Kia ora e te whānau,
Welcome to Term 3. This is a very important term for us.
Whānau Voice – Shaping the Future Together
At Bulls School, we deeply value the vision you hold for your tamariki/mokopuna. As we begin to review and shape our school’s Strategic Plan, we want to ensure your voice and the voice of your children is at the centre of our direction and decisions..
This week, we have been gathering your aspirations, expectations, and priorities for your child’s learning journey — both now and for their future. Your insights will help us to reflect your desires in what we do.
Together, we can create a learning environment that empowers every child to thrive, grow, and succeed.
Aspirational Conversations
Thank you to those who have attended our Aspirational Conversations this week. They are a valuable opportunity for us to strengthen the partnership between home and school. We know that when teachers and whānau work together, tamariki are more confident, engaged, and successful in their learning.
Your insights, knowledge, and aspirations for your child are vital. Together, we can ensure their learning journey is supported, celebrated, and meaningful — both now and into the future.
Thank you for being an essential part of your child’s education. We look forward to continuing to walk alongside you to achieve the very best outcomes for your tamariki.
School Board Elections – Have Your Say in Our School’s Future
Our upcoming School Board elections are an important opportunity for you to be involved in shaping the future of our kura. School Boards play a vital role in the success of our school – helping to set the strategic direction, support governance decisions, and ensure the aspirations of our community are reflected in the learning and wellbeing of all tamariki.
We encourage whānau to consider standing for election or supporting those who do. Whether through your skills, experiences, or commitment to education, your voice can make a meaningful difference.
Together, we can continue to grow a strong, inclusive, and future-focused school.
Keep an eye out for more information in the coming weeks about nominations and how to get involved.
Below is some information about who is on our School Board and what the School Board’s role is.
Key Responsibilities of The School Board
- Governance and Strategic Direction:
The board establishes the overall direction for the school, including its vision, goals, and strategic priorities.
- Policy and Procedures:
The board develops and approves policies and procedures that guide the school’s operations.
- Community Engagement:
The board consults with the school community (parents, students, staff, and the wider community) on important decisions.
- Financial Management:
The board is responsible for overseeing the school’s budget and ensuring sound financial management.
- Personnel Management:
The board employs and manages staff, including the principal.
- Property Management:
The board oversees the maintenance and development of the school’s facilities and grounds.
- Health and Safety:
The board ensures the school provides a safe and healthy environment for students and staff.
- Curriculum:
The board ensures the school delivers a curriculum that meets national standards and caters to the needs of its students.
- Accountability:
The board is accountable for the school’s overall performance and for meeting all legal and regulatory requirements.
Who is on the School Board
- Parent Representatives: Elected by the parents of students attending the school.
- Staff Representative: Elected by the school’s teaching and support staff.
- Principal: The principal is a member of the board and acts as its chief executive in relation to the school’s management.
- Co-opted Members: The board can co-opt additional members to fill skill gaps or represent specific community groups.
Interested in joining the School Board of Trustees?
Come along to our next meeting on Tuesday, 5th August at 5:30 PM in the staffroom. We’d love to see you there!
Every Day Counts – The Importance of School Attendance
Regular school attendance is a key part of your child’s success, both academically and socially. Every day at school matters — it’s where tamariki build knowledge, friendships, and confidence.
In Aotearoa, attending school every day is not just important — it is a legal requirement under the Education and Training Act. We understand that sometimes absences are unavoidable, but we kindly ask that you let us know if your child is away and support regular, on-time attendance whenever possible.
By working together, we can help ensure your child gets the most out of every learning opportunity. If you’re facing challenges with attendance, please reach out — we’re here to help.
Something to consider :
90% Attendance
- Misses 1 day every 2 weeks
- Around 20 days missed per year
- That’s 4 weeks of school lost each year
- Over 8 yearsat primary school, that adds up to 160 days missed – nearly a full year of school
80% Attendance
- Misses 1 day every week
- Around 40 days missed per year
- That’s 8 weeks of school lost each year
- Over 8 yearsat primary school, that adds up to 320 days missed – more than 1½ years of school
70% Attendance
- Misses around 1½ days every week
- Around 60 days missed per year
- That’s 12 weeks of school lost each year
- Over 8 years at primary school, that adds up to 480 days missed – nearly 2½ years of school
Even a few days here and there quickly add up. Every day at school is a chance to learn, connect, and grow. Let’s work together to give every tamaiti the best possible start.
Megan Syme
English
Arabic
Chinese (Simplified)
Dutch
French
German
Italian
Maori
Portuguese
Russian
Samoan
Spanish
