“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” – William Butler Yeats

As we begin Term 1, we warmly welcome all our returning families and extend a very special welcome to those who are joining Waikato Diocesan School for Girls for the first time in 2026. 

The beginning of a new school year always carries a sense of hope and possibility, and it is a privilege to share this moment with such a vibrant and diverse community. As Yeats so beautifully wrote; education can come in many forms, but success can be measured in its ability to inspire. 

Over the summer break, our Property, Catering, Boarding and Administration teams have once again worked tirelessly to prepare the school for the year ahead. From classrooms to gardens, to bedrooms and cooking, every detail reflects the care and pride they take in our campus. Dio is always beautifully maintained, and it is genuinely a privilege to work and learn each day in such stunning grounds. Our teachers too have used this time to reconnect with their own learning and development of lessons and units. With school terms being tightly condensed, teachers will often use the time to develop new content and prepare for the new year ahead. 

Extra-curricular training and preparation for the summer season also continued. Whether it was through holiday training programmes, camps, or practices – people were still busy. My sincere thanks to the Dio staff whose efforts often happen quietly but make a profound difference to the daily and extra-curricular life of the school. 

There are two staff members who will be moving on over the next few weeks. The first is Catherine Brown, a member of the Social Sciences and Dance team and the second is Darlene Karena, our Director of International Students and Extra Curriculum. We thank them both for the generosity of spirit and professionalism they have brought to their roles, and we wish them every happiness and success in their next roles. 

Like many families, my own enjoyed some precious time together over the holidays, with an opportunity to explore the sights and delights of the Waikato region. While the summer sunshine did not always cooperate with our plans, one particular highlight was visiting Raglan for the very first time. Even under moody skies, Raglan has a distinctive charm – its creative energy, rugged coastline, and sense of community are immediately felt. We wandered through local pottery studios, admired handcrafted pieces that seemed to capture the essence of the coast itself, and sampled beautiful local honey, each jar telling its own story of place. It was a reminder that some experiences are made richer, not poorer, by a little rain and a slower pace. 

One unexpected gift of unsettled weather was the chance to slow down and read. I have always loved reading, and in our family, books are something we share. Many a moment was passed by sharing favourite lines, memorable moments, or lively opinions (and debates) about characters long after the final page was turned. I would like to offer a special thank you to our Librarian for organising the summer reading packs. All three books I received were outstanding. In particular, The Secret War of Julia Child by Diana R. Chambers and one I would have not naturally chosen on my own. This book was a fascinating blend of fiction and historical truth. Like many, I had no idea that the beloved and legendary chef had served in military intelligence; it was a wonderful reminder that lives, like stories, often hold unexpected depth.

One family reading project currently underway in our household is a re-reading of The Chronicles of Narnia, prompted by the excitement of a new Narnia series soon to be released on Netflix. This has sparked lively debate in the Robertson family. While I remain fiercely loyal to The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, most of my family prefer The Magician’s Nephew. Despite each of us trying to convince the others which book was better, an agreement was NOT reached (we agreed to disagree) but perhaps that is the point. A person’s choice is their own. Each choice reflects something about their own personality, their values, previous experiences, perhaps even their aspirations – but it is their own. 

We value your choice in us and empower our students to make their own choices here at Dio. We want every Dio student to be nurtured in an environment that gives them the confidence to be themselves, the bravery to grow, and the assurance that they belong.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9

If you are returning – welcome back! 

If you are joining us for the first time- welcome!

May 2026 be one of connection, curiosity, service, and joy. 

Ngaa mihi nui,

Angee Robertson 

Key Events Next Week

Week 2

• Monday 2 February – Whole school returns.

• Monday 2 February – New student and staff Poowhiri, Chapel 8.45am.

• Tuesday 3 & Thursday 5 February – Senior Futsal Trials, Gym 3.30-5.30pm

• Friday 6 February – Waitangi Day.

• 6-8 February – Boarding EXEAT Weekend.

Upcoming Dates to pop in your Diary

Week 3: 

• Tuesday 10 February – Parents’ Association Meeting, Staffroom 6.00pm

• Tuesday 10 & Thursday 12 February – Junior Futsal Trials, Gym 3.30-5.30pm

• Tuesday 10 February – Senior Water Polo Trials, Waterworld 7.30-9pm

• 13-15 February – Boarding In Weekend

• 14-15 February – Junior Rowing Regatta, Lake Karapiro

• Sunday 15 February – Senior Water Polo Trials, Waterworld 5.30-7pm

Week 4:

• Tuesday 17 February – Shrove Tuesday

• Wednesday 18 February – Ash Wednesday

• Thursday 19 February – Swimming Sports Day

• 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

• Friday 20 February – Boarding Year 9 Whaanau Dinner, 6.00pm

• 21-22 February – Winter Sports Trials (Football, Hockey & Netball)