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Welcome to Term 2 and I extend a special welcome to our new students and whānau.
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Thank you again to everyone who contributed to the Wairarapa College Sports Foundation Pre-Season tournament, which held successful hockey, netball, and football events over the holidays.
A highlight of Term 1 was celebrating the end of the term with WaiCol’s Got Talent. Congratulations to Zack Robertson who took it out with his juggling act, and well done to everyone who performed. I am now looking forward to continuing to juggle academics with our extracurricular opportunities, especially our major production of Chicago in Week 3 this term.
It is pleasing that our attendance data for Term 1 this year is trending in a positive direction with more students attending school regularly (90% of classes) than previous years. My message for students as we start the term is to show up:
Show up when it’s wet.
Show up when it’s cold.
Show up when it’s hard.
Show up when it’s messy.
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Show up to training and rehearsal.
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Show up when no one is watching.
Show up when you don’t feel like it.
Show up when the rewards are uncertain.
Show up to learn.
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- Congratulations to Mr Harmesh Sharma who has been appointed as Head of Mathematics at Mākoura College.
- Welcome to Mrs Julia Penny, our new Office Administrator.
- Mrs Christine Buckley returns in a fixed-term Health and PE position.
- Miss Cassandra Celeste will be on leave for Term 2.
- Mr Alistair Morrison will teach Miss Celeste’s Social Studies and Psychology classes.
- Mr Gavin McEwan will continue as Acting Learning Support Coordinator.
- Ms Wendy Jacobson’s and Mr Steve Davis’s fixed-term Maths position has been extended to 21 May.
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The Ministry of Education has released a parent portal with information to help support students.
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With wisdom and courage. Kia māia, kia mātau.
Matt White
Principal | Tumuaki
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A message from our Board of Trustees
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As members of the Wairarapa College Board, we want to take a moment to talk directly with you—our whānau—about something that often generates strong opinions: the uniform policy.
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We understand that, particularly for teenagers, self-expression is important. This is a stage of life where identity is explored, ideas are tested, and fairness is constantly weighed. It’s exactly because of these dynamics that our uniform expectations need to be clear, consistent, and free from unnecessary subjectivity. Rather than impose a blanket ban on all freedoms, the Board has decided to make allowances for expression, but has put limits on that.
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When we ask students to wear only one earring in each ear, limit facial piercings to one, and arrive at school clean-shaven, it’s not about stifling individuality. It’s about enabling our teachers to teach and our students to learn—without unnecessary distractions or daily debates about the boundaries of personal expression.
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Every minute spent clarifying why we ask for one earing, not three, or discussing whether stubble qualifies as “clean-shaven” is a minute not spent focused on learning. These micro-debates can quickly become macro-issues in classrooms, subtly shifting attention away from education and onto compliance.
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Our teachers are skilled professionals, passionate about equipping young people with the knowledge and critical thinking skills they need to thrive. They shouldn’t be placed in the role of fashion referee. When our uniform guidelines are straightforward and consistently applied, we remove the grey areas that spark debate and instead create space for equity—because everyone is held to the same standard, regardless of background, trend, or personal preference.
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As a board, we are proud that Wairarapa College is first and foremost an educational institution. We want every student to feel confident, respected, and part of a community that values achievement, effort, and integrity. Our uniform policy supports this vision—not by diminishing self-worth, but by reinforcing a shared identity that says: we’re here to learn, together.
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We appreciate your continued support in upholding these expectations and encouraging your young person to see uniform not as a restriction, but as a tool that allows our school to focus on what matters most—education.
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Ngā mihi nui
Wairarapa College Board of Trustees
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- Liberty Jones – third place U15s Oceania Squash Championships and won both her trans-Tasman matches.
- Luca Ferreira – Wellington Boxing championships cadet under 58kg gold.
- Jehkobi Semmens – Wellington Boxing championships junior open 75kg silver.
- Lachie Newland – top junior Hutt Valley Clay Target Club Duckshooters event.
- Girls' Rugby 7s team (pictured below) for winning the Wairarapa Schools Tournament.
- Luca Rodier, Alex Mason and Gerrard Broughton for being selected for the Wairarapa U16 Basketball team.
- Junior Yellow Tennis Team (Pia Bunny, Ella Herrick and Frank Liddle) winning the Wairarapa Junior Interclub.
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Dare to Succeed: Eavhuy Oeng Journey of Persistence, Passion, and Purpose
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At a recent assembly, Academic Prefect Eavhuy (Huy) Oeng challenged students with a simple question: I want everyone to raise their hand ... now I want you to raise it a little higher. Now ask why didn’t you give it 100% the first time? Huy reminded us that holding back gives power to our limitations.
