The Dio Difference: Grounded in Belonging, Leadership and Purpose
Starting off with our Poowhiri, Week 2 was marked with a strong and heartening sense of momentum across our campus. The sounds of learning, laughter and connection have well and truly returned, and it has been a genuine pleasure to see our students settling back into routines with confidence and purpose. These early weeks matter as they embed and strengthen our tone and culture; and right now, it is one of engagement, optimism and belonging.
As mentioned in my communication last week, there is something deeply affirming about a school community coming back together after the summer break. For our returning students, it is a continuation of a journey; for our new students and families, it marks the beginning of one.
One of the great joys of these early weeks has been seeing every classroom full and alive with learning. A key part of my day is taking time to visit. One of my favourite moments this week was observing teachers thoughtfully guiding students through “getting to know you” activities, goal setting, and shared reflections about hopes for the year ahead. These intentional beginnings create a sense of safety, purpose, and belonging.
Relationships are foundational to learning, particularly in girls’ education. Clear and consistent research tells us that girls learn best when they feel known, valued, and connected. Taking time to build trust, establish expectations, and nurture connection is not time away from learning; it is essential to it. It was heartening to see this so clearly reflected in classrooms across the school as we begin the year together.
This week also invites us to pause and reflect as we approach Waitangi Day. This significant day in our national story calls us to remember the promises of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. As an Anglican school in Aotearoa, the partnership is central to how we live out our faith. It calls us to recognise and respect the mana of all, to listen with humility, and to work together to create an inclusive environment. The Scripture reminds us of these in Psalm 85:10:
“Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other.”
These words speak powerfully to our responsibility as people to seek justice, to show tolerance, and to approach our relationships and life with humility, openness and most importantly with love.
Part of this commitment and responsibility is our ongoing relationship with Tainui here in the Waikato. You may have noticed how Dio spells these common words: Poowhiri, Te Reo Maaori, and whaanau, and wondered why we use double vowels.
When the first printing press arrived from England, Tainui was the first major iwi to print publications. As the press came without a macron, Tainui began using double vowels to elongate vowel sounds, and this became the formal spelling convention. Today, while other iwi have adopted macrons, we continue to honour this Tainui tradition in our spelling as a sign of respect and partnership.
Looking ahead, the coming weeks are filled with other meaningful connections that reflect the breadth and depth of life at Dio.
On Monday 9 February, we will gather as a school community for our Commissioning Service, formally welcoming new staff and commissioning our prefects for the year ahead. This is always a special occasion, one that reminds us that leadership is not about status or title, but about service. At Dio, we speak often of servant leadership: leadership that listens, that lifts others, and that acts with courage and care.
The rhythm of the term continues with other important moments of reflection and celebration. Ash Wednesday will soon invite us into a season of contemplation and renewal. This sits beautifully alongside the more energetic highlights of the term, including our Athletics and School Swimming Sports, where House spirit, determination and camaraderie will be on full display. These events are about far more than competition; they are about participation, encouragement and pride in contributing to something bigger than oneself. I look forward to seeing our Houses come together with colour, enthusiasm and unmistakable Dio spirit!
As we approach the Waitangi Day weekend, I wish all our families a safe, restful and meaningful break. Thank you for the positive and generous way you have supported the start of the year.
“Waiho i te toipoto, kaua i te toiroa- Let us keep close together, not far apart”
Ngaa manaakitanga,
Angee Robertson
Key Events Next Week
Week 3:
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Tuesday 10 February – Parents’ Association Meeting, Staffroom 6.00pm
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Tuesday 10 & Thursday 12 February – Junior Futsal Trials, Gym 3.30-5.30pm
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Tuesday 10 February – Senior Water Polo Trials, Waterworld 7.30-9pm
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13-15 February – Boarding In Weekend
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14-15 February – Junior Rowing Regatta, Lake Karapiro
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Sunday 15 February – Senior Water Polo Trials, Waterworld 5.30-7pm
Upcoming Dates to pop in your Diary
Week 4:
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Tuesday 17 February – Shrove Tuesday
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Wednesday 18 February – Ash Wednesday
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Thursday 19 February – Swimming Sports Day
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Friday 20 February – Year 9 Meet the Teacher Evening, Chapel 3.45-5pm and School Association Mix and Mingle, Cherrington Lawn 5.00-6.00pm
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Friday 20 February – Boarding Year 9 Whaanau Dinner, 6.00pm
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21-22 February – Winter Sports Trials (Football, Hockey & Netball)
Week 5:
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Wednesday 25 February – WSS Show Jumping Champs, Te Awamutu
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Thursday 26 February – Athletics Day
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Friday 27 February – Sunday 1 March – Boarding EXEAT Weekend
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Sunday 1 March – International Department BBQ, School Pool 4.00-6.30pm
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Sunday 1 March – NISS Dressage Carnival, St Peters
