Powhiri Welcome Back To School
Dear Parents & Caregivers
Tēnā koutou katoa. Tēnei te mihi atu ki a koutou.
Principal's Summary
- Welcome Back
- Visitors
- Canterbury Block Refurbishment
- Learning Conferences
- School Involvement
- Communication
- Emergency Text System
- Skateboards and Scooters
- Dogs on the School Grounds
A very warm welcome to the new school year. I trust you had a safe and relaxing holiday break. It was lovely to see smiles on so many children's faces on Wednesday, although I did note even bigger smiles on most parents faces! I would particularly like to welcome the following students who have started at Sumner School this week: Rowan A, Josie A, Hugo B, Saskia C, Frankie C, Emma, Luisa & Paula G, Cormac G, Skye H, Abbey H, Frankie J, Sienna J, Eddie K-B, Tristan L, Alex M, Matthew & Alex R, Neiko & Stella S, Baxter S, Isla W, Cruz W-S and Annabella W.
As well as welcoming new families to the school, we are delighted to welcome new staff members Anna Granger (Associate Principal), Karise Dell (Room 13), Caroline Morritt (release) and Jack Roberts (Room 11). Also joining our team in 2017 will be Joy Wang, who is a Mandarin language assistant who has recently arrived from China. Joy will be teaching Mandarin lessons throughout the school during the year.
Finally, we welcome back Bridget Scoular to our part-time staff after a year teaching in the Golden Bay area. A full staff list including Learning Support Workers, administration and music tutors can be found here.
All Visitors Please Report to the Office
Due to the introduction of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and the Vulnerable Children’s Act 2016, schools now have a number of additional legal obligations we are expected to adhere to. This means that all visitors to the school need to report to the Office and sign-in on arrival using our new tablet system.
We do not consider that it is reasonable or practical to expect this with so many parents onsite at drop-off (8.30-9.00am) and pick-up (3.00-3.30pm) times, so we are just requesting that parents and visitors sign-in at the office between 9am-3pm. This also includes classroom parent helpers and parents dropping off items to children during the day.
The only exception to the 9-3pm rule would occur on sports days when we have a large number of parents spectating or helping with events.
Thank you for supporting this request.
Canterbury Block Refurbishment
I’m pleased to report that the refurbishment of the Canterbury Block (Rooms 16-20) is underway, with the strip out of the building now completed. We are still hopeful that the building will be finished in time to start Term 2 and will keep you updated on progress.
Learning Conferences
Please note that Learning Conferences will take place on Tuesday 14 February from 2.15-8.00pm and Thursday 16 February from 2.15-6.00pm.
This is a great opportunity for parents to meet their child’s teacher and to set learning goals for the year based on the information sent home in the reports at the end of last year. As always, we strongly encourage all children to attend the Learning Conferences so they can actively participate in setting the future direction of their learning.
To book a conference you will need to visit www.schoolinterviews.co.nz and enter the code that was contained in the class newsletter you recieved on Wednesday . Online bookings will close on Monday 13 February at 3.00pm. If you do not have access to the Internet or need assistance booking a time, please contact the Office and they will make a booking for you.
A reminder that lessons will cease at 2pm on both Tuesday and Thursday so please arrange for your child(ren) to be collected from their class at this time. Once again we will be providing supervision in the library until 3.00pm for those children who cannot be collected earlier. If you would like to take up this opportunity please let the Office know in advance so we can keep track of the children involved.
Communication
A huge part of education is the partnership between home and school. If you have any questions or concerns about your child(ren)’s progress your first port of call is to always talk to your child’s teacher. Teachers are available to talk to parents before school from 8:30am and immediately after school. At times it may be more appropriate to arrange a meeting time with the teacher, which is preferably done several days in advance. If you feel that your concern needs further attention, a meeting will be arranged with the relevant Team Leader and beyond this a member of the Senior Management Team (Principal, Associate Principal or Deputy Principal).
In addition to this, the school uses a range of methods to communicate with our families and wider community. Electronic newsletters are sent out on odd weeks during the term. We have full school assemblies every fortnight, usually starting at 2.20pm in the hall. This is where we celebrate student successes and share the children’s learning. We would encourage those parents who have the time to come along to these assemblies. The next Assembly will take place on Monday 13 February.
Our school website is a great source of information about the school. Here you will find all of our policies and procedure information along with our school Charter and Annual Plan. A special feature of our website is the ‘Latest News’ page. This is kept very up-to-date and reports on a range of exciting events the children have been involved in.
You would also have received a newsletter from your child’s teacher this week outlining the class programme, general expectations and important upcoming events.
