Photo File - Catch Ups: 

'Lest We Forget' is a common and important theme of ANZAC Day. I am proud that our teachers do a great job ensuring our children gain a basic understanding of the origins of ANZAC day and the sacrifices made by our ancestors and forbears who in so many cases, gave their lives for our freedom.

Room 13 children are proud of their ANZAC Day artwork.

Room 13 had an author focus last year, where children were encouraged to be authors and write and publish their own books.

Janette and Tiffany were inspired by what they saw and began their writing and illustrating journey in Mrs Tipi's class last year.

Janette and Tiffany have continued on, becoming prolific author/publishers.

Writing and illustrating their own stories has become a passion for both girls - as the pictures below illustrate.

I do my best to get out to our outdoor dance stage and sandpit as often as I can, to host what our children call a Dance Party.

The energy of our children is so infectious, enthusiastic and positive. Children feel safe and comfortable to have fun, be 'in their moment' and just express themselves through movement and dance - and often singing too.

I love to see the way our older children are positive and encouraging to our younger ones - as some of the photos below show.

We are very happy to be hosting two young visitors from South Korea. Kunha and Yeonha have settled in very happily. As the photos below show, they tried out my motorbike for size, and Kunha is a talented chess player.

Kofi is our most reliable School Librarian - he loves this role, takes it very seriously, and is meticulous in all he does. And he does it all with a welcoming smile.

Kofi is also a wonderful friendship ambassador - welcoming new children to our school, looking after them and making sure they quickly know all they need to know in order to feel safe, happy and confident at Western Heights.

Shane using our school colours to brighten up coat hooks in our year two block.

We are always proud of our ex-students' achievements - our children often go on to achieve great things as they progress through intermediate, college, university, sports and culture and life in general.

This week I was driving past Waitakere College and saw an ex-pupils name on their electronic notice board. Luka Yelash is one of four Waitakere College students to gain a scholarship. Luka has a gift for language and a passion for Chinese. He has displayed outstanding talent in this language all through College and now has gained a scholarship in recognition of his efforts and achievements. We are most proud - as is mum Nicola (our WHS Board Chairperson).