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Kia ora TPS whānau  Like us
Principal’s Message:
Kia ora TPS families, this is our last newsletter of Term 1. It has been a fantastic term of learning and children have settled into routines, friendships and classwork well. I have really appreciated the wonderful feedback we have received by families, in particular to our culture week celebrations a few weeks ago. We hope you all have a great holiday break with your amazing children. A reminder that we finish school on Thursday 10th April.
Staffing updates for Term 2
Tracy Stephen has been employed as our new teacher for Kererū C as Denise McConnachie will step out of her classroom teaching position.
Learning Support/Senco Leadership: We are very fortunate to have Sarah OC and Denise McConnachie who will step up into leading the school with a special focus on working with students who require additional learning support. Sarah and Denise are our Associate Principals and they know the school, students, families and staff very well. I believe this will be a seamless transition. You can reach Sarah and Denise via email saraho@tps.school.nz and denisem@tps.school.nz
Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC)
Kererū learners have had a fantastic two days at Lake Pupuke this week. Students have Paddle Boarded, Canoed, and experienced Waka Taurua (double- hulled canoes).
After some initial nerves about trying new experiences, the students all embraced the learning challenges and had a fantastic time. Many children shared that it was their ‘Best day ever!!”. Parent helpers also commented on how well the day went and what a fantastic opportunity it was for all students to participate in.
 
3 way Student, Parent & Teacher conferences
A big few days for our teachers with 3 way conferences. We hope that you enjoyed spending a bit of time learning about how your child has progressed in Term 1. As always, we have excellent attendance during this important meeting which is such a credit to this community. A reminder that we have written reports on Hero at the end of Term 2 and Term 4 this year.
Ministry of Education – Assessment updates:
The only change this year is that schools must report progress against the new English and Mathematics and Statistics Years 0-8 learning areas. Schools should continue to use their current assessment and reporting systems to do this. Interim supports will be provided so schools can use the results to make informed decisions about student progress and achievement against refreshed learning areas. These supports are planned to be available by May in time for mid-year reporting.
Upcoming Events and Important Dates:
Teacher-Only Day: This is the first Ministry of Education Curriculum Day and will be on Friday 11 April (last day of Term 1) Please note there will be NO SCHOOL on this day. The second day for the year is confirmed as Friday 30 May (weekend of King’s Birthday). Please note there will be NO SCHOOL on this day.
Term 2 starts: Monday 28 April, 2025
Term 2 Board Meeting: Monday 12 May 2025 at 6:00pm – please email takapunaboard@tps.school.nz for further information.
School and Community News:
Anzac Parade:
Each year, staff and students from Takapuna Primary attend the ANZAC Day service, joining other local schools and members of the community to remember those soldiers who have served or serving their country either here or overseas. It is a special event that commemorates a piece of our New Zealand History and is a memorable experience for everyone. We would love members of our Takapuna whānau to join us this year. If your child would like to participate please email Sarah (saraho@tps.school.nz). Further information.
Spotlight learners!
We have some amazing learners in 6a from Kiwi who are writing their sentences independently. Well done Beau and Sayer!
 
