Page 13Books With Bob

Page 8Academic Colours Assembly

Page 15West to East for the Watsons

Page 14International Update

Page 4Overalls For All

ISSUE 2 | FRIDAY 6 MARCH | 2015

like to learn more, speak with Mr Morris or me. Come along to a few meetings and see what we are about. We meet at 7 pm on the second Tuesday of each month (except where this falls in the school holidays – dates are in the school calendar).

This year, the Board is undertaking a Strategic Review. This is the plan for the school for the next few years. In 2014, we surveyed the contributing schools, the teachers and the students and reviewed where we are at now. We are now collating all this information and using our findings to make sure DHS meets the needs of its community.

My desire is that our students choose Darfield High School – not because it’s the school that the bus goes to – but because our school culture provides for their educational needs now, and sets them up for their future as adults.

The Board will be out and around a lot more this year, so feel free to stop and say Hi when you see trustees around the school.

Until next time.

Sue Robinson

6 March 20152

Board of Trustees ReportWelcome to the 2015 School Year. My name is Sue Robinson and it is my honour to be appointed Board Chair of DHS for 2015. I have a daughter Brooke, in Year 9, Sam who will join her next year as a Year 7, and my youngest Ben is just in Year 2. So I will be around Darfield for a few years yet and hopefully part of the Board as long as I am meeting the needs of the community.

The Board of Trustees is made up of five parent elected representatives, a Student Trustee, a Staff Trustee, and the Principal. The Secretary is an employee of the school. Parent trustees are elected every three years and the next election is June 2016. This year, we will have two vacancies opening up as Darren Hammond and Marty Gameson are both stepping down. Marty is the previous Chair and I am pleased he is currently Deputy Chair as I step into the role. As he is active in many other areas, including being Chairman of the Canterbury Rugby Referee Association, he will be stepping down mid-year to focus on these. The Hammond family are looking to move to Christchurch where work commitments are and it makes sense for them to be nearer work and their girls’ after-school activities. Both men will be sorely missed. These two changes mean we are on the

lookout for two new trustees to join us. These two people will need to be able to join the Board until the next election (and hopefully beyond).

What does the Board do? The legal definition is “The board of trustees is the Crown entity responsible for the governance and the control of the management of the school”. In practice, this means we delegate management of the school to Mr Morris and the Senior Management Team, and we keep them accountable. We work together to set the strategic plan for the school, set the policies to keep our students safe, account financially to the MOE on operating grants we get to run the school, and anything else that we are legally required to do. Our main focus is to ensure all of our students are able to access the education they are entitled to, and we make sure the school can deliver that.

We are from a wide range of backgrounds – for example, I am a Company Director; my husband and I own four businesses, including a Travel Agency and a Property Management company, and my speciality is finance. So if you have any experience that you feel may be valuable to the Board and would

Hi and Bonjour! I am really excited to be here at DHS to teach French. I feel very welcomed by the community and by the staff here at DHS.

I am from Invercargill and completed a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and Languages as well as a Graduate Diploma in Teaching at the University of Otago.

I have a passion for languages, culture, travel and photography. I also enjoy running, playing netball and swimming.

Hello. My name is Aileen Walker and I am excited to be here at Darfield High School teaching Soft Materials and Food Technology.

I have strong ties to the local community as I grew up in this area and went to Darfield High School as a student. I have been teaching for 14 years, as well as being involved in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry. I look forward to passing on my knowledge and passion by inspiring young minds in this community.

Ameera Shahbaz

Aileen Walker

Welcome to our new staff:

James Morris

PRINCIPAL’S AWARDS

These students receive a

certificate and a $10 voucher

Reilly NealJesse Gray

Rebecca InchAnnie Campbell

This week we farewell Kevin Fricker from Darfield High School. Prior to training as a guidance counsellor, Mr Fricker taught PE, Health and Outdoor Education for 25 years, most of this time at Bream Bay College. Over the last 22 years, Mr Fricker has worked as a counsellor at Bream Bay College, Whangarei Boys High School, Lincoln High School, Kent County Council and, since 2006, Darfield High School.

Mr Fricker has wide experience and a sage-like calmness and wisdom. He has worked with staff and students as a highly valued part of our pastoral support network. He has also managed cricket teams and helped co-ordinate wider initiatives such as the Malvern community support network.

His 45 years of contribution to the education of NZ students is a significant and impressive achievement. We wish Mr Fricker all the best in his retirement and with his planned international travel.

One of the areas of strategic focus for the school is to further develop systems and initiatives that will support student well-

being. Toward this goal there are several strategies in place this year. To address elevated levels of student anxiety, we are part of a Ministry of Education funded Youth Resilience Programme. This programme is part of junior students Health classes and there are sessions being run for groups of students.

Last Thursday, we had the Health Promotion Agency at school as part of a Sunsmart Day. There was a presentation to assembly and marquees set up on the quad to take UV photos to indicate levels of sun damage. They also ran a session with the Student Council to support them to conduct a Sunsmart Audit of the school.

Digital citizenship and cyber-safety programmes are also being enhanced. There is a parent evening planned for next term to look at ways that parents can support their children to be safe on-line.

Statements will be posted home soon that have the school invoice for fees and a request for a school donation. The

subject fees charged represent the actual cost for the take home components of a particular course. There is no profit built in to these charges and, as far as we are able, they pay for the materials that go home.

The school donation is a voluntary payment but one that makes a big difference. We use the funds raised from the donation for additional student resources. For example, each year we spend about $10,000 on books, $8,000 on sports equipment, $25,000 on new computer equipment, and several thousand dollars on subsidising travel to sports and other student trips. There is no punishment for or direct consequence of not making a donation. The school recognises that for many families school is already a significant part of their annual expenditure. For those who are able to contribute the donation, be reassured that the contribution directly benefits students.

In terms of my time at DHS over the last eight and a half years, all I can say is that it has been a privilege to work with the students and their families, as well as staff, to help them find solutions to their problems and challenges. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at DHS and know that I am going to miss the contact with the students.

