31 Jul 2026

Hello Everyone,

The Board of Trustees has formed an Appointments Committee to manage the appointment of our next Principal. 

The Committee met on Tuesday night to discuss the process and timeframes for this appointment. Given the point we are at in the school year, we are looking to appoint an Acting Principal for Term 4 while we complete the recruitment process, with our new Principal beginning in 2027.  

The Committee feels it is important to hear from the school community about what we value in a school leader. This information will help form the basis of the documentation contained in our application pack. Next week we will be sending out a digital survey to help gather your feedback. 

We appreciate your patience and support as we work our way through this process.

Kind Regards,

Regan O'Brien
Presiding Member - WWS BoT

28 Jul 2026

It’s time to organise our fat lamb scratchie raffle. This is a fantastic and fun money maker for our school and community. Last year we raised well over $2500. 

Could all families please donate $10 or more of instant kiwi scratchies (from a lotto kiosk). These are to be sent into the office by 14th August. 

 

We understand it’s a busy time for everyone. If you are unable or have an issue with buying scratchies you can alternatively transfer money into the C&S account (details below) with your name and scratchie as a reference and we can buy these on your behalf. If this is an option for you could you please contact me, so we know.  0212373755 

Thank you to all families 

Acct details;  

Waituna West Community and School

03-0626-0632616-000

 

Ethan 

22 Jul 2026

Hello everyone - Kia ora koutou,

It is with both gratitude and regret that the Board of Trustees announces Finn’s resignation from the role of Principal at Waituna West School.

While Finn had envisioned leading our school for a number of years to come, our forward planning for 2027 highlighted a shifting focus for the principal role at our school—one requiring a significantly higher teaching component. While this doesn't fully align with Finn's long-term career aspirations, he leaves grateful for the time spent here.

The board would like to thank Finn for his efforts over the last 12 months in leading our school as Principal. Though it is naturally disappointing for us, we are grateful for the work he has done to ensure our school is fit for the future. The board has enjoyed Finn’s fresh approach and enthusiasm.

Finn wishes to pass on his warmest thanks to everyone. He is genuinely sad to be leaving and wants to emphasize how much he has cherished the Waituna West community, our incredible students, and the incredible support you have all shown him throughout his tenure.

Finn’s last day on the job will be October 11th, 2026, and we look forward to celebrating his time with us before he sets off on his next step.

The board will meet next week to discuss arrangements for Term 4 and a timeline for the recruitment of our next school leader. We realise that it may feel unsettling, but fundamentally we have a great school, with excellent, stable teachers and support staff, and a strong community of supportive school families.  

Kind Regards – Nga mihi,

 

Regan O’Brien

Presiding Member

Waituna West School Board of Trustees

30 Jun 2026

Fat Lamb Update

Hi Everyone,

We have some dates for your diary.

The collection day for lambs will be Sunday 30th August at the Hare’s family farm which is just a few kms up the road from the school. 

The prizegiving evening will be Saturday 19th September at the hall. 

Richard will be getting in touch soon with the sponsorship team, to get started on that process. We are fortunate to have so many amazing sponsors.

Regarding the other teams, a committee member will be in touch with each team member when it’s time to get started on that particular job. If you’re a new family and you haven’t been involved in the Fat Lamb before, then rest assured, it’s a team effort and you’ll be given guidance by a committee member on how you can help. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to give Ritchard (027) 257 4848 or Rebekah (021) 710 223 a call (or flick us a message).

Looking forward to hopefully seeing lots of you at the Matariki celebration tomorrow. 

All best

Ritchard Hare                                     Rebekah O’Brien
FL Lead Coordinator                            C&S Chair
 
 

22 Jun 2026

Community-L0-School-AGM-Meeting-Minutes-10-06-26-PDF.pdf