I have been enjoying my last few weeks
as principal, reflecting on the great place that Warrington school
is.
Last
week Room One rehearsed waiata and harvested a bumper crop of
tri-coloured potatoes which provided some great data for a
mathematical investigation. This week as part of our health
programme we made soup using school-grown vegetables, herbs and
quinoa. We have also enjoyed using the all-weather court for sport
and fitness. Elsewhere in the school we have had dry ice
experiments, tropical island feasts and a black stick hockey player
assisting with coaching. I have seen crazy whole class maths
games, students clamouring for library car books, thoughtful
assessment being gathered from a group of students and children being
supported with their learning.
My principalship began in Northland as
the first gulf war erupted. I typed the school newsletter with twink
as my spelling correcter and in the top drawer of the office desk was
a dried and cracked leather strap. Much
has changed. No one would have thought a spell-checked newsletter
could be sent down a phone line and schools have awoken to the fact
children can learn and behave without fear.
Change is escalating. It has been my
aim over the last few years to equip students with the necessary
skills for a future of uncertainties and to provide memories of their
schooling that they will treasure.
I am looking forward to continuing part
time teaching in Room One and to becoming the school's self-appointed
enviroschools teacher.
Having spare time for my own thoughts
and Friday mornings at the play centre is also fairly appealing.
- I would like to thank the BOT who have supported my endeavours.
- To all those people who have volunteered and assisted over the years - your energy and input has been much appreciated.
- A special mention to the past and present Warrington students and staff - you have been a delight to work with.
- And a final thanks, congratulations and goodbye to Katrina – we have enjoyed having you at Warrington School.
All the very best of wishes for our new
Principal Jeff Burrow – I look forward to working with you.
Peace and arohanui,
Nathan
