Leading Excellence in Intermediate School Education
Belmont
Intermediate
School
Newsletter No 5 - 2 April 2015
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
It’s hard to believe that we are about to finish term 1. I trust that you took the opportunity to attend the student / teacher learning
conferences held on Tuesday 24 March. As always, should you wish to discuss your child’s progress at any stage throughout the year,
please contact the classroom teacher.
Both the girls and boys Active Cup cricket teams played their final “round robin” games against Kristin and TNIS last week. Both teams
have progressed through to the quarter-finals, which will take place early in term 4. I have been impressed by the quality of both teams
and their teamwork. Thank you to Bruce Warner and the large number of parents that have provided encouragement and support
throughout the term. You may be interested to see some of the fantastic photo’s online: www.belmontint.school.nz/galleries Throughout term 1 there has been a wonderful atmosphere and tone permeating through our school. As a community of learners we
have had a clear sense of purpose, with an emphasis on the academics, values, goal setting and work ethic. During Monday morning
assemblies we have focused on our values of respect, integrity, creativity, courage, excellence and humility. We have used this forum to
tell stories that encapsulate one or two of our values, often using quotes, youtube clips and articles from a variety of publications. We
have also celebrated and recognised a large number of students who have displayed these values both inside and outside the
classroom. Our students are responding extremely well and thinking about their actions, personal interactions and the ways in which
they approach difficult situations. We actively encourage students taking responsibility for themselves, risk taking and making the right
decision.
The beginning of term 2 will be highlighted by the introduction of our ‘Electives’ programme. You would have received a letter from Mr
Boniface and I, clearly outlining our purpose, rationale and proposed organisation of the programme. I encourage you to read the
content and discuss the process with your son/daughter. You will notice that the range of ‘Electives’ is outstanding with a focus on
encouraging our learners to pursue a passion or interest that they may not have been exposed to before. Thank you to Mr Boniface for
his co-ordination and implementation of this programme.
Our joint cycle initiative with TGS is taking shape with a large number of children signing up. This programme will gain pace next term
with the group beginning their training within our school grounds. My thanks to Jan and Blair McPheat, Leanne Wintle, Ian Lochhead,
Adrian Little and our own Mrs Hay for their combined energy, passion and effort in getting this programme running for our students and
parents. It is an exciting development and one that will benefit both schools.
Last night I had the pleasure of watching some of our amazingly talented students perform in Oliver at the Bruce Mason Theatre. The
whole production was excellent and it certainly was a lovely way to spend an evening and a great start to the holidays.
I trust that you enjoy your Easter break and I look forward to another purposeful, exciting and engaging term at Belmont Intermediate
School.
Warm regards,
Nick Hill
Principal
respect, excellence, humility, courage, creativity, integrity
Leading Excellence in Intermediate School Education
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
THURSDAY 2 APRIL
END OF TERM 1, SCHOOL CLOSES AT 3PM
FRIDAY 3 APRIL
GOOD FRIDAY - SCHOOL CLOSED
MONDAY 20 APRIL
START OF TERM 2 - SCHOOL RE-OPENS
MONDAY 27 APRIL
ANZAC DAY OBSERVED - SCHOOL CLOSED
TUESDAY 28 APRIL
YR 7 SOCCER (BOYS) ZONE DAY
THURSDAY 30 APRIL
YR 8 SOCCER (BOYS) ZONE DAY
MONDAY 11 MAY
6.30PM BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
MONDAY & TUESDAY 11/12 MAY
YR 7 VISION SCREENING (YR 8 CATCH-UPS)
THURSDAY 14 MAY
7PM PUBERTY CHANGE EVENING WITH ATTITUDE
For a full comprehensive and up to date calendar, please check our website
http://www.belmontint.school.nz/calendar/
WANTED
If you have any old remnants of fabric, unwanted patterns, buttons, zips, cottons that you no longer want or use, we would love it for
one of our new electives. If you have anything you can donate, please drop it off to the food technology room, all donations
gratefully received. Thank you.
New World Dockets for Housepoints
We will continue collecting New World supermarket (Devonport only) for housepoints from the start of Term 2. The newly appointed
School Leaders will tally up the winning dockets and announce the housepoint winners at assemblies.
