkett, an expert in the intersection of education and neuroscience. Her key message was: “Young people simply can’t perform in a classroom unless their basic needs have been met.” The remaining three days our staff spent together focused on ‘Setting up for Success,’ with key themes around setting up for student success through consistency, building relationships, and maintaining high expectations.

Learning Conferences
Thank you for taking the time to meet with your child’s homeroom teacher, either last Friday or Monday of this week. We see these conferences as a fundamental step in developing strong learning partnerships that will support your child to thrive throughout the year. If, for any reason, you were unable to attend, please contact your child’s homeroom teacher so that an opportunity to connect can be arranged.

Attendance
As you may know, one of the government’s key education targets is for 80% of students to attend school for more than 90% of the term. This is a goal we are committed to achieving as we start the school year, and we are committed to supporting all of our students in maintaining regular attendance.

In 2023, the Education Review Office (ERO) published Attendance: Getting Back to School - A Guide for Parents and Whānau. Overall ERO reported that ‘We found lots of evidence that regular attendance has a big impact: the more often children attend school, the better they do at school, the happier they are, and the better they are set up for life.’
This guide also offers practical tips for whānau to help support their child’s regular attendance, many of which you may find useful to implement at home:
  • Talk to your child about how school is important for their future, and how it is important to go every day. Be positive about school!
  • Make sure your child knows that you care if they are going to school.
  • Only take your child out of school when there is a really good reason, like if they are sick.
  • Have a consistent morning routine, not too rushed.
  • Help your child to be prepared for school, like making sure they have done their homework the night before.
Morning Drop-Offs
To help your child start the school day positively, we encourage parents to leave once they have dropped their child off at the classroom, ideally before the bell rings at 8:55 a.m. This supports a smooth transition from being in your care to settling with their homeroom teacher, ensuring they are ready for learning.

A reminder of our 2025 term dates can be viewed here: http://www.beckenham.school.nz/index.php/information/term-dates

Have a restful weekend.

Ngā mihi nui
Cade
Tumuaki (Principal) 
Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto

Important Dates

Upcoming Events

Tue 11 Feb - Try an Instrument (CSM) 3pm-4pm in the Hall. All 8+ welcome
Mon 24 Feb 
- Fri 28 Feb - Wainui Camp - Kauri (Y7/8)
Wed 26 Feb - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
Mon 3 Mar - Fri 7 Mar - Walk or Wheel to school week
Wed 5 Mar - Board of Trustees Meeting (5:30-7:30pm, Staff Room) 
Wed 5 Mar - School Swimming Sports
Fri 7 Mar - Kōwhai Top Team Challenge
Fri 13 Mar - Zone Swimming Sports Y5-8
Wed 19 Mar - School Photos TBC
Wed 26 Mar - PTA Meeting (7:30-9:30pm)
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 - Last Day of Term 1
Mon 28 Apr - First Day of Term 2

School Notices

Staff Profiles

Hugo Weaver - Kauri (Year 7/8) Team Leader

My name is Hugo Weaver and I am excited to be joining Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto this year. The staff and my team have been very welcoming and I am looking forward to getting to know everyone better as the year progresses. A few things about me: I am a father of four, live locally in St Martins and love running, cricket, rugby league, and football. When not at school I love tinkering away in my garage on projects for my house or going on runs in the hills.

Chris Gaut - Pōhutukawa (Year 5/6) Team Leader

Kō Chris Gaut tōku ingoa, I am really looking forward to working with our Yr 5/6 students in the Pōhutukawa Team this year and getting to know both the students and the community. I enjoy being active and joining in all things that the students are doing and being a part of their world, I'm excited to be a part of the Beckenham Team. 

Hazel Ritchie - Kōwhai Teacher (Year 3/4) 

Kia Ora koutou, I am a new teacher joining the Kōwhai team. I highly value emotional intelligence in my teaching and strive to uplift and inspire all tamariki. I enjoy getting out into nature and finding new walking tracks. I have a passion for crafting and turning my living room into a creative whirlwind. I look forward to building relationships within our incredible community.

