Kohimarama School News - 8th October 2025
School News
A Message from the Principal
Dear Parents and Whānau,
What a fantastic finish to the last term where all of our students were involved in our production, The Secrets of the Pohutukawa Tree. This production, written by our year 7 & 8 students and performed across the school from our new entrants through to our year 8 students was definitely a big hit for students, teachers and parents/grandparents.
Here are some of the comments passed back to the school following the production;
"That show was amazing, exceeding all my expectations. Huge congrats to you and your team for all your efforts"
"That was the best show, how good did all the kiddies do - just loved it"
"Such a great show, well done to all the teachers"
"it was amazing, we loved it, taking all the grandparents to the next one"
"It was incredible how the entire school was on stage and included, I've never seen that before. You can tell that a lot of work went into it.
"I can't believe the whole school was on stage, it was the best!!"
"That was the best show ever, I had tears in my eyes"
The Science of Learning and Pedagogy
You will have heard in the media about the ‘Science of Learning’. We are committed to continually improving our teaching methods to give your children the best possible learning experience. One way we are doing this is by integrating the Science of Learning into our Teaching Practices, or Pedagogy. In simple terms, the Science of Learning is research-based knowledge about how people learn best and we use this to shape how we teach (the pedagogy). At Kohimarama School we;
Use Evidence-Based Teaching: We use methods that have been proven to work through research. For example, we use strategies like the code to teach spelling because it helps students remember and understand what they’ve learned during their code sessions and to use this knowledge across the curriculum.
Managing the Learning Load: The Science of Learning helps us structure lessons in ways that won’t overwhelm students. By breaking down complex information into smaller steps and using visual aids, we ensure students can learn without feeling overloaded.
Developing Thinking Skills: We encourage students to think about their learning, set goals and reflect on their progress. This helps them become more self-aware and independent learners, a skill that benefits them throughout life.
Personalise the Learning: Every child is different and the Science of Learning reminds us of that. We tailor our teaching to meet the diverse needs of all students, making sure that everyone can succeed, regardless of their starting point.
Give Constructive Feedback: Regular and specific feedback is key to learning. We provide feedback that helps students understand how to improve, guiding them toward better outcomes.
Boost Motivation: We know that students learn best when they are motivated by curiosity and a desire to understand. Our teaching encourages autonomy, a sense of mastery and purpose to keep students engaged and excited about learning.
Develop Emotional Well-Being: Emotions play a big role in learning. By creating a safe and supportive learning environment, we help students feel confident to take risks and try new things, which is vital for learning and growth.
Construct Active Learning: Learning by doing is highly effective. That’s why we emphasise hands-on activities like inquiry projects, peer teaching, and other forms of active participation that lead to deeper understanding.
By bringing together Pedagogy and the Science of Learning, we are making sure your children get the best of both worlds - a proven approach that is engaging, effective and tailored to their individual needs. Together, this approach sets the foundation for long-term success, not only academically, but also in developing skills that will serve them in life.
Teacher Only Day (TOD)
We would like to inform you that Kohimarama School will be holding a Teacher Only Day on Tuesday 28th October (the day after Labour Day public holiday) for professional learning and development. The focus will be on the Mathematics & Statistics curriculum document.
As with many government initiatives, we are pleased to share that Kohimarama School is already well-aligned with these updates, as they are embedded in our everyday teaching and learning. Our high achievement record in Mathematics and Statistics back this up. Over 90% of students are achieving at or above the required curriculum levels as identified in our recent Progress and Achievement Testing.
This day of development will allow our staff to fine-tune what we are already doing to ensure the best outcomes for our students.
We appreciate your understanding and support in providing this valuable professional learning opportunity for our team. Remember, Bizzy Bodz will be available to support you by providing a programme on 28th October TOD that will ensure that students have a fun and exciting day of learning and activities.
Before and After School Care
Bizzy Bodz has been in operation at Kohimarama School for one year. We have undertaken a review of the service and have decided to continue the contract with them for a further three years.
Bizzy Bodz have grown in numbers since their foundation and have between 30 - 40 students in the after school program, 6 - 12 students in the before school program and also run the holiday program for up to 45 students.
Bizzy Bodz partnership with us has continued to develop strongly. We are looking for them to provide some niche services for the students at Kohimarama School which can include arts and design alongside the regular daily plan.
