Category Archives: Weekly Newsletters

Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto Schoolwide Newsletter, Rāmere (Friday) 2 February 2024

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Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

The school has been a buzz over the last week. It has been great to see whānau catching up with each other, with friends, and with staff.

Thank you to our whānau for your participation in Learning Conferences. The connections made have set such a wonderfully positive tone for the start of the year and continue to strengthen our relationships between our kaimahi (staff), whānau and the community.

A reminder that next week we recognise Waitangi Day on Tuesday the 6th of February. The school will be closed on this day.

2024 Staff

Koru Team (NE -Year 1)

Stacey McLachlan (Team Leader)
Georgia McKenna

Kahikatea (Year 1 - 2)
Katie McFarlane (Team Leader)
Amber Donovan
Quynh Nguyen/Lisa Collier
Ella Rainbow
Sarah Angelo
Megan Harris (across team release teacher)

Kōwhai (Year 3 -4)
Anna Reid (Team Leader)
Nick Bruce
Rowena Barker
Charlotte Verity (across team release teacher and learning support)
Krystal Hunt
Anna McNeill

Pōhutukawa (Year 5 - 6)
Steve Cooke (Team Leader)
Gayle McNaughton
Rae Marsh
Megan Culver
Georgie Jones 
Laura Williamson (across team release teacher)

Kauri (Year 7 - 8)
Sarah Junghenn (Team Leader)
Nicky Dunlop
Jenny Diggle
Thomas Woodfield
Megan Harris (across team release teacher/Nicky's Homegroup on Fridays)

Across School Literacy Support Teacher
Lisa Collier

Teaching Assistants
Denise Colville
Faine Kelly
Karen Glithero
Kate Packer
Kerilea Quinn
Laura Cortes
Laura Stewart - Cameron
Matt Hastings
Nathalie Doering
Paul McKinnel
Stacey Hart

Librarian
Anne Chin

Caretaker
Tony Lee

Accounts & Payroll
Rachel Higginson

Office Manager
Jacky Sargent

Leadership PA & Board Secretary
Reihana Dougherty

Senior Leadership Team
Sandy Hastings - Principal on leave
Jo Smith - Acting Principal
Sue Leadbetter - Deputy Principal
Katie McFarlane - Acting Deputy Principal

Ngā mihi nui
Jo Smith - Tumuaki (Acting Principal)

Important Dates

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

Tue 6 Feb - Waitangi Day (kura/school closed)
Fri 9 Feb - PTA School Picnic, 5-7.30PM
Wed 28 Feb - BoT Meeting, 5.30-7.30PM, Staffroom
Wed 28 Feb - PTA Meeting, 7.30-9.30PM
Thu 29 Feb - School Swim Sports, 12.30-3PM, Wharenui Pool
Mon 11 Mar - Zone Swimming, 9-12.30PM, Wharenui Pool
Wed 27 Mar - Canterbury Swimming
Wed 27 Mar - BoT Meeting, 5.30-7.30PM, Staffroom
Wed 27 Mar - PTA Meeting, 7.30-9.30PM
Fri 29 Mar - Good Friday (kura/school closed)
Mon 1 Apr - Easter Monday (kura/school closed)
Tue 2 Apr - Kura/School closed
Fri 12 Apr - Last day of Term 1
Mon 29 Apr - First day of Term 2
Fri 3 May - Welcome Assembly, 9.15-9.30am, Hall
Tue 14 May - School Cross Country TBC
Wed 22 May - PTA Meeting, 7.30-9.30PM
Wed 29 May - BoT Meeting, 5.30-7.30PM, Staffroom
Fri 31 May - Staff Only Day (kura/school closed)
Mon 3 Jun - King's Birthday (kura/school closed)
Wed 26 Jun - BoT Meeting, 5.30-7.30PM, Staffroom
Wed 26 Jun - PTA Meeting, 7.30-9.30PM, Staffroom
Fri 28 Jun - Matariki (kura/school closed)
Fri 5 Jul - Last day of Term 2

Term Dates: Click here to view  2024 term dates

School Notices

Request for Corflute

Our wonderful Kapa Haka tutor, Whaea Cath, is on the hunt for some corflute to assist with Kapa Haka and waiata. If you have any excess lying around, or any extra signage / real eastate signage, we would gratefully accept any donations! These can be delivered to the Office directly, or please get in touch with us to arrange! Ngā mihi nui! Thank you!