Chloe Wilson - Kauri Teacher (Year 7/8) 

I am originally from Australia and have recently moved from Melbourne to Christchurch, following four years of teaching in London. My experience has primarily been in senior schools, and I am passionate about fostering student voice and agency within the Kura.

Talia Garrick - Kahikatea Teacher (Year 1/2) 

Kia ora koutou, I’m Talia. Last year, I completed my Bachelor of Teaching and Learning, and I’m thrilled to begin my teaching journey at Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto this year. I was lucky enough to grow up in this neighbourhood so I am super excited to give back to the community. I am part of the awesome Kahikatea team. I love the arts and sports, particularly netball and volleyball. If you see me around school please come and say hello!

Kendall Skelton - Release Teacher

Kia Ora, I’m Kendall Skelton. I have been a parent of Beckenham for nearly a year now and I am very excited to now join as a teacher in the Kōwhai team on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. 

Sunscreen, Hats and Drink Bottles

Please remember to send your child to school each day with sunscreen applied, and with a school hat and their drink bottle. Hats are compulsory in Term 1 and Term 4.

Stationery

If you have not yet purchased your child's stationery, you can download the stationery list from the school website.

Pencil Cases: if your child brings a pencil case to school, please keep these small - the storage spaces are not big enough for large pencil cases!

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. 

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

Staff Carpark

To keep everyone safe when arriving and leaving school, please do not walk through the staff carpark. This area is for staff cars, taxis and accessibility parking only. Thanks to everyone who is using the pedestrian gates; onto Beckenham park, near the flagpole, on Sandwich Road by the PTA uniform room, or onto Eastern Terrace. Our school gates are to keep children in, gates are to remain closed during school hours.


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.

Children's Health Needs

If your child has medication that needs to be kept at school, on a long or short-term basis, it is very important that you come into the office and set up a new plan with Chloe or Jacky for the administration of this. All medication held on site should have been sent back home to you at the end of last year. Please check expiry dates on medications before you bring it in. All parents/caregivers need to complete a medicine authority form and procedures will be followed to ensure that it is kept securely, and administered appropriately.

If your child has an emergency medical plan for asthma, anaphylaxis, diabetes, seizure, allergies or any other critical medical emergency, and you have had that plan and or medication updated over the holidays, please also bring that into the office.

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.

Waitangi Day

Acknowledging Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Waitangi Day is an opportunity to take notice and to be mindful of the small, everyday actions we can all take to make a positive difference. The weight of history can often feel overwhelming. We all have a positive part to play in building connection, understanding and unity within our tamariki as our future leaders.


Waitangi Day is an important part of Aotearoa / New Zealand’s past, present, and future... but often we don't know how it really affects us, except for a public holiday! 

Here is a fantastic resource made for both adults and young people which gives a rich insight into Waitangi Day, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and The Treaty of Waitangi in a very friendly yet informative way.

We invite you, and your whānau to take a look at this comic-style storybook or listen to the audiobook together. This is a great way to engage in more learning and create space for curiosity to grow. 

Link to the storybook resource here


"Ka mua, ka muri" is a whakataukī that many will know means "walking backwards into the future" - the idea of this is that we should look to the past to inform the future. 

Once you have looked through this resource, if you have any pātai (questions), please feel free to share these with us. We are all on our own journey, but as our school values state, "We Get There Together", and "We Love Challenge". We know that reflecting on our history is a chance for us to sit with and live these values, to help us as individuals on our own journey, but also to strengthen the communities that we live in. Your questions and curiosity are welcome! Kōrero mai.

Dental Care

Kupu Māori o te wīki

We are continuing to embrace our reo Māori (Māori language), and tamariki (children) will be learning a new Whakataukī (phrase/proverb), Kīwaha (saying), and Kupu (word) each week. In line with our school value: “We Love Learning” He taonga te ako”, have a go at saying these every day, throughout the week and learning alongside your tamariki.

Whakataukī: Whakarite ngā kete mō te haerenga! - This means filling our kete for the journey. 

Kīwaha: Paia! - this means Awesome!

Kupu: Āe - this means yes.

