We’ve been enjoying all the fun activities that come with a summer term—swimming, plenty of opportunities for outdoor learning, the Try Challenge, and our Year 5/6 camp at Tui Ridge in Rotorua.

As a school, we aim to provide extracurricular opportunities that give children the chance to try new things beyond their everyday school life. Camps are a great example of this, offering activities like rock climbing, abseiling, flying fox, orienteering, and bush skills. Beyond the excitement, these experiences also play an important role in children's development, helping them learn to assess and take risks safely.

Research shows that children who engage in managed risk-taking develop stronger decision-making skills and a better understanding of their own capabilities. A study by Sandseter and Kennair (2011) suggests that early exposure to risk helps reduce anxiety, builds resilience, and decreases the likelihood of unsafe risk-taking as teenagers. When children face challenges, whether it’s a high ropes course or an obstacle challenge, they build confidence and develop valuable life skills.

It has been fantastic to see so many of our students stepping up to try new things this term. Taking on challenges, big or small, helps build resilience, and we were especially proud of our younger students who bravely took on the Try Challenge. This was a new experience for many of them and it was great to see them give it a try with the support of their caring Big Buddies. They were so courageous.

We have another fun day on the horizon with the Colour Run on Wednesday 26th March. Hopefully, you will have seen the information on this on HERO. This event is not only fun, it also raises money for our school. 

Even though summer has officially finished, hopefully, we keep enjoying the beautiful weather we have been having and the use of the outdoors.

Have a great rest of your week,

Ngaa mihi

Nyree Olliver