Sunhat and Drink Bottle

It is important that every child starts school with a named sunhat and water bottle. Sunhats are compulsory when outside during Terms 1 and 4. Please remember to send your child to school each day with sunscreen applied as well.

Medication at school?

If your child needs to have any medication held and /or administered at school, we will need you to come into the office and sign a plan for us to do that. ALL medication plans need to be re-signed for the new year. 

Food Allergy Guidelines

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

To support the well-being of these students we have the following guidelines in place which we ask you to follow:
  • Students with severe food allergies 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 labeled 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 the food they have prepared. From time to time, there may be an event that teachers have organized that will involve food (cultural or learning activities) and they will have advised families in advance that this will be happening.  
Our full allergy policy and guidelines are available on the Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto website under “Information - Policies - SchoolDocs” and then search ‘allergy’. (linked here)

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

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 Profiles

A warm welcome to Sarah Angelo. Sarah will be a Home Group teacher in Kahikatea while Katie McFarlane steps into the Acting Deputy Principal role.


"Kia ora koutou! I am excited to be teaching in the Kahikatea team this year. It will be my first year at Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto. My favourite subjects are Maths and Art. Outside of school, I love to spend time with my teenagers, partner, and large extended whānau. This involves lots of cooking, eating, games, noise, and dogs. I am looking forward to getting to know you all."

PTA News

Uniform

Please find information about the school uniform here.
The PTA will be opening the Uniform shop at the following times:

During Term 1 2024: 
Tuesday afternoon 2.45 to 3.15pm
Friday morning 8.45 to 9.15am

We would love to have more donations of uniform items that are no longer needed and are always looking for people who could help out at the uniform shop. Please contact pta@beckenham.school.nz if you can offer assistance.

Community Notices

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

KiwiVolley


KiwiVolley is a modified game for Yr 7-8 children which can be played indoors, on grass or the sand. 
Canterbury Volleyball runs leagues in Term 1 and 4 which are open to school teams or individual children who we will place into teams.
Our leagues combine both skills and games – the first half of the sessions are skills, and the second half is for games, perfect for those starting out in Volleyball.

St Martins: Thursdays(6x sessions)
Location: Hillview Christian School Gym (150 Wilsons Rd)
Dates: Thursdays, 22nd February to 4th April (no session 21st March)
Time 4:15pm to 5:45 pm 

And our link for further information and registration



Sharpen your basketball skills throughout Term 1 at the Rams and Pouākai Basketball Schools. Join in on the fun with weekly skills & practice sessions led by Tall Black Taylor Britt or Tall Fern Lauryn Hippolite! 

Choose between Monday or Friday at Wharenui Recreation Centre. 
  • Sessions for school years 5–8 run from 4:00pm – 4:50pm.
  • Sessions for school years 9–13 run from 5:00pm – 5:50pm.
The registration deadline is 5:00pm Wednesday, 7th February.


Pouākai Basketball School: https://pouakai.basketball/camps/


Are you looking for an action-packed programme for your boy? If so, we have is an action-packed programme geared for Young Kiwi Men.

Boys’ Brigade 14th Christchurch is a fun filled Christian based programme for boys aged 5-18 yrs old.  We operate in three sections, Anchor 5-7 years, Adventure Section 8-10 years and Delta Section 11-18 years old.  Activities include Crafts, games, camps, outdoor pursuits, leadership training, life skills and lots more. We meet on a Friday night at Beckenham Methodist Church Hall, 52 Martin Ave, Beckenham. New members welcome any time, for more info visit our website for more  www.14thbb.org.nz 

Interested contact Stephen Gregory Ph/Txt: 027 4371565, email: admin@14thbb.org.nz

Singing and Acting Workshops!

