Category Archives: Weekly Newsletters

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto School Newsletter, Rāmere (Friday) 24 November, 2023

Posted on by

Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

The end of the year is rapidly approaching, with Summer trying to appear on Thursday this week, with a reminder on Friday that Spring weather can be extremely changeable and unpredictable!
The PTA were disappointed to have to postpone the picnic on Friday evening. We are looking forward to having it in the new year - on Friday 9th February - so get that date into your calendars now!

Outdoor Spaces - New Basketball Hoops

There has been huge excitement over the past two weeks as two new basketball hoops and two new netball hoops (in the Year 5/6 and 7/8 courtyard) were finally installed. This brings our current programme of Outdoor Spaces improvement to an end. Our thanks to Gayle McNaughton who has been the teacher leading this mahi, with support from Richard Scott (BOT), a team of teachers and liaison with students. At times it has been a frustrating and slow process (we remember the 'pond' at the bottom of the green slide!), so it is hugely satisfying to now see these projects come together and reach completion. 


The next areas we are looking at include:
  • shade opportunities within the school grounds
  • increasing the footprint of the Sandwich Road bike storage area
  • re-designing the main entrance area on Sandwich Road to provide more space and safer movement of people at high usage times 

Cycle Safety - Year 6

This week our Year 6 students have been participating in the Christchurch City Council Cycle Safe schools programme. On Thursday they had the additional opportunity to sit in the cab of a large truck to get a front seat view of a driver's blind spots when driving a large vehicle, and thinking about the implications of that when they are on a bike.
We are very grateful to the Council and the Cycle Safe team who fund and provide this important programme for Year 6 students across Christchurch.


An invitation to join us 

On Monday 4th December at 12noon, we will be holding a special assembly to celebrate the contribution made to our school over the past 27 years by Elizabeth Drummond. Whilst Elizabeth is absolutely not retiring, she will be finishing her permanent full-time role at the end of this year. 
You are invited to join us - please RSVP to the office if you are planning to attend.

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 be organising 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.

Ngā mihi nui
Sandy Hastings
Principal - Tumuaki

Important Dates

(you can also find the Community Calendar on our website here)

Fri 1 Dec - Student Council - Celebrating Diversity and Culture Day (non-uniform)
Fri 1 Dec - Celebration Assembly, 10am, in the Hall
Thu 7 Dec - BOT Meeting, 5.30pm, Staffroom
Fri 8 Dec - Celebration Assembly, 10am, in the Hall
Fri 8 Dec - 12:15-3pm, Kahikatea Team trip to Isaac Theatre Royal, Southern Ballet
Mon 11 Dec - 7-8pm Kauri Production, in the Hall
Tue 12 Dec - 7-8pm Kauri Production, in the Hall
Fri 15 Dec - Final Celebration Assembly, 9:45am, in the Hall
Mon 18 Dec - Year 8 Graduation, 11am-12pm
Mon 18 Dec - Year 8 Leavers' Lunch 12:30-1:30pm
Tue 19 Dec - Last Day of Term 4, School finishes at 12.30pm

2024
Tue 30 Jan - Learning Conferences
Wed 31 Jan - Learning Conferences
Thu 1 Feb - Classes begin

Term Dates: Click here to view 2023 & 2024 term dates

Citizen of the Week

Isabelle Parrett - Year 8

Isabelle, your involvement in various aspects of school life has been truly commendable. You are a keen hockey player and have shown determination and drive throughout the school competition and Koru Games this year. You have excelled in music, being involved in band, music lessons and choir. We've sincerely appreciated all your hard work, and it's been a pleasure to witness your growth as a leader this year. Tino pai rawa atu, Isabelle!

Congratulations to...

Isla Graham
Science Cup Winner

Isla, your enthusiasm for the living world and marine environment is obvious for all to see. You thrive on discovering new facts about animals and creatures, and your eagerness to share your knowledge with others is fantastic. I always anticipate your moments of enlightenment, when you casually remark, "Did you know…?" You teach me so many new things! During our science lessons, your genuine interest and involvement shines through. You've earned numerous Science Badges, and your work has consistently improved over time. Keep nurturing your curiosity and continue sharing your passion with others. Congratulations, Isla! 

Cahlen Stace
Band Directors Cup Winner

Cahlen was awarded this for amazing contribution to the school bands over the past four years. Cahlen you truly shine as a talented performer. 

BOT Update

We would like to thank all of our candidates for their interest and participation in our Mid-term elections. 

School Notices

Scholastic Lucky Book Club - Issue 8 Out Now!


Issue 8 is out now, please follow the link below to look at the catalogue online, and to order. Orders close Tuesday 12 December.

