PRINCIPAL'S PIECE

HAVE YOUR SAY - SURVEY FOR STUDENTS AND WHĀNAU

LEARNING BY THE RIVER

NATURE, KNOWLEDGE AND KAITIAKITANGA

HANDS ON CONSERVATION

SIR PETER BLAKE MARINE EDUCATION & RECREATION EXPERIENCE

COOKING UP A WIN

WORLD SCHOLARS CUP

SPORTING AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS

MASQUERADE BALL

CELEBRATING PUANGA

SPOTSWOOD COLLEGE PRODUCTION

NOTICES

CAREERS

UNIVERSITY OPEN DAY LINKS

STUDENT WELLBEING SERVICES

ATTENDANCE

STAFF LINKS

WEBSITE

TERM DATES 2025

CALENDARS

For Students: Click the link below to complete a short questionnaire about your experience at Spotswood College. Your voice matters—help us grow, improve, and celebrate what makes our school great. Thanks heaps for your time!

Spotswood College Questionnaire for ākonga/ students - 2025

For Whānau: We’d love to hear from you! Click the link below to complete a brief questionnaire on Spotswood College. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us support and celebrate our students’ success. Whānau who complete the survey will go in the draw to win 1 of 2 $100 Prezzy cards. Thank you for being part of our journey!

Spotswood College Questionnaire for Whānau - 2025

Last term Mr Leauga took our Year 11 EnviroScience class to the Waiwhakaiho River to connect with the Taranaki Regional Council and local Iwi partners that are responsible for looking after our Taiao. We took measurements to assess the health of our local Awa and learned what the Regional Council and Iwi do to keep our natural environment in good shape. The trip connects to our assessment for Achievement Standard 91920 "Demonstrate understanding of a science-informed response to a local issue".

Thank you to Nicky, Brent and Darlene that guided us on our trip.

This semester in Outdoor Education, students have developed a wide range of practical skills and knowledge to help them thrive in the outdoors. From building shelters in the bush to cooking food on portable stoves, the class has taken part in a variety of hands-on learning experiences across locations like the Pukeiti Ranges, Weld Road Beach, Lucy’s Gully, and Kiwi Road.

Students have learned survival techniques including knot-tying, fire-making, river safety, and how to identify edible native plants. Alongside this students went on a number of trips. Highlights included rock climbing, bush walks, and volunteering with predator trapping. The Kiwi Road rat-trapping trip gave students real-world conservation experience, reinforcing their understanding of how to protect Aotearoa’s native species. These experiences have not only prepared the class for their final overnight assessment but also built confidence, teamwork, and a deeper respect for the natural environment.

“I’ve learned how to make a good shelter out of tarp, rope, and sticks, how to use a portable gas stove, and how to manage risks in the outdoors.”

“We even went to the mountains where we cooked sausages and noodles. I really enjoyed all the activities like rock climbing and bush walks.”

“One of the most valuable parts has been discovering how traditional Māori knowledge and native plants can be used as natural remedies.”

“We learnt how to create shelters using our surrounding environment and prepare and cook food in the bush.”

“I learned how to do a proper river crossing—just before the rapids where it’s safest—and how to set traps for predators like rats.”

“I learned how to tie knots, build shelters, cook sausages on a gas stove, and even how to make a fire in the ground.”

On Thursday, June 5th, the Outdoor Education class went on a field trip to Kiwi Road to participate in a trapping project with the Taranaki Kiwi Trust. After a safety briefing from Trust members, students were divided into small teams to reset traps along the line. This hands-on experience gave us a valuable opportunity to learn about pest control and how it supports the protection of native wildlife and Papatūānuku.

Word from the students:

“The trip was especially enjoyable because doing it with classmates made the activity more fun and engaging. Overall, the experience was both educational and rewarding, and I would gladly participate again.”

“I think this was a fun and positive learning experience because we got to go out into a bushy environment and learnt how to reset traps, which is important.”

“We learnt how to bait and reset traps and how to get rats out of the traps. Our group caught three rats and one hedgehog.”

The Sir Peter Blake Marine Education & Recreation Camp (MERC), a not-for-profit charity based in Long Bay, Auckland, is committed to delivering hands-on, marine-based environmental education and outdoor adventures for schools.

We’re excited to have had 86 students who jumped into a fun-filled three-day experience—an unforgettable chance to connect with the ocean, build confidence, and create lasting memories together.

Have a look at the awesome photos below to see what they’ve been up to!

A massive congratulations to Matua Felix and his amazing crew for winning the regional Secondary Schools Cooking Competition! Sam Scown and Rozan Flores have earned a spot in the National Secondary Schools Culinary Challenge (NSSCC) Grand Final, to be held in Auckland later this year.

Only eight teams from across Aotearoa are selected to compete in the final event — an outstanding achievement!

About NSSCC:
The National Secondary Schools Culinary Challenge is an annual event organised by the Culinary Arts Development Trust. It aims to showcase and support the next generation of culinary talent, provide clear career pathways, and build connections between schools and the hospitality industry.

By winning the regional event, Felix and his team have secured their place in the live cook-off in Auckland on Thursday, 28 August.