However, the time is right for me to move into the next phase of my life—retirement! This starts with a six month sojourn in France followed by three months living at Coopers Beach in the far north and returning to Christchurch at the start of 2016. Best wishes to everyone for the future.

3Issue 2/ DHS Dispatch

Principal’s Comments

Kevin Fricker

Farewell from Kevin

Lara Stevens AylesburyGeorge Watson AylesburySeth Groom Charing CrossBobby Wright Charing CrossKieran Heath GainsboroughMatthew Caldwell GainsboroughJonathan Anderson GreendaleEmma Forbes GreendaleJade Gerrard-Smith HororataHolly Kimber HororataCamille Malincon Te PiritaJames Cider KimberleySydney Riley KimberleyHarriet Evans KirweeLeigh McConchie KirweeKayla Croy SheffieldIssac Proud SheffieldNicole Hamilton-Cross South MalvernGeorgina Brown South MalvernBailey Campbell SpringfieldPaige Heselwood SpringfieldBrie Gullery West MeltonOlivia Shinn West MeltonMatthew King WindwhistleShayden Monk Windwhistle

Bus Monitors are students who are trusted and valued by the staff. They have our full support. Know who your bus monitors are. If you have any issues at all, feel confident that they will help you. They have direct contact with Mr Dickens, the Bus Controller, to help with your concerns. If you do not feel you are able to talk to your Bus Monitor in the first instance, see Mr Dickens.

Bus Monitors

6 March 20154

Last week, the Engineering classes were pretty stoked to receive their new overalls, safety boots and safety glasses.

All were provided by CPIT. The students’ names were all machined onto the overalls and everyone was pretty keen to try them on. CPIT Tutor, Peter Woods, will be coming out to Darfield to teach the senior classes here on Thursdays and Fridays.

Overalls to Order

Today I caught up with a few Year 7 students and they shared with me how they have settled into school and how the first month has worked out for them.

Casey Cooper, who came from Sheffield School, said, “I was really worried when I almost missed the bus on the first day! But I was very excited and happy when I got here because it was just the Year 7s on the first day. That made it easier. Now I feel like it is just a normal school and I’m not worrying any more. I like how there are lots of opportunities and we can make more independent choices.”

Kayla Rosel: “I came from Darfield and I was really nervous the older kids might make fun of me and I would have no friends. Now I have my new friends, Casey and Maddy, and I still have my Darfield friends.”

Casey and Kayla both said their favourite class was Digital Technologies with Mrs Armstrong. Giggling, they told me Mr Jermyn secretly told them he was scared of Mrs Armstrong, so they told her that and, to their great delight, Mrs Armstrong said she was going to slap Mr Jermyn for telling them that!

Matthew Ashworth, Will Brown, Harry Douglas and Angus McPherson were pretty pleased with their month at DHS so far. They said it was fun and they loved making new friends. Will and Angus thought the canteen was great, Angus going especially for ‘Fizz Wheels’.

Will has just come back from Year 7 Camp and had said it was good fun with lots of activities. Their favourite subject was PE with Mr Dickens. “But do you know if we have to eat porridge when we go on camps?” they asked.

Above: Matthew, Will, Harry and Angus

Above: Casey and Kayla

Be Sunsmart

Did you know that melanoma skin cancer is more common in New Zealand than nearly everywhere else in the world? So the key message is never get sunburnt. If you get sunburnt while under 20 years old, no matter what your skin type, you are more likely to develop melanoma later in life.

Keep safe by being SunSmart when you are outside from September to April, especially from 10 am to 4 pm when the sun's UV rays are most fierce. Remember, you can still get sunburnt on cloudy or cool days.

• Slip in to a shirt or shade.

• Slop on plenty of sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outside.

• Use SPF30+ broad spectrum sunscreen.

• Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after being in water or sweating.

• Sunscreen should be used to reduce the risk of skin damage, not as a way to stay outside longer.

• Slap on a hat with a broad rim or a cap with flaps.

• More people get sunburn on their face and neck than any other part of the body.

• Wrap on a pair of wrap-around sunglasses.

Last week, the Sunsmart team from the Health Promotion Agency (HPA) visited school to promote safety in the sun and to enlighten students on the unseen damage easily caused by forgetting to apply sunscreen.

Fascinating for the students were the tents with UV cameras which took a photo of their faces and compared it with what they saw in the mirror. Showing up the sun-damaged spots, it made them aware of where they needed to be more careful or where they were missing the sunscreen. Around the eyes and neck were areas that were common in young people, staff said.

Students were given freebies: badges, hackysacks, sunscreen and stickers, but the most popular were the bracelets that turned blue in sunlight, warning them that the sun’s harmful rays were present and it was time to apply sunscreen.

Overall, a successful and fun day for students, further reinforcing the Sunsmart message.

Top right: Matt King and Scott Taege have their photos taken under UV light; Above: Students visit the Sunsmart tent; and Below: Mr Baars and students test their UV bracelets.

5Issue 2/ DHS Dispatch

Shave for a Cure: Thursday 2 April

Every day six Kiwis are diagnosed with a blood cancer or related condition.

‘Shave for a Cure’ is Leukemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand’s signature annual fundraising event. Each year thousands of Kiwis across the country shave their heads to help patients and their families and to point out that they are not alone or forgotten.

For the last two years, DHS has participated in Shave for a Cure. Shave for a Cure is an event where people allow their heads to be shaved in order to raise money for Leukemia and blood cancer research. Last year we had two staff, 12 students and a 24/7 Youth Worker shave their heads and we raised in excess of $8500 (this placed us in the top five schools in New Zealand).

We would love to get close to that again this year. Shave Day is scheduled for Thursday 2 April (last day of the term); this gives us a month to get people signed up and get sponsors to support this great cause. If you would like more information on signing up, or being a sponsor of some sort, contact Brie Gullery, Will Gross, or Mr Adams!

Here are a few of the almost completed apps:

6 March 20156

In the first unit of Year Nine Digital Technologies, the students have had a bit of a challenge. Over the last couple of weeks they have been learning to construct apps which they can use on their android devices.

