Kia ora Parents and Whānau
Welcome to our first Beacon/Ramaroa newsletter of the year. We trust your child has had a positive and smooth start to their journey here at Northcross Intermediate. I have been impressed with the energy and enthusiasm of both our Year 7 and 8 students as they settle into their new school routines.
A warm welcome to Deputy Principal Cara Bergin-Stuart and teachers Lauren Samy, Lottie Cunningham, Jotham Kellet, Cathie Wharemate, Chloe Cook, Amber Kim, Joe Newport and Marie Suico who have joined our team this year.
At the heart of everything we do is our commitment to our students’ development, which is underpinned by our Mission Statement:
“Individual Growth through Challenge and Learning”
These two years are a special window of time where we see students truly begin to shape their own identities and interests. We believe that true growth happens when students are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, take up new challenges, and take ownership of their successes and setbacks alike; this is how they build true resilience.
To put this mission into practice right away, our EOTC (Education Outside the Classroom) programmes are already underway.
Our Year 8 camp at Finlay Park and the Year 7 Challenger Series are specifically designed to bring students and staff together. These experiences are about more than just fun; they start the process of students being challenged in a safe and supportive environment.
Whether it is camping out the night in bivouacs, conquering a high-ropes course or collaborating on a team challenge, these activities lay the groundwork for the independence and self-belief we want every Northcross student to carry with them.
A Note for Our Families: We recognise that for some parents, there may be a level of apprehension regarding the upcoming camps at Finlay Park. This is completely understandable, especially as students navigate these new levels of independence.
To help put your mind at ease, we encourage you to:
- View the Finlay Park video: This provides a great visual of the facilities and the safe, structured environment your child will be in: https://youtu.be/ijwjEJofg70
- Parent Visit: The camp has offered a specific window for parents to visit the site. Seeing the setting firsthand can often alleviate any lingering concerns. Finlay Park is inviting you to come and have a tour of the facility on Friday 6 March. Please follow the link to sign up for this:https://www.finlaypark.co.nz/learn-about-finlay-park/
A huge thank you to Deputy Principals, Christina England and Cara Bergin-Stuart for their organisation of Camp and Challenger Series.
We are committed to ensuring every student feels safe and supported throughout this experience.
Jonathon Tredray
Principal
