By Linda Martin | Posted: Thursday December 14, 2017
On Thursday, yesterday, the Year 6 children were farewelled in an afternoon ceremony.
Year 6 parents can be very proud of their children yesterday, as they showed off their talents and skills playing Christmas carols and songs. They also sang their special Year 6 song which was rewritten to the tune of The Best Day of My Life by American Authors. Their singing and playing was stunning!
Our guest speaker was an ex pupil, Ben Wardhaugh, who shared his insights into how to get the most out of the opportunities they will have in their next years of schooling. He shared many interesting thoughts about his years at Balmacewen and Otago Boys, and is now studying quantity surveying at the Otago Polytechnic. Two powerful messages he had for the children were: that the benefits / enjoyment you get out of your learning will match the effort you put in, and don't do anything stupid.
Afternoon tea followed and was shared with the large group of family members who came to share this special day with us. Lots of photos and videos were also taken, no doubt to enjoy over the next few weeks. Maybe later on at a 21st birthday as well?
It is always nice to meet our ex pupils again (older brothers and sisters), and also the grandparents who came to see our leaving ceremony.
During this time the Year 5 children enjoyed going to some of the junior and middles classes to help the younger children. This is always a special time for them too.
It is my last Year 6 Leavers ceremony, and indeed my last year at Kaikorai. It has been a year of 'last times', but a real privilege to be part of this great school. I have many fond memories of all the children I have taught. I wish you all a very happy Christmas and holiday time, and all the best for 2018.
Linda Martin
And from the senior team: Merry Christmas, have a great holiday, and see you all again next year.
Robin Hartley, Jill Kumar, Ryan Inglis.