Misplaced Scooter/s

The scooter below was taken home by accident at the start of this month from the school bike stands, which means someone else may have the wrong one too. Please contact the Office if this is relevant to you.

End Of Year Reports

The end of year summary reports are now available through the Hero portal. The end of year report reflects aspects of your child's learning for the second part of the year. 
 
Please take the time to sit with your child and share their report with them, celebrating their learning.

To find your child's report; open Hero, click on their name and then click '2023 report'. 

If you need any help accessing the report through Hero please contact your child's Home Group teacher or come into the office for assistance.

Lost Property

We have approximately 30 School Uniform tops in our lost property, the majority are un-named the rest the name is unfortunately unreadable. The lost property is located on the library veranda.

Year 8 Whānau Hui for Ākonga Māori

Cashmere High School has formally invited our Ākonga Māori and their whānau to attend the CHS Year 8 hui to welcome them to their kura. It's a great opportunity to meet some of the CHS ākonga and kaiako before they are welcomed with a pōwhiri next year. 

Date/Time: On Thursday 30th November at 5:30pm
Where: Wharenui

Bottles

We have been very generously donated a number of metal drink bottles.  If your child needs a drink bottle please send them to the office with a note and we will provide them with one to keep.
Please ensure you name these drink bottles as there may be quite a few that look the same!

Sports News

Sport Tops

With the end of year fast approaching we would appreciate your help in the return of all sports tops that were issued to your children this year for school-related sporting events.

PTA News


Order your Panforte via the link below by the 1st of December, using the code "BECK", for delivery to the school on the 8th of December!

https://pilgrim.net.nz/shop/

Community Notices

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




BNZ Breakers

The school holidays are nearly upon us – keep the kids entertained by taking them to an action-
packed game of basketball.
The BNZ Breakers have 8 Auckland games remaining this season and every single game promises
plenty of fun, giveaways, and entertainment for the whole family. Choose the dates that suit you
and get behind the BNZ Breakers. Tickets are on sale at www.ticketmaster.co.nz

HUNTSBURY PRESCHOOL OPEN DAY

Huntsbury Preschool is holding an Open Day on Wednesday 29th November 10-11:30am. 
We are a not-for-profit community preschool, who operate out of Huntsbury Community Centre. We are for 2-5year olds and have an amazing nature play area. Come and check us out. 30H Huntsbury Ave. Ph 332 6001.

Jewellery Making Classes

Join us at Workspace Studios for these creative jewellery classes. Make some unique and precious gifts for others - or yourself! 3 hour classes, $115 Early Bird Price, $128 Full Price

2 Dec, 10am - 1pm, Earrings and Pendants
3 Dec, 10am - 1pm, $128 Lampwork Glass Bead Making
9 Dec, 10am - 1pm, Christmas Ring Making
10 Dec, 10am - 1pm, Earrings and Pendants
16 Dec, 10am - 1pm, Earrings and Pendants
17 Dec, 10am - 1pm, Christmas Ring Making
5, 12 and 19 Dec, 5.30 - 8pm, Tuesday Casual Class $59

Use the code Beckenham10 for 10% off your class. Kids aged 12 (or so) are welcome to attend these classes, but any person under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an enrolled parent or caregiver.

Book on our website now! 


Exciting Announcement! 
Next year, The Malthouse, home to Canterbury Children's Theatre and Malthouse Costumes, is restarting its Drama School! The reformed Malthouse Drama School team is thrilled to offer your child a front-row seat to creativity and confidence-building in the world of drama. With head tutor Briar Patrick, your child will explore the art of storytelling, build confidence, and work collaboratively with others, all while having a big bucket of fun. And because the courses are co-designed by theatre industry veteran Dan Bain, you can rest easy knowing what they’re learning is well worth your investment. Watch as your child's talents blossom in the heart of Canterbury Children's Theatre! Places are limited, so for more information and enrolments, visit malthouse.co.nz or call Head of School, Jenny, on 021 536 692.

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto Schoolwide Newsletter, Wednesday 15 November, 2023

Posted on by

Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

School is closed tomorrow for a Staff Only Day and on Friday for Canterbury Anniversary Day. 

Tomorrow our teachers will be spending the day familiarising ourselves with the draft English and Mathematics Curriculum refresh documents that have been recently published by the Ministry of Education. During the afternoon, teachers will be working in the 2024 teaching teams for the first time, looking at initial planning for next year.

Our teaching assistants will be spending the day at Te Waka Unua School participating in Ministry funded professional development in Digital Fluency. This will significantly support them in the work that they do to support teachers and learners across our school.

I hope that you all have a safe weekend and are able to take some time to relax over the long weekend.

