Assembly Speech, Term 1, Week 11, 2024

Tēnā koutou katoa,

Kia ora e ngā tamariki o tēnei kura, whakatau mai, whakatau mai, whakatau mai!

As we gather here today, it's a time for reflection and celebration. Another term has come to an end, and it's essential that we take stock of our accomplishments and recognise areas for improvement. This term has tested us in various ways, presenting challenges that demanded resilience and determination. Yet, through it all, we've persevered, and for that, each and every one of you deserves recognition.

Whanaungatanga, citizenship, and perseverance are not just words we say – they are values we live by. They remind us of the importance of connection, responsibility, and resilience. This term, we've seen these values in action, whether it was students supporting each other through tough times, showing respect for one another and the community, or pushing through obstacles to achieve personal and academic goals.

But as we reflect on what we've achieved, we must also look forward and set goals for improvement. Whether raising our academic standards, fostering stronger relationships within the school community, or demonstrating even greater perseverance in the face of challenges, there's always room to grow. Let's commit ourselves to continuous improvement, striving to be better versions of ourselves in the next term and beyond.

Now, as we bid farewell to this term, we also bid farewell to two outstanding staff members. Mrs Atkins, our SENCO, we wish you a joyous retirement filled with relaxation and new adventures. Your dedication and care have touched the lives of countless students, and you will be greatly missed. And to Mr Scott, our Year 9 Dean, who is leaving to take up a principal role at Te Tipua School, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your leadership and guidance. While we will miss you dearly, we know that you will bring your passion and expertise to your new role, shaping the lives of students in your new community.

As we head into the well-deserved holiday break, I urge each of you to rest, recharge, and rejuvenate. You've worked hard this term, and you deserve this time to relax and unwind. But as you enjoy your holidays, please remember to stay safe. Whether you're travelling, spending time with family and friends, or simply taking it easy at home, make wise choices and look out for one another.

So, let's bid farewell to this term with pride in our accomplishments, determination to improve, and excitement for the future. Have a wonderful holiday, everyone. Take care, stay safe, and we'll see you back here refreshed and ready to tackle whatever challenges come our way.

Nō reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa!

Sports Update Term 1

It has been a very busy term for sport. As well as our summer sports we have also been getting our teams sorted for next term! It has been great to see so many students playing sport this term and next term is looking even better!

Some of the highlights this term have been 

• School Athletics Day 
• Senior Cross Country. 
• Senior Rugby League girls who won the Southland Secondary Schools 9's Tournament. 
• Texas-Rose Moody who recently competed at the South Island Secondary School Athletics Championships
• Senior Mixed Touch team also placed third in a recent Southland tournament.
• Year 9/10 Mixed and Senior Girls Green Volleyball teams winning their competitions.

We would like to thank all the staff members who have been involved in coaching and managing this term. 

As well as staff members we have had a number of students who have done a great job coaching some of our junior teams. 

Hunter Tairea – Basketball

Kaedyn Horo - Basketball             

Nikora Ava-Pennicott – Basketball

Kolet Clark – Basketball

Cindy Ngati – Volleyball

Rangi-Maria McKay – Volleyball

Layton Rangitoheriri – Touch

Memphis Ryan - Touch

It is not too late to sign up for next term. All the sports can be found on the school website www.auroracollege.school.nz or see Anna in the Sports Office.

The Gateway Year 12 Classes attended a First Aid Course in Term 1. Students learnt the basics of First Aid which are needed in work placements and everyday life. All students were great listeners and were able to demonstrate their new skills. All 50 students passed the course, congratulations! 

Lots of successes in Fabric/ Materials tech for term one! Loads of enthusiasm and successful outcomes. Have a great break all and see you all next term. 

Ngā mihi, Mrs Sexton

2023 was a busy year with the conception of Aurora college's first published book. A group of students and teacher aides brainstormed throughout the year to complete the story. 

The story-line and Illustrations were created with hours of fun and laughter. 

Congratulations to Tristin Smith on being selected.

Tristin will travel to Auckland in the holidays for 3 days with YES students from throughout New Zealand.

He will embark on a journey of innovation, business and team building.

Tristin was the only student chosen from Southland.

Good luck!!!

On 9 April, ten of our Senior Leaders attended the Secondary GRIP Student Leadership Conference in Gore. Mr Scott accompanied them up and they had a great time.

Direct feedback from the students included:

• It was spectacular to be working alongside other leaders from other schools.
• We felt proud to be from Aurora. I had chosen to be here (as a leader) and I have worked hard to be here. I really enjoyed the opportunity with GRIP.
• It was a 10/10 for me. They really pushed me out of my comfort zone with icebreakers and kept things interesting.
• I have learned to present a way that is more interesting, like when I deliver speeches.
• I know that you have to have flexibility as a leader, in case things don’t go to plan.
• I was encouraged to be more out there as a leader. I was able to reflect on myself as a leader with my strength and weaknesses. I will be a better leader having been on the course.

Thank you Mr Taylor and Aurora College for investing in these leaders by making this opportunity happen for them.

Aurora College Services Academy – ‘To Strive for Excellence in all that we do’

The Aurora College Services Academy spent 10 days at Burnham Military Camp for the annual Southern Region Services Academy Induction Course.

The team worked tirelessly throughout the entire time spent at Burnham Military Camp. They had the opportunity to work under the NZDF staff which has provided the students an insight into military life. Many of the students had adjusted well, with others taking some time to make that adjustment. 

They were tested mentally and physically through PT (physical training), Drill, various parade inspections, adventure-based learning activities, learning about the military and what it offers, cultural awareness, High Ropes, the Confidence Course, and a whole lot more.

All these experiences have provided an ideal chance for students to build their confidence and self-esteem, leadership qualities, values, and an opportunity to get to know our academy better and how we can work better as a team.

At the Final March Out Graduation, we were very lucky to have our very own Mr Layton Rangitoheriri be one of the leaders for the haka. Students from every academy were awarded the Most Improved and Top Student Awards. Layton was named as the Most Improved Student, and Miss Faith Spittle received the Top Student Award.

Congratulations to all students who completed the Induction Camp and represented our school and their whanau. 

Basic Leadership

5 of our Service Academy students have been selected for the upcoming Basic Leadership camp, because of their outstanding performances at the recent Induction Camp and tremendous leadership in the school environment.

Congratulations to all students who have been selected for Basic Leadership.

Miss Faith Spittle

Mr Layton Rangitoheriri

Mr Memphis Ryan 

Mr Hunter Tairea

Mr Tyreese Tairea

Students of the Term                          Trainers of the Term

Miss Faith Spittle                                   Mr Memphis Ryan

Miss Aurora Mahia                                Mr Gabriel McDonald

Upcoming important dates:

25 April                   ANZAC Day Dawn Service

27-31 May              Basic Leadership

1 - 5 July                 Bushcraft Camp

Staff Sonny Rangitoheriri

Senior Cross Country Results