Term 1 WORKSHOPS for all abilities!! 
Register for singing or acting skills or BOTH!
Have fun while developing your skills in a fun and supportive environment. Suitable for any experience level, including beginners. We will work with your skillset and take you further.
Payment plans and scholarships available. 
Email luminairescharitabletrust@gmail.com



Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto School Newsletter, Rāmere (Friday) 15 December, 2023

Posted on by

Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

And we are done for 2023! Thank you to all our staff, and to all of you, for the support that is given to ensure that our children have the best opportunity we can give them for learning at Beckenham.

Year 7/8 Production - thanks for the memories!

Last week we were excited to see our Year 7 and 8 students on the stage in their unique and amazing production of "Oh, the Places You'll Go" based on the book of the same name by Dr Seuss. They each put in some amazing performances and there had clearly been lots of creative thinking and practice put in to get the performances to the final stage.



Celebrating our Year 8 Leavers

On Monday, we farewelled our 55 Year 8 students at a moving celebration of their time at Beckenham, where each student had their individual moment to be in the spotlight and to have their achievements celebrated. We are excited to see what the future holds for each of them and look forward to hearing about their journey to high schools in 2024.

Farewell to Dave - Welcome to Andrew

For the past four years, our school has been incredibly fortunate to have worked with 24/7Youth Work and The River church, to enable Dave Bisgrove to work in our Year 7/8 team, for 10 hours a week as a youth worker, supporting our young people.

Dave is moving on to new challenges in 2024, and so our 24/7 relationship with The River church has come to an end. We are very sad to see Dave leave, and wish him and his family all the best for their next adventures. 

This week, we signed a new 24/7YW agreement in a partnership with The Well church, who are based in Sydenham. They will be supporting us with the provision of a new youth worker, Andrew Sinclair who will again be working from the start of next year with our senior team.

We are very grateful for the support of both of these local community churches in caring for our young people.

Nate (24/7YW), Clint Ussher (The Well church), Sandy Hastings & Andrew Sinclair (new 24/7 Youth Worker for Beckenham)

2024 Home-groups and Learning Conferences

Yesterday, if your child was at school, they would have been given a letter with information in it about their home-group placement for next year, a stationery list for next year, and information on how to book a learning conference for the start of the year.
The school year begins on Tuesday 30th and Wednesday 31st January with two days of one-on-one Learning Conferences. I can see that over 130 learning conferences have already been booked, so get in quickly to get a time that suits you and your child.
To book, please go to www.schoolinterviews.co.nz and enter the password hs4t3. 
If your child wasn't at school yesterday, and didn't have a sibling to bring home their letter, then Jacky has emailed their letter to you today.

Looking after our school over the holidays

We love that our community use our school grounds and help to look after them during times when school is closed. With the basketball courts, and the playgrounds and sandpits, we know that the school is well-used by many, which is awesome. Please always watch for anything that doesn't look right and, if you notice anything out of order, please let us know. 
If it isn't urgent, you could email me - principal@beckenham.school.nz and I will be checking that email from time to time. 
If it is urgent - eg you notice a door unlocked, or a broken window, then please call the school number and my extension which is 201. If I don't answer that you can leave a message which I should get. If it is urgent or you are very concerned, you can always contact the police.
We very much appreciate everyone looking out for, and being guardians of, our school.

Ngā mihi nui

Sandy Hastings
Principal - Tumuaki

Important Dates

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

2024

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

Term Dates: Click here to view 2024 term dates

Citizen of the Week

Max Girvan - Year 4

Max, you are a superstar example of all our school values. You have amazed us with your ability to take on new challenges in learning. Thanks to your hard work and determined efforts, you have made leaps and bounds in so many areas and we love hearing your original and creative ideas. Caring, empathetic and with a unique ability to bring humour into situations, you are a real team player who keeps us all smiling. Thank you, Max, for the light and life you bring to our kura. 

School Notices

Year 7/8 Camp - 2024

We have made the difficult decision not to have a Year 7/8 camp to Dunedin in 2024. One of the main reasons is that the cost of running a camp for 5 days has become quite prohibitive. The team and Senior Leadership Team will explore other options for Education Outside the Classroom for the Year 7/8 students during Term 1, and more information will come out about what alternative option(s) have been decided on.