The first step was learning how the apps worked. They used simple tutorials so they could understand the basic functions of the program they were using to create the apps. The first app they all collectively created was an app that could speak to them when they touched the screen. In the following week they learned how to draw on the screen and how to create a digital ball which they could swipe across the screen.

Once the class was satisfied that they were competent with creating a simple app, they proceeded to create their own. They designed their envisioned apps and started to turn their visions into reality. This was when some of the students came to a standstill. Some of their ideas were a bit too far fetched in terms of their abilities and the program they were using to configure their apps. They had to strip the apps down to the basics then improve them as their capabilities improved. Now at the near end of the unit the students are rewarded with their almost finished apps.

All About Apps

On Valentines Day the Year 13 Outdoor Ed class departed Darfield heading west to the Mt White Bridge for the first of many adventures.

For our assessment we were required to plan, prepare, and partake in three tramps; this includes planning the route, what food we are taking and risk management. For the first trip we decided upon the Hawden - Edwards via Tarn Col trip. This involved walking two river valleys joined by a pass in the middle. We had to camp in tents both nights which was exciting. Some highlights included going for a swim in the ice cold waters of the tarn atop Tarn Col, river crossing through one of the serene gorges and spotting the elusive blue duck which was thrilling to say the least. We all enjoyed the trip very much and can't wait for the next adventure.

Tarn Col Adventure - Outdoor Ed

On Monday 22 February, the Year 13 History class arrived at school at 8 am for their trip to Akaroa. The arrival at school half an hour earlier was harder for some than for others!

We traversed our way along winding roads, while tour guide Mrs Turner pointed out significant places along the way. Two hours later we arrived in Akaroa, and the fun began. Whilst walking around for the first half hour, we familiarised ourselves with the small town.

Our next stop was Akaroa Area School, where we met Annette, a teacher who also works as a tour guide when the cruise ships come into port. She joined us for the next part of the day, and we headed off to Takapuneke, the site of a bloody massacre, which occurred in 1830, between the Maori tribes Ngati-toa and Ngai Tahu and the British Captain John Stewart. The Ngati-toa, having used Stewart's trading ship as a hiding place under the decks, slaughtered the entire village in the dead of night. It was a terrible night in Canterbury’s history and Takapuneke is now deemed one of the most sacred places in New Zealand. Leaving Takapuneke, a place we had learnt so much about in class, we felt a feeling of satisfaction having seen the sacred site, but also great sadness knowing what had occurred there.

After that we visited the local whaling pots where we learnt about the French history of the area, and how British colonisation occurred only a few weeks earlier than the arrival of French settlers. The Union Jack still stands proud where the French saw it for the first time and realised they were defeated.

After leaving Annette, the next part of the field trip involved walking up a MASSIVE hill, where many complaints of, “We’re wearing skinny jeans” and, “You didn't tell us there was a hike”, could be heard. Finally reaching the top, we saw a mass French grave where most of the early settlers were laid to rest.

After one of us narrowly avoided being hit by a mobility scooter, we went to our last stop, the Christian and Anglican graveyards. Every grave told a story, most involving the great struggles that came with colonisation.

Finally it was time to head home. We all piled into the vans hot and tired, but having had a great experience.

We would like to thank Mrs Turner and Mr Brown for giving up their time to take us on the trip, and Annette for being an extremely informative tour guide.

7Issue 2/ DHS Dispatch

History in Akaroa

By Rosie Marchant

6 March 20158

NCEA Level 3—Subject EndorsementsAlisha Forrester-Rolton: Merit in Food and NutritionAlben Thomas: Merit in BiologyAlyse Verstraten: Merit in Statistics and ModellingBrittany Pringle: Merit in Statistics and Modelling; Merit in Food and NutritionBruno Deans: Merit in Design and Visual CommunicationJessica Leslie: Merit in MusicLuke Kingi: Merit in HistoryJarrod Dalton: Merit in EconomicsJoji Dogin: Excellence in JapaneseConnor Hindle: Excellent in ArtBlair Cruickshank: Excellence in ArtChevonn Walker: Excellence in Art

NCEA Level 3—Endorsed with MeritAaron Watson Ashleigh Collier Courtney Hughes Anna Watson

Academic Colours 2014

Stella Daube Melissa Clark Penny Clyne-Moffat Kate Meder Laura Dance Peter Galloway Samantha Redmond Marie Potthoff

NCEA Level 3—Endorsed with ExcellenceDanielle Barnhill Holly McLauchlan Isobel Nash Erika Pander Kate Jenkins Preston Kerr

NCEA Level 2—Subject EndorsementsKieran Heath: Merit in MathematicsTayla James: Merit in MathematicsAnnabelle Johnston: Merit in ArtJames McMillan: Merit in MathematicsNicole Frazer: Merit in Physics

Madison Coleman: Merit in HistoryRosie Marchant: Merit in HistoryGemma Waters: Merit in MathematicsRenee Curtin: Merit in Food and NutritionLara Stevens: Merit in EnglishLauren Stickings: Merit in GeographyYusaku Kimura: Merit in Art; Merit in JapaneseCaitlin Bayliss: Merit in Drama; Merit in FrenchMichael Millar: Merit in Physics; Merit in Physical EducationChisano Tsugehara: Excellence in JapaneseHonoka Ishida: Merit in Art; Excellence in Japanese

NCEA Level 2—Endorsed with Merit Savannah Sayer Georgina Brown Emma Forbes Matthew King Francesca Dela Cruz Joshua Cook Amber Pont Tom Rowlands Hanako Nakagawa Henrietta Haskell Liam Bragan Brie Gullery Brittany Hodgman Julia AndersonMichael MillarRenee Curtin

NCEA Level 2—Endorsed with ExcellenceElla PearceEmelia Todd-Lister James Cider Lois Freemantle Alexandra Wood Timothy Logan Nicole Hamilton-Cross Shannon Griffiths Sarah Baker Ciara Rayne George Watson

On Tuesday 17 February, the Academic Colours Assembly was held to recognise students who had achieved endorsements in NCEA.

