Seniors were busy doing practice assessments last week for their NZQA examinations in November. The week was designated as “an in class week” so there were no school trips.

The previous Friday, the Year 11, 12 and 13 History classes took a trip to Wellington. History teacher Mary Mika reports: The purpose of the trip was dual: to show the students what different libraries had to offer, as well as to show the students what Wellington had to offer to tertiary students.

The Group of History students who recently visited Wellington

It is fair to say that the students were overwhelmed by the enormity of the first library, Victoria University Library. The students were unaware that the nine floors above ground and the one floor underground housed different resources. Being able to see the different areas, as well as being informed about the amount of outsourcing to other libraries that occurred (due to lack of space) was beneficial for the students.
The second library, Wellington Central Library, was smaller, but still supported the purpose of the trip. Students were split into their levels and shown around by their own tour guides. Year 13 students got to see what a Microfilm was, as well as an A to J, a Hansard document and the official electoral roles. Being shown the types of databases they could use for their research impressed the students, because many had not used this vehicle for researching before.
The final library visited was the NZ Archives. Our students had the privilege of seeing the original copies of the Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840, an original portion of a Women’s suffrage petition from 1982, the original United Tribes of New Zealand’s 1835 Declaration of Independence and the original drafts for the New Zealand Coat of Arms. For the students, the goal was to have an appreciation of New Zealand’s history as well as to appreciate the way libraries try to cater to all members in our communities, including budding historians. Mr Turner, Miss Watts and Miss Mika accompanied the students on the trip and enjoyed the tours as much as the students did

On Thursday May 27th Year 13 Head Students, Luke Parker and Kate Steminger travelled to Kumeroa/Hopelands primary school as guest judges for the Year 5 and 6 speeches. After giving the audience an insight in to college life, it was down to the competition for the 14 nervous contestants. The topics were varied and interesting with the prize winning speeches being on car seats, mammals and amazing escapes. A wonderful day was enjoyed by all.

Some major events are not too far in the distance and preparations are well underway for them. June 15th sees most of our sports hosting Newlands College for their annual exchange. The Jazz and Rock bands are embarking on a tour of the Taupo region from June 21st – 24th giving 45 minute performances to schools. The Senior Ball is on June 26th with a 1920’s theme. Tickets are on sale now so plan your choice of transport for arrival soon.

Last weekend saw our 9A and 10B netball girls both have good wins, as well as our Girls and Boys’ Senior A Basketball. The best performing rugby team were the U14’s who bounced back from an earlier loss in the season to St Peters to have a solid 39 – 22 victory in this round. Girls Football drew 2 – 2 with Massey and Boys Hockey had a solid 1 – 0 victory over PNBHS with Troy Davey scoring the winning goal.

Alice Craig (9WN) has recently been awarded the Guides Aoteoroa award. This is the highest award a girl can achieve in the Guide section of Girl Guiding New Zealand. To achieve this award Alice had to complete many varied activities including planning and running an out door camp for a group of girls, community service, unit and specialised badges. Other Tararua College students who have also completed this award are Kathryn Pound, Samantha Taylor and Sarah Angove.

Aoteora award winner Alice Craig

For further information on this column or about Tararua College events, please contact the School office or email Mr. Mcknight at the College