October Year 7 News

Kia ora Year 7 Whanau, we have had a great start to Term 4 with all children presenting their speeches to their class.  We have the Y7 speech semi finals on Friday then some of these students will progress to the school finals next Friday.  We have all been impressed with the creativity and work ethic the students have displayed during speech writing as well as when they have been presenting their speeches. 

We really enjoyed the writing sessions that Stu Duval recently hosted at Balmac.  It is evident from the writing that has followed that all pupils have taken on board some of Stu's top tips for making writing exciting....ask your child to share their writing with you. 

Will Kindley from Otago cricket came in during week 1 and gave each class a taster session of cricket. It was a great way to revisit some of the term 1 small ball skills. 

Our Term 4 topic of 'Giving' is in full swing.  We are looking at how we can use our skills and strengths to give to others. It might be giving a performance, giving time, giving praise and kindness to others, as well as giving  all things a go. 

In week 4 we begin our EOTC programme with visits to Long Beach.  This is a great way to see class culture and community in action.  We see students supporting each other physically and emotionally during rock climbing and other beach activities. 

Also, in week 4 we have a guest educator from the Royal New Zealand Ballet taking each class for a 90 minute dance session. This is always a highlight for many of our pupils as they realise dance is just telling a story through movement.

It is really important for the Year 7 team to focus on their goals for the rest of the year, keep up the focus on the Balmac Super Six and remember the school values at all times in order to finish the school year well.

As always, please don't hesitate to get in touch with your child's class teacher or myself if we can help in any way.

Nga mihi nui

Beth Downie and the Year 7 team.