Emergency Text Alert Service
The school uses an emergency text alert system to communicate with parents in emergency situations. It is very important that all parents and caregivers subscribe to this system. If you haven’t already done so simply text ‘sumner’ to 570 (normal text rates will apply). For more information on our emergency procedures and a list of frequently asked questions please visit http://www.sumner.school.nz/emergency-procedures-faqs.html
School Involvement
There are a number of ways parents can become more involved in the life of the school:
PTA
We have a very active PTA who do a fantastic job not only helping to raise funds for teaching and learning resources, but also in organising a number of social events that bring our community together. Being on the PTA does not have to be a massive commitment and there are plenty of opportunities to contribute at different levels. If you are interested in coming along to a meeting please click here http://www.sumner.school.nz/pta.html or phone Amanda Price on 027 4888117 or via email pta@sumner.school.nz
Gardening Team
We have a very dedicated gardening team who play a big part in keeping the grounds looking so good. If you’re able to contribute to this team even on a casual basis please phone Kirsty on 027 6562310.
Sun Safety
A reminder that in Terms 1 and 4 every child is expected to wear either a wide-brimmed or bucket hat (blue, as it is part of the uniform). The wearing of sunblock is also encouraged while playing outside, particularly during lunchtimes. Sunblock is available in every classroom but it’s also a good idea for your child to bring sunblock along to school with them. Roll-on sun blocks are often a good option as they are much easier for younger children to apply to themselves.
Please note that rash tops are compulsory for all swimming lessons. The only exception to this rule will be on swimming sports days where children will have the option of wearing their rash tops during races.
School Uniform
As many of you will be aware, our mission statement at Sumner School is “Excellence and Effort in a Caring Environment.” An important aspect of this is our school uniform. Please ensure that your child comes to school in the correct uniform. This is clearly displayed on the notice board, on our website and in the Office foyer.
Please be aware that the sports uniform is reserved for sports days only and shouldn’t be treated as an everyday uniform. Years 1-4 children are not expected to purchase a sports uniform.
Skateboards and Scooters
Skateboards and scooters are an extremely popular method for getting to and from school. Unfortunately they do create a real hazard around the school so we need to ensure that children and parents do not skate or scooter within the school grounds. The only exception to this is the netball courts in the junior school where children are allowed to use their skateboards and scooters before 9am and after 3pm. Please also be aware that scooters, skateboards and bikes are brought to school at the owner’s own risk. Bikes must be locked in the bike stands. Scooters and skateboards need to be placed in the stands provided outside classrooms.
Dogs on the School Grounds
If you are bringing dogs along to school please ensure that they are tied up outside the school gates. Many of our parents already do this. With over 440 children running around before and after school there is always the potential of an incident happening. Thank you for respecting this request.
Finally, I would like to wish you and your child(ren) all the best for what I’m sure will be a very exciting year.
Kind regards
Stuart Cameron
Principal
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Introducing Anna Granger
Kia ora koutou katoa! My name is Anna Granger and I am very honoured and excited to be the new Associate Principal for Sumner School. I am originally from Portsmouth on the south coast of the UK, but studied for my degree in Twickenham (London) before returning to Portsmouth to begin my teaching career. I emigrated to New Zealand 4 years ago with my (now) husband Blair, who is Christchurch born and bred. I absolutely love living and working in New Zealand and feel that the education available here for our akonga is incredibly special in it’s drive to form confident and connected learners who are prepared for the challenges that an ever-changing world will provide for them. My many years of teaching experience have led me to believe that in order to support and educate our learners effectively, I must first know and understand them fully. Therefore, I look forward to getting to know you, your family and your children over the coming weeks. Nga mihi Anna Granger Associate Principal |
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Aqua Gym Lessons for Juniors this week
PTA AGM Monday, 13 February 7 - 8pm school staffroom
Want to be more involved in Sumner School?
Join the PTA! Because many hands make light work….
All school parents are welcome to ANY PTA meetings. You can choose to officially join in our meetings and have a specific role, or just be someone who helps out with special events from time to time. Fresh faces and bright ideas are always welcome!!
Please feel free to contact Amanda Price for any information about the PTA on 027 4888117 or via email pta@sumner.school.nz
Please email your details through to me if you’d like your name down on our helpers list to call upon for larger events when needed.
Thank you
Amanda Price
PTA Chair
Road Patrol Help Needed
Thank you to the parents/caregivers who have already signed up to help supervise the school crossing on Colenso Street before and after school. We still have Thursday and Friday afternoons available (2.50-3.15pm). If you are able to help out please contact the Office on 326 6546 or email: admin@sumner.school.nz
Term 1 Hotdogs
The PTA hotdog fundraiser will begin in Week 4 this term. Please complete an order form at the Office before Friday 17 February and make your payment by eftpos or cash. $20 for eight weeks every Tuesday. Thank you for supporting this great fundraiser and to Trudi Dickson for once again organising it.
Pure Sushi Lunches
Sushi is available for children's lunches on Friday each week and can either be ordered at the Office or online at: jan@puresushi.co.nz
Orders need to be completed by noon on Thursday's for lunch on Friday.
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Sumner School Great Big Book Buy Up
This is your chance to have input into what goes into the library and get the books that your child wants to read.
At the Learning Conferences on Tuesday 14 and Thursday 16 February, we will have a large selection of books on display outside the office.
