"School is not preparation for life, but school is life." - John Dewey
It was interesting to look back on my 2013 prizegiving speech where I spoke about “exciting potential”, “complex relationships” and the “speed of change”. Reflecting on our success in 2014 I can see that these ideas now have a tangible shape. We have available to students the latest 3D printers, a state of the art laser cutter, wireless printers around the school and high spec gaming computers. The challenge remains to continue to harness this technology in a way that promotes and encourages learning. To that end in 2015 we will be focusing on staff professional development and looking at ways in which we can allow students to use this technology in flexible ways. Another tangible example of applying technology in the real world is the work that University of Auckland Architectural students are currently engaged in on our campus. The use of cutting edge materials, innovative design and modern manufacturing techniques are examples of the practical application of technology.
It was a pleasure to welcome our parents and guests to our 2014 Senior Prizegiving ceremony and to celebrate another increase in high achievement. NCEA excellence endorsement rates are higher than ever and our graduating students are being recognized with record numbers of university scholarships. A special congratulations to Hanna Ettles and Lyndon Alford who both received top scholarships from the University of Auckland, valued at $50,000 each. This is a validation of the high levels of success achieved by our students. Mike Purcell B.A., Dip Spec. Ed., M.Ed. (Cant), M.Ed. Admin (Massey) PRINCIPAL