Uniform Room - Opening hours 2024

The uniform room will be open from 2-3pm on Tuesday 30th and Wed 31st January (Learning Conference days)
For the rest of the term, it will be open on
Tuesdays 2:45-3:15pm
Fridays 8:45-9:15pm

Pūmanawa Gifted Learners 

Kia ora koutou,
During this time at the end of the year, we reflect on programmes and professional development we have engaged in in 2023.
The Pūmanawa Gifted Learners Focus for 2023 moved from 'scoping and professional learning in 2022, to "wondering" and "case study" projects in 2023.

An update
We have been working with Cristy, our Across School Teacher from our Kahui Ako, the Resource Teachers of Learning and Behaviour (RTLB service) and Madeline from the New Zealand Centre of Gifted Education looking at the 'why?' and 'what?' of Pūmanawa Gifted Learners.
All staff have shared professional learning with their teams around the characteristics and domains of gifted learners.
Six staff were involved in a case study of six of our gifted learners across the school. Through whānau and ākonga interviews, discussions and a whānau hui we looked at how:
  • Whānau interviews are a powerful way to learn about our ākonga. This is especially important when ākonga are different at home and at school. We don't know unless we ask.
  • Pūmanawa giftedness can look like rapid development through early years milestones and whānau are our best source of evidence for those early years. Faster, longer, stronger.
  • Pūmanawa giftedness can feel isolating and overwhelming for whānau because it can come with challenges as well as strengths, e.g. emotional intensity. 
  • Pūmanawa gifted ākonga present differently and to varying degrees across the range of domains and characteristics. Whānau aspirations for ākonga pūmanwa will sound unique to each whānau and we can expect a diverse range of unique perspectives.


Our whole staff have been involved in a "Wonder Project" where teams shared wonderings and observations about children's strengths, gifts and giftedness. 

Some next steps for us as a school in 2024
  • Develop a definition of Pūmanawa Gifted Learners at our Kura,
  • Build on our identification processes and document these
  • Build on the practice we already action around our gifted learners and the way we can support them to further shine.
  • Build our induction practises for staff to support sustainability of understanding and practice.
A huge thank you to all those involved in the Case Study Project - your contributions were incredibly helpful and heartfelt.
Thank you to those whānau who completed the survey at the end of last year. 
We would appreciate if all whānau would complete this short survey which will support our direction for 2024.
Looking forward to sharing more great news next year.

Ngā mihi nui
Sue Leadbetter
Tumuaki Tuarua / Deputy Principal

Guitar and Ukulele at Beckenham

Those of you who have children who have been learning guitar or ukulele at Beckenham over the past years, will know that Roger Hamilton has been a much-loved itinerant teacher of music here for many years - 18 in fact! Roger has decided to finish teaching and enjoy a well-deserved retirement.

We have a new tutor who will be available to take on students from the start of 2024. His name is Aron Mead and he is an experienced guitar and ukulele tutor, teaching all levels from beginner to advanced. He will be teaching here at school on Thursdays.

He can give children the opportunity to learn understand the instrument competently and confidently whether performance or just jamming with friends. He is able to teach classical guitar, steel string acoustic guitar, ukulele and electric guitar.

You can view his facebook page for my tuition videos demonstrating styles and levels of teaching and song writing examples.  I have a range of techniques and styles from classical, blues, country, rock, folk, and pop. 


If you wish to discuss lessons, please contact Aron through his email: meadaron@gmail.com or by calling him on 021 127 1330

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 School Newsletter, Rāmere (Friday) 8 December, 2023

Posted on by

Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

On Monday and Tuesday at 7pm the Year 7 & 8 production of 'Oh The Places You'll Go' will hit the Beckenham stage. Everyone is welcome to come along and see the fun unfold. It is a show with something to please everyone, singing, dancing, dramatic speaking, even percussion with basketballs. The show runs for about 45 mins and is suitable for all ages. Entry is by gold coin donation, no tickets need to be purchased. Pop it in y our diary and we look forward to seeing you at the performance!

