29 Jan 2026

School and Oroua Cluster Schools' Triathlon

Our school and cluster schools' triathlon events are approaching quickly. Due to a visit from Life Education (Tim and Harold) in Week 3, we have made a slight change to the usual structure of these events.

School Practice Event: Friday, 13th February (Week 2). We will hold our school practice event on this day. We would greatly appreciate helpers for this session. All students must have their bikes and helmets at school by 9:00 am.

Note: Bikes will be locked away securely at school over the weekend.

School Triathlon Event: Monday, 16th February (Week 3) Our formal school triathlon will be held on Monday. We require many parent volunteers to make this event a success. If the weather is poor, our postponement date will be Tuesday, 17th February.

Oroua Cluster Schools' Triathlon: Friday, 20th February This event will be held at Apiti School. Please note that parents are responsible for transporting their children, bikes, and helmets to and from Apiti School.

Safety is a priority for this event so please consider the following safety checklist-

 
The "M-Check" Bike Safety Guide
The "M-Check" is a simple way to follow the frame of the bike from front to back to ensure everything is tight and functional.

-Tyres: Are they pumped up firm? Check for any cracks in the rubber or "balding" tread.
-Brakes: Pull the levers—do they stop the wheels immediately? Ensure the brake pads aren't worn down to the metal.
-Chain: Is it clean and lightly oiled? It shouldn't be rusty or sagging.
-Pedals & Cranks: Give the pedals a spin. They should move freely without wobbling.
-Seat Height: Is the seat secure? It should be at a height where the child’s leg has a very slight bend when the pedal is at its lowest point.
-Handlebars: Ensure the grips aren't sliding off and that the bars don't twist independently of the front wheel.
 
The Helmet "2-V-1" Rule
A helmet only works if it stays in place during an impact. Use this simple rule to check the fit:

-The "2" (Forehead): The helmet should sit level on the head, about two fingers above the eyebrows. It shouldn't be tilted back.
-The "V" (Ears): The side straps should form a clean "V" shape just below the earlobes.
-The "1" (Chin): Only one finger should fit between the chin and the strap. If the child opens their mouth wide, the helmet should pull down slightly.
-Condition: Check for any cracks in the plastic shell or the internal foam. If the helmet has ever been in a significant crash, it must be replaced.

If you are available to help with our school events (either the practice or the competition) or if you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Symonds, symondsa@waitunawest.school.nz. 

Further information will follow closer to the date.

 

 

29 Jan 2026

 School Vegetable Garden Competition Judging

Judging for students who grew their gardens over the summer will take place on Wednesday, 4 February—the second day back at school.

If your garden does not require judging (we know things happen e.g., rabbits, sheep, etc.), please email Mrs Symonds, symondsa@waitunawest.school.nz, by Friday, 30 January so we can remove it from the list.

Once we have the final list, we will send home a judging schedule and more information about the day.

Thank you

29 Jan 2026

Hi everyone

Our first day of Term 1 isn't far away now. We are looking forward to seeing you!

• Please find the 2026 class lists attached to this notice.
• The first day of school is Tuesday 3rd Feb.
• Swimming lessons start on Tuesday - so please ensure all children have their togs/towel and a set of goggles. Swimming is part of our learning curriculum so it is essential that all children swim during their class lesson times. If your child is unwell or injured, please send a note with them excusing them from the day's lesson.
• We will be hosting a parent BBQ early in Term 1 - more details will be shared in our first newsletter (next week).

Until then - have a lovely weekend ahead and I look forward to day one.

Thanks, Finn

Class-Lists-2026.pdf