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Huy speaks from experience. As an immigrant from Cambodia, his journey to Aotearoa came with language barriers, stereotypes, and culture shock. But instead of giving in, he leaned on determination and hard work—earning both an NCEA excellence endorsement and the role of Academic Prefect.
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“Success isn’t about perfection,” he said. “It’s about persistence.”
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Balancing academics with gym sessions, baking, and music from Laufey and Beabadoobee, Huy approaches life with energy and humour. Growing up in a high-expectation household, he joked about a comment from his parents, “A break? You can take a break when you’re a doctor.” And as an Arsenal fan, he’s learned to ride the highs and lows—just like in life.
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Huy’s message is clear: Dare to succeed. Push past fear. Because the only limits are the ones you set yourself.
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SGCNZ Shakespeare Festival Summary
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Wairarapa College students brought passion, creativity, and dedication to this year’s SGCNZ Regional Shakespeare Festival. Rehearsals were held every Sunday afternoon, either from 12–3pm or 1–3pm, with students committing their time and energy to developing a vibrant 15-minute scene from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Under the student direction of Year 13’s Brianna McLeod, the group crafted choreography, incorporated music, created costumes, and made props to enhance their performance. Community support played a key role in the production’s success — props were kindly loaned by JDDC Dance School, and the iconic donkey’s head for Bottom was generously provided by Geraldine Inder School of Dance.
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Our staff and students efforts were rewarded with multiple awards at the regional festival, including qualification for Nationals in Wellington over King’s Birthday weekend.
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Shakespeare Results 2025
Winner – 15 Minute Scene - Wairarapa College – A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Student Director: Brianna McLeod
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Greytown Little Theatre Colin Palmer Cup for Spirit of Shakespeare
Thea Miller and Jack Brown – Henry V (5 Minute Scene) - Wairarapa College
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Assessor’s Choice Awards - Student Direction - Brianna McLeod (A Midsummer Night’s Dream)
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Excellence in Performance - Kelsie Laing-Bayley (The Tempest)
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Excellence in Movement - Kelsie Laing-Bayley and Nari Kerehi (The Tempest)
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This outstanding result is a testament to the students’ commitment, creativity, and love for performance. Thank you to Ms Bushnell for her guidance and support.
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From Centre Stage to Director's Chair: My Shakespeare Journey
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After three years of performing in Shakespeare productions, I decided it was time for a change. I’ve always loved being on stage, but this year I wanted to challenge myself in a new way—by stepping into the role of director.
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At first, I didn’t realise how hard choosing a play would be. I went back and forth between three different options before finally settling on A Midsummer Night’s Dream. What drew me to it was the mix of comedy, romance, and just a hint of chaos and conflict—basically, everything I love about Shakespeare in one play.
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Deciding which scenes to focus on was tough. I wanted to include elements that would entertain the audience but also show off the talents of my cast. Choosing actors for each role was probably the biggest challenge. There are so many talented people involved in our Shakespeare group, and I wanted to be thoughtful about matching each role to the person. I looked back at previous productions and paid close attention to everyone’s personality and stage presence to help me decide.
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One of my favourite parts of the whole process was working with my cast. It was incredible watching them bring their characters to life and seeing my vision slowly take shape on stage. The rehearsals were filled with laughter, creativity, and a few surprising moments that made the play even better.
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Taking on the role of director gave me a whole new appreciation for the work that happens behind the scenes. I learned so much, and I’m really proud of what we created together. If anyone’s thinking about directing next year—I say go for it. You never know what you’re capable of until you try something new.
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St James & Opera House Visit - Year 11 Drama
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Our Year 11 Drama students travelled to Wellington for a historic theatre tour of two of the capital’s most iconic performance venues: the St James Theatre and the Wellington Opera House. The trip was an exciting opportunity for students to explore behind the scenes of these grand spaces — from the dressing rooms and fly towers to the intricate rigging systems and hidden staircases.
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The tour brought to life many of the concepts we’ve been exploring in class, including theatre architecture, staging configurations, and the roles involved in professional productions. It was especially valuable for students to see how historical spaces are maintained and adapted for contemporary use, and how technical elements like lighting and sound are integrated into heritage theatres.
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The experience sparked great discussions and curiosity, with students asking thoughtful questions about performance history, design, and the logistics of putting on a large-scale show. It was a fantastic way to reinforce their classroom learning with real-world context, and to inspire them with the magic and legacy of theatre-making in Aotearoa.