Year 5/6 are Tough Kids!

This week the Pōhutukawa team had the amazing opportunity to participate in the Tough Kids Challenge at South New Brighton. It was a wonderful way to pull-together the concepts of perseverance and 'getting there together' and have a lot of fun at the same time! Thanks to the PTA for providing funding for the buses.

A Year 7/8 Passions project...

One of the options for our Year 7 &.8 passion programme this term has been to make mosaiced fairy doors. The wonderful Heather Fear has guided us through the process. The St Martins Menz Shed generously cut, sanded, hinged and painted the wooden doors. The children have learned a lot about how to piece a mosaic together and their results are gorgeous works of art.



Ngā mihi nui

Sandy Hastings
Principal - Tumuaki

Important Dates

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

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

Thomas McConnochie - Year 5

Thomas your love of learning is shining through. Your curiosity to make sense of the world around you stands you in good stead for the future. You put heaps of effort into increasing your knowledge and skills by asking questions and practising new concepts. Ka rawe, Thomas.

School Notices

Please return all Sports Uniforms, Library Books and reading books this week!

We would like your help in getting all sports uniforms and school books returned before the end of the school year, ready for stocktake. Library books and Sports uniforms can be returned to the boxes in the doorway between the library and office. Reading books can be returned to hubs. Many thanks!

Guidelines for Lockdown/Shelter in Place

In light of the recent email threats that some schools in the North Island have received during the past couple of weeks, we thought it timely to re-share this information...

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

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

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

LOCKDOWN PROCEDURES FOR PARENTS
Lockdown procedures are determined by Police advice and require the cooperation of students, staff and parents. We ask all parents to please follow the protocol outlined below to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

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

Thank you for your understanding and for taking the time to familiarise yourself with this protocol as we work together in an emergency situation to keep everyone safe.

Mana Ake Parent programmes for 2024... 

The 'Tuning into Teens' programme would be especially relevant and they are offering a Zoom option for early next year - so sign up now to ensure you get a place!



Staff Celebrations

Farewell to Jeanette - an opportunity to contribute...

Our wonderful teaching assistant, Jeanette Amies, is retiring after 18 years service at our kura.  During this time Jeanette has worked with hundreds of our akonga over many, many hours!
We will be celebrating Jeanette's time with us over the coming days including a whole staff breakfast where we will present Jeanette with a gift from our Board and Staff.
Kerilea is making a special book for Jeanette with photos, staff memories and whanau comments.  If you would like to contribute a photo or comment to the book please email your contributions to Kerilea by this coming Tuesday (12th) afternoon.
kerilea.quinn@beckenham.school.nz

Congratulations to Anna McNeill and Georgia McKenna who have just completed their first two years of teaching, and have achieved their full teacher registration. We are immensely proud of their hard work and dedication to our children's learning, and to developing their practice. It was a real treat to be able to celebrate their success last week at a special ceremony. Our young teachers are the future of our education system and we feel very privileged to have the opportunity to support them as they begin their careers!

Anna M & Georgia

Congratulations also to Elizabeth Drummond who is completing 28 years of full-time teaching at Beckenham this year, and is stepping back from full-time work at the end of the year. On Monday we had a lovely celebration assembly just for Elizabeth, which was an opportunity to express to her how much her dedication has meant to our community over this time. Elizabeth will be back in the latter part of next year to take a NE class as numbers grow.

Elizabeth and Andrew, her husband,who is holding the words of a beautiful waiata that Te Whānau sung to her.

Community Notices

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







Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto School Newsletter, Rāmere (Friday) 1 December, 2023

Posted on by

Principal's Patch

Kia ora koutou

It was super to see so many children taking part in celebrating our 'Culture and Diversity Day' today! Alongside a wide variety of colour, we had children and staff celebrating many different cultures and ethnicities that are meaningful to them, from every corner of the globe! We had  staff and students who shared aspects of their culture including sports and performance affiliations, and in Celebration Assembly, a wonderful presentation on Niue by Tayla Finlayson. We are incredibly lucky to have such diversity across our community and we appreciate and value the opportunity to learn about our differences and how we are all unique.