Property updates – modifying our entrance/exit via Anzac Street:
Takapuna Primary School Board’s Health and Safety committee have raised concerns previously about student safety in our Anzac Street car park which led to the closure of this during pick up time. We are now ready to make more significant upgrades by modifying our entrance/exit into the school with a concrete pathway and fencing so students do not need to walk across the carpark to enter school. Rakesh, our caretaker, will work on this project over the next few weeks and once completed, a new way to enter school from Anzac Street will be shared with the students and community. We are confident this will help support a safer entry and exit for our students.
Regards, Devika & the TPS team
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A Big Thank You!
To Luke (Yr 2, Grace’s dad) and his photographer (Simba) for taking fantastic photos at the Cultural Parade.
We really appreciate both of your time AND of course, wonderful pics to remember such a fun day.
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Place orders BY FRIDAY 4th APRIL
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Photolife School Photos:
Individual/Class photos will be taken on Tuesday 13 May
Teams/Siblings photos will be taken on Wednesday 14 May
If you are a coach for one of our sports teams, and would like to have your photo taken with your team, please email George at office@tps.school.nz BY MONDAY 7 APRIL.
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SCHOOL DONATIONS – an investment in our students
Our mission at Takapuna Primary School is to deliver a great quality learning environment that supports a quality education. To support this, we are seeking your help.
Your school donations make a very real difference to us as a state-funded public school. Our basic costs are met by the Ministry of Education, but it’s the money we receive from our school community that really allows us to provide opportunities, equipment and teaching beyond what is funded by the government. As an example, we would like to undertake further enhancements including sun shades, and also to enable wet weather use. This funding is therefore so important in providing a high-quality learning environment (both in and out of the classroom).
The school donation for 2025 is $250 per student, or $400 for families with two or more students. We can arrange weekly, fortnightly, or monthly instalments via internet banking if this helps spread the cost. Importantly, donations are tax deductible so approximately one third of every donation can be claimed back as a tax credit. That means for a $250 donation you receive $83 back in your wallet. Your actual donation cost is $167.
To make your donation payments please go to the ‘Hero’ app and click on the ‘Finance’ tab. Alternatively, any payments can also be made directly into the school bank account 12 3026 0792484 00 – if doing so, please ensure you include your child’s name and ‘donation’ as reference on the payment.
We do understand these are uncertain times and managing financial priorities can be difficult for some families.
Any queries regarding payments can be directed to our accounts team: accounts@tps.school.nz
If you would like to know more about how the School Board operates and/or would be interested in understanding how else you can help, please contact: takapunaboard@tps.school.nz
Thanks so much for helping to support our growing and vibrant community.
Kindest regards
Takapuna Primary School Board
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Takapuna School Board:
We are always on the lookout for people who can support the school Board, either by joining on an ongoing basis and/or supporting specialist pieces of work or projects. If you would like to know more about getting involved, please email: takapunaboard@tps.school.nz
https://www.tps.school.nz/bot/
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Takapuna Community Anzac Service 2025
As part of the Anzac Day commemorations, there will be a Takapuna Community Anzac Service on Friday 25th April.
This year Anzac Day is on the last day of the school holidays. Takapuna Primary School will be represented by a group of students and teachers and we invite anyone interested to join us for this important occasion.
The parade assembles at 8:45 am on the corner of Sanders Ave and Lake Road. From there, the parade marches to the War Memorial. Once everyone has gathered at the Memorial there will be a short service followed by the laying of wreaths.
Children would be expected to wear their school uniform. As this event is on a public holiday participation is entirely optional. Parents would be required to stay for the duration of the event but do not need to walk with the parade.
If you have any queries or if your child would like to attend please email Sarah Ochtman-Corfe (saraho@tps.school.nz)
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History of Takapuna Primary School (since 1879)
Feel free to pop in to the office and take a look at some pictures of the past on our
History Wall.
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This was the first building of our school.
This building was built in 1855. It was moved to our current location in 1879 from Taharoto Road to Anzac Road.
They ‘jacked’ the building up onto wooden axles by hand winching, then it was pulled by horses! It took 4 days!
It was moved to where the library is now.
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This is the oldest known photo of students from TPS. It was taken in 1897.
It is not known if this was the whole school or just seniors. Three students in the photo are from the Sanders Family.
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Can you help?
Does anyone in our Community work in or own a furniture company, or do you have a sofa or two in excellent condition?
We would like to update the sofas in our office/reception area, our current ones are looking a little shabby. Ideally we would like something plain blue.
If you have a suggestion, please contact George at office@tps.school.nz
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TPS SPORTS
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Shore to Shore Fun Run 2025– is this Sunday 6th April and we have 143 registered runners!!
Well done TPS we ended up in 6th place on the leader board and we will be able to buy new sports gear!
Race Packs will be collected tomorrow and they will be delivered to your child in their classroom on Thursday or you can collect them from me on Wednesday at 1:00pm by the school flagpole.
Key Information for Event Day on Sunday 6th April
- TPS runners please wear your school sports top if you own one!!! Alternatively you can purchase a new or pre-loved uniform click here
- On arrival at TGS look out for the big TPS school flag on the field and gather together as a team
- Warm-up and Briefing Time: 8:15 AM
- Start Time: 9:00 AM
Transport from Craig Rd, Milford to TGS
- Buses Morning Buses: 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM from Milford Reserve Craig Rd.
- Post-Event Buses: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM from Milford Reserve to TGS
- No dogs or pets will be allowed on the buses.
- Street parking only. No parking at Milford Centre.
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- The Route – The 5.9km course starts at Takapuna Grammar School (TGS), following Lake Road along Takapuna Beach up The Promenade along Hurstmere Road down Tiri Road and along Milford Beach then finishing at Milford Reserve.
- After the Fun Run – meet at TPS school tent for free sausages, ice blocks and to hang out with your friends and family.
Any questions please contact Valerie sports@tps.school.nz. We look forward to seeing you all there this Sunday 6th April
TPS Run Club- sign up for Term 2
Thank you to all theTPS runners and the parent/whanau support for being part of Term 1 Wednesday Run Club. If you are interested in joining the Run Club for Term 2 please collect a permission form from Valerie in Kereru or email me sports@tps.school.nz. We need adult guide runners for our Run Club to continue so please volunteer to support our school runners. See you all Term 2 Wednesday 30th April at 8:05am by the Collins Street school gate.
TPS Cluster Swimming Squad – will receive participation and placegetter certificates at Week 10 School Assembly on Thursday 10th March, whanau are welcome to join us all.
TPS Netball 2025
We have four registered teams for 2025, they are as follows; Takapuna Tornadoes Yr 6, Takapuna Super Shooters Yr5, Takapuna Tulips Yr4 and Takapuna Sunflowers Yr 3. Thank you to all the team Coaches and Managers for volunteering your time to develop our future Fern netballers. Good luck for the season TPS netballers.
TPS Basketball 2025
   TPS Basketball 2025
- Girls got Game – is going fabulously and the wahine look like they are having so much fun! All the best for the last two sessions of Term 1. Thursday 8:00am – 8:45am on the TPS basketball court.
 
