Finishing the Term with Pride: Go DIO!
As we reach the end of the term, it is hard not to reflect on what has truly been a term to remember- and the last two weeks have certainly condensed this sense of pride and excitement.
Most recently, we have celebrated the outstanding success of our students at Summer Tournament Week. Over the past ten days, our girls have represented the school with distinction across a wide range of sports. It has been a pleasure to see not only their competitive spirit, but to also watch them on the sidelines, cheering them on and celebrate their shared spirit.
While there have been many successes worth celebrating, what has stood out most is the collective commitment to excellence and to one another. Time and again, I have received messages from across the country commenting not just on results, but on the respect, positivity, and sportsmanship shown by our teams. This speaks volumes about the character of our young women.
While our incredible Maadi results made national headlines, every one of our girls and teams performed superbly. After ten days of enthusiastic sideline support, I have definitely lost my voice which, for someone rarely short of words, is quite the achievement!
For those wanting a deeper insight into this remarkable week, I encourage you to read the special feature emailed out on Tuesday, which captures the full scope of our Summer Tournament achievements.
Earlier this week, we also gathered for a very different, yet equally inspiring celebration – the Celebration of Sound concert. This showcase was an extraordinary array of musical talent within our school, and what an unforgettable journey it was. The audience was treated to a rich and diverse programme that highlighted not only technical skill, but also the passion and courage required to perform.
One of the judges captured it perfectly: “You know you are truly inspired when it makes you want to go home and write music.”
For me, it took me back to special memories; Isabella Rose’s rendition of Once Upon a December was simply captivating. Her performance transported many of us back to the magic of childhood, and for me personally, it brought back memories of watching that film for the first time with my own daughter.
In contrast, Milla Allen’s electric guitar performance of Fade to Black was equally powerful, evoking a different kind of nostalgia and energy – I was right back to my teen years. It was a rockstar performance complete with a black, lightning shaped guitar.
Each performer contributed something unique, and together they created an evening that celebrated the breadth of talent within our school.
Celebrating musically was also a group of exceptional jazz musicians who competed on Tuesday at the Wright Family Foundation 48th National Youth Jazz Competition in Tauranga. Even before the results were announced, their performance had already made us immensely proud, with many of us tuning in on YouTube and being swept up in the energy, confidence, and sheer joy they brought to the stage. It is now a real pleasure to share the wonderful news that their efforts have been recognised with a bronze placing – an outstanding achievement and a testament to their talent, commitment, and spirit.
My sincere thanks go to our Music team, whose dedication and expertise made the evening and the Jazz competition so memorable.
With excitement and sadness, Jacqueline Smith, our Director of Boarding, will be leaving us at the end of Week One, Term Two to take up an exciting opportunity in the Bay of Plenty within the tertiary sector. Jackie has been an integral part of our community for many years, serving in a range of roles including Deputy Principal, and most recently leading our boarding with care, integrity, and dedication. She has been a steadfast support to students and staff alike, and a true role model of all that Waikato Dio stands for. We thank Jackie for her significant contribution to the life of our school and wish her every success as she moves into her new role, where she will be shaping and supporting future educators across Aotearoa.
After several years of closure, I am thrilled to share an exciting update on the Cherrington building! A cornerstone of our school’s history, Cherrington has been at the heart of countless memories for generations of students, serving many roles over the years. Now, a new chapter begins, and we are delighted to outline the next steps in its journey. Please read more in the attached PDF to discover how we are honouring its rich legacy while imagining an inspiring future for this beloved part of our school.
As we move into the Easter break, there is also space for rest, reflection, and renewal. Easter holds deep significance in the Christian calendar, reminding us of hope, sacrifice, and new life. It is a time to pause and reconnect with what matters most – our family, faith, and the simple rhythms that sustain us.
As it is written in John 11:25, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.”
This message of hope sits at the heart of the season and offers a powerful reminder of renewal and possibility.
I wish all members of our community a safe, restful, and joyful Easter break. May it be a time of renewal and connection, and I look forward to all that Term Two will bring.
Ngaa manaakitanga,
Angee Robertson
Key Dates to pop in your Diary
Term 2
Week 1:
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Monday 20 April – First day of Term 2
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Tuesday 21 April – Peforming Arts Trip Return Home
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22-24 April – Year 11 Marae Camp
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24-26 April – Boarding EXEAT Weekend
Week 2:
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Monday 27 April – ANZAC Day Observed
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Wednesday 29 April – Year 11-13 Learning Conferences, Hall 3.00-6.00pm
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Friday 1 May – EARLY FINISH. Year 11-13 Learning Conferences, Hall 3.00-6.00pm
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Saturday 2 May – College Day Premier Football Tournament, St Peter’s Cambridge
Attachments
- Introducing the Cherrington Project PDF, 152.4 KB