Matariki & Term 2 Reflections
As the Matariki star cluster shines, we acknowledge this special time in Aotearoa – the Māori New Year. It’s a period for reflection, remembrance, and anticipating new beginnings, focusing on growth and hope. This Matariki reminds us of our rich cultural heritage and the importance of connecting with our natural world.
As Term 2 concludes, we celebrate the incredible achievements of our students and staff. Northcross Intermediate is committed to offering diverse opportunities across our curriculum.
Term 2 Highlights:
Academic & Enrichment
Chess club, Cyber Safety initiatives, ELIP support, Enviro Trips, Esports, Future Problem Solving (national & international), Languages, Literacy, Maths extension, Mathex, Project Based Learning, Science Fair, Specialist Extension classes, Writers Festival.- Sports & Outdoor Activities
Community tree planting, various lunchtime sports, Badminton, Basketball, Boxfit, Football, Girls on Fire, Hockey, Indoor Football, Netball, NX Warrior, Orienteering, Rippa, Rugby, Running Club, Snowsports, Squash, Table Tennis, Water Polo. 
Arts & Culture
Rock band concerts, Barefoot Harry, Choir, Cultural groups, Dance Troupes, Kapa Haka, Māori Pasifika festival, Music festivals, National Dance Competition, NZ Music Month, Oneroa Orchestra Day, Performing Arts, Show Quest.- Student Support & Development
Teacher and student teacher mentorship, Parent/teacher interviews, Pink Shirt Day, Puberty talks, School leader trip, School social, Sherwood Primary Coaching, Support groups, Tama Toa, TOI arts.
Preparing Students for the Future: Core Skills Focus
At Northcross Intermediate, we’re constantly looking ahead, ensuring students thrive academically and gain essential skills for a rapidly evolving world. Inspired by insights from the World Economic Forum’s “Future of Jobs Report 2025,” we’re integrating crucial skills into our curriculum:
- Cognitive Skills: Thinking Smart and Creatively
Includes: Analytical Thinking, Creative Thinking, Curiosity, Lifelong Learning, Systems Thinking.
How Northcross fosters this: Our Project-Based Learning (PBL) encourages critical thinking and research. Our ‘Planet Earth and Beyond’ science concept focuses on problem-solving and designing new ecosystems. Digital literacy promotes curious learning. - Self-Efficacy: Resilience and Personal Growth
Includes: Resilience, Flexibility, Agility, Motivation, and Self-Awareness.
How Northcross fosters this: We promote a growth mind-set, celebrating effort and learning from mistakes. Our curriculum opportunities build confidence and help students navigate challenges, encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones. - Working With Others: Collaboration and Influence
Includes: Leadership, Social Influence, Empathy, Active Listening, Service Orientation, Teaching, Mentoring.
How Northcross fosters this: Group projects, collaborative learning (including camps), and our House system develop teamwork and leadership. We foster an inclusive environment valuing empathy and active listening. 
Technology Skills: Navigating the Digital World
Includes: Technological Literacy, AI & Big Data, Networks & Cybersecurity, Programming.
How Northcross fosters this: Our Specialist Programme and Digital Technologies curriculum introduce computational thinking. Experts visit to discuss online citizenship. We use various digital tools (3D printers, laser cutters) and discuss AI to ensure students are informed and safe digital citizens.- Management Skills: Organizing and Optimising
Includes: Resource Management, Operations, and Quality Control.
How Northcross fosters this: Students learn time and resource management through PBL and independent study. Through Visible Learning, they take ownership of their learning, review for quality, and plan their approaches, asking: “What am I learning? Why? How will I know I’ve learned it?”
By focusing on these core skills, Northcross Intermediate is committed to nurturing adaptable, innovative, and well-rounded individuals ready for the future, who will thrive as confident, compassionate, and contributing members of society.
This is the last week of Term 2, finishing this Friday, June 27th. School resumes for Term 3 on July 14th. For your diaries: Our Parent/Teacher interviews are Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 July. School will close at 12.30pm on the Wednesday.
Please have a safe and relaxing break.
Nga mihi nui,
Jonathon Tredray Principal