Well done team!

The World Scholars Cup is a fun and challenging academic event for students from around the world. It’s all about learning new things, working as a team, and having great debates.

Students compete in four parts:

• A quiz with tricky questions

• Writing essays on interesting topics

• Debating fun and thoughtful issues

• A fast-paced team quiz with videos and music

Aster Danenhauer

Gold Medal for 4th place Senior Team Trophy as the 3rd place Overall Scholar

Gold Medal for 2nd place in Team Writing

Silver Medal in Team Debate Silver Medal in Team Scholar's Bowl

Gold Medal as the 4th place Debater

Gold Medal for 7th place in Overall Challenge

Gold Medal as the 8th place Collabo Writer

Gold Medal for 5th place in Challenge-Art & Music

Silver Medal for 8th place in Challenge-Special Area

Silver Medal for 8th place in Challenge-Social Studies

Bodhi Danenhauer

Gold Medal for 4th place Senior Team

Gold Medal as the 7th place Overall Scholar

Gold Medal for 2nd place in Team Writing

Silver Medal in Team Debate

Silver Medal in Team Scholar's Bowl

Gold Medal for 6th place in Overall Challenge

Gold Medal as the 9th place Collabo Writer

Silver Medal in Debate

Gold Medal for 2nd place in Challenge-Art & Music

Gold Medal for 3rd place in Challenge-History

Silver Medal for 8th place in Challenge-Literature & Media

Silver Medal for 8th place in Challenge-Science & Technology

Max Allen

Silver Medal Overall Scholar

Silver Medal in Scholar's Challenge

Silver Medal in Debate

Gold Medal for 3rd place in Challenge-Science & Technology

Silver Medal for 9th place in Challenge-Social Studies

Elizabeth Norden

Gold Medal as the 3rd place Asimov scholar

Lilith Morris

Gold Medal as the 2nd place Asimov scholar

Kaitlin Taylor, Member of Taranaki U14 Netball Development team

Ashleigh Te Riini, Member of Taranaki Under 16 Girls Black Basketball Team

Talei-Jean Lilo, Member of Taranaki Under 16 Girls Black Basketball Team

Katie Takarangi, Member of Taranaki Under 16 Girls Amber Basketball Team

Tali Te Runa, Selection in Taranaki U14 Netball Squad

Brianna O'Keefe, Selection in Taranaki U14 Netball Squad

Amaia Sherry, Selection in Taranaki U16 Netball Squad

Robert Manu, Selection in Taranaki U18 Boys Netball Squad

Rakim Kavanagh, Selection in Taranaki U18 Boys Netball Squad

Komene Te Nana, Selection in Taranaki U18 Boys Netball Squad

Bella Tuavao, Selection in Taranaki U16 Development Netball Squad

Jahlia Manukonga-Te Uira, Selection in Taranaki U16 Development Netball Squad

Zander Dodunski, Selection in Taranaki U19 Boys Volleyball team

Westley Oakes-Hill, Selection in Taranaki U19 Boys Volleyball team

Wairangi Davey, Selection in Taranaki U19 Boys Volleyball team

Maia Read, Selected in the New Zealand Para Badminton Squad to attend the Victor Oceania Para Badminton Championships, and the Australian Para Badminton International.

Joel Penno Winner, TSSSA Boys Netball Competition

Leo Coutts Winner, TSSSA Boys Netball Competition

Robert Manu Winner, TSSSA Boys Netball Competition

Waylon Jones Winner, TSSSA Boys Netball Competition

Komene Te Nana Winner, TSSSA Boys Netball Competition

Rakim Kavanagh Winner, TSSSA Boys Netball Competition

Zander Dodunski Winner, TSSSA Boys Netball Competition

Mohammed Jazib, 3rd in TSSSA Esports

Liam Staples, 3rd in TSSSA Esports

Malachi Kirk, 3rd in TSSSA Esports

Kingston Lilo, 2nd in TSSSA Esports

Finn Manella, 2nd in TSSSA Esports

Jacon Thompson, 2nd in TSSSA Esports

Monte Fisher, 3rd in TSSSA Esports - Controller Division

Taimana Irwin, 3rd in TSSSA Esports - Controller Division

Declan Sutton, 3rd in TSSSA Esports - Controller Division

Bodhi Danenhauer, Selected for Central North Island Regional Development Team - Debate

Our school ball was a huge success, filled with fun, laughter, and special moments. Students, staff, and whānau came together to celebrate in style.

The venue looked amazing with decorations that matched our masquerade, creating a magical atmosphere. Delicious kai and great music from Tobe Tones kept everyone dancing all night.

Highlights included the crowning of the Ball Royals, fun activities, and a photo booth for capturing memories. Our students made us proud by showing respect and representing our school well.

A big thank you to the ball committee, led by Aly Scott, and everyone who helped make this night unforgettable!

This week, our school came together to celebrate Puanga, the Māori New Year. It was a time for reflection, renewal, and community.

A highlight of the day was our shared hāngī. Volunteers worked early in the morning to prepare the kai, and the delicious food brought everyone together.