9Issue 2/ DHS Dispatch

NCEA Level 1—Subject EndorsementsAlice Bradley: Merit in Design and Visual CommunicationDaniel Roberts: Merit in MathematicsRegan Cornelissen: Merit in Art; Merit in Design and Visual CommunicationCourtney Townsend: Excellence in English

NCEA Level 1—Endorsed with Merit Charlotte Carter Skye Crawford Chloe Walker Bailey Campbell Finn Leonard Luke McKay Samantha Bevan Maia Seaward Heather Russell Kyla Higgins Jodie Fulcher Kellen Patfield Samara Crosby Aidan Tuhill Kaitlin Feast Eamon McKay Jasmine NashBen MillarOwen MurrayStephanie Hubbard

NCEA Level 1—Endorsed with ExcellenceCourtney Townsend Grace Lemon Brittany Muiznieks Selina Dixon Kristen Blaber-Hunt Emily de Rooy Emma Grigg Madeline Tasker Michael Ridgen Kathryn Barnhill Chloe Fraser Ellen Walters Edward Searle Lilian Stott Alexis Sutherland

Congratulations to two of our students who were awarded a New Zealand Scholarship:

Marie Potthoff: Scholarship in Biology Erika Pander: Scholarship in Japanese

Honouring New Zealanders who fell during World War OneMrs Turner and students gathered at lunchtime today to make up crosses to commemorate the sacrifice. Throughout NZ, students will be doing this and setting up Fields of Remembrance at their schools.

The thirty crosses are a silent reminder of New Zealand’s major contribution to freedom and the considerable sacrifice of what was then a very small nation. They bear the names of those who served.

Mr Carr then joined the Royal Navy (RN) and sailed on the HMS Royal Arthur ship. After being on the ship he was attached to Royal Marines (RM) and was sent to Holland on a humanitarian mission to help the Dutch people. They did their best to feed starving parents and children that could not afford food for their families. They fed them with Kiwi food they had on board. For most, it was the first time ever the children had eaten chocolate and white bread. This is something we take for granted these days and they were grateful for what they got.

After that Mr Carr joined the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) and helped with mapping the coastline, which had not been done since Captain Cook first set foot in New Zealand. He remained in the navy until he retired some time in his 50s.

Mr Sands explained the meaning of the poppy and how they went searching for the right material to make the poppy, so it did not run. Also he gave us all a poppy to take home and wear as a sign of peace and remembrance.

We thoroughly enjoyed their visit to our class and used the information in our English studies.

Sophie Palmer and Emily White (8KH)

RSA Talk 8KH Recount

Poppy ArtStudents have had the opportunity to sew their own poppy brooches during Wednesday lunchtimes; all part of an awareness campaign leading up to ANZAC Day.

10Issue 2/ DHS Dispatch

On Friday 13 February, Mr John Carr and Mr Dave Sams visited our class and talked about their experiences in war.

Mr John Carr has served in WW2 (World War 2), and now is a member of the RSA (Returned Service Association), Templeton Branch, along with Mr Dave Sands, and many others. The RSA was formed in New Zealand by the men who came back from war to give support and love to families who lost someone they knew or were related to in the war. Coincidentally, many students in 8KH have relatives who are members of the RSA, including Mr Hoy.

Firstly, Mr Carr talked to us about the torpedo that hit his ship when he was only 14. He was part of the Merchant Navy at the time and was travelling on a fuel ship heading for Jamaica. His job on the ship was a galley boy, working in the kitchen. Mr Carr told us that everyone in the engine room died almost instantly after the torpedo hit. There were around 30 people on board and about 25 survived by rowing to shore in life boats. When they finally got to shore it was hard for them and the team, probably because they had only the clothes they were wearing. They had to stay in Belfast, Ireland, until they were given another ship for them to voyage on and get back to Mersey, which is in Liverpool, England.

Here is a picture of a ship like HMS Royal Arthur ship 18:

8KH Paper Plane Challenge

Poppy Art

6 March 201511

Our class did the Paper Plane Challenge in the school hall - an online competition for schools. Classes submit their photo and best throws and will be hoping to win a field trip.

Our two best throws (seen in the front of the photo):

Callum Whyte 15m 20cm

Rhys Hawkins 16m 32 cm

FORM COUNCILLOR DEPUTY

7SG/SJ Ben Bampton Isaac Earl

7CC Jessica Bassett Tamzin Brunton

7CS Aidan Brackmann Arial Galbraith

7HB Issy Kennedy Niamh Guy

7/8 Emily Bitmead Lewis Morrison

8KH Emily White George Hamilton

8ES George McIntosh Jessica Galletly

8JS/SE Stefanie McKenzie Casey Roessink

8GF Harriet Cottrell Grace Moana

9GO Terry Robertson

9GC Kate Morris Michelle Bruce

9SW Beowulf Scott Abby Thornley

9CH Jackson Proud Lachlan Summerfield

9GR Maddison Beardsmore Blake Stevenson

10HA Mitchell Baird Alexa Lalor

10NF Sam Marsh Elyse Kerr

10LG Thomas Williamson Grace Manera

10RS Shae Read Josh Muiznieks

11RB Georgi Pander Madison O’Callaghan

12MK Alexis Sutherland Aidan Tuhill

12MC Edward Searle Bailey Campbell

12MP Ant King Hilly O’Connor

13NK Rosie Marchant Ciara Rayne

13JL Kieran Heath Jonathan Anderson

13SH Jordan Watson James McMillan

Head Emma Forbes James Cider

Malvern Community Board Rep George Watson

2015 Class Councillors

The School Council was formed to provide a body through which students could take some part in the broader governance of the school. Its main focus is directly and indirectly the welfare of the students, but it also takes opportunities as they arise to help others.The Class Council meets at least once a month, not necessarily at lunch time.

The School Councillor and the Deputy Class Councillor are people who:

• Are interested in the job;

• Are prepared to attend School Council meetings;

• Are able to, and are prepared to, express their own views orally;

• Are able to, and are prepared to, canvass the views of their class;

• Are able to, and are prepared to, represent the views of their class at the School Council;

• Are able to report the views and decisions of the School Council to their class;

• Have the respect and confidence of the majority of their class so that they will be supported as they do the work of the Class Councillor;

• Are honest and have integrity; are reliable, responsible and well organised;

• Will help to set a positive school tone; have the respect and confidence of their Form Teacher;

• Will support the policies and uphold the traditions of the School;

• Will represent the class and the School well when necessary.