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We’re hugely grateful to the staff at the theatres for sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm — and to the students for representing Wairarapa College so positively throughout the day.
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Congratulations to Nicole Miller who has won our social media competition for a double pass to Chicago.
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Wairarapa College Students Making a Difference Through SVA
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Wairarapa College is proud to be an SVA (Student Volunteer Army) school, where students can sign up and log their volunteer hours—whether at school or in the community—and work towards service awards that are a valuable addition to job applications and university scholarship CVs.
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We currently have 87 students involved in SVA, contributing through school-based service groups like EnAction, the 40 Hour Challenge, and SADD. Many have also given their time as sports coaches, referees, and leaders in the Arts.
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In the wider community, our students have helped with Daffodil Day and Child Cancer Society collections, supported the Kids TRYathlon, served through ATC, and volunteered in churches and local groups.
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SVA is a fantastic way to recognise the positive impact our rangatahi are already making. Please encourage your young person to reflect on how they’re serving others—or how they might get involved—and sign up to start logging their hours.
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Further details, including how to register, can be found below or by contacting our service student leaders.
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Waicol’s Got Lots of Talent
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Wairarapa College’s first-ever Waicol’s Got Talent was an absolute hit, with an incredible line-up of student performers showcasing talent across music, drama, and dance. Hosted by our vibrant MCs Katelin, Thea, and Jack, the afternoon was packed with energy, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
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From acoustic performances to show-stopping solos, a choir rendition of a Backstreet Boys classic, and even a dramatic tribute to Dune, every act brought something special to the stage. The grand finale featured the Waicol Dance Troupe with a high-energy Missy Elliott mash-up.
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After much deliberation, Zack Robinson took out the top spot with his truly standout juggling performance—congratulations, Zack!
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A huge thank you to everyone involved for making Waicol’s Got Talent such a success. We can’t wait to see what next year brings!
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World Book Character Day brought colour, laughter, and a little magic to our school as students and staff alike embraced the spirit of storytelling. From classic favourites to modern heroes, the effort and creativity on display was outstanding.
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Take a look at the photos below and enjoy the costumes and the energy that made the last day of Term 1 both fun and memorable!
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A reminder that we are using SchoolBridge as our new communication platform, replacing SchoolAppsNZ. Please discontinue the use of our old app.
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SchoolBridge is designed to make communication easier and more effective by providing a central sign-in point for both parents and students. It will allow for seamless access to important tools and information, all in one place.
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Key Features of SchoolBridge:
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Absence reporting and exit passes
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Permission slips and forms
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School calendar and event updates
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News and school-wide information
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Easy access to the School.Kiwi portal (previously KAMAR portal)
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How to Get Started with SchoolBridge:
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1. Visit our website at www.waicol.nz and click the LOG IN button on the homepage.
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2. Select your account type: Parent/Caregiver or Student.
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3. Students will sign in using their school Microsoft account details.
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4. Parents/Caregivers can sign in with the email address registered with the school. If your email is linked to a service like Apple, Google, Yahoo, Microsoft, or Facebook, you can use it for easy access.
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5. If your email address is not connected to one of these services, you can use the Magic Link option. This will send an email with a link that allows you to log in without needing a password.
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Download the SchoolBridge app by searching for it on the App Store or Google Play, or by scanning the QR code.
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Once installed, tap the app icon on your device and log in using the same details as the web version.
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The app will keep you signed in for convenience.
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SchoolBridge offers a more user-friendly and efficient experience for both families and students, allowing us to provide timely updates, manage forms and permissions, and keep everyone informed about school activities.
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We encourage all families to download and set up SchoolBridge before the start of the school year to ensure you’re ready to stay connected.
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If you have any questions or need help getting started, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
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Term 2 Events
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6 May Whānau Teacher Evening 2
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8 May WaiCol Cross Country
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15 - 18 May School Production - Chicago
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16 May InterCol Cross Country
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28 May Napier Boys High School Exchange
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2 June King's Birthday- school closed
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3 June Teacher Only Day - school closed
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12 June Wairarapa College Open Evening
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14 June National Cross Country
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20 June Matariki - school closed
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27 June LEAD reports, House Singing , RockQuest, End of Term 2
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Come along and watch an engaging and thought-provoking documentary called ‘Seen: The film.’ This film helps to shed light and opens up an important conversation about connection, attachment, and the emotional needs of our children. This documentary shines a light on the deep impact of being truly seen and understood.
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It’s more than just a film—it’s a chance to be part of a movement toward greater understanding, healing, and connection.
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