Principal's message...
Week 6 was action-packed, beginning with our annual Year Group Speech Finals. The quality of presentations this year was high, making the judges' task incredibly challenging. A massive congratulations to all the students who reached the finals; your dedication to research, hard work, and confident public speaking is truly commendable. Well done to all our place getters!
We also extend a huge congratulations to our students who competed in Tuesday’s Otago Athletics Sports event. Our athletes represented OIS with great pride, sportsmanship, and determination. We celebrated numerous personal bests and saw many students achieve top placings in various track and field events, showcasing the significant sporting talent within our school - a special thank you to Sharon, Colleen, and the parents who assisted with transport and supervision.
Additionally, our Year 7 Kī-o-Rahi players had a successful outing! The weather cooperated, and the students thoroughly enjoyed the event. Thank you to Whaea Isabelle and Mr Baughan for organising this.
Lunchtimes continue to be full of energy and variety, with a wide selection of sports and activities available to suit all interests. Our initiative programmes are thriving, offering fun and engaging options such as chess for strategic thinkers, e-club for our tech enthusiasts, and high-energy sports like dodgeball, cricket, ripper rugby, and various ball games. These activities are excellent for connection, skill development, and keeping active.
Friday marked the start of the Technology extension groups, providing selected students with the opportunity to return to specialist Technology areas for a richer learning experience. Mr Clark has also been running Science extension sessions on Monday.
Next week, we look forward to welcoming our future 2026 students for a special orientation session. Our Year 8 students will also be participating in a vital High School Simulation Week. This comprehensive programme is designed to familiarise them with the daily routines, expectations, and structures of high school life.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
PE Gear and Hats: (Please ensure these are ready for use.)
This is a condition of being a student at OIS - these are not an option, they are compulsory. We expect every student to have their PE gear and a hat every day.
Library Book Returns: As the year draws to a close, we are preparing to stock-take and organise our library. Please take a moment to check your child’s room for any school library books or resources. Returning these items as soon as possible will help us get ready for the year ahead. Simply send any books or resources back to school with your child.
2026 OIS Leadership positions
The student leadership selection process has started with speeches delivered this week. The top roles are Head Boy, Head Girl, and House Captains for Konini, Rata, Kowhai, and Ngaio. These roles promote leadership, teamwork, responsibility, resilience, empowerment, and growth, preparing students for the future. It was great to see some of these values displayed by a number of those who applied in our house choirs this afternoon.
Students progressing to the next stage were notified at school today and will assist with the 2026 Year 6 students' visits next week. They need to be wearing an immaculate school uniform all week. Those who were away will be informed on Monday.
Our Head Boy and Head Girl, and House Captains will be announced at the End of Year Prizegiving.
Rebecca Meek
Principal