On Wednesday 18 February, we had the Attitude presenters visit the school again.

Attitude is the youth education division of Parents Inc, dedicated to creatively teaching life skills that will assist teenagers to make life-enhancing choices. The inspirational programmes encompass all aspects of total wellbeing and the problems faced by our teens.

Attitude provides health education programmes to high school students. Using a variety of media, and a sometimes lateral approach, Attitude equips teenagers with the information and skills they will need to negotiate their adolescent years and build meaningful lives. The materials, based on credible research and linked to the health curriculum, give young people strategies for solving problems, handling stress and building strong, positive relationships.

Above: : Christian, from Attitude, enlightens Years 11 and 12s on how one in five suffers from mental illness in New Zealand; how it is not like having broken bones which everyone can see; how the brain is such a complex organ; how this time in a teen’s life is when phobias, addictions and compulsions can set in, when under pressure from stress, exams, friendships, socialising and home.

On Friday 13 February, three teachers and four students dedicated their time to put on a show debate. They were debating the topic Teachers Should Have to Wear School Uniform, with teachers for, and students against.

It was a competitive and fiery debate; the students bore in mind the safety of the students, while the teachers wanted to make their mornings easier with the monotony of a uniform. But only one could win. The teachers were the winners, after the audience voted.

The debate was held to try and get students involved in debates, and the various debating events held around the country. I would just like to thank all of the people who participated, and everyone who came to watch it. We will be endeavouring to hold other similar debates in the near future - so listen out in the bulletin if you are interested in watching the intense discussions.

For and Against

12Issue 2/ DHS Dispatch

The 'X' Factor: Social Skills and '‘emotional intelligence' - how to cultivate it, how to handle rejection and bullying, as well as keys to building healthy and happy relationships.

Sex with Attitude: Covers the emotional and social aspects of sexuality, and provides a decision making guide to relationships. This presentation covers the benefits of postponing sexual involvement and how to set boundaries, and challenges teenagers to think about personal future options.

Connected: This presentation helps young people to reflect on how technology influences their lives. It offers hot tips on how to stay safe when building relationships online and how to handle text/cyber-bullying. Young people are encouraged to be people of character in their use of technology – respectful and considerate.

The Pits: Grief and loss, depression and anger; a survival kit on how to get through the bad days, problem solving and what to do when you think you have run out of options.

at School

Success of St John Youth Cadet

Each year St John holds its annual National Youth Festival and Competitions - a premier event for the organisation, where 12 teams compete in different scenarios for a range of trophies.

Kathryn Barnhill has been selected as a member of the South Island Region squad to compete in these competitions and , will be tested on a range of skills—first aid, leadership, health care, resuscitation and communication.

We wish Kathryn all the best for this competition.

Attitude offered eight different presentation topics this year, four of which were delivered to our students:

Above A tiny selection of the books Bob reviewed

6 March 201513

Books with Bob

Once again we are delighted to have hosted Bob Docherty for a day at school. It is a highlight of the school year and students are eager to hear what books Bob has lined up to review and bring to life for them. Bob is exceptional at engaging students, giving them a wee taste of what each book is about and then, frustratingly leaving them hanging; all they can do is put their names down on the long waiting lists—a testament to the power of his reviews.

After hearing all the reviews, hand-picked by Bob for each year level and

After twenty years with the National Library Bob is now out on his own promoting reading and literacy in schools.

During his career with the National Library, he selected fiction and picture books for the Schools Collection from 1993–2003, and from 2005–2008 he was Judge and Convenor of Judges for the LIANZA Book Awards. Bob knows books!

You can find all the books reviewed on Bob’s blog: https://bobsbooksnz.wordpress.com/

including titles to suit everyone, students were then able to talk to him, look at the books and reserve the ones they would like to read.

Librarian, Mrs Duckworth, said Bob is a bit of a legend in the library world for his lively and engaging story telling and capturing students’ imaginations. After each session, there was a crush around the book tables as keen readers signed up for their favourite books. At the end of the day, the Librarians had long lists, with over 450 reserves.

Bob wants kids to read!

Above: Librarian, Mrs Duckworth, introduces Bob to the students; Bob talks books afterwards; bringing books to life.

To celebrate the start of the school year, international students and staff enjoyed a day out on Friday 20 February.

To begin, we drove over to She Chocolate Café at Governors Bay, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way. After taking some photos outside, we enjoyed real hot chocolates to go with the yummy brunch. Suzanne from She Universe then kindly explained to us how chocolate is made, and we did a blind tasting of three different types of chocolate. Before leaving, we were lucky enough to visit the chocolate kitchen and watch some delicious Easter creations being made.

The next part of our day was at Lincoln University, where we attended their welcome for all international students in the Selwyn District. After being officially

welcomed, students were put in teams and participated in an 'Amazing Race' around campus to learn more about Lincoln University.

To finish the day, there was a barbecue and our students enjoyed chatting with the Lincoln High and Ellesmere College students. Thank you very much to everyone who helped make the day possible.

During the weekend, we attended Japan Day in Christchurch.

This year was the first time we have participated in the calligraphy performance part of Japan Day. The students did a fantastic job, and definitely looked the part, too. It was wonderful to see some of our staff, host families, former students, and agents supporting us.

14Issue 2/ DHS Dispatch

NewsInternational

Yubetsu ScholarshipEvery year, the Malvern Community Board and Yubetsu Township offer scholarships for students to stay in Japan for three months, with subsidised airfares. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience a whole new culture, or, if you have visited Japan on one of the shorter trips, to spend time living a real Japanese lifestyle.

