Week 11, Newsletter, Term 4 2023

Together We Grow  – Ka Tupu Kotāhi ai Tātou

Kia ora OVS whanau and Caregivers,

“He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata.” As I reflect on a fantastic first year as tumuaki/principal at Otaika Valley School, this whakataukī reminds me that people are always the most important aspect of our world. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Board of Trustees, our dedicated staff, our incredible students, and the supportive whānau for making this year very special. Your contributions have laid a solid foundation for  the years to come. As we approach the holiday season, I wish everyone a well-deserved break filled with joy, laughter, and quality time with loved ones. Looking forward to more adventures and achievements in the upcoming year…Merry Xmas everyone and rock on 2024.

Noho ora mai,

Rick Sayer

Star Spot – Celebrating Student Learning

A huge OVS congratulations to our class winners for the overall OVS  R.U.R.U awards.

Well done to to the below students for living our special R.U.R.U values throughout 2023.

        

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Ōtāika Student Attendance

Aroha nui to all our  whanau who have shown exceptional dedication to their children”s learning through outstanding attendance in 2023. Your commitment is truly commendable, and it reflects not only your child’s personal growth but also contributes significantly to the positive atmosphere of our school. As we celebrate these achievements, let’s remember the profound impact that consistent attendance has on student success. Regular school attendance lays the foundation for academic achievement, as it ensures that students are present for valuable learning experiences, crucial interactions with teachers, and the formation of lasting connections with peers. While we’ve made pleasing strides in improving attendance in 2023, let’s continue working together to reach the required levels, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive academically and personally.

Congratulations  Oakley, Tyler, Ruby, Bree, Eve and Lockie  on your excellent attendance throughout all of  2023.

These students along our term 3&4 winners got a special treat with Mr Sayer at the Super Attendance Pizza Party last week!

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Celebrating a great end to 2023

The great OVS Pirate Beach Day!

We have had an action packed last 2 weeks of school, starting with our awesome Pirate Beach Day. This saw  Whangaumu Bay invaded by pirates of all sizes!  Treasure was dug up, cannon balls were fired, students were made to walk the plank and the air rang with pirate yells of ….aaarrrgh!   Everyone had superb day  and we would like to give a special thank you to all the whanau who helped support this event.

       

The Xmas Summer Concert

Wow, what a great turnout to our little Xmas summer concert and we hope you enjoyed the performances. Our students had the opportunity to showcase their talents, spreading joy and a bit of holiday cheer. Participating in the performing arts is not just about creating a show; it plays a crucial role in your child’s development. Through music, drama, and dance, students enhance their creativity, build confidence, and cultivate valuable skills like teamwork and self-expression. We’re proud of each child and the growth they’ve shown. Thank you for your support, and we look forward to even more vibrant expressions of creativity in the new year!

PTA

The PTA would like to acknowledge all those who have contributed to a great 2023.  They would also like remind everyone they are always on the lookout for new members, and appreciate any help they can get get no matter how large or small.  They would also like to give a big shout out to all the fabulous sponsors for the OVS raffle that was drawn at the concert. A seperate email acknowledging all these wonderful supporters of our school will be sent out separately.

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Splash Clash

What a great event and the kids (both large and small) had a blast – literally!

The scene for this epic battle was set.  Each classes ‘Red and Black armies’ faced off at point blank range with chants and cheers, Fire! the water flew! Then the Artillery barrage, hundreds of water balloons fired by our year 6 cannons descended on either side. This mayhem was closely followed by a mad all out charge and assault on the field.  The on field medics reported a war without casualties and huge smiles all round.

    

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Basketball Superstars

Our  Miniball superstars were acknowledged at our final assembly from this year. Both teams have gone from strength to strength and we thank everyone who has contributed to such a great season.

School Pool Agreement
Remember our school pool will be available for school whanau/families to use commencing from Saturday 16th December 2023.
You have all been sent an email with the attached 2023/2024 School Pool Agreement and General Pool Rules.
This Agreement must be signed by the PIN holder, and full payment of $50.00 must be made prior to receiving a PIN code to have access to the school pool.
If you haven’t done this it’s not too late. Simply pay your Pool fee and fill in and return the agreements.
If you have further queries please contact the school office on admin@otaika.school.nz

Powhiri  7th February 2024

There will be a powhiri  at 9.00am  to welcome all students and whanau that start with us in 2024.

Class Stationery Lists 2024

2024 stationery lists went home with end of year reports. These will be also available on the school website in the new year.

School End of Year Reports

Student reports not collected  on the last day of school may be picked up in the new year.

School Contact over the holiday period.

For all queries please contact the school office at  admin@otaika.school.nz

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Dates 2024

Please note for your calendar.

Term 1: 7 February –  April 12.

Term 2: 29 April – 5 July

Term 3: 22 July – 27 September

Term 4: 14 October – 17 December

Teacher Only Day – Whole staff development in Structured Literacy – Monday 19th February

By |2023-12-22T16:38:02+00:0022nd December 2023|Newsletters, Updates - Email|Comments Off on Week 11, Newsletter, Term 4 2023

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