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

Christchurch School of Music (CSM) 

CSM Band programme try-an-instrument

Is your child 8 years or older and loves music?  
Beckenham Te Kura O Puoroto has music lessons for many instruments and is one of only a small number of primary schools with its own Concert Band and String Orchestra.  
If your child would like to try a blowing instrument, the CSM Outreach Band team will be at school on Tuesday 11 February in the hall foyer from 3-4pm.  
Instruments on offer are flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, percussion and electric bass guitar.  
Fliers with information about both the CSM Outreach Concert Band and the CSM Outreach Strings programme are available at the school office.  Check us out on What Now! 

Community Notices

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



Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto Final Schoolwide Newsletter, Rāmere (Friday) 13 December 2024, Week 9

Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

This is our final newsletter for 2024!

To our tamariki, this year we have noticed our kete values in action in so many ways in every one of you, and we are so proud of you all as you fill your kete for the journey - Whakarite ngā kete mō te haerenga.

Thank you to all our staff. This year we have navigated a year of transition together - what a team. You bring the kete values to all you do and you hold our tamariki central in all the decisions, solutions, learning and fun! Arohina te tangata me te taiao.


Thank you to our whānau, for the support you have shown the kura this year, for working as part of the important team supporting your child. Mā tātou katoa te waka e hoe.


Meet the teacher for 2025

On Tuesday 17th December the tamariki (children) will have some time in their hub for 2025 and meet the teachers who will be in that team. Each child will be given a letter to bring home to you that will have the name of their Home Group teacher for 2025, information on booking a learning conference at the start of the year and stationery information. Please look out for this letter. If you child is away for any reason on this day, the information will be emailed to you.


Year 8 Leavers

On Monday we farewell our Year 8 students. To them we say thank you and goodbye for now. Whether their time with us has been for all their schooling or part of it, they have each brought your own gifts and talents to our Kura as they have filled their Kete for the Journey.


Staffing Update
Congratulations to Jenny Diggle! Jenny has secured a position for 2025 at Te Aratai College working with a Year 9 class.

Jenny started at Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto in 2016. During her time here she has worked in both the Junior and Senior school. Jenny has been the leader of Physical Education and has worked tirelessly over the years to support and organise the running of so many sporting events. Thank you Jenny for your empathic, caring approach.  Your incredible expertise in supporting our tamariki in their “whole” learning journey and in the way you are so solutions-focused has been appreciated.  These traits will support your new job at Te Aratai College next year.

Nicky Dunlop will take a Kauri Home Group for Term 1 while we recruit a teacher to start Term 2. 

Showing appreciation at the end of the year
We are aware that gift-giving is one way that some people choose to show appreciation and that this is particularly so at the end of the school year, and for those who celebrate Christmas.

We talk with the children about the importance of showing appreciation in an ongoing way through words and actions, rather than necessarily through the buying of gifts. Our teachers talk with the children about the value of making and writing cards or small gifts when special occasions do occur. In that same spirit, we do appreciate hearing that what we have done has been appreciated, and we do not expect parents or students to buy gifts for staff. 

We are also aware that some groups of children may to organise gift-giving activities between friends at school (i.e. "Secret Santa"). Please let your children know that this is not something we do at school,  and that this needs to be something organised outside of school. Our goal is to ensure that our school activities are inclusive of all children and their whānau beliefs and values. Please ask children to keep activities such as this to friendship groups outside of school, where you know one another’s families.

Below are the dates of the remaining events at kura (school). a reminder that school finishes at 12.30pm on Tuesday 17 December.

We wish you all a safe summer holiday and look forward to seeing you in 2025.

Ngā mihi nui
Jo Smith (Acting Principal / Tumuaki) 

Important Dates

Upcoming Events

Mon 16 Dec - Year 8 Graduation 11am
Tue 17 Dec - Last day of Term 4, School finishes 12.30PM

Term Dates

Click here to view 2024 & 2025 term dates

School Notices

Congratulations to...

