Library, Hall and Kapa Haka

This week we went  to some new places for some exciting learning for the first time.  It's so fun trying new things!

Kapa Haka is on Mondays. We sing waiata and dance with the kaiako.

We visit the library on Mondays too.  We can choose a picture book and get it issued with the lovely Mr Mc Callum.  He reads us some fantastic stories. He really likes the funny ones, so do we.

Our whole school assembly is on Fridays every second week.  We had to keep really quiet, sing the National Anthem, watch the presenters respectfully, and clap when they had finished.

What a fun week of learning firsts!

Mihi Whakatau

This morning we were officially welcomed to Halswell School at our Mihi Whakatau.  This is a Maori custom which welcomes new children, staff and families into our school community.  The school Kapa Haka group started by calling us into the Stadium with a chant.  Then we were greeted by Mr Cameron who spoke on behalf of the school.

The Kapa Haka group then sang a waiata.  

Mr Ruffle spoke to the school on behalf of all of the new children and families. Then it was our turn to sing a waiata too.  We sang 'Te Aroha' which we have been practising in the studio.  We were awesome!!

We were invited to meet the school representatives and shake hands or elbow bump. We then went back to our studio for our kai.

Starting School

We would like you to know how lucky we feel to have your wonderful children as new learners to Halswell School.  You can be extremely proud of how your child settled into the studio for their very first week.  All the children listened, shared, followed instructions, created, played and absolutely shone all week. 

Friday Fun Day

We have fun learning every day of the week but on Fridays we ramp up the fun even further!  There are many activities for the children to choose.  We have a large construction kit which we call the "Blue Stuff".  The children's imagination can run wild with their creations while they learn how to cooperate, communicate and engage. We also offer baking, painting, music and other learning opportunities. Take a look at the photos to see the children's choices!