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Dear Parents
Time and again when you hear talk of the fine line between winning and losing; success or failure; reaching your goal or missing out, the power of our mind is discussed.
On Tuesday as the whole school stood outside in silence, at 12.51pm, I found myself thinking about not only the tragedy and sadness of the last week, but the incredible acts of support, kindness and strength we have witnessed too.
The mental fortitude of our nation, and particularly of those most closely affected by events in Canterbury, has been as humbling to witness, as has the sense of community, generosity and hope. Not just in an intellectual sense, but also in a powerful emotional sense, our mind is central to our well-being.
Next week is our Healthy Lifestyles Week. Work inside and outside of the classroom will not just focus on the physical aspects of a healthy lifestyle but on the area of Mental Health. Our key message is Healthy Mind = Healthy Body.
Last year at our Parents Sports Coaching Evening we discussed with some of Auckland’s top sports coaches, the power of the mind. It was agreed by all that, “…perhaps the single greatest motivator for any child is knowing that a trusted adult believes in them.” If we can raise the self-esteem and personal confidence of our children then I really do believe that they are capable of far more than they imagine is possible.
Last week many of our children were away at Year 6 camp. There is a report below but what we saw was children overcoming challenges and exceeding expectations and the resultant smiles were worth waiting for. Successfully completing the long first day tramp, summoning up the courage to tackle the flying fox or trusting your friends to keep you safe (or dry!), positive attitudes made all the difference.
Many of you may have read this poem before, or a similar variation. The original authorship has been a question of debate but the earliest reference seems to be from the early 20th Century and a relatively unknown poet Walter D Wintle.
Thinking
If you think you are beaten, you are
If you think you dare not, you don't,
If you like to win, but you think you can't
It is almost certain you won't.
If you think you'll lose, you're lost
For out of the world we find,
Success begins with a fellow's will
It's all in the state of mind.
If you think you are outclassed, you are
You've got to think high to rise,
You've got to be sure of yourself before
You can ever win a prize.
Life's battles don't always go
To the stronger or faster man,
But soon or late the man who wins
Is the man WHO THINKS HE CAN!
Year 6 Camp
Miss Gibson tells us that - “Camp Hunua” was an incredibly successful camp for the Year 6 team that went there last week. Having 75 children and 16 adults fed, slept, entertained, challenged and inspired for a week is no easy feat…however all the preparation paid off and they all had the most amazing week.
The children outdid themselves with their impeccable manners, awesome behaviour, and their willingness to overcome all challenges faced. They supported and encouraged one another with maturity and sincerity. The range of activities from confidence courses, kayaking, hiking, horse-riding and mountain biking (just to name a few) kept the children motivated, interested and involved in all the group sessions. Everyone successfully rose to the challenges that they faced and all came away from camp on Friday with tired, yet enthusiastic smiles on their faces.
School camps do not just happen and the staff must be thanked for all their efforts with the organisation, and their commitment over the course of those five days, it was exhausting! Also a HUGE thank you must be extended to the parents who joined Mr Cates, Miss Whittington, Miss McQuinn and Miss Gibson on camp, either as transporters, group leaders, camp mums or as the camp nurse. The parents that stayed the week went above and beyond all expectations and the staff were inspired by their ability to make the camp into the phenomenal experience that it was. It truly was a great week for everyone.
Canterbury Earthquake Fundraising
As discussed in last week’s newsletter the APPA (Auckland Primary Principals Association) recommended that every Auckland school hold a “Red-And-Black Christchurch Support Day” fundraising day on Friday 4 March, with the funds raised to be given to the CPPA (Canterbury Primary Principals' Association) for their use and distribution to Christchurch primary and intermediate schools.
We are supporting this in the following way:
1. Any monetary donations can be made in the collection box in the office area.Including but not restricted to a gold coin donation on Friday.
2. On Friday 4th March we will encourage the children to wear Red and Black mufti. This day is already organised a gala mufti day (Bring your Sweets!!)
Friday 25th Feb – Friday 4th March
Earthquake Appeal Collection Box in office
Kind regards
Allan Short
Principal
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