HEADLINES July 2018

Dear Parents, Caregivers and Friends

It is my pleasure to write to you as Principal of Iona College. I would like to

thank everyone for the warm welcome we have received as a family. We are

thoroughly enjoying being part of the Iona community. The pōwhiri was a

beautiful ceremony shared with staff, students and friends.

I have enjoyed meeting your daughters, and I am gradually getting to know

them as individuals. I am looking forward to seeing their personal growth and

supporting them on their journey. The family atmosphere of Iona College

provides students with a safe and supportive learning environment and a sense

of belonging. Our students are passionate about learning, are committed to

succeeding and are fully engaged in many other activities which enrich the

curriculum and further develop their skills.

As I have explored the college, it is clear to see that our motto “Love, Joy and

Peace” permeates through the school and our core values of compassion, respect, integrity, curiosity, resilience

and understanding are embraced by the college. Across the school, it is evident that the girls build strong,

supportive relationships, enjoy working together and strive to do their best. Students and staff have been

extremely busy with activities both inside and outside of the college. I have enjoyed watching the girls participate

in music performances and compete in numerous sports.

The unique aspects of our Special Character, guided by our Christian faith, are woven into all aspects of fostering

a caring and loving school community. The daily chapel services are an empowering way for the school to begin

the day. The student-led assemblies develop leadership skills; provide opportunities for student performances and

celebration of student achievements. The Year 13 Service Leadership Day and the Year 12 Service Action

Projects reflect the commitment students have to being of service to others and connecting with the community.

The reflective nature of these projects is an important part of our Special Character.

This term we have focussed on being AWARE of what we need to do to be successful, where AWARE is an

acronym for Attendance, Wellbeing, Achievement, Relationships and Engagement. There is a clear link between

attendance and achievement. If students are absent from school, it is often difficult to catch up, and this affects

student performance. To learn effectively, students need optimal wellness, so the college’s focus on wellbeing is

important. They are encouraged to take responsibility for their own wellbeing and seek support whenever

needed. Strong pastoral care in the college provides this support.

We have enjoyed celebrating a myriad of different types of achievements over the term: academic, cultural,

sporting, performing and service. There are many different measures of success and no matter whether these are

small or large, students should be proud of their achievements. Building respectful relationships across the college

is crucial, and at times this requires effort, tolerance, understanding and perseverance. Research indicates that

students learn best when they develop positive relationships with their teachers and peers.

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During assembly, students were challenged to reflect on how well they engage with their learning and during

lessons they have been encouraged to develop a growth mindset; viewing challenges as opportunities, trying

different strategies for learning and persisting with difficult tasks. We hope that our students will be AWARE of

each of these key ideas as we head into Term 3.

I am extremely proud to be leading Iona College and working with such amazing students, supportive families and

alongside dedicated and talented staff. We have had a fabulous Term 2 and are looking forward to a successful

Term 3, with a continued focus on individual academic achievement.

Helen Armstrong

Principal

Term 2 Wrap-up

Teen Ag - Raising The Standard April Holidays

During the April holidays, three Iona Year 12 Teen Ag students along with 15 others from the Lower North

Island, were selected to attend a three-day leadership course - Raising the Standard, a course run by Young

Farmers NZ and funded by DairyNZ.

Over the three days, the girls attended workshops aimed at developing important life skills

- goal setting

- effective communication

- how to make meetings run more efficiently

- dealing with conflict

- team building

- preparation for job interviews.

The girls found this learning experience invaluable. They came away with new skills, a much greater understanding

of the importance of planning and preparation and made many new friends. All were very grateful for this

opportunity which was offered through Teen Ag NZ, they enjoyed the course and would like to encourage

others to make the most of these wonderful opportunities available.

Youth Alcohol Expo Wednesday 9 May

All Year 11 and 12 students attended the Youth Alcohol Expo on Wednesday, May 9. This event was organised

by partner agencies committed to taking a proactive stance against drink driving and the harm it causes.