Brass Group
Our Year 8 brass group enjoyed hearing two champion brass players last Friday afternoon, 27 March, in the Takapuna Grammar
School hall. They were the NZ national euphonium champion player, Ricky McDonnell, and a cornet player from Australia.
We are keen to start a Year 7 brass group in Term 2 and are fortunate to have Mr Ted Dawson, brass teacher at TGS, available to
give lessons on Fridays. Several Year 7 students have expressed an interest in learning a brass instrument. If your son or daughter
is keen to learn please contact Mrs Norwell via email [email protected]
BIS introduces a new school jacket
BIS is launching a new design school jacket soon. The new jacket is made from a new water resistant fabric and has a hood. It is
warmer than the old jacket, so perfect for the winter months. The new jacket will be available from Yarntons in Devonport, from the
end of April, cost $85 each.
School Donation
Thank you to all of the families who have already paid their donation. · For one child, the donation is set at $375 with a discount of $25 if paid by the last day of Term 1 of the same year.
· For two children from the same family, the donation is set at $700 with a discount of $50 if paid by the last day of Term
1 of the same year.
If it is not possible to make payment in a lump sum, term-by-term payments may be made. Eftpos, Visa and Bankcard facilities are
available for your convenience. To make an online payment, please see our website for details http://www.belmontint.school.nz/
make-payment/
The money donated by parents helps supplement the school’s operational grant received from the Ministry of Education. It
enables us to continue to provide additional curriculum resources, which assist us in establishing the best possible learning
experiences for your children. Parental support is essential to achieve quality of education for our children. An early payment would
be appreciated.
respect, excellence, humility, courage, creativity, integrity
Leading Excellence in Intermediate School Education
Science/Technology Fair & Science Roadshow
Science/Technology Fair
Please remember to ask your child about the student science booklet that can be downloaded from the school website at
www.belmontint.school.nz/administration or http://bisscienceclub.weebly.com and familiarise yourself with it’s contents.
Please contact me if you have any queries/questions at [email protected] You may wish your child to do their
testing during the Easter holidays, as all investigations will need to be completed by week 7 of Term 2, to allow teachers time to
mark projects before they are put on display.
Belmont Intermediate will be displaying all projects at the Science/Technology Fair on 17 & 18 June in the hall and information
centre.
ALL students need a soft cover 1B4 excercise book to use as a log book. This will be used as a working diary for the duration of
the science/technology fair. Please ask your child whether they need to purchase one. Boards will be available in early Term 2.
Science Roadshow
The science roadshow will be on at Belmont Intermediate on Thursday and Friday 4 & 5 June.
The whole school will be encouraged to be involved in this great opportunity.
More details and costs will be provided in early Term 2.
Is your child interested in running?
Come along to the Belmont Running Club
We had a great turn out last week, so if you are a keen runner we would love for you to come along and join in the group. We meet
every Thursday morning at 7.45am at BIS. We run down to Narrowneck, doing some exercises down at the beach and run back to
school for 8.30am. A great way to keep your fitness level up for other sports you love to play.
If your child is keen to come and join us, please email Michelle at [email protected]
Students Calling Mobile Phones
We have had an increasing number of students wanting to call parents on their mobile phones, or parents wanting their children to
return calls to a mobile. Calling mobile phones costs BIS money, so we would ask that students bring 50c to pay for the call, or pay the
following day. Your co-operation with this would be appreciated, thank you.
Individual and Class Photos
These were taken on Tuesday 17 March. Individualised ordering envelopes were sent home with the students on Friday 27 March, with
package and pricing details. Orders close on 24 April 2015. You can order photos either using the envelope or online at
www.schoolmemories.co.nz Photos will be delivered to the school on or around 9 May 2015.
WANTED in the Artroom
If you have any old phone books, newspapers, clean soft drink cans, we would like them in the artroom. Please either drop them off, or
email [email protected] if you need them picked up. Many thanks
PTA News
We have had a great first term and the team are already working on activities for Terms 2, 3 and 4 already. If you didn’t manage to get to
the super fun Adults Quiz Night held last Friday – no fear, we are running another one in Term 3 so stay tuned.