If you would like to know more, please see Mrs Hyakawa-Buist, or you can pick up an application form from the International Office and return it by Wednesday 18 March. Parents may also email queries to: sh@darfield.school.nz

Above: Mariah Glasson and Sheree Tomlinson; Anna Hurst, James Frood, and Olivia Shinn; Below: Mr Tsavousis, Mrs Ferguson-Brown, and Mrs Stark place orders; and Jordan, Emma Harding, and Georgia Sutherland

Darfield Teens Taking on Fresh Stars in ‘The Zone’Recent Darfield High School graduates Preston Kerr, Jarrod Dalton and Albie Thomas will be television stars next week when they compete in ‘The Zone’ against Bella Kololo, Wilhelm Voigt and Darryl Laumua from the TV2 show ‘Fresh’.

‘The Zone’ is a ten-week quiz competition that airs as part of ‘The 4.30 Show’ on TV2, and sees a different high school and celebrity team competing each week in a series of challenges. Darfield High School and Fresh’s episodes will air from 9 March.

The challenges test the team’s general knowledge, mental arithmetic, observation skills and teamwork, and include the music-themed game ‘My Jam’, a backwards spelling bee called ‘Back Words’ and a quickfire round featuring topics that the teams select themselves.

The winning team each day in ‘The Zone’ will receive a prize which viewers can go in the draw to win too if they get involved with our viewer challenge online. The team who is on top of the leaderboard after ten weeks of ‘The Zone’ will also win a cash prize for their school or chosen charity.

‘The Zone’ is hosted by The 4.30 Show presenter Michael Lee. The Darfield High team are very strong competitors, so it’s really anyone’s game this week.

‘The 4.30 Show’ airs weekdays at 4.30 pm on TV2, and ‘The Zone’ is played every weekday.

15Issue 2/ DHS Dispatch

Darfield High School Families

Wanted To billet students for seven days

Darfield High School has been hosting students from Setagaya Boys Junior High School in Japan for nearly 15 years. This year’s group of 24 boys are all roughly 14 years old, so we

would love it if our Year 9 and 10 students and their families were able to billet these students. Payment is $210 per student for the 7 days, and you can choose to have one or two students. Own room is preferable but not required. Sharing a room with a DHS male

student of similar age is acceptable.

Details: 21 – 28 March 2015 Pick up your student/s from the DHS hall at approximately 1:00 pm on Saturday 21 March (time TBC). Drop off student/s at school hall 8:00 am Saturday 28 March (time TBC). There will be a potluck farewell dinner for all students and their billet families on Friday 27 March at

6:00 pm in the school hall.

For more information, please contact Sarah Rawson during work hours on 3188 411 or 021 860 533 or, after hours, email sarah@darfield.school.nz

Above: Setagaya students in 2013

Today and tomorrow, the Years 12 and 13 Hospitality class are making sure the Food Room is smelling divine! For two days, coffee lovers will be taunted as students hone their coffee making skills to complete their Barista Course.

James Frood, from The Learning Centre, has been teaching students the origins of coffee, types, the roasting of the beans, harvesting, processing, blending and storage.

With plenty of opportunities for practising on the machines, staff can’t resist the sampling. A great skill to have, and many families in the district will benefit from this course.

Canterbury Secondary Schools Triathlon Champs at Pegasus

A Fantastic OpportunityWell, after a whirlwind trip to the States, I have returned refreshed and looking forward to another successful year with my golf. Dad and I left on Christmas Day and flew via Tahiti to Los Angeles and then drove on to the Grand Canyon and to Phoenix, where I played in two tournaments:

Tournament Of Champions at Scottsdale—36 holes, where I came tied 19th out of 33 girls.

North American Junior Amateur Tournament at Lichfield Park—where I made the cut, coming tied 6th out of 17 girls. The top eight then went on to match play. I ended up playing a 12-year-old local who was placed 2nd and, unfortunately even shooting 2 over the card, I lost to her.

She ended up winning the tournament.

It was a fantastic experience playing on these wonderful courses that had lots of water and meeting a lot of top golfers of my age. I even had coaches from United States colleges watching and following me.

The weather conditions were freezing; frosts most days. On one day, the temperature was minus two degrees Celsius so I kept my beanie on all day—something I have never done in New Zealand!

I wish to thank all club members and the wider Ashburton/Aorangi and Malvern people, and the Malvern Lions who helped to make this dream come true.

Nicole Hamilton-Cross

Volleyball

Indoor Football

Indoor Netball

TouchEthan Taylor (Year 9) competed last weekend at the South Island Country and Town Competition in Blenheim. The meet excludes swimmers who have qualified for two or more events at the NZ Junior Championships (Nationals).

Ethan did very well, finishing in the top eight in all his events. He had personal bests in six events and also won the 11-12 Boys’ 50m Freestyle event.

Excellent Results for Ethan

Well done, Ethan!

Harry Pringle, Michael Hughes and Michael Millar

who were selected for the Canterbury Country SS

Cricket Team and have played at the Willows.

Hilly O’Connor and Nicole Hamilton-Cross

who have qualified for the NZ Women’s Pro-Am

competition.

6 March 201516

SPORTS patch

Senior A Girls v Amuri Area School: win to Amuri 2–0

Junior A Girls v Rangi Ruru: win to Darf 2–0

Darfield Year 10 v Avonside Girls: Darfield won 2-0

Senior Boys v Unlimited: win to Darfield 10–6

Darfield v Hornby High: 10-0 win to Darfield

Senior Girls v Hagley: win to Darfield 21–16

Darfield High had a bye

Senior Mixed v Middleton Grange: 5–3 win to Middleton Grange

Darfield v Hagley: 4-1 win to Darfield

Summer Sport

Congratulations

Isaac Proud, Harry Bampton, Matt Grigg, and Nathaniel Dysart were all selected for this event and enjoyed the chance to compete with students from other schools.

Well done to both teams and congratulations to Matt and Nathaniel, who were placed first in the Under 16 Boys’ section. Above: Isaac, Harry, Matt and Nathaniel

In the few days leading up to the Coast to Coast, as we started packing the gear for the weekend, I asked myself—can I actually do this?

Can I actually get myself from one side of the country to the other?

I'd have to start on the West Coast run three kilometres, bike 55 kilometres, run 33 kilometres over a mountain pass, bike another 15 kilometres, paddle 67 kilometres through the Waimak Gorge, then bike the last 70 kilometres to New Brighton! A total of 243 kilometres of rock, river and road.

