Kia ora Parents and Caregivers,

The first week back in class is over, and I’m sure there is a collective sigh of relief from parents and teachers that our students have settled in so well.

It was great to see them come through the gates on Monday, and we’ve enjoyed taking time over these past few days to assess and understand where our students are at academically and emotionally. It’s been a big, tiring week and I’m sure there will be some sleep-ins tomorrow – both students and staff alike!

I’ve particularly enjoyed watching the enthusiasm of our Prefects, who are excited to be back in their leadership roles and moving forward with their plans for the rest of 2020. Unfortunately, there are a number of school events cancelled or altered due to the lockdown. We have created a list of updates which you’ll find in this edition of The Voice.

Throughout the lockdown, the ability of our students to succeed in trying circumstances never failed to impress me. From our Brain Bee Challenge winners, to acts of kindness in the community, the spirit of Westlake was alive and well – even if we weren’t all together.

We appreciate we are not out of the woods yet, however with some degree of normality in place, our focus now is to ensure our students achieve the highest possible level of academic success, while enjoying the clubs, sports and social activities they’ve missed. Our Careers Team are preparing our Year 13s for 2021 and our Year 9s will finally have the chance to settle into life as a Westlake student.

Due to New Zealand’s lockdown period, there are changes for our Senior Students regarding September’s Entrance Exams, and the NCEA exam timetable. You can read about both of these under “Important Things to Note” in this newsletter.

I hope Queen’s Birthday weekend is relaxing, and you’re able to enjoy an outdoor family activity before winter really arrives. Once again, I want to thank you, as our parent community, for your patience, support and encouragement during this time of uncertainty.