Principal's Cup for Leadership: Madeleine Dougherty

Madeleine, your leadership is characterised by initiative, care, and leading by example. You are a self-starter who sees a need and steps in to fill it, always seeking ways to make things better—whether through your support of the diversity group or your leadership of the creative writing group. You lead through action, setting high standards for yourself that inspire those around you to strive for their best. Your kindness and empathy are evident in your thoughtful approach to leadership, balancing the needs of the group with those of each individual. Congratulations, Madeleine, on this well-deserved recognition for your exceptional leadership!


Christchurch School of Music Band Directors Cup: Ben

Ben, your dedication to band has been outstanding. Through your involvement with both the Beckenham Tutti Band and Con Brio, you have shown exceptional perseverance, resilience, and commitment to your craft. As a mentor, you have guided younger students with kindness and encouragement, fostering a strong sense of teamwork and community. Your contributions have left a lasting impact, and you will be greatly missed as you move on to high school. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition, Ben!


Norman Kirk Memorial Prize for Citizenship: Ben Cross

Ben, every one of our school values shines through you in your words and actions every day at kura. 

He taonga te ako. Your thirst for learning is undeniable: You can always be found engaged in discussion, asking questions or engrossed in a book. You strive for excellence in all that you do. 

Nau mai te wero. Ben, you positively vibrate with enthusiasm in the face of challenging maths problems, a competitive game of sport, or really just about any opportunity put in front of you. 

Nā mātou he rerekē te ao. You are an outstanding leader and role model; you can always be counted on to act with integrity. 

Mā tatou katoa te waka e hoe. Ben, you shine when working within a team. You are a leader who leads from alongside, bringing others with you to enjoy success together. 

Arohina te tāngata me te taio. Ben, you are inclusive, kind, caring and respectful to everything and everyone every day.  

Ben, thank you for being such an all round awesome human being.


Year 8 Kete awards


We Love Learning -Harshit Rana and Harriet Parawa

Harriet, your genuine enjoyment of learning is evident across the curriculum and extends beyond the classroom. The way you consistently show your love of learning is outstanding. You demonstrate a huge commitment to personal growth but also show a  willingness to support others in achieving their best. Your success in various subjects reflects your proactive engagement with the learning process. Thank you, Harriet, for embodying the spirit of loving learning. 


Harshit, you have proven yourself as an exceptional learner time and time again. You have a genuine motivation to do well at every task laid before you. Harshit, the way that you put yourself outside of your comfort zone in search of personal growth is admirable. You listen attentively, follow instructions and respond to feedback. These characteristics have resulted in progress and achievements across the curriculum: Your intricate calendar art piece, coachability in ultimate frisbee and basketball, and awesome performance in our production are just some examples of this. He taonga te ako.


We Make a Difference-Hayzel Pole

Hayzel, you are positivity personified. When you smile, it is impossible not to smile back - and you smile most of the time. When ideas are being brainstormed, you are quick to acknowledge the contributions of others. During dance, drama or sport, you build others up. As Junior Neighborhood Support Leader, you have been proactive in actioning ideas to benefit our community and you have been a dedicated and bubbly House Captain for Heathcote. This support and encouragement of others makes a huge difference and promotes a culture of belonging within our rōpu. Thank you for the energy and enthusiasm you bring to kura each day, Hayzel!


We Love Challenge-Holly McIntosh

Holly, you embrace challenge in so many different ways. When the learning is challenging, you knuckle down and persevere to break through any barriers. Physical challenges see you in your element, leading the way and supporting others. You also love to perform and willingly volunteer for speaking roles. Holly, you take challenge in your stride, showing resilience when the going gets tough. Nau mai te whero! You rock, Holly.


Together-Isabella Guise

Isabella, you are a fabulous team player. Your level head and personable nature enable you to work effectively within a range of group dynamics. You are an active participant in many extracurricular activities, which include sport, Te Whānau and leadership. In every rōpu, you fully contribute and play your part in making the group a success. Isabella, you act with integrity, role-modeling our school values and contributing positively to our Kauri community. Thank you for the kindness and inclusivity you show to all. Mā tatou te waka e hoe. 

Caring for our kura

Our fantastic kaitiaki - looking after our environment by choosing to collect rubbish during their play breaks! We get there together! 

