From the Principal
Tena koutou katoa
Nga mihi nui ki a koutou
As we move closer to the Cross in the Fourth Week of Lent, Sister Joan Chittister reminds us: ‘God speaks in many tongues, glows in many colours, calls to us in many voices, and is beyond any image we create’.
Kia tau te rangimārie i runga i a koutou katoa – may the peace from above settle on us all!
2023 Top Scholars Celebration
Celebrating Our Academic Success
On Wednesday, we recognised the remarkable academic achievements of our top-ranked students following the conclusion of the 2023 NCEA examinations. It was particularly heartening to welcome back some Year 13 students from 2023 to join in these celebrations.
These achievements represent more than just academic success; they embody the culmination of our students’ educational journeys and the collective efforts of our entire school community. These results stand as a testament to the dedication of our teachers, whānau and, most importantly, the resilience and determination of our students.
Full list available here
Pasifika Empowerment
Three staff members and a group of Pasifika students had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Step Up to the WorldTú mãia ki te Ao 2024 event at the University of Waikato on the 23rd of February. The event featured esteemed speakers, including the honourable Lupematasila Misatauveve – Dr Melani Anae, Tigilau Ness, and Reverend Alec Toleafoa, all original members of the Polynesian Panthers. The day provided a wealth of knowledge and instilled in us the motivation to embrace our Pasifika heritage proudly and unapologetically. Power to the People!
A Journey Through The Waikato War
Level 3 History Trip
Last week, the Level 3 History class, accompanied by students from St John’s College, visited sites of historical significance to the Waikato Wars. The students gained invaluable insights into the complexities of each site and monument. From Meremere Pā to the sombre reflection at Rangiriri Cemetery and Rangiaowhia, each site offered a touching reminder of the sacrifices made and the resilience shown.
This trip gave our students practical insight into this critical chapter in Waikato’s history. It was a privilege to learn outside the classroom and appreciate the cultural significance of these sites. Thank you to Mr Cullen-Wright (St John’s College Teacher) for sharing his expertise and knowledge.
Duke Of Edinburgh – Silver Tramp
To the Kaimais we go!
During the 8 hours of classroom skills revision, 11 Silver Duke of Edinburgh participants planned (with map coordinates, compass bearings and timings) the 25km Kaimais round trip tramp, staying at Waitawheta Hut. On Friday, 8th March, the group (accompanied by Mrs Knight and Mrs Cooper) set off at 6.45 am. After a long day of tramping, including turning back off overgrown tracks, we reached the hut at 4.30 pm. Further training involved, water safety revision by the river and on land and bivy building. Then, the evening was free to cook, play games, spot a huge possum on the verandah and get some sleep. After cleaning up the hut, Saturday was another early start, and the girls again led the day, but this time more downhill, thankfully. There were great cries of joy when the school van was spotted in the distance at 3 pm. Beautiful weather, gorgeous bush, stunning views, a great two days!
"It was fun cooking together. It was great getting to know each other better. I enjoyed the views. I learnt how to build a bivy. It was cool seeing the group develop in skills and teamwork."
International News
New students have arrived
Seven new international students from Thailand joined us this week. Most will stay for five weeks and join Year 9 classes; and one Year 11 student is with us until the end of May.
Our Director, Collette Tuioti, returned from a successful marketing trip to Hong Kong, where she participated in Education fairs and met with several agents to promote our school.
High School Musical Production
2nd – 6th April | Tickets are on sale now (and selling fast!)
Sacred Heart and St John’s students have been working hard and fully immersed in rehearsals since the end of January. In a few weeks, they’ll share the modern take on this classic stage show at the Meteor Theatre.
Have you ever wanted to break free from your daily routine and follow your heart in a new and exciting direction? Troy Bolton (Joshua Shaw) and Gabriella Montez (Kate Hoang) are two students who ignite in themselves a love of singing when, by chance, they sing karaoke together while on a ski trip.
Reuniting after the holidays, the pair decide to audition for their high school’s musical but immediately receive pressure from those around them to stick to the status quo. Worse still, siblings Sharpay (Tegan King) and Ryan Evans (Raphael Ferdinands) feel their roles as head thespians are in danger and conspire to ruin Troy and Gabriella’s chances to secure the lead roles in yet another school musical.
Buy Tickets
Summer Tournament Week: 17 – 24 March
The sports scene at Sacred Heart is thriving, with much to celebrate this term, as evidenced by the results below. With Summer Tournament Week starting next week, we extend our best wishes to our teams: the Futsal Team, competing next week in Wellington at the Futsal Nationals; our Rowing Teams, embracing camp life in Twizel ahead of the prestigious AON Maadi Cup; and our Equestrian Teams, gearing up for the Pegasus Cup at Takapoto Estate next week.
All the best, girls, as you represent our school with pride!
Notice Board
Coffee, Cake and Conservation
Have you wondered where to start on the sustainability journey or want to connect with others?
On March 23rd A Rocha Aotearoa NZ, are hosting a coffee and cake morning. You will hear bite-sized presentations from experts in zero waste, predator control, reducing emissions, and more. Ask questions of the experts, and meet other churches involved.
For more information:
https://tinyurl.com/4tpp3sn9
Attendance Reminder
If your daughter will be absent from school during the day for any reason, please phone the school 856 7874 option 1, or email the Student Coordinator: absences@shgcham.school.nz giving a reason for her absence. If a student will be absent from school for an extended period, whānau must inform Miss Gunn. Please email Ms Ritchie at pa@shgcham.school.nz explaining why she is absent – e.g., a holiday during term time.
Our Vision
Ignite the Passion: inspiring young women to change the world – me aro ki te hā o Hineahuone!