dancing and goodbyes

This week Georgia finishes junior school and will start Intermediate School in February. The junior school held a year 6 leaving assembly on Friday and as usual the teaching staff and pupils pulled out all the stops to ensure it was an enjoyable and entertaining occassion. If we ever have any misgivings about the education system in New Zealand, these are always displelled at these events.
It was a beautiful sunny afternoon and the assembly was held outside in the ampitheatre. We were entertained by some lovely singing by the kapa haka group. Next, Emma, the pianist with a lively rendition of the Can Can, Kayla the flute player and Andrew on the clarinet.
Georgia was in the dance troup who performed an excellent cha cha routine. She had been practicing really hard for this and although she said she was a bit nervous it didn't show. It was very professional.
After the entertainment, the Headmaster, Mr Shinnen awarded each student with a certificate. Mr Shinnen is a really nice, laid back guy and he had something special to say about each child, reflecting on their personality and wishing them luck in their futures. He is a casual dresser and relates well with the students and the parents. It was lovely that he seemed to know each one of the kids personally and he knew who all the parents were too. He also gave out his own extra award to certain pupils who had shown extra kindness and caring during their time at school. I think it was brilliant that he didn't base these awards on academic achievement. Each child at that school assembly was made to feel like a special individual person whether they are bright, quiet, sporty, studious or whatever. He talked of one girl who had organised a 'Hugs' day and how he had been honoured to be number 29 on her list. I could never in a million years imagine hugging my headmaster or any of my teachers when I was at school!
We have found the New Zealand education system so far to focus on building happy, confident individuals. They are not brow beaten to achieve certain accademic targets but encouraged to learn at their own pace. Teachers are not burdened with masses of paperwork so have more time to spend in the class room doing what they are paid to do - teach. Georgia loves school here and is looking forward to Intermediate next year.