LAWRENCE AREA SCHOOL

Community Newsletter

15th March 2012 No 3

Dear Parents and Friends of the School

K e p ll e r T r a c k K e p e r T r a c k

I am writing this editorial sitting in the late afternoon sun at Luxmore Hut. The view is simply outstanding. I have been privileged to be accompanying our Yr 12 & 13 students on this four day tramp. The tramp itself is no walk in the park. The Luxmore Grunt is aptly named. The climb from Brod Bay was extremely tough. Our students measured up brilliantly, helping, supporting and encouraging each other and the accompanying adults. Other trampers at the Luxmore Hut came from all parts; Europe, America, Africa, Australia and Asia. Our students know how to conduct themselves in such situations. They were courteous, engaging, interested and talked about their home, their town, their school with pride. They are excellent young adults. The tramp itself is not only a physical challenge, it develops resilience, cooperation, decision making, all essential elements of leadership. This year the students themselves are shaping their outdoor pursuits and leadership programme. Collectively our Yr 13 & 12 students are involved in a MAD - making a difference leadership programme with Daniel Maze. Their goal is to carry out, through voluntary labour, a community project. The Kepler and MAD are just two of many leadership opportunities our senior students deservedly have.

Did you know

Our senior students enjoy many opportunities to represent the school in leadership, sports and beyond: Head Studentship, Clutha District Youth Council, New Zealand Area Schools Leadership Camp, Ka Matike Matataki, ODT Class Act, Camp Wellington, Camp Borland, Southern Area Schools Tournament, Outward Bound, M.A.D. Youth Development, Outdoor Pursuits, New Zealand Area Schools Tournament, Spirit of New Zealand, Mathletics, Crap Camp, Dance and Drama Evenings, Inter-school Sports. I am aware that there has been talk within the community about certain aspects of Lawrence Area School. Namely our schools roll. I have never discouraged discussion but feel I need to right misinformation. Our maximum school roll this year will be 126 students which is only 3 less than last years 129. Our senior school roll has been high twenties to mid thirties for the last decade and is likewise placed this year. Our performance should not be judged by numbers but by results, outcomes and achievements of our students, on the basis of academic success, leadership, outcomes for school leavers, sporting opportunities and results.

Did you know

Our Level One & Two NCEA results exceed national averages: Level 1 ... 100% pass 2009, 2010 & 2011 Level 2 ... 100% pass 2009, 88% pass 2010 75% pass 2011 (soon to become 100%) Seven of the eight Yr 13's from 2011 are now studying at tertiary institutions..... university and polytechnic
Kind Regards John Auld

PTA - Meeting Reminder

22nd march 7.30pm in the school library
Emma Shaw will be talking about her recent cultural exchange to France. Please take up this opportunity to hear about Emmas trip. Supper will be provided.

Cricket - Yr 4-10
Poor weather has meant cancellations of games recently. No results. to report

Kiwi Golf - Melanie Harper

Students enjoyed coaching sessions with coach Melanie Harper. Melanie informs us that we have many students with real golfing talent. Before the start of the netball and rugby season it would be possible to do some Saturday morning coaching. Please contact John Auld for futher information.

Miniball - sports activator

Mitch, the new Sports Activator, visited Lawrence Area School Junior School for the second time this year. This time his visit focused on miniball skills.

S w ii m m ii n g S w m m n g

A t h ll e t ii c s A t h e t c s

Two major school events took place last week. Athletics at Roxburgh School Swimming Sports - Yr 0-3 at Waitahuna - Yr 4-13 at Lawrence Athletics Our students revel in competing against their peers from Roxburgh. Sprints, 100m, 200m and 400m were spirited, Distance races 800m, 1500m call on endurance and determination. Triple Jump, High Jump and Long Jump tested coordination and courage. Discus, Javelin and Shotput were tests of strength. Our students conducted themselves brilliantly and us such had a wonderful day. Thanks is extended to our bus drivers - Claire, Mick and Kelly.

Swimming Swimming Sports is the No 1 inter house clash. This year students really got behind the competition, Woods House were decked out in RED, Read House decked out in YELLOW. Chants and Challenges were exchanged (LOUDLY). Support for swimmers was equally loud. The day, despite being cold, was a total success, enjoyed by all. The Juniors day at Waitahuna was likewise enjoyed by all and most successful. Thanks goes to everyone involved in the organisation and congratulations is extended to students. These events were very well supported by parents which is always appreciated.