From the Principal
He mihi teenei ki te whaanau whaanui
Ngaa Mihi o Te Aranga – Happy Easter.
Unlike the season to be jolly, Easter is the season to be Joyful, and while we have 50 days to enjoy, Pope Francis’s death puts the Resurrection front and centre of our hearts and minds. Pope Francis, in his final post on social media, reminded us that the resurrection of Christ captures ‘the entire meaning of our existence, for we were not made for death, but for life’; this is the ‘Golden Thread’ running through Catholic Education: that human life has meaning, purpose and destiny, far beyond the limitations of imagination. Indeed, he had much to say about Catholic schools:
- that they teach their students to discern, to read the signs of the times, and to read their own lives as a gift to be grateful for and to share;
- that they have a critical attitude toward the models of development, production, and consumerism that are pushing relentlessly toward inevitable harm;
- that they have a conscience and foster social justice and awareness;
- that they are schools of Disciples and Missionaries.
These words could serve as a mission statement for any Catholic school – words that we will seek to honour as we continue with our mahi in light of Pope Francis’s profound legacy to us all. The Gospel, as Pope Francis frequently reminded us, ‘constantly invites us to rejoice’:
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He mihi teenei ki te whaanau whaanui
Ngaa Mihi o Te Aranga – Happy Easter.
Unlike the season to be jolly, Easter is the season to be Joyful, and while we have 50 days to enjoy, Pope Francis’s death puts the Resurrection front and centre of our hearts and minds. Pope Francis, in his final post on social media, reminded us that the resurrection of Christ captures ‘the entire meaning of our existence, for we were not made for death, but for life’; this is the ‘Golden Thread’ running through Catholic Education: that human life has meaning, purpose and destiny, far beyond the limitations of imagination. Indeed, he had much to say about Catholic schools:
- that they teach their students to discern, to read the signs of the times, and to read their own lives as a gift to be grateful for and to share;
- that they have a critical attitude toward the models of development, production, and consumerism that are pushing relentlessly toward inevitable harm;
- that they have a conscience and foster social justice and awareness;
- that they are schools of Disciples and Missionaries.
These words could serve as a mission statement for any Catholic school – words that we will seek to honour as we continue with our mahi in light of Pope Francis’s profound legacy to us all. The Gospel, as Pope Francis frequently reminded us, ‘constantly invites us to rejoice’:
- “Rejoice!” is the angel’s greeting to Mary.
- Mary’s visit to Elizabeth makes John leap for joy in his mother’s womb.
- In her song of praise, Mary proclaims: “My spirit rejoices in God my Saviour”.
- The disciples “rejoiced” at the sight of the risen Christ.
- Wherever the disciples went, “there was great joy”; even amid persecution, they continued to be “filled with joy”.
May the Joy of the Resurrection fill your hearts and lives with the Love and Mercy of the Risen Christ!
Rock of Ages: High School Edition
A Triumphant Success!
After months of dedicated rehearsals and hard work, our students collaborated with St John’s College to deliver a spectacular production of “Rock of Ages: High School Edition.” From perfectly cast characters to the exceptional backstage crew, students and teachers alike contributed to what can only be described as a resounding success.
The production sparkled with comic moments, well-executed freezes, and energetic antics that kept the atmosphere light and thoroughly entertaining. Lead performers displayed remarkable confidence in their roles, while the ensemble showcased extraordinary talent throughout. The entire “Rock of Ages” cast captivated audiences with their commanding stage presence and enthusiasm.
This successful production was brought to life under the skilled guidance of:
- Director: Katie Hansen
- Vocal Director: Alex Pelham-Waerea
- Choreographer: Emelia Hawthorn
- Producer: Hollie Doyle-Adams
Read a full review here from Write on Arts.
Image Gallery
Sporting Success
Georgia Kendrick is heading to the USA
Georgia Kendrick has been selected to represent Rowing New Zealand on the prestigious under-19 development team that will travel to the United States in July.