The aim was to provide ‘hard-hitting’ realistic messages. Tragically vehicle crashes are the leading cause of

unintentional death and injury among young people under 25. No other cause comes even close to exacting the

same death toll. Drink driving plays a significant part in this road safety issue, and statistics show Hawke’s Bay is

over-represented in this area, especially amongst youth.

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Feedback from those who attended this event was very positive. Students enjoyed formal presentations from a

variety of guest speakers including the police, paramedics and family members who have been personally affected

by a local tragedy that resulted from poor decision making. There was also an opportunity to learn more through

interactive displays and activities. Many reported that they had had discussions with family and friends about the

importance of making sensible decisions about driving.

Kendra Borrie

Health Co-ordinator

Senior Ball – Secret Garden Saturday 12 May

It was a night in a “Secret Garden” for the Year 12 and 13

Iona students and their partners at this year’s Annual Ball.

Held at the Napier Conference Centre, guests entered via a

red carpet and then wandered down a garden path to be

officially greeted by Mr and Mrs Armstrong, Imogen and her

partner. Through the garden archway, guests were then

treated to the full extent of the tastefully and professionally

decorated ballroom - a hanging flower wreath with flowing

fairy lights and ivy sat above the dance floor. The centrepieces

on the tables and clever lighting added to the ambience.

Mya Chan and Madison Whitfield must be thanked and

congratulated for all their work on creating the vision and

leading the committee in making the theme a reality. Under the guidance of a professional decorator (Taste of

Elegance), the committee did an excellent job of setting up.

As always, the girls and their partners looked stunning in fabulous, original and sophisticated outfits. The beautiful

flower-wall provided the perfect backdrop for photos.

Background music had been carefully compiled into a playlist by Lily Tremain which helped set the atmosphere

and, following a delicious meal, the girls were ready to dance the night away. From the very first song played by a

band called “The Search”, the dance floor was heaving.

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Thank you to Jamie Mactaggart for suggesting, researching and making initial contact to help secure The Search,

photographer Zara Staples, and Hot Shotts photo booths.

It was lovely to see the girls enjoying themselves with their friends and their partners. It was rewarding for the

Ball Committee to see all aspects come together to create such a successful and memorable ball for 2018.

A big thanks to Mrs Atkinson for her support through all stages of ball planning and to all staff who helped on the

day, during the evening and with packing up.

In addition to the students already mentioned, thanks to Ashlee Matches and Sophia Lourie for their work with

the budget and to the rest of the committee for the various parts they assisted with: Imogen Daysh, Olivia

Thomas, Victoria Lamb, Sarah Morete, Bailey Martin, Luccah Brown, Penny Wilson and Jorja Taylor.

Teen Ag Games Monday 14 May

Iona and Woodford co-hosted Teen Ag games after school. The evening involved competitors from Iona,

Woodford, Lindisfarne, Napier Boys and Napier Girls competing across ten modules. These included activities

such as naming meat cuts of lamb, an Ag quiz, putting together a bridle and an outdoor obstacle course.

Once the teams had completed the Ag modules, they challenged each other to a tug-of-war and some old-

fashioned bull rush style games.

The evening concluded with a prize giving in the Watering Hole. Top teams were awarded prizes with special

awards for ‘good vibes’, and the much-sought-after ‘most bogan-looking farmer’ were announced – a great time

was had by all!

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Spanish Immersion Camp Friday 18 - Sunday 20 May

Our senior Spanish students along with students from around

the country gathered at Riverbend in Hawke's Bay for a Spanish

Language Immersion Camp. The camp was organised by Iona

Spanish teacher, Señora Carey-Smith and three other Hawke’s

Bay teachers with a goal of fostering the understanding and

practice of the language in an authentic context. They were

joined by three professors and lecturers from Massey University,

experienced teachers and six language assistants from Spain to

share their knowledge and lead activities. A wide variety of

opportunities was offered throughout the weekend, culminating

in a traditional Spanish meal and dance.

Learning an international language in Hawke's Bay can be difficult as speakers struggle to find the opportunity to

practise. This camp provided just that and the inclusion of native Spanish speakers encouraged and further

equipped the girls.