As you know we simply cannot support the school running our events throughout the year without parent help so please consider getting
involved with at least ONE of our forthcoming activities taking place over the year and get the feel good factor from “paying it back”. The
Black Caps can’t perform to their best without a strong team behind them...so come on, have some fun and be part of the team. We are looking forward to producing another successful Orienteering Event to be held in June next term and need a large group of
helpers – if you can help in any way even if it is donating something for the tombola and raffle please contact
[email protected]. Coming up this year we have a disco, movie night, adults quiz night, and an auction. Our next PTA meeting on April 21st 7pm at the
school staffroom is dedicated to organising the Orienteering Day so come along and be part of a team. We hope to see some Year 7
parents turning up to this meeting, because at this stage we have had NO Year 7 parents putting their hand up for PTA.
Wishing you and your family a safe and happy Easter and school holiday break, BIS PTA
respect, excellence, humility, courage, creativity, integrity
Leading Excellence in Intermediate School Education
SPORTS NEWS
Hockey
Hockey teams have been selected and will be announced shortly. We need a coach for a team so if you, or anyone you know, may be
interested in coaching a team please contact Nathan Farquharson on 4894878 ext 150 or email [email protected]
Permission Slips
If you are returning a slip to school for a sports event PLEASE fully complete the slip, even if you are not able to offer help for the
event. Any updates for events are sent by email - if an email address is not supplied updates can not be sent to you. Thank you for
your help.
Coaches
We are looking for coaches for various sports teams. If you or anyone you know may be keen to coach a team for us please contact
Nathan Farquharson on 4894878 ext 150 or email [email protected] Coaches needed for water polo, basketball, netball
and hockey. If you have experience with other sports we would still like to hear for you for coaching.
Volleyball
Online registration for volleyball is now open. You can find this on the sports page of the school website www.belmontint.school.nz/
sports
Cricket
We have had a very successfully start to the Active Post Cup (boys) and Shield (girls). Both teams have won all there games. The girls
have only lost one wicket on 3 games and scored 424 runs off 48 overs. Some standout performances in the boys were Milo Browns
unbeaten 79 against Kristin and Olly Chambers bowling (4 overs, 3 Maidens, 1 Run for 5 Wickets) against Albany Junior High School.
North Island Ski Champs
The 2015 North Island Intermediate School Ski Champs are scheduled to take place in the week Monday 31st August to Friday 4th
September at the Whakapapa Ski Field, Ruapehu.
Belmont Intermediate would like to enter two ski teams into the competition this year – one girls and one boys team, with each team
comprising 5 competitors. Places are limited as schools are restricted to two team entries and therefore some ski racing experience is
preferable. Trials may be necessary depending on the level of interest.
The cost of this event is likely to include an entry fee of approximately $60 per child, plus the cost of ski passes, accommodation and
travel costs. We are hoping to secure accommodation at one of the ski clubs on the mountain. This event is organised and run by
parents of the school and therefore we request that an adult accompanies their child if they wish to take part.
If you are interested in participating in this event, please contact Jenny on 021 733 788 ([email protected]) or Rhonda on 022
612 9540 ([email protected]) For more information, the website for this event is located at
http://www.nipsskichamps.org..nz/
‘Oliver’ - a raging success!!!
Congratulations to all our talented
BIS students who were in the cast for
the TGS production of Oliver at the
Bruce Mason Theatre. After many
gruelling hours of rehearsals, the
shows were an outstanding success.
It was great to see you all enjoying
being par t of the first class
performance.
Special
congratulations to our highly
talented Lauren Towns, Rm 11, who
p l aye d t h e ro l e o f O l i ve r s o
professionally.
Your commitment
paid off. On stage your enthusiasm
was contagious.
Well done to you all for your
commitment and dedication, we are
so, so proud of you at BIS!
Check out awesome photos of Oliver online at
www.belmontint.school.nz/galleries
respect, excellence, humility, courage, creativity, integrity
Leading Excellence in Intermediate School Education
Belmont Intermediate Girls Cricket Team
The past 3 cricket games that the Belmont girl’s cricket team have played have been a huge success winning all games by a comfortable
score. The first game was against Murray’s Bay and all the girls were excited to get off to a good start chasing 67 and getting that score
in 8 overs. The star batswomen were Anna Browning and Libby Easterbrook with a partnership of 60 runs. For the bowling it was Anna
Browning, Leah Pank and Kennedy Scott all taking at least 1 wicket. Overall the game was a great performance by everyone and the girls
definitely deserved a win.
