Star Board Term Two Week Nine

Principal's Message

Kia Ora Koutou

I have taken my inspiration for my message today from two seemingly different but surprisingly similar sources of wisdom: the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss and the timeless tunes of ABBA. Why? you know the answer to that- Mamma Mia and Seussical Jnr have and are so present in our Trinity world right now so why would I not?

Dr. Seuss once said, "You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose." This reminds us that we are the captains of our own destinies. As you navigate through your school years and beyond, remember that every decision you make shapes your future. Embrace your uniqueness, follow your passions, and dare to dream big because, as Dr. Seuss would agree, there is no limit to what you can achieve.

Now, let's turn to ABBA, whose music formed my 16th birthday parcel generations ago- what would ABBA say to youth today? In their song "The Winner Takes It All," they sing, "I was defeated, you won the war." This poignant line teaches us about resilience and the importance of learning from setbacks. Life is not always about winning; it's about how we handle defeat and grow stronger from it. Each challenge is an opportunity to learn and improve, leading us closer to our goals.

It is important to remember the lessons of Dr. Seuss and ABBA. Embrace your individuality, pursue your passions with determination, and face challenges with resilience. Whether you are in year 7,8, 9, 10, or 11 finding your place; or in Senior College preparing for the future, these principles will guide you towards success and fulfillment.

In the words of Dr. Seuss, "You're off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so... get on your way!" And in the spirit of ABBA, remember that with every challenge comes an opportunity for growth. Together, let's make every moment count and celebrate the journey ahead.

Social Media Misuse using Dr Seuss and ABBA style

I want to encourage our youth to approach social media with mindfulness, understanding the impact of their words and actions in the digital realm and beyond. Starting with Dr. Seuss who might take this whimsical approach .

ABBA might reflect on the emotions and consequences of social media use through their lyrics ( this could be the start of a hit just quietly…)

Have a tino pai Matariki break, be safe, and be your best selves.

Ngā Mihi

Kiri

Around School

Boarding Note

We have had a lovely week in boarding. On Tuesday night we were fortunate enough to get seats for all boarders to go and see Mamma Mia. There was a fabulous atmosphere at the show, and it was great to see our boarders really enjoying themselves. Congratulations to all students who were involved. You were awesome!

Last night we had our Matariki themed Boarders Chapel where we were reminded of taking time to remember those who have passed, celebrating the present and making plans for the future. Many thanks to Rev. Wendy for the service.

Please note that the boarding houses close at 5.30pm today and will reopen at 7pm on Sunday night. Next week all boarders will be required to pack up their rooms for the holiday break.

Enjoy the long weekend with your whanau.

Jo

Big Sing Festivals

This year St Matthew’s Collegiate sent two choirs off to the Big Sing Festivals in Wellington and Palmerston North. Our newly formed semi-auditioned choir Schola Cantorum debuted at the Wellington Big Sing Festival on the 6th of June at the Michael Fowler Centre. The Wellington festival is a massive affair that runs over the course of two days. The 12 students were very excited to attend the festival and gave a passionate performance of our two songs “The Seal Lullaby” by Eric Whitacre and “Rewrite the Starts” from The Greatest Showman. The Wellington choirs did not disappoint. There were many mind-blowing and inspiring performances given throughout the day. The students left Wellington with a newfound resolve to keep developing their choral skills!

The St Matthew’s Collegiate Junior Choir has been a long-term fixture of arts and culture at St Matthew’s and attended the Palmerston North Big Sing Festival on the 20th of June at the Regent on Broadway. The choir gave a strong performance of “A Thousand Years” from Breaking Dawn and “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman. The Junior Choir came away with the award for “Best Junior Choir” second year in a row!