Cromwell College’s roll has grown again with approximately 600 students having a “really positive” start to the year, principal Mason Stretch says.

“[It’s] the biggest roll ever in our kura and about 40 up on last year.

“Our year 13 students have been wonderful role models and mentors welcoming our year 7s and helping transition our year 9 students into the senior school. 

“Our students have responded respectfully to our mihi whakatau to formally welcome new students and staff,” Mason said. 

After a challenging few years with Covid-19 restrictions Mason said the theme is “starting strong”.

“We have been focussing on whakawhanaungatanga - establishing relationships and the sense of belonging in our kura and getting to know our students and how they learn best.

“We have been highlighting our kawa values of manaaki (respect), māia (courage) and rawe (personal excellence) that are at the core of our kura.” 

Eight new teachers are working in the school this year, and together with college staff, will be learning more about culturally responsive practice and restorative practice in staff only days this term.

New staff Erin Ryan (year 7 homeroom), Johnny Keevill (PE and health), Chelsie Grindlay (year 7 homeroom), Hannah Wilson (Art), Eddy Raffles (Social sciences geography), and Ash Craig (English, literacy, social studies)

“We are excited for the year ahead and seeing our students aspiring to our whakataukī Whāia te taumata - pursue the highest peaks and deserve success,” Mason said. 

Building connections with whānau and community through parent sessions for NCEA, academic counselling for students and the renewed connection and support from the local business community is another goal. 

Term one has camps for year 7 and 10, along with a quad sports exchange, a party safe programme for seniors, the ASK mental health programme, and various local curriculum and education outside the classroom trips.  

The school rebuild programme commences at the end of 2023, with the new technology and art block first.