22 September 2023

Our Year 13 students were reminded this morning that they have only 16 days left in their 13 years of school, 16 lessons in which to ensure that they are best prepared for the challenges ahead. As of today, they have completed 98% of their schooling.

With their preliminary exams coming to an end this week, they now have time to reflect on their results in them. I reminded them that it is not a time to panic, rather a time to take stock of what they need to work on – they have time if they make the conscious decision to put the effort in.

For those who have passed their first goal of attaining NCEA Level 3, they should now be adjusting their goals and be setting their sights on endorsement in one or more subjects. For some, it will be preparing for Scholarship exams.

All I ask is that they can look back at the end of the year and honestly say that they have done the very best that they can, that they have left no stone unturned, and that 13 years of education have finished well. I also reminded them to give thanks to their parents and caregivers – the adults in their life that have supported them through the good times, and through difficult times, without whom they would not be in the position they are in. They also need to be certain that their efforts will make their parents and caregivers proud.

Just as important was the message that they do need to take some time in the next two weeks to recharge, take time away from screens and noise, and concentrate on their mental fitness. All the best planning will come to nought if they have neglected to look after themselves.

Term 4 will be hectic for our Year 13 students, but we want to ensure that they finish strong, and celebrate their time with us at Massey High School. Prior to the exams they have our annual Year 13 lunch (thanks to the Massey High School Foundation) and graduation to look forward to. For many, their academic success will be recognised at our Senior Prizegiving.

Year 11 and 12

Our Year 11 and 12 students also have limited classroom time left before their NCEA Exams – a similar message has been relayed to them as well, reflect on the results, and plan accordingly, don’t be afraid to put your hand up to ask for help where needed, and use the remaining time wisely.

Achievement Report

Early next week, parents and caregivers will receive and Achievement Report which will include the results of the recent preliminary exams. Please discuss these results with your child and ensure that they have a plan in action to work on the areas that need work, to hone the areas they are doing well in, and maintain a balance between adequate preparation and looking after themselves socially and emotionally.

As mentioned in previous newsletters, there will also be a new, regular attendance report for parents and caregivers – to be used by whānau in conjunction with the student report that is sent out every day. Again, please remind your child to check their school email address regularly.

Principal Award

The Year 9 student in the spotlight this week is Marco Franklin (Lincoln Heights School) who wrote a short story for a creative writing segment in English. Having been given several options to either develop their own story or adapt an existing one, Marco weaved a tale that incorporated figurative language, used visual language to paint a clear picture in the readers mind, and did so without any errors. His English teacher described it as a story so captivating that she wanted to read more.

Student Leaders 2024

Our Year 12 students selected for the next round of the Head Prefect selection process had the opportunity to speak to their peers in Year 12 yesterday. Each spoke for approximately two minutes, stating their case, before voting was opened up to the student body.

Whilst not all candidates will make it through to the next round (panel interview), everyone who spoke was impressive, and gave us plenty to think about in terms of the skillset that each could bring to a wider student leadership team. Their Year 12 audience was superb with the respect shown to each candidate – it is not easy to put yourself out there in front of your peers. Congratulations to all who have made it this far.

Term Holiday

For all students and their families, we wish you a safe and enjoyable holiday period. As mentioned, our seniors will need to use the time wisely, but for all – look after yourselves and each other.

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