Here we go again!

Julie Cronin from Te Mata School Home & School Committee

Well folks, it's that time again. School is back in on Wednesday. Let the madness begin!

If you haven't already, you can get your stationery packs from Office Products Depot in Napier. They can deliver for $3.
Just call them on 06 843 0294 and ask for your class pack.

I hope you have all made sure your little angels uniforms fit. And they are all theirs and there. I know a few pieces have been found over the holidays. If you need anything, pop into the uniform shop.

Due to the ongoing (unfortunately delayed) roadworks, the school asks that, if you drive, you park on Guthrie Rd. Guthrie Park carpark or Brookvale Rd, or further, and use the Legorne Lane entrance. Or walk through the alley off Te Mata Rd and through the intermediate school. There is NO PARKING on Te Mata Rd in the school block or in the clearways. and please do not park in the 4Square car park.

If you do use Legorne Lane, please don't cut across the road to the entrance. It is not safe. The footpath goes all the way and kids racing across are hard to see from cars going around the cul-de-sac. Cutting across won't save any time, but using the footpath may save a life. Your kids copy you. You may see what's coming but your kids can't, and won't even think to look. They'll just go. Please teach them better.

Personally, we intend to bike. I think it will be a heck of a lot easier, even from the other side of Havelock North Primary School. I hope we see more of you or yours on bikes or foot. The village really isn't so big that our kids can't use their own excess energy. How about setting up a walking or biking group in your neighbourhood? If you have high school aged kids, perhaps they could earn some points being group leaders for the little ones.

The first term sees the middle syndicate get wet. The middles will be heading to the Village Pools for their swimming sports. Please make sure your kids swim wear is ready, fitting and in good nick.

It's a good idea to pull apart goggles and clean around the lenses and in the nooks and crannies, then dry them completely before putting them back together again. Mould can build up in them.

Adjust the straps so they go around the head (not down the neck), and a little finger width above the ear. If there are two straps, one goes up slightly and one straight around. please make sure they don't go over the ears, as this can cause pain and problems hearing. It also allows water to pool in the ear and can lead to ear infections. Don't make them so tight they cause panda eyes. They sit on the face not in it. and the silicone shouldn't fold.That's too tight and will leak. It will also cut off the circulation around the eyes causing swelling, eye strain and headaches.

When they are properly fitting, they will seal. When they are not, water will get in. The silicone around the eyes should sit on the cheekbones and the brow bone, right around the eye. If they have long hair, tie it up or get a swim cap. Your little champs should be ready now. And don't forget a towel!

If you have it ready now, you won't need to worry about it, when it's time.

Lets hope Mr Bain doesn't set fire to his pants (or anything else) this year!

I think that about covers it, except, have a good term 1 and year 2018! Good job parents, you made it. <3