Ngā mihi nui
Sandy Hastings
Principal - Tumuaki

Important Dates

(you can also find the Community Calendar on our website here)

Thu 16 Nov - School Closed, Staff Only Day
Fri 17 Nov - School Closed, Canterbury Anniversary Day
Mon 20 Nov - Mon 27 Nov - Year 6 Beckenham Cycle Safe
Wed 22 Nov - PTA Meeting, 7.30pm
Fri 24 Nov - Celebration Assembly, 9:10-9:50am, in the Hall
Fri 24 Nov - PTA School Community Picnic, 5.00-7.30pm, Beckenham Park
Fri 1 Dec - Student Council - Celebrating Diversity and Culture Day (non-uniform)
Fri 1 Dec - Celebration Assembly, 10am, in the Hall
Thu 7 Dec - BOT Meeting, 5.30pm, Staffroom
Fri 8 Dec - Celebration Assembly, 10am, in the Hall
Fri 8 Dec - 12:15-3pm, Kahikatea Team trip to Isaac Theatre Royal, Southern Ballet
Mon 11 Dec - 7-8pm Kauri Production, in the Hall
Tue 12 Dec - 7-8pm Kauri Production, in the Hall
Fri 15 Dec - Final Celebration Assembly, 9:45am, in the Hall
Mon 18 Dec - Year 8 Graduation, 11am-12pm
Mon 18 Dec - Year 8 Leavers' Lunch 12:30-1:30pm
Tue 19 Dec - Last Day of Term 4, School finishes at 12.30pm

Term Dates: Click here to view 2023 & 2024 term dates

Citizen of the Week

Hamish Zinzan - Year 8

Hamish, you do a fantastic job of displaying our kete values on a daily basis, with your friendliness and sense of humour shining through the Kauri hub. You willingly take on and persevere through challenges in and outside of the classroom, clearly demonstrating your love of learning. Hamish, it's been a pleasure to see all your hard work result in such great growth in your learning this year. Tau kē koe!

School Notices

Year 8 Whānau Hui for Ākonga Māori

Cashmere High School has formally invited our Ākonga Māori and their whānau to attend the CHS Year 8 hui to welcome them to their kura. It's a great opportunity to meet some of the CHS ākonga and kaiako before they are welcomed with a pōwhiri next year. 

Date/Time: On Thursday 30th November at 5:30pm
Where: Wharenui, Cashmere High School

Year 5-8 BYOD Programme

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto has an optional Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programme for students in Years 5-8. This programme is very popular and has been in operation since 2014. 

If you want to find out more about our BYOD programme, please watch the video on our BYOD website. If you have any questions, please view our Frequently Asked Questions page, email your child’s homegroup teacher or email Nick, our ICT lead teacher.

If you choose to get a device for your child, we generally recommend that it is a Chromebook. You can see our standard BYOD offering from PB Tech here. All models on the linked page are suitable for learning. It is also fine to get a device from another supplier if you prefer. If you choose to use PB Tech, please use “beckenham” as the promo code to get a discount.

End of Year Reports - now live on HERO

End-of-year reports are now available through the Hero portal. The end-of-year report reflects aspects of your child's learning for the second part of the year. 
 
Please take the time to sit with your child and share their report with them, celebrating their learning and reflecting on their next steps.
 
To find your child's report open Hero, click on their name and then click '2023 report'. 
If you need any help accessing the report through Hero please contact your child's Home Group teacher or come into the office for assistance.

Drink Bottles



We have very generously been donated a number of metal drink bottles.  If your child needs a drink bottle please send them to the office with a note and we will provide them with one to keep.
Please ensure you name these drink bottles as there may be quite a few that look the same!

Health Update

A reminder that we still have a steady number of cases of; conjunctivitis, vomiting, tummy bugs, and flu/COVID across the school.

If your child is sick, please keep them home, and practice good hygiene.
Staying at home if you are feeling unwell helps to reduce the spread.
If your child has been vomiting, they need to stay home for 48 hours since their last episode/event.

Congratulations to...

Christopher McCracken-Shannon
Years 7&8 Speech Cup Winner (Beasley Cup)

Christopher wrote a wonderful speech on modern learning environments. He presented it with wonderful gestures and great confidence in front of the Kauri hub last term. Congratulations, Christopher.

Rose Bethwaite
Radcliffe Award for Special Contribution to Drama

Rose, your delightful sense of humour brings positivity and charm to captivate and entertain your audience, all while staying within the guidelines of Theatre Sports. This truly highlights your dedication and talent in this field. Your relaxed demeanour and sharp wit make you a true master of improvisational activities. Congratulations Rose.

Lilian Shelku
Literacy Cup

Lilian, you produce exceptional work in literacy. You have a natural talent and can write beautifully across numerous genres. You have a flare for weaving in fitting language features and using your extensive vocabulary to your advantage! You have sophisticated and thought-provoking ideas that you develop throughout your writing. You put a lot of thought into your speech this year and wrote a fantastic piece that you presented well in front of the class. It has been a joy to see your confidence improve and develop over time. Congratulations on this well-deserved award, Lilian!