Thank you to those families who support this service. In doing so you provide some additional funding for Kohimarama School.
Teacher Only Day - Tuesday 28th October
In partnership with Bizzy Bodz who will be onsite to run a special programme for students on this day. This programme will engage students in a variety of fun and educational activities, all within the familiar environment of our school. It’s a great way for students to stay active and involved during the day.
For details on how to sign up, please click here. We hope many of our students will take advantage of this fantastic opportunity!
PTA Gala
I encourage you to take part in our upcoming PTA Gala. This is a great way to continue to build our school community and to have the opportunity to share fun times. By participating in this event you are contributing to the fabric of the school and leave a legacy now and into the future. Thank you to those who have already purchased your tickets, we look forward to seeing you on Saturday 18th October at 6pm at the Akarana Events Centre.
The fundraising generated by this Gala will be allocated to a “Major” project for the school. Unlike any of the other fundraising the PTA do, the GALA fundraises with a focus on “The Bigger Picture!”.
This year we are working towards fundraising for improvements to our top court. This has to go through a process with council as to what may be allowed but it will offer the students/ Our children an area which will be accessible rain, hail or shine.
Sun Protection and School Hats
As we move into Term 4, it’s important to remind everyone of our school policy regarding sun protection. During Terms 1 and 4, all students are required to wear their school uniform hats while outside. This is to ensure their safety from the sun’s harmful rays. Please make sure your child has their regulation school hat with them each day, because students without hats will need to stay in shaded areas during outdoor activities.
Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our students safe!
Accelerating Learning
As we approach the end of the year, our focus remains on supporting students to accelerate their learning. Teachers are dedicated to providing tailored support to help every student reach their full potential. We encourage parents to engage in discussions with teachers about how you can further support your child's learning at home.
Enrichment
In very exciting news, three of our Kohimarama Teams have made the Future Problem Solving National Finals. This means they have been recognised as the best in New Zealand and will head to the finals competition on Saturday November 8th at Northcross Intermediate.
This is a stand out performance by these students under the guidance of Anna Crow, our enrichment teacher. We know that you will be practicing scenarios before the competition. Congratulations and all the very best for the finals.
The following students will be representing us at the national finals;
Year 8 - Jazlyn L, Rachel C, Abigail J, Zoe F
Year 6 - Freya O, Natalie Q, Regina M, Naomi C, Stella M
Industrial Action
At the time of writing this newsletter we have yet to be officially informed by the New Zealand Education Institute (NZEI) union, if any teachers, learner assistants and admin staff will be striking on Thursday 23rd October.
We are making plans now in the event of a notice being issued. Given the number of teachers, learner assistance and admin staff at our school who belong to NZEI, this will mean that we will not be able to run the normal school program on strike day. More information will follow once official notification is received.
The Kohimarama Way - Honest/Matatika
Being honest is being open, trustworthy and truthful. When people are honest, they can be relied on not to lie, cheat, or steal. Honesty is telling the truth. It is admitting mistakes even when you know someone might be angry or disappointed. Being honest means that you don't pretend to be something you are not. With honesty, you can trust things to be as they appear.
Students leaving at the end of 2025
If your child/children will not be returning to Kohimarama School in 2026, please can you complete this form as soon as possible. If you are thinking of moving and waiting for a decision from another school, please can you still complete the form. Many thanks in advance
Lucky Book Club
The Scholastic catalogues have been placed in your child’s teacher’s cubby holes and should be making their way home this week. If you’d prefer to look online you can open the catalogue by using this link: https://scholastic.co.
You can order using the Loop app and your books will be sent to school.
All orders need to be in by 17 October 2025.
Library News
Make a move this term at Chess Club! Come play, learn and checkmate your way to break-time greatness with your friends. Senior students will be able to help players and teach beginners the basic moves.
What: Chess Club
When: Fridays at big break
Where: The library
Dash, Arlo and Arthur are amongst the students who will support chess players of all levels.
Also keep an eye out for new books coming to the library this term!
This week we have:
Amulet 9 - the last book of the series. Find out how the story ends!
Percy Jackson and the Wrath of the Triple Goddess. His next challenge will involve … pets!
I survived the Destruction of Pompeii. Another installment of our most popular non-fiction graphic novel series.