After a few weeks and a couple of cancellations BIS finally got to play their 2nd game against Henderson. Even though Belmont lost the
toss and ended up batting first, we went in to the 2nd half with a comfortable total of 168 runs for the loss of no wickets. Kelsey Myers
and Anna Browning both scored half centuries. After an excellent bowling performance Belmont restricted Henderson to a little over 80
runs with most of the team contributing with a wicket or 2.
TNIS was our next opponent and we beat them by 130 runs. Belmont batted first and scored an impressive 191 runs with Anna Browning
and Libby Easterbrook scoring half centuries, Ruby Worrall scoring 41 and Kelsey Myers scoring 38. When Belmont came out to bowl
they had their game faces on and were ready to have a great 2nd half taking the 1st wicket in just the 3rd over. This was a game where
players that hadn’t bowled a lot had a chance to prove themselves and did just that with Tayla Wheeler, Esther Allis and Stella Stiven all
taking impressive wickets in the dying overs of the game. In the end Belmont came out on top and had a great end to a great first half of
the competition.
By Kennedy Scott, Room 20
Check out some awesome photos of the girls in action, thanks to Gill Scott, on our
website gallery www.belmontint.school.nz/galleries
Electives at BIS
Belmont Intermediate School is very excited to announce we will be offering a new elective programme for our students. The schools
strategic plan is committed to delivering an irresistibly engaging curriculum, and implementation of the elective programme will enable
every student to select from a variety of engaging new areas.
Some of the options to be offered are Town Planning, Debating, Entrepreneurship, Website design, Japanese Manga Comics, School
Newspaper, Computer Coding, Outdoor design and construction, Sustainability, Yearbook and High Performance Sports Academy.
Students will select 3 electives, in no preferred order or rank, on Thursday 2nd April. We will endeavor to secure one of these options to
begin Elective 1. Students who have committed to either Mathex or JRock will be guaranteed either of their 2 choices for Elective 2. This
is to recognize and reward their commitment when representing Belmont Intermediate during Elective 1.
For full details of the Elective programme, materials required and associated costs, please refer to
http://www.belmontint.school.nz/teaching-learning/electives/
To download the letter sent home on 1 April, go to www.belmontint.school.nz/administration
respect, excellence, humility, courage, creativity, integrity
Leading Excellence in Intermediate School Education
Community News
Maths and English Tuition – Boost your Child’s confidence and education with NumberworksnWords specialists after school tuition.
We provide individualised instruction in Maths and English for students who are struggling to keep up and those bursting to race
ahead. Phone now for an assessment and introductory lesson. Phone 489-8388 or visit www.numberworksnwords.com for more
information.
Kristin School welcomes Aspire Scholars
The Ministry of Education Aspire Scholarships have been designed for students from low income families who would like to attend a
New Zealand private secondary school. The scholarship contributes up to $15,000 per year for private secondary school fees and up
to $1,500 per year for course related costs. (Kristin School currently waives any remaining tuition fees for Aspire Scholars.) For a
student to be eligible for these scholarships they must be entering Year 9 in 2016. Applications must be received by the Ministry of
Education National Office by 5pm on Friday 24 April 2015. For more information and for application forms please visit the MoE
website: www.minedu.govt.nz/NZEducation/EducationPolicies/Schools/Initiatives/AspireScholarship
* New * Art for Teens
@ Devonport Community House, Clarence Street.
Wednesdays 3.30pm - 6pm (upstairs artroom), $300 per 9 week term incl some materials and refreshments.
Tutor - Lucy Bucknall BFA Hons Contact - Lucy - 446 0389 [email protected] www.lucy-bucknall.co.nz
The "Magic Moments" family comedy magic show features performances by some of the top magicians in New Zealand! Magic and
illusion, comedy, ventriloquism, special guest performers and more!
The best value family entertainment in town - adults just $15 each, children just $10 each. Special family concession $50, save $10.
Saturday 11th of April : 2PM matinee, 7:30PM evening show. The venue is the lovely Rose Theatre, School Road Belmont, North
Shore.