Staff Profiles

Just as we recognise the strengths of our tamariki, it is also exciting to share in the success of our kaimahi, who all bring their individual strengths and interests which enrich our kura greatly. Thomas Woodfield has done this with his contribution to our Music & the Arts this year, and it is very exciting to share with our whānau some of his extra-curricular endeavours! Thomas is the Musical Director of this choir, and the concert below will be a great event!

PTA News

Let the PTA help you out with your holiday shopping! We've curated a collection of yummy treats that everyone on your list will love and helps raise funds for our school! 

Order forms have been sent home in children's bags or you can order online using this link: Christmas Goodies Fundraiser.  Spare paper forms in school office. 

We have the following delicious range:

Honey from Beebro: 100% NZ Honey - $15.00 each 
Authentic, small-batch honey direct from the farm. Beebro will donate $1 for every jar of honey sold to Mike King's Nutters Club, a nationwide radio show and mental health support group. Three varieties to choose from. 

Naked Baker Fudge Gift Boxes - $6.50 each 
Delicious, creamy fudge available in four flavours and packed in lovely gift boxes. 

Naked Baker Christmas Tarts - $6.00 pack 
A six pack of crispy pastry available in two tasty varieties Traditional or Berry. 

Orders close at 6pm 22 November 2022. 

We will be collecting forms from the flagpole before school Mon-Wed 20-22 November. 

Collection of your yummy treats will be on 8 December at the school hall. 

The PTA thank you for all your support this year

We are also selling delicious panforte again, now in four yummy flavours.  Order panforte here and collect at school on 8th December.

Community Notices

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

BNZ Breakers

The school holidays are nearly upon us – keep the kids entertained by taking them to an action-
packed game of basketball.
The BNZ Breakers have 8 Auckland games remaining this season and every single game promises
plenty of fun, giveaways, and entertainment for the whole family. Choose the dates that suit you
and get behind the BNZ Breakers. Tickets are on sale at www.ticketmaster.co.nz

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto School Newsletter, Rāmere (Friday) 10 November, 2023

Posted on by

Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

Short Week ahead

Please remember that this coming week is a three-day school week, with a Staff Only Day this Thursday 16 Novermber and Canterbury Anniversary Day this Friday 17 November. 

Board Parent Mid-Term Election 2023 - 3 Vacancies

Instruction on how you vote electronically has been distributed by email to eligible whānau. If you have any problems with this process, please contact our Liaison Officer for the Board Election at reihana.dougherty@beckenham.school.nz

Please take the time to read the candidate statements, and cast your vote. Your participation in this process is hugely appreciated, and essential in the appointment of our representatives to our Board, that represent our school community.

Please note that voting closes this coming Wednesday 15 Nov - 4pm

Staffing Update

We are able to share with you now the staffing plan for 2024 (noting that this is always subject to change if individual staff circumstances change between now and the start of the new school year).

We congratulate Bridie Harris on winning a new position at Elmwood Normal School. We have really loved having Bridie on our Year 7/8 Team this year, and we wish her all the very best going forward.

Thomas Woodfield has decided to relinquish his leadership role next year, so we are very pleased to announce that Sarah Junghenn will return to the Year 7/8 team next year as the team leader.

Elizabeth Drummond is 'retiring' from her full-time, permanent teaching role at the end of this year, after over 25 years. We are very fortunate that Elizabeth has agreed to come back during next year in a fixed-term role, to start a New Entrant class as those numbers increase.

Teams for 2024:

Koru NE Team
Stacey McLachlan - Team Leader (no home group)
Georgia McKenna - Home-group Teacher
Elizabeth Drummond - Home-group Teacher (Term 2?)

Kahikatea Year 1/2 Team
Katie McFarlane - Team Leader & Home-group Teacher
Amber Donovan - Home-group Teacher
Ella Rainbow - Home-group Teacher
Quynh Nguyen - Home-group Teacher
Lisa Collier - Literacy Support across the school (no home-group) 

Kōwhai Year 3/4 Team
Anna Reid - Team Leader and release teacher (no home-group)
Rowena Barker - Home-group Teacher
Nick Bruce - Home-group Teacher
Krystal Hunt - Home-group Teacher
Anna McNeill - Home-group Teacher
Charlotte Verity - Home-group Teacher

Pōhutukawa Year 5/6 Team
Steve Cooke - Team Leader & Home-group Teacher
Megan Culver - Home-group Teacher
Rae Marsh - Home-group Teacher
Gayle McNaughton - Home-group Teacher
Laura Williamson - release teacher

