Kia ora koutou

I hope this message finds you well. I want to take a moment to highlight some of our recent Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) opportunities and reflect on why these experiences are such an essential part of our curriculum at Hastings Girls' High School - Ngā Rau Huia o Ākina.

EOTC provides our students with the chance to engage with their learning in authentic, real-world contexts. We know that learning is most effective when it is meaningful and connected to the world around us. Whether it’s through field trips, outdoor activities, or community projects, EOTC allows our students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to new and dynamic environments. These experiences not only enhance their academic understanding but also contribute to their personal growth and confidence.

One of the things we are most proud of is the way our students represent our school during these opportunities. Just this morning, we received feedback from someone who attended Toitū Te Reo, saying, "I was at Toitū Te Reo last week and it was awesome seeing your girls looking beautiful, involved in the festivities, representing their school proudly." This reflects the pride our students take in wearing their uniforms and how they embody our school values—pono (integrity), manaakitanga (care), whanaungatanga (relationships), kaitiakitanga (guardianship), and whakaute (respect)—in everything they do. This is a testament to the strong sense of identity and belonging that is fostered within our school.

At Hastings Girls' High School we talk a lot about 'the brand.' This concept is bigger than any one individual. When our students wear the uniform or stand as representatives of our school, they are part of a legacy that stretches back through the generations. They are not just students of today but custodians of the values, traditions, and stories of those who have gone before them. It is a privilege to be part of this story and with that privilege comes a responsibility to uphold the standards and values that define us as a community.

As we continue to provide these enriching EOTC experiences, I encourage all of us to remember the importance of representing our school with pride and integrity. Each time we step out into the community, we are not only learning and growing but also contributing to the reputation and legacy of Hastings Girls' High School - Ngā Rau Huia o Ākina.