School Holiday Computer Classes
For ages 5 - 16. New Minecraft classes. Create 3D Video Games, Learn to Program, Web Design, Animations, Video Editing and Build a
PC. For further information call Ed Brown on 488 0787 or www.grandtraining.co.nz
Piano tuition
It’s not too late to start learning the piano! Fun piano teacher, Sandy Lynch, ATCL Dip Piano Performance, based in Hauraki Corner.
Classical and/or modern piano styles explored (Cocktail Pianist at The Spencer Hotel, Takapuna) www.music-creations.co.nz Contact
[email protected] or ph 488-0343 / 021-256-1760
A great way to support our school
When you take out a homeloan with the ASB for over $150,000 before 30/6/15 we get $500 cash back! A awesome opportunity to
support BIS if you are thinking of taking out a mortgage.
respect, excellence, humility, courage, creativity, integrity
Leading Excellence in Intermediate School Education
DANCESPRITE's creator has extensive experience of delivering high-quality dance fitness programs in the community, in schools
and internationally. We use dance as a tool to encourage growth and development in areas of self-esteem, group-participation, selfexpression and performance. Instructors use a fusion of dance styles to encourage all participants to find a long-lasting love for
fitness, dance and music.
Participants will work towards being presenters at one of many charity dance-fitness events. The first will be Friday the 1st May at BIS
Hall. All proceeds go towards "Grandparents Raising Grandparents" non-profit trust. DANCESPRITE is for everyone, regardless of ability.
Classes start term 2, 28th April at BIS hall. Every Tuesday during term-time. Tween Jammers (10-13yrs): 3.30 - 4.15pm. $110 (11 week term)
Star Jammers (7-9yrs): 4.30 - 5.15pm. $110 (11 week term)
Dancesprite Fitness (Teen & Adult dance-fitness class): 6 - 7pm. Concession or casual fee. First class FREE.
Other classes are available in Devonport for 5yrs -13yrs.
Booking essential. For term fees or more information, please contact Kate:
E: [email protected] or P: 0220 874490.
To say thanks to all of you fabulous people for being such wonderful customers, we have included a $5 discount voucher below that can be
used this Easter and School Holidays (3rd - 19th of April 2015). All you need to do is either print it out and bring it along to the park with you,
or present the voucher on your smartphone once you arrive and you will receive $5 off per person! Please remember to book in as normal
using our online booking system, in order to avoid disappointment.
respect, excellence, humility, courage, creativity, integrity
Leading Excellence in Intermediate School Education
Holiday Programme - Monday 13th April to Friday 17th April, 2015
HIGHLIGHTS:
• Navy Day
• Maori Flax Weaving
• Movie-making
• Sushi & Smoothie chef challenge
• Pottery & Firing @ Devonport Ceramics
• Minecraft Seminar
• Dance Fitness
• Boxing/Kickboxing and Self-Defense Classes
• Healthy Eating, Games, Training & more!
KIDSPRITE; an energetic Holiday Programme developed for kids that love to be on the move! All activities are healthbased and are local, enabling children to further explore our colourful community.
Early bird rate for day or week bookings by 2nd April 2015. Ages 6 - 13 years, Times: 8.15am/8.30am – 4.30pm. For
brochure & bookings, contact Kate P:0220-874490. E: [email protected]
Carnival at Devonport Library - School Holidays - Topsy-turvy fun at Auckland Libraries
Pinata competition, winners chosen by public vote, entries by Friday 10 April to Devonport Library. Come and make
your own pinata at the library or at home and enter it into the competition. Winners presentation after our event on
Friday 17 April at 3pm. Find out more by visiting www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz or phone 09 301 0101.
EASTER HOLIDAY CAMP
The SMASH TENNIS Kids EASTER Tennis Camp is running again these School Holidays. Belmont Racquets Club, 133 Bayswater Ave, Bayswater. 9am-1pm, Tuesday 7th – Friday 10th April
& Monday 13th – Friday 17th April. EXTENDED HOURS & WEEKLY DISCOUNTS. visit www.smashtennis.co.nz to book online or contact Cathy 0274 276 274, [email protected] All ages
welcome.
respect, excellence, humility, courage, creativity, integrity