Kauri Year 7/8 Team
Sarah Junghenn - Team Leader & Home-group Teacher
Jenny Diggle - Home-group Teacher
Nicky Dunlop - Home-group Teacher
Thomas Woodfield - Home-group Teacher
Georgie Jones - release teacher

Ngā mihi nui

Sandy Hastings
Principal - Tumuaki

Important Dates

(you can also find the Community Calendar on our website here)

Wed 15 Nov - 4pm Voting Closes - Board Elections
Thu 16 Nov - School Closed, Staff Only Day
Fri 17 Nov - School Closed, Canterbury Anniversary Day
Mon 20 Nov - Mon 27 Nov - Year 6 Beckenham Cycle Safe
Wed 22 Nov - PTA Meeting, 7.30pm
Fri 24 Nov - Celebration Assembly, 9:10-9:50am, in the Hall
Fri 24 Nov - PTA School Community Picnic, 5.00-7.30pm, Beckenham Park
Fri 1 Dec - Student Council - Celebrating Diversity and Culture Day (non-uniform)
Fri 1 Dec - Celebration Assembly, 10am, in the Hall
Thu 7 Dec - BOT Meeting, 5.30pm, Staffroom
Fri 8 Dec - Celebration Assembly, 10am, in the Hall
Fri 8 Dec - 12:15-3pm, Kahikatea Team trip to Isaac Theatre Royal, Southern Ballet
Mon 11 Dec - 7-8pm Kauri Production, in the Hall
Tue 12 Dec - 7-8pm Kauri Production, in the Hall
Fri 15 Dec - Final Celebration Assembly, 9:45am, in the Hall
Mon 18 Dec - Year 8 Graduation, 11am-12pm
Mon 18 Dec - Year 8 Leavers' Lunch 12:30-1:30pm
Tue 19 Dec - Last Day of Term 4, School finishes at 12.30pm

Term Dates: Click here to view 2023 & 2024 term dates

Citizen of the Week

Soren Durrant - Year 4

Soren, you are an outstanding role model in the Kōwhai hub. You quietly get on with your work and show great focus on any task at hand until it is complete. You are extremely respectful to your peers and teachers alike and you are a loyal and caring friend, always looking out for others' wellbeing. Thank you and ka pai tō mahi, Soren!

PTA News

Let the PTA help you out with your holiday shopping! We've curated a collection of yummy treats that everyone on your list will love and helps raise funds for our school! 

Order forms have been sent home in children's bags or you can order online using this link: Christmas Goodies Fundraiser.  Spare paper forms in school office. 

We have the following delicious range:

Honey from Beebro: 100% NZ Honey - $15.00 each 
Authentic, small-batch honey direct from the farm. Beebro will donate $1 for every jar of honey sold to Mike King's Nutters Club, a nationwide radio show and mental health support group. Three varieties to choose from. 

Naked Baker Fudge Gift Boxes - $6.50 each 
Delicious, creamy fudge available in four flavours and packed in lovely gift boxes. 

Naked Baker Christmas Tarts - $6.00 pack 
A six pack of crispy pastry available in two tasty varieties Traditional or Berry. 

Orders close at 6pm 22 November 2022. 

We will be collecting forms from the flagpole before school Mon-Wed 20-22 November. 

Collection of your yummy treats will be on 8 December at the school hall. 

The PTA thank you for all your support this year

We are also selling delicious panforte again, now in four yummy flavours.  Order panforte here and collect at school on 8th December.

Weetbix TRYathlon

Don't forget we have a School Group set up for those of you who are looking to take part in the Weetbix TRYathlon that is coming around again. Click on the link below to join the Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto Group when you enter the TRYathlon.  You can also join our School Group, without the link, by using the School Group search functionality when entering online.

Community Picnic

And don’t forget the Community Picnic, on Friday 24th November from 5pm.  We’ll have a Sausage Sizzle, Bouncy Castle and ice blocks.  Looking forward to seeing you all there!

BOT Update

Policy Review

Your feedback on the content (the policy) and implementation (how we follow the policy) promotes discussion with staff and the Board, which helps to evaluate our processes and make changes as needed.

Thank you to all of you who have provided feedback so far on our Term 4 Policies up for review. To do this, follow the instructions below. 

  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.

We had 65 responses on our Term 3 policies, which have been shared with the Board of Trustees, and SchoolDocs for review.

School Notices

School Uniform

Please click this link to see information on our school uniform.

Please note that Crocs and jandals are not part of our school uniform.

The tamariki are doing a great job remembering sunhats this term. Ka pai!

Science in Junior Discovery

Some of the akōnga from Koru and Kahikatea have jumped at the opportunity to learn and do science over recent weeks, during their Learning Through Play or Discovery sessions. 

