Kia ora e te whānau,
With the end of the school year fast approaching, we have much to celebrate and a busy few weeks ahead.
Last Friday, we celebrated Leavers’ Day with our Year 13 students. It was a very special day and one we, as staff, thoroughly enjoyed sharing with them. What stood out to me was the care, pride and respect with which they finished their time at Long Bay College. They celebrated together, looked after one another and left our College in a way that reflected wonderfully on them as a year group. I was incredibly proud of them.
To our Year 13 parents and caregivers, thank you for everything you have contributed to Long Bay College over the years. Each of your young people leaves with their own memories and friendships, and each leaves something of themselves here too. Whatever comes next, I hope they find people who encourage them, opportunities that challenge and excite them, and the confidence to make the most of them. It was fantastic to celebrate alongside them last week. We will miss them!
As examinations begin, I wish all of our students the very best. This is their opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and understanding they have worked hard to develop throughout the year. Please support them to prepare well, make time for rest and look after themselves and one another. Thank you to our teachers and families for the guidance and encouragement you continue to provide during this important time.
This week, we will recognise our students’ achievements across sport, culture and the arts. These occasions also give us the opportunity to acknowledge the staff, coaches, families and supporters whose time and commitment help our young people succeed. Our Sports Awards take place on Tuesday 3 November in the Gym. Doors open at 6pm, with the ceremony beginning at 6.30pm. On Wednesday 4 November, our Māori & Pasifika Awards will also be held in the Gym, with doors opening at 5.45pm for a 6pm start. Our Arts Awards follow on Thursday 5 November in the Gym. Doors open at 6pm, and the ceremony begins at 6.30pm.
Looking ahead, our Academic Awards will take place on Monday 7 December at the Bruce Mason Centre in Takapuna, beginning at 6.30pm. We look forward to celebrating our students’ achievements and the effort behind them.
There is also good progress on our campus developments. Construction of the hockey turf is moving along well and remains on schedule. The first half of O Block is now open and looking great, while work on the second half is well underway and also on schedule. It is pleasing to see these projects taking shape and our students and staff beginning to enjoy the refurbished spaces in O Block.
I would also like to acknowledge Derek Blank, who is stepping down as Presiding Member of our Board after four years in the role. Derek has given an enormous amount of his time, energy and commitment to Long Bay College, and I have greatly valued his support, leadership and wise counsel over that time. Board service often happens quietly behind the scenes, but it carries significant responsibility and makes an important contribution to the life and direction of our College. On behalf of our school community, and personally, I want to thank Derek for his wonderful service as Presiding Member and for his commitment to Long Bay College.
Our yearbook is now available to preorder through the College store. It is a chance to look back on the people, events and experiences that have been part of life at Long Bay College this year.
As families plan for the weeks ahead, please note that the last day of timetabled classes is Thursday 10 December.
Thank you to our staff, students and whānau for your continued support and contribution to College life. There is a great deal to be proud of as we approach the end of another year, and I look forward to celebrating these final weeks together.
Ngā mihi nui,
CJ Healey
Principal
