News ~ Pānui

Term Four Week 6

Message from the Principal

What an incredible week it has been at Hastings Girls’ High School!

Last night we were thrilled to host our MakerImpact Market, showcasing the talents of our Enterprising for Impact and Being an Innovative Designer Hub students. The creativity, quality and innovation of their products were simply outstanding—perfect for stocking fillers this holiday season! It was heartwarming to see so many friends and whānau attending and supporting our students. A huge thank you to everyone who made this event such a success; your support means so much to us and to our young entrepreneurs.

We’re also incredibly proud of our Great Outdoors Hub A who spent time at Te Mata Peak this week caring for the trees in our HGHS plot of land. Their dedication to environmental stewardship and kaitiakitanga is inspiring and we appreciate their hard work in keeping this special area thriving for future generations.

Our Junior A Volleyball team has had an exciting time at the national tournament in Auckland. After a challenging start, they’ve adjusted divisions and are playing with incredible pride and determination. We eagerly await their return later today and can’t wait to hear more about their experience.

Our Robotics Team is reaching new heights this year as they prepare to compete in the First Tech Challenge Nationals! This team of seven talented students has built two robots, learned coding skills, and is now honing their driving techniques. This week they’ve also been networking with the Hastings robotics community, sharing experiences and growing their knowledge. The robotics project has been an incredible opportunity for students to develop not only technical skills but also teamwork, planning, and organisation—essential skills for success both on and off the competition floor.

On another note, we’ve been speaking to our junior students about the importance of keeping our school clean. It’s vital that we all take pride in our school environment and ensure it reflects the values we hold dear. Let’s work together to be “Tidy Kiwis” and continue to pass on these habits of care and responsibility to future generations of Hastings Girls’ students.

Ngā manaakitanga

Catherine Bentley
Principal

Important Notice:
Early School Finish on Friday 29 November

We would like to inform our parents and students that school will finish early on Friday 29 November due to a Paid Union Meeting (PUM) for PPTA members.

Classes will conclude at 1.00pm and students will be able to head home at this time. Please ensure you have made any necessary arrangements for your child’s early departure. The buses will run at the normal time. Any students remaining on site will be supervised in the Student Centre.

Thank you for your understanding and support as our teachers attend this important meeting. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact the school office.

Meet Jahvelle Kendrick – A Remarkable Journey at Hastings Girls' High School

Jahvelle’s story with Hastings Girls’ High School is one of growth, opportunities, and new beginnings. After completing her externals last year, Jahvelle was considering taking a gap year to explore her options. A meeting with the Principal and Business Manager changed her path. During their conversation, they offered her the role of Administrator—a unique opportunity to kickstart her career. After thoughtful consideration, Jahvelle embraced the role, marking the start of an incredible journey.

Transitioning from being a student (and our 2023 Amorangi!) to working alongside her former teachers had its challenges—like adjusting to using first names! But the supportive and welcoming environment at HGHS made the change smooth and empowering. "The staff here already knew me, and I knew most of them, which gave me confidence and comfort in my new role."

Over the past year, Jahvelle has gained valuable experience in administration, finance, and technology. She credits the collaborative and inclusive atmosphere of the school for helping her grow both professionally and personally.

Looking ahead, Jahvelle is excited to start a new chapter at Waikato University next year, where she’ll pursue a Bachelor of Arts and Law. "The support and guidance from my colleagues have made my university application process so much easier, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything they’ve done for me."

Outside of work, Jahvelle cherishes time with family and friends, whether it’s board games at her nan’s house, picnics in the park, or simply hanging out. She enjoys baking, swimming, reading, and finding balance between her outgoing and shy sides.

Jahvelle is excited about her future but remains focused on ending her time at Hastings Girls’ High School on a high note. We are so proud of her journey and know she will achieve amazing things!