As part of her science course, Charlotte (Kōwhai team) has been visiting the hubs and sharing science activities, like rocket building, parachutes and loopy fliers. Our focus has been on thinking and being like scientists by observing, sharing ideas, making predictions, testing out our ideas, creating a fair test and even recording our findings. These are key skills in the Nature of Science component of the current science curriculum. Other teachers have been super supportive and responsive to this, and enjoying learning new ways to bring science into Learning Through Play.

Real Estate Signage Needed!

We're after donations of old real estate boards (corflute) to use for Kapa Haka waiata and outside projects. If you are in the real estate industry and can help, please contact Charlotte at charlotte.verity@beckenham.school.nz. Thanks!

Community Notices

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

Want to add to a Zentangle Collaborative Art project ?

Saturday 25th Nov - Sydenham Rm South Library 10 - 3.30pm
Sunday 26th Nov - Penney Rm, Risingholme Learning 9am- 5pm (carpark ar 99 Hawford Rd)
This Community Art project, using Zentangle patterns to complete a large canvas. All materials and inspiration provided, Come along and add your creativity.

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto Schoolwide Newsletter Term 4 Week 4 2023

Posted on by

Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

It was a huge privilege and joy to attend the Christchurch Schools Music Festival on Friday night at the Christchurch Town Hall. Our 66 Year 5-8 tamariki who participated had an amazing time, both in their singing, and in enjoying the unique experience of being in the town hall and singing with an orchestra and a pipe organ! Huge thanks to Thomas Woodfield who led the choir this year, sharing his talent and skills to support the choir to be amazing and make the most of this experience. Thanks also to Megan Culver and Margot Holcroft who supported Thomas and the choir.
You can hear an extract of the final number, Elton John's 'Rocket Man' by clicking on the YouTube link below.

Trading Cards (and other precious belongings)

We have noticed an increase in students bringing trading cards to school. We understand these cards are valuable to the children. Unfortunately, due to the tendency of these cards to go missing, or making trades they later regret, we ask that students leave trading cards at home This includes having trading cards on the grounds or at the gate before and after school. It is much easier for everyone if cards are kept as an out-of-school activity. Thank you for your support with this.

Ngā mihi nui

Sandy Hastings
Principal - Tumuaki

Important Dates

(you can also find the Community Calendar on our website here)

Wed 8 Nov - BOT Meeting, 5.30pm, Staffroom
Fri 10 Nov - Zones Athletics, Hansen Park
Fri 10 Nov - Celebration Assembly, 10am, in the Hall
Wed 15 Nov - 4pm Voting Closes - Board Elections
Thu 16 Nov - School Closed, Staff Only Day
Fri 17 Nov - School Closed, Canterbury Anniversary Day
Mon 20 Nov - Mon 27 Nov - Year 6 Beckenham Cycle Safe
Wed 22 Nov - PTA Meeting, 7.30pm
Fri 24 Nov - Celebration Assembly, 9:10-9:50am, in the Hall
Fri 24 Nov - PTA School Community Picnic, 5.00-7.30pm, Beckenham Park
Fri 1 Dec - Student Council - Celebrating Diversity and Culture Day (non-uniform)
Fri 1 Dec - Celebration Assembly, 10am, in the Hall
Thu 7 Dec - BOT Meeting, 5.30pm, Staffroom
Fri 8 Dec - Celebration Assembly, 10am, in the Hall
Fri 8 Dec - 12:15-3pm, Kahikatea Team trip to Isaac Theatre Royal, Southern Ballet
Mon 11 Dec - 7-8pm Kauri Production, in the Hall
Tue 12 Dec - 7-8pm Kauri Production, in the Hall
Fri 15 Dec - Final Celebration Assembly, 9:45am, in the Hall
Mon 18 Dec - Year 8 Graduation, 11am-12pm
Mon 18 Dec - Year 8 Leavers' Lunch 12:30-1:30pm
Tue 19 Dec - Last Day of Term 4, School finishes at 12.30pm

Term Dates: Click here to view 2023 & 2024 term dates

Citizen of the Week

Billy Hudson - Year 5

Billy, your self-confidence has grown so much this year. You manage your learning appropriately and challenge yourself on a daily basis. You are full of a wealth of knowledge that you happily share with classmates. You show our school values 'We Love Learning' and 'We Love Challenge' often. Ka pai tō mahi, Billy!

School Notices

Congratulations to... 

Leo Cronin-Wilson
Maths Cup

Leo, you have an unquenchable thirst for mathematics. You possess a gift that sees you making amazing connections with numbers. You share these insights with great enthusiasm, baffling us all with your cleverness. This year you qualified for the Final Challenge in Otago Problem Solving and were part of the Year 8 Cantamath problem solving team who finished 12th out of 90 teams. Your vibrancy brings an extra sparkle to our weekly maths club. Congratulations Leo. 

