Term 3 at Te Kura Kōhine o Ōtākaro/Avonside Girls’ High School has been vibrant and full of memorable moments, with some special events showcasing our students’ talents and efforts. This term was full of fantastic events, from Kapa Haka, sports and tournament, music and academic learning.
First up was International Week, culminating in a lively and inspiring assembly where students celebrated the rich diversity of cultures within our school community. This week was a huge opportunity for our young people to share their heritage and learn about others, strengthening our sense of whānau and understanding. A huge thank you to our International Council for putting so much effort into hosting events, and to all the performers at the assembly. We are so proud!
Further into the term, we had a fantastic Band Day during lunchtime, featuring performances from bands across Avonside and Shirley. The line-up was impressive, with EPSILON (Senior Mixed) and She Said (AGHS Senior) representing Avonside alongside SBHS bands Blinding Mirage (Junior Mixed) and The Minis (SBHS Senior). We were delighted to bring everyone together to celebrate our talented music groups among Shirley Boys’ and Avonside Girls’.
A landmark moment this term was the participation of our Kapa Haka rōpū in the Waitaha Regionals Kapa Haka competition. Our students worked incredibly hard over 12 weeks to prepare a beautifully meaningful bracket. This marked the first time Avonside has competed at this level in 16 years. Their performance paid homage to our history, honouring past students and the foundations laid by our kaumatua, whānau, kaiako, and generations of older sisters who paved the way. It was a proud moment that showcased the strength of our culture and the deep commitment of our rōpū. This was followed up by a fabulous performance at Tūhono in which the rōpū placed 1st overall as well as winning the Haka bracket, solo and small group singing, novelty item, placing 2ndin Waiata Aringa and 3rd in Tira.
On the sporting front, a huge congratulations to our 1st XI girls’ football team, who achieved a historic victory by winning the Connetics 1st XI Premier girls’ title for the first time ever. Their hard work and skill were on full display as they triumphed 1-0 over Cashmere High School in the final, bringing home a well-deserved championship. This team, along with Hockey, Basketball, Climbing and Netball were away on winter tournament and we are proud of the determination and courage shown by all players. Congratulations to our Junior Basketball who placed third in the South Island Secondary Schools competition.
These events reflect just a few of the many ways our students continue to shine both inside and outside the classroom. Over the holidays we hosted the World Scholar’s Cup Global round with over 200 students from across the globe. We are incredibly proud of their efforts and achievements this term and look forward to more inspiring moments ahead.