BOSCO

BOSCO January 2025 Holiday Programme is open for bookings!

To book head to bosco.aimyplus.com

Any information you may need or help with bookings please contact Harriet

office@bosco.org.nz
027 645 6632

Sports News

Sports Uniforms

If you happen to find any Beckenham Te Kura sports tops hiding out at your house, would you help us out by returning them? We can get them washed a ready for next year.

Yr 5 Canterbury Relay Team


On Wednesday the 27th of November, 22 tamariki, (children) from Beckenham Te Kura O Puroto represented our kura and zone at Canterbury Athletics, held at Ngā Puna Wai. This is a record number of students attending Canterbury Athletics for our kura, (school) and is a testament to the tamariki, (children's) hard work and determination. Well done to all who took part and represented our kura so well. 

A special mention goes to Levi Bunting and Laura Stoney for placing 3rd in their events. A super achievement, well done!

Appropriate Language At School 

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto is a place where we want all of our students and their families to feel safe and happy. It is our values, and the 'culture' of our school (the way we do things) that helps us to create a supportive and mana enhancing learning environment. 

A big part of what makes our school special is how diverse and multicultural our community is. All families prioritise and value different things at home and that makes us unique. 

The language we use at home is very different from family to family. How one family communicates in their home and the language they feel is acceptable, can easily be recognised as taboo or appalling in others. This is why we talk to our students about 'Time and Place'. 

Please support us by reinforcing to your child(ren) that some words that may be acceptable at home are not acceptable at school (or other places). Different places have different rules. 

At Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto, we do not want our tamariki swearing or using anti-social language. Our school needs to be a safe and happy place for all.

The following is a useful article on swearing: Swearing: why do school-age children do it? It can be quite a shock when your child starts to swear. You might be wondering where your child learned that kind of language – and whether they really understands what they're saying. How you react to your school-age child’s swearing now will influence their future swearing behaviour.

Swearing: why do school-age children do it?

When school-age children swear, it’s usually to express negative feelings. It’s often a response to something painful, upsetting or frustrating.

Children might also swear to fit in socially. They might be trying to be part of the group or to stand out by being funny or adding shock value to their talk. Children might also be imitating others when they swear.

Some children swear because it gets a strong reaction from their parents.

What to do about swearing: immediate action

Speak to your child about their choice of words, rather than ignoring the behaviour. Your child might or might not fully understand a swear word’s meaning, however they understand that words can hurt or offend others.

Your reaction will influence whether your child swears again. Stay calm and explain clearly that the word your child used is not OK. You could also explain that the word might hurt other people’s feelings. This will go a long way towards preventing future swearing.

What to do about swearing: longer-term

It’s a good idea for the adults in your home to discuss and agree on acceptable language, and discuss this with your child. For example, in some families, expressions like ‘Oh my god’ are OK, but other words aren’t. In some families, these expressions won't be acceptable.

If your family has rules about swearing, it’ll be easier to point out when your child is using unacceptable language. For example, you might say, ‘Remember, that’s not a word we use in our home’.

Here are more ideas to encourage respectful speaking and reduce swearing:
  • Explain to your child that some words that are acceptable at home might not be acceptable at school (or other places). Different places have different rules.

  • Think of other words to use if you find it hard to stop swearing, and other ways to handle difficult situations. For example, instead of swearing, you could say something like, ‘I feel really frustrated or angry’. This way you’re modelling better ways of expressing feelings. If your child has heard you swearing, it can also help to explain why you were swearing.

  • Praise your child when you notice them dealing more appropriately with anger or frustration. For example, if your child tells you that a playmate was using swear words to tease, praise your child for walking away from the situation and not using those words.

  • Be aware of what your child watches, listens to and plays with. That means supervising and checking the ratings on TV programmes, movies, music and other multimedia. It’s also a good idea to have the TV, computers and other devices in a part of the house where you can easily see them.
Some children will keep pushing swearing boundaries after being told not to. If you find yourself in this situation, you could try the following strategies:
  • Clearly state the rules. For example, you could say, ‘We use respectful language in this family’.