Noah Palmer
Maths Cup

Noah, you are such an enthusiastic mathematician! Challenging problems motivate you and you have a thirst for new knowledge. You have been a regular at maths club over the past two years and even when overseas, continued to engage in maths competitions. In 2022 and again this year you were one of three from the Canterbury region to be awarded an Outstanding award for your dynamic models. This year you qualified for the Final Challenge in Otago Problem Solving and were part of the Year 8 Cantamath problem solving team who finished 12th out of 90 teams. Congratulations Noah.

Cian Scott
Social Sciences Cup

Cian, you possess such a wealth of knowledge about sociology, geography and history. Over the past two years, your insightful questions and observations have enriched our class discussions, sparked interesting debate and taken us off on many fascinating tangents. Your enthusiasm to understand the world around you is contagious. Your deep thinking and curiosity is your superpower. Jacob Bronowski, famous mathematician and philosopher once wrote, students ‘are not here to worship what is known but to question it.’ Question it you most certainly do and the world is a better place for it - and it makes our lessons far more interesting. Congratulations, Cian.

PTA News

The Great 2023 PTA Christmas Goodies Fundraiser


Orders are now live for our 2023 Christmas fundraiser.  

We have a delicious range of honey, fudge and Christmas tarts. Look out for an order form in your child's bag or you can order here today!

Orders close at 6 p.m. on 22nd November and will be available for collection by the hall on 8th December.

Panforte Fundraiser

Panforte deals are also available again, the 1kg is the same as last year.… and this year we have 3 additional flavours in the panforte mini range.

Order Online here: https://pilgrim.net.nz/shop/
Don't forget to order before December 1st, and use the code 'BECK'.
Orders using the code will be delivered to school for collection on Friday 8th of December, with 10% of sales going to our kura!

PTA Secondhand Uniform Shop

Our Second Hand Uniform Shop is open on Tuesdays from 2.45 to 3.15pm and Fridays from 8.45 to 9.15. We’ve recently had an influx of senior jackets so pop in if you have a child entering year 7 next year!

Community Notices

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

3rd November (10% discount) - https://premier.ticketek.co.nz/shows/show.aspx?sh=BRECRN23&ep=DISCOUNT10 

30th November (10% discount)  - https://premier.ticketek.co.nz/shows/Show.aspx?sh=BREADL23&ep=DISCOUNT10

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto School Newsletter, Friday 28 October, 2023

Posted on by

Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

Our thoughts have been and continue to be with all of those involved with the Coronial Inquiry into the Mosque shooting that started in Christchurch this week. We know that this will be impacting many families in our community and we send our support and aroha to you all.

Thank you to our PTA!

We want to send an enormous shout-out of thanks to our PTA, both present and past, who worked over many years to fundraise for our outdoor spaces. The final part of the funds that they raised, contributed to the funding for our two new turf areas. Our children are enjoying these new surfaces so much, and we are extremely grateful for the funding that made this possible.

Considerations for home-group placement for 2024

As we start to put together home groups for 2024, we know that you may hold particular information or insight that you want to share that will support the placement of your child for next year.
While our teachers hold a lot of knowledge and understanding around the needs of our children, we are keen to also know if there is anything particular you think we should be aware of as we make these decisions.
As you will appreciate, putting home groups together is a hugely complex puzzle where the needs of all children need to be carefully considered. This means that we are not asking for 'requests' for teachers or for friendship groups as we would never be able to meet all of those. What we are seeking, is to be made aware of anything important you think we need to consider that we might not be aware of. We will add your thoughts to ours, and do the best we can to make sure that everyone's needs have been considered in our process.
If you have anything you want us to know, please email me (not the teachers) so that I have all the information in one place. I will need this information by the end of Week 4 - Friday 3rd November.
email: principal@beckenham.school.nz

Ngā mihi nui
Sandy Hastings
Principal - Tumuaki

Important Dates

(you can also find the Community Calendar on our website here)

