Students in the Principal's Office

At Amesbury School students are never sent to me for bad behaviour but rather because they are involved in exciting learning programmes. Over the last week or so I have had some wonderful visits from students.

Visit 1: Koru Hub Inquiry Group. One morning I was visited by a group of year 2 Koru Hub students who very politely asked if they could make an appointment to meet with me later in the day. I was to be their group's "Super Hero" and they wanted to ask me some questions about myself. Later that afternoon they arrived on their own with a variety of technology with which to record the interview and a huge list of questions. I have to say it was a highly organised affair. Samuel had the iPad with the questions. Lucy had paper and a pencil to take notes the old-fashioned way (and I was so impressed because she wrote a whole page of densely written notes). Chelsea had the recording microphone and she went between Samuel and I as Samuel asked questions and I gave answers. Joshua used an iPad to record the interview. Abbie took photos and videos using a smart phone. These students were completely self-organised and self -directed. They knew exactly what they were doing and they did it efficiently, without fuss, with complete mastery of the technology and extremely politely. I was most impressed! I was asked some wonderful questions - see video snippets below for answers to such questions as "Why did you marry John?" and "Why are you short?"

Interview questions:
Lesley, why did you marry John?

What is your super power?

Samuel: Some people think you are short....

Samuel: Lesley, what is your favourite thing about Amesbury School?

Visit 2: Harakeke Hub Emergency Inquiry Group - Megan, Luke, Emma and Ruby (session leader) met with me to share the findings of the hazard check they had carried out throughout the school. The students had found a number of hazards which they rated on a 3 point scale. The group asked if they could carry out the hazard check monthly. I told them I thought this was a great idea. They were also chasing up a response from me regarding a proposal they had sent to me to purchase emergency supplies. I reminded them that I had requested further information before I would make a decision. They went off to do some further research so that they could put this information together for me. I was very impressed with the thoroughness with which these students carried out their hazard checks and the very mature way they reported to me on their findings. Fantastic work! Well done Megan, Luke, Emma and Ruby.By the way, great leadership, Ruby.

Visit 3: A couple of fluffy ducks

One lunchtime two Amesbury students stood outside my window mouthing something at me that I could not pick up. I beckoned them into my office. They asked if they could do a dance for me. Delighted, I said yes and videoed it. Here it is for your enjoyment....Thanks Abbie and Nistha for making my day!

Visit 4: Arthur and his Amazing Printing - Arthur came to see me today because for the second day in a row he has done amazing printing. He had lots of questions to ask when he found a plan of our school on the floor. He carried on a great conversation with Rory O'Connor who was visiting at the time. Congratulations, Arthur, on amazing work.