Craighead Diocesan School
PRINCIPAL – LINDY GR AHAM
GIVEN THE CHALLENGES THAT
COVID-19 threw at all of us last year it was a pleasure for us to complete the 2020 school year together. It would be easy to go back to ‘the way things were’, but the world as we know it has changed forever. What did we at Craighead learn from our 2020 experiences?
First, that student and staff wellbeing is of paramount importance. Being in lockdown highlighted this. Our Whānau groups not only came into their own, but provided vital connections and a sense of belonging, despite the physical separation imposed upon us by the pandemic. Our Senior students provided leadership by keeping in touch via TikTok, Hangouts and Instagram, providing some muchneeded light entertainment. Upon returning to school, the post-lockdown House Jump Jam competition was a highlight – motiving us through the winter months and engendering a healthy competitive team spirit.
Secondly, we learned that we must continue to be proactive, resilient, and adaptable. While we were thrust into a hitherto unknown situation last March, we were able to use our strengths to learn and grow. What an incredible learning experience – learning remotely, using online platforms. Staff became both learners and teachers, as did our students and parents. Together, we became proficient in using the various technologies available today. How quickly our ‘learningfocused’ conversations have adapted and changed. Words such as Zoom, Zui, and Google classroom now seem such a natural part of everyday language!
Finally, we learned that out of adversity comes creativity. For example, the popular Craighead Wellbeing Instagram, developed during lockdown, now has an international following. We invite you to ‘follow’ us! Another example is our new Athlete Enrichment Programme for selected Year 12 students for 2021 – for students to grow as all-round athletes, empowering them with the tools to lead balanced and active lives beyond school. As well as preparation, training and motivation, this exciting initiative will offer sessions on nutrition and sports psychology, supported by mentors and specialists from all around New Zealand.
We are off to a vibrant start to the school year. Building on the lessons of last year, we are ready to learn and to thrive. Relishing being physically together, yet conscious that a resurgence of Covid in New Zealand is always a possibility, Head Students Charlotte Mulder and Rosie Paul have chosen ‘Better Together’ as their theme.
We are confident that, for those looking for a progressive, inclusive values-based Christian education in the Anglican tradition, Craighead can provide a unique education for your daughters.