Fri 3 Nov - Celebration Assembly, 10am, in the Hall
Fri 3 Nov - 9:30-12:30, Y5-8 Choir at Chch Schools Music Festival Rehearsal
Fri 3 Nov - CHCH Schools Music Festival Beckenham Performance Night
Wed 8 Nov - BOT Meeting, 5.30pm, Staffroom
Fri 10 Nov - Zones Athletics, Hansen Park
Fri 10 Nov - Celebration Assembly, 10am, in the Hall
Wed 15 Nov - 4pm Voting Closes - Board Elections
Thu 16 Nov - School Closed, Staff Only Day
Fri 17 Nov - School Closed, Canterbury Anniversary Day
Mon 20 Nov - Mon 27 Nov - Year 6 Beckenham Cycle Safe
Wed 22 Nov - PTA Meeting, 7.30pm
Fri 24 Nov - Celebration Assembly, 9:10-9:50am, in the Hall
Fri 24 Nov - PTA School Community Picnic, 5.00-7.30pm, Beckenham Park
Fri 1 Dec - Student Council - Celebrating Diversity and Culture Day (non-uniform)
Fri 1 Dec - Celebration Assembly, 10am, in the Hall
Thu 7 Dec - BOT Meeting, 5.30pm, Staffroom
Fri 8 Dec - Celebration Assembly, 10am, in the Hall
Fri 8 Dec - 12:15-3pm, Kahikatea Team trip to Isaac Theatre Royal, Southern Ballet
Mon 11 Dec - 7-8pm Kauri Production, in the Hall
Tue 12 Dec - 7-8pm Kauri Production, in the Hall
Fri 15 Dec - Final Celebration Assembly, 9:45am, in the Hall
Mon 18 Dec - Year 8 Graduation, 11am-12pm
Mon 18 Dec - Year 8 Leavers' Lunch 12:30-1:30pm
Tue 19 Dec - Last Day of Term 4, School finishes at 12.30pm

Term Dates: Click here to view 2023 & 2024 term dates

Citizen of the Week

Cian Scott - Year 8

Cian, you are a natural leader in our Kauri whānau. You look out for those around you and are proactive in stepping in when you see an opportunity to help or support others. We see this on the sports field when you come alongside others to offer advice and encouragement. We see this in the loyalty that you show your friends and the artful way that you are able to use humour to brighten someone’s spirits. Thank you for all you bring to our Kauri whānau. 

School Notices

Board Parent Mid-Term Election 2023 - 3 Vacancies

Instruction on how you vote electronically has been distributed by email to eligible whānau. If you have any problems with this process, please contact our Liaison Officer for the Board Election at reihana.dougherty@beckenham.school.nz

Please take the time to read the candidate statements, and cast your vote. Your participation in this process is hugely appreciated, and essential in the appointment of our representatives to our Board, that represent our school community.

Voting closes at 4:00 PM Wednesday, November 15th.

Attendance

Thank you for continuing to be proactive in communicating if your child will not be at school. After the process of marking the morning roll takes place, text messages will be sent out to primary contacts for all students marked as not here ("?").

We appreciate your prompt response to these messages so we can mark your child, or follow up accordingly.

Please remember the roll is taken by teachers at 8:55 a.m., and any students who arrive in class after this time will need to be signed in at the Office.

Sports News

School Athletics Day

It was awesome to see our tamariki out on the park embracing challenge and supporting each other at our school athletics this week. This event celebrates the P.E. learning that our ākonga have been doing over the past few weeks. There were lots of impressive performances of skill and sportsmanship throughout the day from all ages. 

Thank you to the senior students who helped with set up and pack down and to whānau who helped run events or allowed themselves to be roped into our house relay. 

The final school event for our Year 5 to 8 tamariki is long jump, which is an optional event and takes place at Hillview Christian School. Children have signed up for this event through a Google form at school. 

Years 5 and 6 will do long jump next Tuesday morning from 9:00.
Years 7 and 8 will do long jump next Tuesday afternoon after lunch.

We are looking for a couple of adult help to support us with walking the children to Hillview Christian School and running the event. If you are able to support us, please send an email to Steve or Jenny. 

steve.cooke@beckenham.school.nz
jenny.diggle@beckenham.school.nz

Huxster

On Wednesday, a group of children from Years 5 to 8 competed at the Huxster Mountain Bike Relay at McLean's Island. At this event, children work in a team of two to complete as many laps of the course as they can within the allotted time. The sun was shining and the stoke level was high as the children took on this challenge. A huge congratulations to all who took part. 

All the children deserve to feel very proud of their achievements.

Ben and Zach - Third Place Year 5/6 Boys Team
Isabella and Annabelle - First Place Year 7/8 Girls Team

BOT Update

Term 4 Policy Review

Thank you to everyone who submitted their reviews and feedback on our Term 3 policies. Your feedback helps generate quality discussion with Staff, and the Board when looking at the policies and practices within our kura. Your voices and experiences are incredibly appreciated in this process.

This Term, the below policies are up for review:


If a link is inactive on SchoolDocs, our school doesn't have the topic.

How to 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.

Example of Policy Review questions
Feedback

You can send feedback on a topic to the school at any time using the green feedback button at the top of the page.
While only a certain number of topics are available for review each term, SchoolDocs users can send feedback about any topic, at any time, directly to the school. Members of the school community can submit feedback to the school to request a change, query information in the policy, or provide implementation feedback.