Students also took part in cultural performances and activities. Our kapa haka group gave a powerful performance, while arts and crafts stations let students try weaving and carving. Storytelling sessions helped everyone learn more about Puanga and its meaning.

A big thank you to everyone who helped make this celebration so special!

All students who drive to school please do not park within the school grounds. This includes the parking area next to the pedestrian crossing, staff parking at the back of B-Block and A Block. Please park on Belair Ave or Ngāmotu Rd. If you have any questions please see Matua Wayne.

Kia ora koutou,

As the colder months approach, we kindly remind you to ensure your child has the correct winter uniform, including the appropriate school jacket or top. This helps maintain consistency and pride in our school community.

Please check our uniform guidelines to ensure your child is dressed appropriately. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the school office.

Get ready, Spotswood whānau—Career Week is just around the corner! From July 28 to August 1, our school will be buzzing with opportunities for students to explore different pathways, chat with industry professionals, and get inspired about what comes next after school.

See below for what we have planned with guest speakers, hands-on sessions, and future-shaping

Career support and advice is available to students who would like some guidance on career pathways, tertiary studies and scholarships available.

To make an appointment please contact the Careers Advisor

Chell Lusk - clu@spotswoodcollege.school.nz

Register through the links below so you don't miss out:

• AUT = Saturday 30th August https://www.aut.ac.nz/events/aut-live-our-university-open-day
• Auckland = Saturday 30th August https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/manawa-mai/open-day.html
• Canterbury = Friday 5th September https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/news-and-events/regular-events/open-day
• Lincoln = Friday 18th July https://www.lincoln.ac.nz/study/key-dates-2/open-day/
• Massey = Palmerston North 6th August, Auckland 15th August, Wellington 22nd August, Aviation 13th September https://events.massey.ac.nz/open-days/
• Otago = Sunday 4th & Monday 5th May https://www.otago.ac.nz/open-days
• Victoria = Friday 22nd August https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/study/events-visits/open-day
• Waikato = Hamilton 23rd May, Tauranga 25th June. https://www.waikato.ac.nz/news-events/events/open-day/

MoneyHub has 10+ NCEA resources to help everyone attain merits and excellences - check it out and prepare for upcoming internals and externals with confidence.

https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/resources-for-ncea-students.html

Please make sure your teens are checking, opening and reading their emails. Opportunities are being missed.

School Counselling Services are available at Spotswood College for students who wish to get additional wellbeing support.

To make an appointment please email:

Guidance Counsellors - manaakitanga@spotswoodcollege.school.nz

Public Health Nurse

Drop in Public Health Nurse hours - Monday 9.00 am - 2.00 pm.

The sickbay is closed for any sick-related issues. If your child is sick, we will contact home and ask for them to be picked up immediately. Students should not arrange this themselves as we need to know where they are at all times.

The sick bay is open to help with injuries.

A public health nurse is available for you and your caregivers if you have any concerns. This could be a rash, not sleeping well, regular headaches, ongoing health issues etc.

Please ask to talk to her privately. Consultations are confidential, offering information and advice. Health resources are available, with a choice of providers for referrals to agencies.

If you would like to see the public health nurse, please ask staff at student reception.

LOOK SHARP have provided us a QR code that grants a 10% discount to all students, parents, teachers and staff of Spotswood College. Included with this offer is a 10% discount on their printing and party hire services.

We have a school attendance target of above 90% for every student. To ensure that together we reach this, it is important that if you know your child is going to be absent from school, that you please contact the school by using one of the following options.

Option 1: Report an absence using the school app SchoolBridge

Option 2: Call 06 751 2416 and press (1) to report a student's absence. Record your child’s name, parents' name, contact details and reason for absence.

Option 3: Send a text to the office on 02102466182

Based on our attendance data system we will send an automated text to parents of any students that are absent, once in the morning and once in the afternoon.

If for any reason you are concerned about your child’s attendance, you can speak with Ra or Carla the Attendance Officers or she will pass you on to the DEAN or your child’s Learning Advisor.

Principal

Whaea Nicola email: nng@spotswoodcollege.school.nz

Deputy Principal/Senior Leadership

Mr Daryn Shaw email: dsh@spotswoodcollege.school.nz

Deputy Principal/Senior Leadership

Mrs Hilary Takarangi email: hta@spotswoodcollege.school.nz

Deputy Principal/Senior Leadership

Mr Darren Scott email: dsc@spotswoodcollege.school.nz

Year 12 and 13 Dean

Mr Wayne Cribb email: wcr@spotswoodcollege.school.nz

Year 11 Dean

Whaea Tulah Katene-Wall email: tka@spotswoodcollege.school.nz

Year 10 Dean

Matua Matty James email: mja@spotswoodcollege.school.nz

Year 9 Dean

Mr Airana Ngarewa email: ang@spotswoodcollege.school.nz

International Director

Mrs Nicola Healy email: nhe@spotswoodcollege.school.nz

Business Manager

Ms Christina Davis email: cdv@spotswoodcollege.school.nz

Careers Advisor

Mrs Chell Lusk email: clu@spotswoodcollege.school.n