'Kaitiaki Crew' News Article

How wonderful, miharo to see the members of our hardworking and passionate Kaitiaki Crew given their 'moment in the sun' this week with the publication of an online news article on Newsline. The article, titled 'Beckenham Students Nurturing Nature' is about our ongoing partnership with the Council Community Partnerships Rangers and Community Waterways Partnership.  It's a wonderful way to promote and celebrate the taonga of our spring-fed ponds for which our school is named, and recognise the mahi of some of our dedicated 'kaitiaki'. Nā mātou he rereke te ao, the world is different because of us! You can read the article here.


Very proud of our tamariki and kaimahi (staff) as they build each year on the work around the ponds done by previous year's students. 

Ngā mihi nui

Sandy Hastings
Principal - Tumuaki

Important Dates

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

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

Aine Smyth - Year 8

Aine, you are an advocate for kindness and inclusion in our Kauri whānau. You have been a committed member of our Diversity Group, putting into action your values of making a difference to others within our kura. Aine, you have a brilliant mind: synthesizing, making connections and forming questions come naturally to you, and you confidently express your ideas during group discussions. Thank you for all the wonderful qualities you bring to our kura. 

School Notices

Elmer Ōtautahi Art Trail

Last term we finished painting our Elmer Elephant sculpture. The Elmers gathered for an unveiling last Thursday before heading out on the art trail. Our Elmer, 'Rainbow Bloom', is hanging out at Tūranga for the next couple of months. They would love a visit from some Beckenham tamariki! Below is the blurb about our beautifully painted sculpture. We hope you enjoy going on the Elmer Ōtautahi Art Trail and spotting all of these fabulous works of art. The large Elmer's, painted by professional artists, are outside around the city. The baby Elmer’s, which have been school projects, are inside the many buildings that are run by the city council. Enjoy! 


Name / title: Rainbow Bloom
Inspired by: Growing to your full potential and showing your true colours.
Brief description of sculpture: Rainbow Bloom represents our school values, especially 'We Get There Together: Mā tātou katoa te waka e hoe'; inclusivity and how it is OK to be different. Above 'Rainbow’s' diversity socks are a selection of flags from the nationalities at our school. Our school's cultural narrative has strong ties to the Ōpāwaho River, so we have represented this on their trunk. We want 'Rainbow Bloom' to bring a smile to people's faces, even when it is the toughest of days. 

Student Council - Celebrating Diversity and Culture Day

This term the student council planned a diversity-themed term. We have looked at different aspects of diversity including culture, LGBTQ+ and we are about to focus on disability. On Thursdays, we have had lunchtime activities such as nail painting, colouring in, and even Chilean dancing! This Friday, Dec 1st, the student council held a diversity day where children could dress up to represent a culture that is special to them or dress to support the LGBTQ+ community. Children bought a gold coin as a donation that will go to Qtopia. 

Thank you to our Student Council for their continuous mahi and inclusive advocacy!

Congratulations to...

The following special Awards were presented today in Celebration Assembly:

Grace English
Taylor Cup for Sportsmanship
Grace, you perfectly balance a fierce competitiveness with a level head and inclusivity on the sports field. You recognise and encourage the strengths of those in your team and have a gift in bringing people together and creating cohesion within your team. Grace, thank you for the way you notice and act when others need support or a vote of confidence and for the way you play with the upmost respect for your opposition and the rules of the game. In defeat, you are unshakable, positive and upbeat, while you celebrate victories with great humility. 

Kacey Pedersen
Taylor Cup for Sportsmanship
Kacey, you are a fantastic role model on the sports field. You lift others through your actions and comments, which positively contributes to the team culture. You extend your cheery personable nature to the opposition and game officials, always maintaining a balance of competitiveness and fun. Kacey, you regularly put yourself out there in sporting contexts, which inspires others to do the same. You embrace the challenges of sport with humility and grace. Whatever the sport and whatever the stakes, you play with heart and determination.