I did the Two Day Individual race. This year, there was a new class called Tandem, where two individuals raced the whole event, staying within a few metres of each other and I teamed up with my father to do that. We raced for 16 hours and 15 minutes and got fifth in the Tandem Male class.

And I achieved my goal!

I dipped my hand in the Tasman Sea one day, then did the same in the Pacific Ocean the next!

It was a huge weekend, and it was great to have Harriet and Mum as Support Crew— I couldn't have done it without them. If you've ever thought of doing an event like this, treat it as an adventure, train hard, and enjoy yourself.

Yes, it did hurt a bit, but it sure was fun!

George Watson Year 13

An Epic Weekend for George

17Issue 2/ DHS Dispatch

Equestrian

Interschools’ Showjumping Competition

6 March 201518

On Wednesday 25 February, the Interschools’ Show Jumping Competiton was held with all the schools from Canterbury and further afield competing.

Overall, there were 25 teams competing. Darfield had three teams entered and three individuals:

Darfield A Team Senior riders: Courtney Townsend and Olivia Shinn; Kaitlin Feast: Intermediate Rider; Grace Manera: Junior Rider, placed third overall.

Darfield B Team Senior Rider: Molly Buist-Brown, Intermediate Riders: George Thompson and Gus Thompson; Junior Rider: Maddi Thompson; placed fourth overall.

Darfield C Team Senior Riders: Georgia Shinn and Heather McConchie, Intermediate: Georgia Allison and Junior: Rosa Miller; this team ended tenth overall.

The individual riders were Sophie Townsend, Rosa Buist-Brown and

Katherine Hadler, who were the Years 7 and 8 riders. Their section was non-competitive.

Above: Darfield A: Courtney, Olivia, Grace and Kaitlin celebrate their placingRight: George Thomson on Bo Georgia on Buccaboo Olivia on Madame Masala Georgia Ellison on Champagne Charlie Below: Sophie on Summer Fiesta

6 March 201519

DHS Swimming ChampionsAge Champion Runner-Up

U13 – Boys Daniel Baxter Caleb Curtin

U13 – Girls Jenny Walter Caitlin Knowles

Junior Boys Ethan Taylor Callum Murdoch

Junior Girls Abigail Tuhill Laura Ashworth

Intermediate Boys Hunter Benbow Harry Bampton

Intermediate Girls Emma May Holly Kimber

Senior Boys Aidan Tuhill Michael Millar

Senior Girls Celine Didham Renee Curtin

Name Event New Record Previous Record

Ethan Taylor 50 m Butterfly Junior Boys 40.80 45.19

Ethan Taylor Medley Junior Boys 1.29.81 1.35.30

Celine Didham 50 m Butterfly Senior Girls 41.45 41.47

Celine Didham Medley Senior Girls 1.27.59 1.32.47

Renee Curtin 100 m Backstroke Senior Girls 1.31.57 1.35.21

Records Broken

20Issue 2/ DHS Dispatch

Individual

Senior Boys Years 11–13

1 Isaac Proud 29.11

2 George Watson 29.23

3 Tim Logan 31.57

Senior Girls Years 11-13

1 Ciara Rayne 34.25

2 Jessica Osborne 38.30

3 Lilian Stott 39.11

Intermediate Boys Years 9 & 10

1 Jeroen Breunisse 29.36

2 Harry Bampton 29.51

3 Sam King 32.77

Intermediate Girls Years 9 & 10

1 Emma Pennells 34.04

2 Niamh Rayne 39.39

3 Penny Mitchell 39.25

Junior Boys Years 7 & 8

1 Ethan Rose 29.15

2 Harry Cookson 31.04

3 Isaac Earl 31.11

Junior Girls Years 7 & 8

1 Caitlin Rayne 32.43

2 Scarlett Banks 32.59

3 Stefanie McKenzie 33.49

TEAMS

Senior Boys Years 11-13

1 Morgan Heselwood /Devon Crequer /Dylan Cagney 29.09

2 Aidan Tuhill/Sam Dalley /Edward Searle 30.18

3 Aidan Tuhill /Michael Ridgen /Ben Millar 32.02

Senior Girls Years 11-13

1 Pippa Foster/Harriet Watson/Brogan Baldwin 25.05

2 Emma May/Courtney O’Callaghan/Chelsea Wilson 26.17

3 Sheree Tomlinson/Olivia Shinn/Courtney Townsend 34.33

Mixed Years 11-13

1 Matt Grigg/Hamish Evans/Emma Grigg 21.57

2 James Doherty/Nathaniel Dysart/Celine Didham 23.42

3 James Thornley/Georgia Cottrell/William Benbow 26.02

Intermediate Boys Years 9 & 10

1 Ged Roessink/Thomas Williamson/Sam Francis 31.21

2 Mitchell Longdin/Lachlan Summerfield/Ben Kimber 32.14

3 Cole Spinks/Toby Kars/Toby Gross 34.11

Intermediate Girls Years 9 & 10

1 Ashleigh Cridge/Piper Heenan/Hannah Forrester-Rolton 36.25

2 Bronte Thomas/Jodie Rollings/Shae Read 36.44

3 Olivia Lemon/Emma Kellock/Natasha Young 37.14

Junior Boys Years 7 & 8

1 Jesse Gray/George McIntosh/Caleb Curtin 30.29

2 Will Davidson/Lachlan Adams/Angelo Barrimond 32.28

3 Taylor Barnes/Cameron O’Donnell/Scott McKay 32.34

Junior Girls Years 7 & 8

1 Annabelle Jones/Rozlyn Doherty/Mika Wealleans 35.27

2 Teresa Barnhill/Katie Molloy 36.26

3 Georgie Hamilton/Casey Roessink/Sophie Davis 37.55

Mixed Years 7 & 8

1 Georgie Sarginson/Sophie Kingi/Reuben Boyes 32.49

Triathlon

TERM ONEWEEK SEVEN Tuesday 10 March

• BOT Meeting, 7.00 pm

Wednesday 11 March

• Canterbury PS Triathlon Champs at Pegasus

• Defence Forces Presentation to Seniors

Friday 13 March

• Staff Only Day

WEEK EIGHT Sunday 15 March

• Year 13 History Trip to Arrowtown (to 18th)

