A Fortnight of Feasts and Family Focus
What a busy and rewarding two weeks it's been!

Last week wrapped up with a wonderful feast day celebration. We were particularly impressed by the artistic talents on display as students created unique tiles depicting scenes from St. Anthony's life, which were then assembled into a beautiful cross. You can see some of the impressive artwork below!

Then, last night, we had an excellent turnout from our community for a special evening with Caroline McGlinchy. Her session, focused on "Calmer Kids, Happier Kura and Homes," resonated deeply with everyone present. Caroline's theme, "He Manako Te Kōura i kore ai | wishing for the crayfish won’t bring it," highlighted the importance of active engagement over passive wishing. We learned practical strategies to help our tamariki thrive both at home and at kura, empowering not just the children but our entire whānau.

A huge thank you to New World Miramar for their continued support of our community efforts by providing the refreshments. Kia ora rawa atu! Please take time to thank them when you are in the shop.

Finally, this morning, we began the day with a Whānau Parakuihi | breakfast
The staff worked hard to cook enough Panekeke | pancakes for everyone, and then our tamariki and whānau enjoyed topping these with panna, tirikara maple, tāmi, and kirīmi. They washed this down with tiakarete wera while the adults enjoyed kawhe. We invite you to see how much of the reo that your child can recall. 

Special thanks to the whānau that attended and to our wonderful kaimahi who have gone above and beyond over these past weeks. Ngā mihi nui

The rest of the day was filled with creative endeavors! Miss Smyth taught all our tamariki how to make manu tukutuku (traditional Māori kites). Then our senior rangatira led workshops about rakau (stick games/routines), crafted harakeke naenae (flax mosquitoes), and explored the art of drawing kōwhaiwhai patterns.

Make sure to pop into the library to see the wonderful creation of Manu tukutuku firsthand!

Don’t forget to check out our Insta or Facebook to see some of these fun events as well. 

Our teachers are currently busy writing reports, which will be sent out next week. Please remember to check Hero regularly, as your tamariki love having an audience for their work. We encourage you to add your comments and feedback as your child/ren love it when you do!

Have a wonderful weekend and enjoy Matariki - a time of celebration and reflection.