Cahlen Stace
Cross Country (Cooper Cup) Winner

Ella Coleman & Zoe Colville
Cross Country (Cooper Cup) Winners

Olivia Hurford
Athletics Senior Girl (BOT Cup) Trophy Winner

Blake Grayburn
Athletics Senior Boy (Jubilee Cup) Winner

Ashlyn Taffs
Kete Awards - Care

Blake Grayburn
Kete Awards - Together

Frida Corin, Charlie Price
Kete Awards - Learning

Ella Coleman
Kete Awards - Challenge

Hamish Zinzan
Kete Awards - Difference

Congratulations also to:

Mirren and Coleman Leitch 
Mirren and Coleman just got back from being at the Brazilian Jiu jitsu Gold Coast championships on Wednesday last week, it was their first international competition, they very proudly brought back 2 gold and 2 silver medals, after fighting some of the toughest. With Mirren even fighting an Australian champion. 


Elijah Hakeagaiki 
Last weekend, Elijah played in the Pacific Series Tournament for rugby league. His team was undefeated again and he had the best time. Here is a photo of him in the tournament. 

PTA News

A reminder that all items ordered in the recent fundraisers are able to be collected from school next Friday the 8th of December.

BOT Update

Term 4 Policy Review

Thank you to all of you who have provided feedback so far on our Term 4 Policies, listed below, that are up for review. 
  • Curriculum and Student Achievement Policy
  • Student Achievement Information/Student Assessment and Achievement,
  • Home Learning
  • Distance Learning
  • Health Education
To review these, please 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 under Term 4 Review Topics
  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.

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

This review closes Friday 15 December.

Community Notices

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

Exciting Opportunity for Aspiring Junior Chefs!

Introducing the in person Junior Chef Holiday Programme, designed to unleash your child’s culinary potential!

Course Details:
Duration: 5 days
Start Date: 18 – 22 December 2023
Time: 9am – 12pm (8 – 16 year old)
Total Cost: $300 per student.
Book online at: https://www.internationalculinarystudio.com/events/junior-chef-holiday-programme-8-16-year-old-2/
         
Course Details:
Duration: 5 days
Start Date: 22 – 26 January 2024
Time: 9am – 12pm (8 – 16 year old)
Total Cost: $300 per student.
Book online at: https://www.internationalculinarystudio.com/events/junior-chef-holiday-programme-8-16-year-old-3/

Location: International Culinary Studio Training Kitchen, 1/57 Warrington St, Christchurch.

Give your child the gift of being self-sufficient in the kitchen! They’ll learn essential culinary skills, techniques, and gain hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced chefs.

Bring your own electronic device, such as a laptop or tablet, to fully engage with digital resources and take our learning to the next level.

Chef Pat will be teaching the kids a great set of skills. Empower your child with culinary expertise that will last a lifetime. Whether they aspire to be the next MasterChef or simply want to enhance their
cooking skills, this course is a stepping stone to their culinary dreams. This course will also help them with their mathematics, reading and social skills.

Enroll today and ignite their passion for the Culinary Arts!

We will only run the course if more than 8 people register. Maximum class of 14 people.

All attendees will receive a certificate of attendance.

AKOTECH CodeCamps Summer School Holidays - FREE PRIZE & EARLY DISCOUNTS

Our holiday camp allows children from the ages of 7-12 to develop 21st century skills in a fun and action packed environment. Create and train your own AI Avatars, make games, code drones & go to work for a simulated Tech Gaming Studio to build games for a big pretend client.  

Develop confidence & initiative through design, creativity, solving problems, presenting & collaboration. Create your own games, worlds and apps to make our world a better place.

We also have Literati Lab just for girls

Venues: Canterbury Uni & St Andrews College
Dates: 8th - 11th & 15th - 18th January 
Book Now at www.akotech.nz
Enter our competition to win a FREE 4 day pass to one of our CodeCamps
Competition: www.codecamp.co.nz/competition

EarlyBird Save Up to 21% Until 14th December
Siblings Save 6%


Looking for another way to support the school with your Christmas shopping? Check out these amazing products for everyone in the family at School Fundraising Shop. 

School Fundraising Shop will donate 10% of each purchase back to our school when you select Beckenham at check out. Happy shopping!





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.