Georgia will don the iconic silver fern – a dream long held by this remarkable young athlete – as she competes against the world’s finest junior rowers at the 2025 International Rowing Challenge. This elite competition will take place in Ann Arbor, Michigan from July 14 to 16, placing Georgia among New Zealand’s most promising rowing talents.
It has been a goal of mine to represent New Zealand since the beginning. It’s definitely the highlight of my career so far.
Georgia’s dedication to rowing has been remarkable, and this selection truly reflects her incredible work ethic and talent.
We couldn’t be prouder Georgia! CONGRATULATIONS.
Cambridge News Article
Our Literary Stars
Student Writers Published Nationally
Congratulations to Aroha Abraham (Year 13) and Abbey Jensen (Class of 2024) whose exceptional writing has been published in Re-Draft 24: We Scream in Static!
Selected from an impressive 631 entries submitted by 354 teens across 111 institutions nationwide, their work stood out to the judges seeking only the most compelling pieces. This remarkable achievement showcases their creativity, talent, and dedication to the craft of writing.
The Importance of Attendance
Why Being on Time and Attending School is Important
Going to school every day and being on time helps students learn better and stay confident. Missing school or being late can make it hard to keep up and understand lessons. It can also affect friendships and future opportunities. Good attendance instils responsibility and helps students succeed in school and life. All of us – parents and teachers – should expect and encourage students to attend school regularly for a better future.
Regular attendance and punctuality are essential for overall development and academic success. Missing school, even for a few days or arriving late consistently, can lead to significant gaps in learning, making it difficult for students to keep up with their peers. Over time, frequent absences or lateness can affect a student’s confidence, social skills and future aspirations. Establishing good habits of punctuality and daily school attendance encourages self-discipline, personal responsibility, and a strong work ethic that will benefit students throughout their lives. Please help us: when we all prioritise consistent attendance at school, we all contribute to the best possible educational outcomes and future success. Let’s work together to be better! We might think that one or two days a week doesn’t seem much.
Missing just one day a fortnight adds up to 4 weeks per year of lost learning!
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International News
New Friends from Far Away
This week, we warmly welcomed May Zaw to our school community. May and her family recently journeyed from Myanmar to make their new home here, trading the tropical warmth of Southeast Asia for our somewhat cooler climate!
May has quickly found her place among us, thanks in part to the friendship of her student buddy, Hannah Middleton, who has been introducing her to school life and helping her navigate these early days of transition.
We’re delighted to have May join our diverse community and look forward to learning from her unique perspective and experiences as she settles into life at Sacred Heart.
Would you like to be a Homestay family?
If you would like to host an international student, please contact our Homestay Co-ordinator, Lisa Cowen. E: lcowen@shgcham.school.nz Great remuneration – $350 per week!
World Hip Hop Championship
Zarah to Represent New Zealand
Congratulations to Zarah Khatib (Year 13), who has qualified to represent New Zealand with her crew “KODAK” at the World Hip Hop Dance Championship in Phoenix, Arizona (July 26 – August 2, 2025)!
Zarah and her crew achieved remarkable success during the Term 1 school holidays in two major competitions. They placed 6th at the World Dance Crew Championships in Auckland, competing against 22 international crews. The following week, they secured 2nd place at the HHI Nationals, earning them the opportunity to represent New Zealand on the world stage.
As a member of Grooveit Dance Studio, based in Pukekohe, Zarah demonstrates remarkable dedication. She drives herself to training twice a week for 3-hour sessions (5 hours per day, including travel time). The entire Sacred Heart community wishes Zarah and KODAK the best as they prepare for “The Olympics of Hip Hop Dance"!
Notice Board
Do we have your current address?
If you’ve moved or are moving, please update your details with us.
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.
Please read The Importance of Punctuality and Attendance at School
Our Vision
Ignite the Passion: inspiring young women to change the world – me aro ki te hā o Hineahuone!