What an incredible start to the year!
Kia ora koutou
It has been a very positive start to the year and I would like to begin by acknowledging the way our students have engaged with the Te Ara o Tawa programme. Over the last four days, the college has been alive with energy, curiosity, and a growing sense of community.
This year is the second year we have implemented Te Ara o Tawa and the programme has built on the success of the earlier iteration to include the senior school. Originally designed to foster a sense of belonging and foundational readiness among our Year 9 and 10 students, this year it has grown to include senior students who have been given NCEA workshops, defensive driving courses, pathways education and more.
I congratulate the staff for their design of these learning experiences, and to the students for their positive attitude. You have all set a solid foundation for the year ahead.
As we move from the Te Ara o Tawa programme into our regular timetabled classes, it is now time to settle into the academic rigor of school life. To ensure every student can focus on their learning and contribute to a positive school culture, we would like to remind students of the following expectations as we begin timetabled classes:
Uniform and Presentation – we expect all students to arrive in full school uniform, including shoes. Please note that white shoes are not uniform. Shoes must be leather or leather-look black uppers with black soles. Wearing the uniform correctly isn’t just about a dress code; it’s about showing pride in our college and being ready to represent our community. We ask for your support in ensuring students arrive at college everyday in correct uniform.
Attendance and Punctuality – in line with the Ministry of Education’s Stepped Attendance and Response Plan (STAR), we expect students to be at school every day and attending every period on time. Arriving at class promptly with the correct books and equipment shows a “readiness to learn” that is essential for academic success. Please refer to Tawa College Attendance
Phones “Away for the Day” – we are now entering the third year of the government’s “Away for the Day” policy. This is a well-established expectation at our college. By keeping phones out of sight and out of mind, we protect our learning environments from digital distraction and encourage genuine face-to-face social connection during breaks. Please refer to: Student Guide to Phone Free at Tawa College
Wednesday 4th February
The school day:
-
All students start with Mauri Tau (form time) at 9.30am for 10 minutes – students will be reissued with their timetables
-
Period 1 commences immediately after Mauri Tau (form time).
Thursday 5th February – Teacher Only Day
Friday 6th February – Waitangi Day – Public Holiday
Monday 9th February
-
Year 9, 10 and 11 students start with Mauri Tau at 9am
-
Year 12 and 13 students start with Mauri Tau at 9.40am
We look forward to an amazing year of learning and connection at Tawa College in 2026.