Monday 16 March

• Year 9 Camps

Tuesday 17 March

• Canterbury SS Athletics Prelims

• Malvern Swimming Sports

• PTSA AGM, 7.45 pm

Thursday 19 March

• Parent/Teacher Interviews, 3.30–6.30 pm

Saturday 21 March

• Canterbury SS Athletics Championships Finals

• Setagaya Gakuen Group Arrive (to 29th)

WEEK NINE Monday 23 March

• SS Summer Tournament Week

Tuesday 24 March

• SI SS Golf Championships (to 28th)

Wednesday 25 March

• Ex-Students’ Association AGM, 8.00 pm

Thursday 26 March

• Parent Presentation for Years 7 and 9 Youth Resilience Programme

Friday 27 March

• Newsletter # 3

Saturday 28 March

• SI SS Athletics Champs in Nelson

• Year 13 Rock Climbing Expedition (to 2nd)

• Malvern A & P Show, Sheffield Domain

DARFIELD HIGH SCHOOL WEBSITE

School and Community Notices

Contact Between Home and SchoolWe have found that up-to-date information is vital in case of an emergency but also for the general day to

day contact. Have you changed your address recently? Changed cell phones? Place of work? Or would you

like to update / change the emergency contact for your student? Also the second parent address for reports

being sent.

If any of the above changes apply, please let Jill, Student Administrator, know by:

phoning 318 8411 / ext 3; emailing jill@darfield.school.nz

or write it down and ask your student to deliver it

to the Student Office

Term DatesTerm 1:

• Tuesday 27 January–Thursday 2 April• Friday 13 March: Staff Only Day

Term 2:• Monday 20 April–Friday 3 July• Monday 27 April: ANZAC Day Observed• Monday 1 June: Queen’s Birthday

Term 3:• Monday 20 July–Friday 25 September

Term 4:

• Monday 12 October–Thursday 10 December• Monday 26 October: Labour Day• Thursday 12 November: Staff Only Day• Friday 13 November: Canterbury

Anniversary Show Day

6 March 201521

LOST: One pair of brand new Asics running shoes, size 10 -

main colour blue - after the school Triathlon. If you have any information, please see Xavier Holland 10NF, or Mrs

Armstrong. Small reward offered.

Part time job available:Variety of jobs:

Fencing, chopping wood, labouring and odd jobs - would suit student.

Hours: after school 4.00-6.00 pm and all day Saturdays, or by arrangement.

Ring Sue for more details ph 3187378

22Issue 2/ DHS Dispatch

Remember: If your student is not at school, or arrives late, please phone the school to explain the absence

Uniform Shop Hours for Students

Monday: 11.00 –11.25amThursday: 11.00 –11.25am

School UniformsDarfield High School uniform items are available from The Warehouse Rolleston and the Uniform Shop here at school.

Uniform Shop at Darfield High School

Orders at Darfield High School are taken by appointment only, so contact Sue to arrange this. It is preferable parents refrain from coming to reception for uniform items from 8–9.30 am as this is a very busy time.

If you have second hand uniform for sale and would like it to be added to the database, please email sue@darfield.school.nz.Reader/Writers Needed

We have a small number of volunteers who willingly give an hour of their time every so often to assist students requiring

a Reader/Writer while they are sitting tests and exams. We would like to have more Reader/Writers, as often there are a

number of students needing assistance at one time.If you would be willing to help, please phone the school

office and speak to Elaine Guy.

REMEMBER: ORDER CANTEEN

LUNCHES AT INTERVAL

You are invited to attend the AGM of the Darfield High School Parent Teacher Student Association on Tuesday 17 March. It will be held in the school Staffroom, starting at 7.30 pm.

You are very welcome to attend the AGM and/or the usual PTSA meeting which will follow immediately after.

Any concerns or questions, please contact Jan Stark: js@darfield.school.nz.

PTSA

AGM

Springfield Sheffield Netball Club Registration

Wednesday 11 MarchSheffield Primary School

Juniors ($40): 3.30 pm

Secondary School ($85)/Seniors ($100): 6.00 pm

followed by pre-season training

Enquires to Val Mackenzie 3183 877 or 021 161 3274

6 March 201523

Looking for Work - $15.58 per hour? Would you like to work with a young person who has an intellectual disability, ensuring they are valued member of our community? We URGENTLY need Home Support Workers to support young males and females in the Darfield, Kirwee area. We are looking for a person who is mature, caring and very reliable. Giving back to the community is as important to you as it is to us, which is why you’ll fit in here. You remain calm in unpredictable situations and are able to think on your feet. You’ll be able to work independently and as part of a team. The hours of work during term time are negotiable, evenings and weekend availability is essential. During the holidays these hours are flexible. We will give you all the support you need which means good training and plenty of opportunities. TO APPLY FOR THIS HOME SUPPORT VACANCY: Please contact Helen MacAskill, on 341 9784 for more information or an application pack.

Congratulations—you ladies have won an Around School prize. See Mrs Watson next week.

Around School

7 McLaughlins RoadPhone: +64 3 318 8411

Fax: +64 3 318 8543

PO Box 5 Darfield 7541New Zealand

Email: admin@darfield.school.nzWeb: darfield.school.nz

The Leeston Business Association presents its 5th Annual Leeston Fete

Saturday 11 April 10.00 am until 3.00 pm.

Free admissionThis has been recognised as a very successful event in the Selwyn District Events calendar. We welcome everyone to come and enjoy this fantastic family day out in the beautiful rural setting of the Leeston township. This event is getting bigger and bigger each year and 2015 is going to be of no exception with over 100 stalls displaying quality locally made handcraft, giftware, exquisite adult and childrens’ clothing, handmade jewellery, antiques and collectibles. Not to mention the wide variety of food stalls.

There will be ongoing entertainment in the two stage areas together with activities for the children. The Vintage Car Club will have their cars on display and there will be plenty of areas to sit and take in the atmosphere.