Successful Syrian Afternoon Tea

There was a fabulous array of Syrian and Kiwi food  when Balmacewen and Wakari families, students and staff gathered to celebrate the first year of their time in New Zealand.

Baklava, kebabs, olive leaves wrapped around rice and vegetables, pastries, breads, dips, hummus and falafels were all delicious Syrian treats.  

 While we digested that, our Syrian students, Wafaa, Iman, Aya, Maher, Ahmad and Adel presented slideshows. They told us about and showed us the places they have come from, and shared information about their culture and food.  It was impressive in that such a short amount of time in NZ they were able to present most of their information in English. 

Our students and their siblings from Wakari School performed a powerful skit telling of their experience of war, leaving their homeland, coming to live in NZ and their attitude of hope for the future. 

Mr Hunter presented certificates to students for their hard work and positive attitudes. As well Mr Hunter thanked Eman Ghandour who has been a huge help to our students and staff.

It has been a pleasure to work with our Syrian students. We are all impressed with the way all of our Balmacewen students have welcomed and included them in classes and around our school. 

We look forward to next year and another Syrian Afternoon Tea.

Aroha Wylie