Pizza and Taco Best Party Ever. Will all go well - or will there be trouble?
And next week - well come and see!
All new releases will stay in the library for browsing for the first week before they can be borrowed.
Certificates & Awards
Caught Being Good - "Greenies"
We had six fortunate students drawn on our last Assembly, Term 3, they were:
- Isabel LS 2 for using the pedestrian crossing Patteson
- Ryan LS 6 for Reliability and Commitment Colenso
- Harry LS 7 for Reliability and Commitment Atkin
- Connor LS 9 for Respect Patteson
- Isabella H LS 21 for Reliability Selwyn
- Grayson LS 22 for Compassion Atkin
Sport News
Touch Rugby
Total Sport 360, still have spaces available for their combined Adults and Kids League which plays at 6pm on Wednesdays at Madills Farm.
3 adults and 4 kids take the field with only kids allowed to score. It's purely social with no scores recorded. Loads of fun to be had, so get a team together!
To enter a team please email chris@totalsport360.nz
For year 1 and 2 children, Total Sport 360 runs fun ball skills sessions from 4 - 4:45pm on Wednesdays at Madills Farm.
To sign up for ball skills please email chris@totalsport360.nz
PTA News
GALA GALA GALA ….
As we haven’t yet reached out 100 ticket sales… Ticket sales will remain open until FRIDAY 10TH.
If you are having last minute FOMO … just click the link; https://events.humanitix.com/kohimaramagala and we will make the magic happen in securing you a ticket.
Don’t feel you need to have a full table or even need to know anyone. It’s a very unique fundraising evening for our Kohimarama School.
A little insight into the evening;
We will kick start the evening with a cocktail upon arrival (Included in your ticket price).
On the way through to the balcony to catch the evening sunset over the harbour, stop by the “Silent Auction Items” which will be going live online THIS FRIDAY OCTOBER 10TH.
Canapes will flow as you Mix and mingle with parents from the Kohimarama school community.
Call for Dinner by our MC Aaron Ward, An actor with a long standing presence in the entertainment industry, and an award winning background in local and international wine sales – and now he’s back doing what he loves and support the Kohimarama Bi Annual Gala!
Enjoy a family style meal with those around your table. Don’t worry if you don’t know anyone else going. Please just note your year group when booking and we can allocate you a seat next to others in the same boat!
The LIVE AUCTION will then kick off at 8pm. Run by a professional auctioneer, Aaron Davis! Yes another Aaron! The LIVE AUCTION will have 8 exclusive items which you will only access on the evening. These are a mixture of – Adventurous sporting activities – Ladies weekend away – Family friendly experiences. GRAB YOUR TICKET to gain access to these amazing items.
Once the auction concludes, we will be served our petit fours which you can enjoy at leisure while you get your dancing shoes on and our Band for the evening takes stage The Dukes of Hammersmith. Lead by one of our own, a dad at Kohimarama school, come and support, as Kynan takes the stage with his band members.
The evening will then conclude when you feel ready to hang up your dancing shoes and emptied your bank account!
We hope to see you there. Its once every 2 years! Its worth supporting.
GALA AUCTION
This year we will be running 2 different types of Auctions.
Silent Auction:
A silent Auction will be sent out to the school via Whats App and is 100% online only. This will stay live until October 22nd. We have over 51 individual items.
During the evening of the gala, these items will be accessible via QR code at the venue also.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the Silent Auction link and secure yourself some amazing “Pre Christmas” items.
Live Auction:
On the evening, there will be 8 exclusive auction items on offer. You have to secure a ticket to the gala in order to have access to these items.
In the days running into the gala, there will be details provided on what these items may be so that you have time to buddy up as a group or call the bank 😉
REVENUE ALLOCATION
The fundraising generated by this Gala will be allocated to a “Major” project for the school. Unlike any of the other fundraising the PTA do, the GALA fundraises with a focus on “The Bigger Picture!”.
This year we are working towards fundraising for improvements to our top court. This has to go through a process with council as to what may be allowed but it will offer the students/ Our children an area which will be accessible rain, hail or shine.
Unfortunately given the size of this plan, it is in the early stages and not fully clear yet so we haven’t been able to shout it from the roof tops.
Grab your ticket, https://events.humanitix.com/kohimaramagala
Community Notices
