by Kaiya Jones, Year 13 Student, Kaipara College
Kia Ora, Reader!
This month has yielded quite a few thinking points for our senior students, one of which is the multiple University seminars taking place. During these presentations, University representatives come into Kaipara and talk to students about the ins and outs of life at their university, and why we should pick their Uni to go to. They briefly touch on topics such as the courses offered, accommodation, scholarships, overseas study, and social life. This gives students an overview of their options and this allows them to make a decision on which university they want to pursue further information about. For those who are unaware of what they want to do in life, this may help them find their calling or even expose them to ideas they had no idea even existed beforehand!
Another point of thought circulating senior students’ minds is the upcoming ball. Themed after ‘Royal Casino’, (I know- I wasn’t really sure what to do with that either), this ball is sure to be glamorous. Sadly, no slot machines or black jack tables will be provided, so no gambling, (though I have insider info that cards will be provided…so to you I say it’s open season on everyone’s wallets!). Alas, along with the ball season arriving begins the, somewhat tedious, process of planning outfits and sending out invitations to friends and partners. Students are also plotting just how they want to spend their twilight hours after returning on the buses…ah, buses. A point which many students (particularly those in delicate fabrics) get stuck on. “Why make us travel an hour, there and back, in a stuffy bus, when I’m in this fabulous dress!” “Well, because.” - Teachers of Kaipara College. Note: (not a direct quote).
Kaipara College’s new house system strikes again, as an ‘Arts week’ has been planned. Throughout this week, students have the opportunity to partake in many fun activities, including; Battle of the Bands, Just Dance, Pictionary, Karaoke Kaipara, and Kaipara’s Got 
Talent. The students participating in these activities will be awarded TIRA points (the name of the house point system) much like the other activity days that have been planned. These points will, again, be added to the end of year tally. I must say, the battle of the bands was quite fabulous. It would appear Kaipara College has students talented in something other than rugby after all! All jokes aside, Kaipara has turned out some amazing musicians who have competed in a variety of competitions, including Rock Quest (“AOTEAROA’S ONLY NATIONWIDE, LIVE, ORIGINAL MUSIC, YOUTH EVENT”).
Being a rural school, it is very important to Kaipara College for students to build a good relationship with their community. This works well, as out here as there is always something to do and someone to help. Volunteering week is students’ chance to contribute to their community, and help the school build its reputation, “...every hour you log through the SVA Service Award helps our school climb the national leaderboard in the ultimate SVA volunteering challenge.” An added bonus is that it looks fant-abulous on CV’s and University applications. Those who are thinking ahead will jump on the opportunity to help out the community…thank you and your welcome community!
Thanks for reading, see you next month! Have a brilliant week!