  • Clearly state that you won’t tolerate any abusive behaviour or language that’s directed towards others.

  • Tell your child what the consequences will be if you hear swear words and follow through with that consequence e.g. loss of privileges on devices.

  • Praise your child for not swearing in situations where they normally would. 
Source of article: raisingchildren.net.au

Community Dental Service - Holiday Clinics January 2025

The Community Dental Service will be closed for the upcoming 2024-25 Christmas & New Year period:

     Closed from: Tuesday 24th December 2024
     Reopen:         Monday 6th January 2025

Four of our community dental clinics will be open during the January School Holiday period:

     Burnside    (96a Memorial Avenue)
     Hillmorton (80-82 Sylvan Street)
     Aranui        (240 Breezes 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.

Screen time and its impact on school-aged children

This week, we want to highlight an important research article about screen time and its impact on school-aged children. We estimate that over 90% of the 700+ cases referred to the attendance service involve issues related to excessive screen time, which we frequently observe as a major barrier to school attendance, especially when it leads to insufficient sleep. Notably, children who spend more than three hours daily on social media are 27% more likely to miss school.


Here are three key findings from the study that are relevant to school attendance:
  • Evening Screen Use: Adolescents using screens for more than two hours before bed are more likely to experience sleep disturbances, impacting their alertness and focus in school.
  • Delayed Sleep Onset: High levels of screen exposure are linked to delayed bedtimes, resulting in insufficient sleep and daytime fatigue, which can increase school absences.
  • Age Differences: Older students are particularly affected, with disruptions in sleep patterns that lower their energy levels and academic performance.

HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELLBEING

Health alerts and advice from Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora  

Pertussis (whooping cough) awareness and prevention 

A pertussis epidemic was declared across Aotearoa New Zealand on 22 November.   


Pertussis (also known as whooping cough) can be particularly severe, and sometimes fatal, for babies many of whom require hospital care. 

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is encouraging those who are pregnant or have regular contact with young babies or preschool children to check they are up to date with pertussis vaccinations. 


Protect against measles 

Measles is a serious and extremely contagious disease that affects adults and children.  

Measles is increasing in countries that Kiwis travel to frequently, including South-East Asia, Europe and the United States.   

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is encouraging vaccination for people who do not have immunity to measles, particularly those who are planning to travel overseas in the school holidays.  



Funded meningococcal vaccines for eligible rangatahi 

Meningococcal disease spreads easily in close living situations and can be fatal within hours. 

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is encouraging rangatahi to get a meningococcal vaccine if they are entering their first year of shared accommodation in a boarding school hostel, university halls of residence, military barracks or youth justice facility. 


Support with checking vaccination records 

Advice about vaccines and immunisation records for children aged 16 and under is available from the free vaccination Healthline on 0800 28 29 26, 8am to 8pm, seven days a week.  Māori, Pacific and disability support services are available to provide assistance.  

Community Notices

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

Art Classes for Children

Is your child passionate about art? Would they like to extend their creativity through learning a range of new art skills and techniques? Maybe Kat's holiday painting workshops or after-school art classes are just what you've been looking for. Kat's Art Studio is located at 171 Waltham Rd. Art tutor Katrina is a professional artist and tutor who has over 10yrs experience teaching children art. For more details, please visit www.katsartstudionz.com

It is with great excitement to share with you our BAPN Junior Badminton Summer Training Camp!

Details of the training camp:

Who:                    Players up to 19 years old
Experience:         All levels welcome (beginner, intermediate, advance)
Where:                 Zhu Badminton Centre, Wigram
Date:                    13 - 24 January 2025
Days:                    Monday - Friday (Total 10 days)
Time:                    9am - 3:30pm each day (6.5 hours per day)
Costs:                   $700 for all 10 days or $80 per day

Please see above posters for more information including schedule & training breakdown.

Please sign up via our enrolment form in the link below:

Limited spaces available so please sign up quick!

Or feel free to get in touch with any questions by contacting Willie at willie.chen@mybadmintonshop.co.nz or 0210 224 5655

*Application closes Friday 10th January 2025*