Week 6, Term 2 2025

As we celebrate Samoan Language Week, I wanted to take a moment to share some important updates from the Board.

The Ministry of Education continues to place a strong focus on regular school attendance, in line with the Government’s national goal for 80% of students to attend school more than 90% of the time.

Here’s how our school is tracking for Term 1, 2025:

The Ministry has outlined what qualifies as being "Present," a "Justified Absence," and an "Unjustified Absence."

This means students should be at school unless there's a valid, justified reason—like illness or bereavement. Holidays taken during term time are now considered unjustified, even if parents inform the school in advance.

We know life gets busy, and we’re all doing our best—but we also know that regular attendance makes a huge difference to your child’s learning, friendships, and overall confidence. Thank you for continuing to support your tamariki to be at school every day possible.

In other news, I’m pleased to share that the school will be purchasing a school gazebo to provide shade and shelter at sporting events, assemblies, and other outdoor occasions. We’re currently gathering quotes and hope to make the purchase very soon—just one more way we’re working to support our students and staff.

We’re also thrilled to be looking at ways to use the $10,000 AA Insurance Big Little Sponsorship grant, thanks to an incredible nomination by Juka and his whānau. Our Lady of Kāpiti was one of only four schools nationwide to receive this support! We are now looking at how we can stretch the funding further and make the most of this amazing opportunity for our school grounds.

And lastly, a big fa’afetai tele lava to our wonderful staff and community for embracing Samoan Language Week. As a proud Samoan, it’s incredibly heartwarming to see our culture and language celebrated across the kura. Thank you to Sose and the entire staff for the aroha and effort you’ve poured into this kaupapa. I know how special this week will be for our Pasifika students and their whānau.

When I see our school come together like this, I’m reminded of the Samoan proverb:

"O le tele o sulu e maua ai figota" – Many hands make light work.

That’s what makes Our Lady of Kāpiti special. Whether it’s helping with an event, supporting your child’s learning, or simply showing up with a smile—we see you and we appreciate you.

Ia manuia tele le vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa.

Soifua,
Sanele Chadwick
Board Chair – Our Lady of Kāpiti School