Thank you one and all for the amazing support you have provided for our tamariki returning to school. We appreciate the drop off and pick up practices being followed, this makes it much easier for everyone. I am especially appreciative of the wonderful support being provided by our student 'runners' - they have become very skilled in their knowledge of who is in each class. I must say, it's a little more challenging recognising faces with masks on but we're getting there!

In the classrooms we continue to provide calm and focussed learning programmes which the students are responding to well. They are loving being back with their friends.

As we did following the last lockdown period, we invite you to name and hold onto the special whānau times and activities, these serve to remind us of the things of importance.

For me personally, I have reflected on the importance of connecting with friends and family, how precious these connections are. I have also revisited my gratitude journal, and end each day by recording five things for which I give thanks.  

'Children are a gift from the Lord, they are a reward from Him' Psalm 127:3

Today we said farewell to a very special family who have been part of our school community for the last five years. The Troung family: Henry, Phillip and Louis, along with their parents Nghi and Kevin, have moved to Naenae to be closer to family. We loved having them here at Holy Cross, they have taught us so much about the love and joy of family. It has been a pleasure to see the boys develop confidence in every aspect of their learning.  

I would like to thank the staff who have provided so much support and who will miss them greatly.

Please keep this beautiful family in your prayers as they travel a new journey.

The staff and students of Holy Cross School warmly invite all parents and caregivers to Celeste's Poroporoaki on Friday 5th November 2021. (If we are at Alert level 1)

• Time 10.45am
• Location Holy Cross school hall

Parents/caregivers are then welcome to stay for a cup of tea or coffee and a sausage sizzle lunch and enjoy an afternoon of fun, games and activities with the children.

We would love it if you could be part of this special day as we "Celebrate Celeste"