Prefect Camp Sunday 20 & Monday 21 May

During Term 2, the Prefect Team had a short leadership camp which entailed an overnight stay at Guthrie Smith

Outdoor Education Centre at Lake Tutira. For some, this included a trip down memory lane, looking back fondly

on a primary school experience.

These possibly challenging moments in a person’s educational journey are often significant for the growth and

personal development achieved and, it was for this reason, that it was decided to take the Prefect group away

together. The girls cooked dinner together, slept marae style together, chatted together and cleaned together.

However, the highlight was completing the Flying Kiwi together; a high ropes activity requiring team-work to get

one student flying at a time!

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The camp provided an opportunity to reflect on the leadership journey so far and some ideas to move forward

with. In a busy school with varied roles, coming together to share as one group was hugely worthwhile.

The Big Sing Wednesday 30 May

We have two senior choirs at Iona, and both took part in the annual East Coast Big Sing competition for high

school students.

The choirs were the Ceilidh Performance Choir directed by Miss Cole, and Iona Pure, directed by José Aparicio.

Both choirs were accompanied by Freya Hodgson.

With over 800 students from Gisborne to Central Hawke’s Bay participating, it was a great event for all of our

girls to be a part of. Each choir had to perform three pieces from three different categories, one of which had to

be by a New Zealand composer. Ceilidh performed ‘Song of Ruth’, ‘This Little Babe’, and ‘Orinoco Flow’, and

Iona Pure performed ‘Les Berceaux’, ‘Come Gentle Night’, and ‘Ave Maria’. Although unplaced this year, both

choirs sang beautifully and we were exceptionally proud of them.

Year 9 Cultural Feast - A Culinary Delight Friday 2 June

In Week 8, our Year 9 Social Studies students prepared a veritable feast for the senses. The girls have been

studying the different cultural groups that make up NZ society, and the feast was a culmination of the terms work

designed to celebrate the influences of these cultural groups.

The girls worked exceptionally well, organising every aspect including the preparation and cooking of their

international dishes, presentation of colourful and decorative stalls, accompanying music and informative posters.

This was such a fun and creative activity and the girls’ dishes were simply delicious! Special thanks to Chef Carl

who supported many of our boarding students.

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If you missed it on Facebook, then follow this YouTube link to enjoy a short clip showcasing the girls’ work

https://youtu.be/098cyETM3NE

National Shakespeare Festival Saturday 2 – Monday 4 June

Queen's Birthday weekend saw a group of young thespians from Lindisfarne College along with our very own

Year 11 student, Bianca Sanko, travel to Wellington as part of the SGCNZ University of Otago Sheilah Winn

National Shakespeare Festival. These talented young people performed a five-minute excerpt from Much Ado

About Nothing and by all accounts were well received.

Black Box Drama - Us and Them Wednesday 13 June

The Year 10 drama class had their performance assessment "Us and Them" by David Campton in the Black Box

Theatre on 13 June. This was the first performance in the newly-built space and the students with Mr Betty

designed a set that would challenge the audience. Over a period of six weeks, the students collected boxes from

the hostel kitchen. Once the students felt they had enough, they spent an evening painting the boxes in different

colours. These boxes were then used to build a wall across the space dividing the audience. This made the

audience feel like they were part of their group and had to listen to the conversations taking place on the other

side. This was in the true spirit of the title of the piece as it created "Us and Them".

"Us and Them" is an absurd theatre piece allowing the students to create characters, situations and actions to

identify place. The piece starts with two groups arriving at the same time and both wanting to live on the same

land. They come up with an arrangement to build a wall to keep everyone safe and determine where one group’s

land begins and ends. This does not last long as each group starts to wonder what is happening on the other side

of the wall. The anticipation grows so tense that they climb up to see what the other group is doing. They see

each other, they think they are spying, and the wall is pulled down. A fight breaks out, and both groups decide to

leave the land. A narrator, Year 11 student Bianca Sanko, explains that this is a cycle that has happened for

centuries and that she hopes mankind will learn from these situations.

The students created a really effective piece of theatre and parents and families thoroughly enjoyed it. The Black

Box worked incredibly well as a performance space to create an intimate environment for those 30 or so

audience members.