Every family is invited to get involved by buying a book (or two!) to donate to the school library. Each donated book will have a nameplate inside the cover with your child’s name.
Your child will have the right to be the first borrower once the books have been processed.
Payment by cash, cheque and eftpos. We will hold orders till the end of the week if you forget your wallet.
Many thanks
Sumner School PTA
Sumner Summer Reading
We had over 100 children take up our Sumner School Summer reading challenge! Please remind your child/ren to bring back all books and book reviews by the end of Week 2.
*Please note children with outstanding overdue or lost books will not be able to issue books until all books are returned or paid for if lost.
Our 80's Prom Night is the PTA's big fundraising event for 2017
What do you get? For $65 per ticket, you'll get entertainment all night, music to dance the night away from Soul Provider Funk DJ and live band Puree, a drink on arrival, finger food and the chance to snap up some deals in the silent auction. Plus all tickets purchased go in the draw to win an ultimate 80's thrill.
Keen to help or sponsor? To raise the funds for our school, we rely on the PTA events being well supported by our school parents, the Sumner community, our sponsors and donors, and the generous teams of people who give their all to make our events possible. A huge 'thank you' to all of you.
If you or your business would like to contribute with any skills or sponsorship, contact sumnerschooldance@gmail.com. All offers welcome.
Want more info? Keep an eye out for the posters around school. Tickets go on sale on Wednesday, 8 February from the school office. Special thanks once again to Sumner's own incredibly talented Sarah Harding for the design.
What do you get? For $65 per ticket, you'll get entertainment all night, music to dance the night away from Soul Provider Funk DJ and live band Puree, a drink on arrival, finger food and the chance to snap up some deals in the silent auction. Plus all tickets purchased go in the draw to win an ultimate 80's thrill.
Keen to help or sponsor? To raise the funds for our school, we rely on the PTA events being well supported by our school parents, the Sumner community, our sponsors and donors, and the generous teams of people who give their all to make our events possible. A huge 'thank you' to all of you.
If you or your business would like to contribute with any skills or sponsorship, contact sumnerschooldance@gmail.com. All offers welcome.
Want more info? Keep an eye out for the posters around school. Tickets go on sale on Wednesday, 8 February from the school office. Special thanks once again to Sumner's own incredibly talented Sarah Harding for the design.
Art After School with Jo Loughnan
Term 1 2017 art classes
Art classes will begin on Wednesday 8 February (Week 2 ) from 3pm to 4.30pm in Room 12.
All classes are strongly based on drawing skills using pastels, charcoal, chalk, dye and some paint. We cover a fun range of subject matter and complete a piece of artwork every session. Classes are suitable for 6 to 12 year olds. All materials and afternoon tea is included in the cost.
The cost for the term is $180.00 (10 weeks)
To book in or for more information please contact Jo at 384 7506 or joloughnan@xtra.co.nz
Craft club
Do your children love making things or want to learn how? Come along and have fun with all kinds of craft - papier mache, clay, printing, paper crafts, fabric painting and more!!
When: Tuesdays or Fridays after school 3:00-4:30pm
Starting in Week 2 of Term 1: 2017
Where: Nancy Meherne Room, Sumner School Hall
For ages 7-13
Phone Yvonne Hall 326 6483 mob:027 7482074
Term 1 2017 art classes
Art classes will begin on Wednesday 8 February (Week 2 ) from 3pm to 4.30pm in Room 12.
All classes are strongly based on drawing skills using pastels, charcoal, chalk, dye and some paint. We cover a fun range of subject matter and complete a piece of artwork every session. Classes are suitable for 6 to 12 year olds. All materials and afternoon tea is included in the cost.
The cost for the term is $180.00 (10 weeks)
To book in or for more information please contact Jo at 384 7506 or joloughnan@xtra.co.nz
Craft club
Do your children love making things or want to learn how? Come along and have fun with all kinds of craft - papier mache, clay, printing, paper crafts, fabric painting and more!!
When: Tuesdays or Fridays after school 3:00-4:30pm
Starting in Week 2 of Term 1: 2017
Where: Nancy Meherne Room, Sumner School Hall
For ages 7-13
Phone Yvonne Hall 326 6483 mob:027 7482074
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After school surfing at CHCHSOS
All ages and abilities catered for and gear provided. CHCHSOS have a few places left on: Monday / Sumner 3.30pm ( start the 13th) Wednesday / 3.45 ( start wed 8th) Saturday morning / 10am (start 11th) Sunday morning /10am (start 12th) Please email donna.chchsos@gmail.com to book or for more info. |
Play Football for Ferrymead Bays in 2017 - the season is here...
For kids who want to play football this year - boys and girls of all ages - Ferrymead Bays Football has a lot to offer. Check out our website www.ferrymeadbaysfootball.co.nz for details of Term 1 programmes, information regarding the season and registration procedures. Any queries, please email Club Captain Ren Cameron at ren-dee@xtra.co.nz or call on 021 0661294.
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Thank you newsletter sponsors
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