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Week 9 Basketball Roundups
Takapuna Slam Dunkers Had an amazing game with 10 – 2 victory. Everyone performed exceptionally well, especially on defense and keeping control of the ball for most of the game.
Takapuna Alley Oops and Takapuna Hawks Thank you to both teams for your commitment to weekly training this Term.
   
Takapuna Tigers
The team is off to a roaring start with two wins and a hard fought draw last week against Northcote. It’s hot, hard work, out there on the court.
 
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Splash Polo: Taka Splashes
Congratulations to the Taka Splashes who finish up their Splash Polo season this week. The majority of this team has not played before. Amazing resilience and effort you have made our school proud! Well done Clara, Miller, Arjun, Finn, Nixon, Darren, Isla, Leo, Mila, and Cindy. The team have made massive strides in how they work together as a team as well as playing strategically. They are much more confident and enjoying the game.
Community Sports Notices
Auckland FC have their final game of the season against Perth Glory on Sunday 27th April at Go Media Stadium, 2 Beasley Avenue, Penrose. They are offering to TPS a discounted Adult and Child ticket offer. The link will be posted on the schools HERO app next week, keep an eye out for this exciting offer.
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THANK YOU FROM THE COLOUR DASH!
To see people of all ages and abilities going through the course together, with enormous smiles on their faces, was incredible.
In the process, the event raised almost $30,000 for the Liz Soper Foundation of Care, which will now fund even more, life-enriching experiences for individuals living with complex disabilities. If you know anyone who might like to apply, please share this link. Applications are open until April 13th.
The event was such a success that we have locked in Sunday 15th March with the Navy for the 2026 event, so Save the Date!
Thank you again.
Helen and the Colour Dash team
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MATHS CORNER
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Thursday 10 April End of Term 1 (3:00pm) pizza/wheels/non-uniform day
Friday 11 April Teacher Only Day (NO school)
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Monday 28 April Term 2 begins
Tuesday 13 May Photolife (individual/class photos)
Wednesday 14 May Photolife (teams/groups photos)
Friday 30 May Teacher Only Day (NO school)
Click here for School Calendar
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This April, our Learn & Participate team at Auckland Philharmonia will present a magical orchestral concert experience for families! Tunes 4 Tamariki: Hana the Glowworm features the full Auckland Philharmonia orchestra and a stunning cast of children performers in this original semi-staged musical!
It’s the perfect weekend family activity! Come early for free facepainting, instrument try-outs, colouring-in competition, and live musician performances!
Tickets are $15 each, with under 2’s free, or $50 for a family pass (2 adults/2 children or 1 adult/3 children).
Book now: aucklandphil.nz
Concert details:
- 10.00am & 11.30am, Saturday 5 April, Aotea Centre
- 10.00am & 11.30am, Saturday 12 April, Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna
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Takapuna Primary School is offering an exciting new extra curricular activity to our Mandarin speaking students.
We have the chance to work with a language school called Bamboo Chinese School, a renown company who operates on the North Shore. They run lessons in Mandarin to support children who would like to maintain their Mandarin language skills, in speaking, reading and writing.
Currently they are asking for expressions of interest to see if this is something our community would like. If you are interested in these lessons, please use the Wii chat code below to find out more information, or pick up a brochure from our school office.
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Frozen JR. – Show in Two Weeks!
Join us in the April school holidays for this two week programme. Following on from the success from last year’s “Diary of a WImpy Kid”, we bring the much loved Disney classic to The Pumphouse stage, casting, rehearsing and performing over the two weeks. The cast size is strictly limited to 50 cast members.
Frozen JR. is based on the 2018 Broadway musical, and brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life, onstage. Featuring all the favourite songs from the movie, “Do You Want To Build a Snowman” and “Let It Go”.
This programme is a two-week intensive, with rehearsals running from Monday 14th April – Thursday 24th April (with a break over Easter weekend), with shows for friends, whānau and the public on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th April. Rehearsals and performances all take place at The Pumphouse Theatre in Takapuna.
To Join the Cast: click here
To Book Tickets: click here
ALLSTARS – 5 Day Holiday Intensive!
Join us for our 5 day Musical Theatre School Holiday programme – Get the Kids out of the House and Onto the Stage!
For more information and to register – click here.
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English
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