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Year 13 Servant Leadership Day Friday 15 June

On 28 March, Iona College prefects joined prefects from Lindisfarne College and Woodford House at the

Havelock North Club for dinner. This event launched the 2018 Servant Leadership Programme. The guest

speaker, Lara Bowering from Havelock North Physiotherapy was articulate and inspiring. She told her incredible

stories of service from around the globe and was also able to explain how she manages to be a successful

entrepreneur and businessperson, while also sustaining her efforts to help the most vulnerable people around the

world.

Iona College Service Prefect Lucy Manahi with guest speaker, Lara Bowering

and Service Prefects Lucy Roberts (Woodford House) and Patrick Nolan (Lindisfarne College)

The evening was inspiring for our prefects and a wonderful opportunity for them to connect with students from

Lindisfarne College and Woodford House. It set the scene for the prefects from the three schools to begin their

planning, and organise a work day in the community, involving all Year 13 students. Eventually, 150 students in

eleven groups went to fourteen locations.

The Iona College Service Prefect, Lucy Manahi, did a huge amount of work behind the scenes supporting our

prefects to arrange each group’s activities. Thank you also to Campbell Howlett, Deputy Rector at Lindisfarne

College, and Stephanie Russell, Deputy Principal at Woodford House, who worked with me to support our

prefects with this venture. Thank you also must go to staff from Iona College who assisted on the day: Kirsten Le

Bon, Sue Davey, Felicity Benge, Cathy Blake, Jane Atkinson, Julie Shears, Karen Holder, Rachel Kale and Marty

Marshall.

The Servant Leadership Day was on Friday, 15 June and the locations and activities were quite diverse. Students

contributed to and visited: Hohepa in Clive, Waiapu House, the Dress a Girl Around the World Project, Irongate

School, the Waikere River Mouth Campsite (through DOC), Karamu Stream and the Wahaparata Wetland

(through the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council), the Leg-Up Trust, Waimarama School, the Waimarama Surf Club,

Kowhai School, Ocean Beach, IDEA Services and Nourish for Nil.

Students volunteering at the Leg-Up Trust

Read more – Prefects and individual reports https://iona.school.nz/servant-leadership-day-group-reports/

David Trousdell

Deputy Principal – Wellbeing and Engagement

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Outdoor Education 20 & 21 June

Outdoor Education is an integral part of the senior Physical Education courses. This year, the Level 3 class, had an

overnight experience in Taupo. The learning gained will be used for assessments related to Risk Management

Issues and Leadership.

Challenge by Choice is a common phrase used in personal development courses, and it was imperative to select

activities that provide a challenging and rewarding experience for members of this group. Working with the class,

we selected Taupo for high ropes and a kayaking experience.

At Rock’n Ropes, the girls worked together on some low ropes

activities to build confidence in themselves and trust in each

other. They then worked up to the high ropes activities where

they were able to select activities to try. Working in groups of

three - a climber, a belayer and a backup, the girls worked their

way around different challenges. The day also included the

opportunity to complete a “rock drop” (essentially jumping off

platforms on to giant air-filled pillows), completing a trapeze

stunt and a giant jump-swing. Not everyone’s cup of tea!

The following day, we were set for some kayaking on Lake

Taupo, but the weather was not cooperating. With some wind

drop, we were able to get out for an hour. Another turn in the

weather meant our hasty return to the shore was impeccably

timed.

The students are continuing to develop their knowledge about Risk Analysis and Management and are developing

a greater understanding of some of the wider issues faced by schools during Outdoor Education. These activities

certainly took participants out of their comfort zones and provided ample opportunity to consider the place of

challenge and risk. The girls were excellent participants, showing leadership and maturity.

Junior House Drama 29 June

Junior House Drama, held bi-annually, is a much-coveted, end-of-term event for all our girls. This year all four

houses performed from one of the following Roald Dahl novels: Matilda, James and the Giant Peach, The BFG and

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The House Captains and Year 12 Cultural leaders directed and devised all the

pieces with some of the Year 7-10 girls performing – a fine example of House collaboration.

Our judge this year was Mr Michael Sharp who was amazed not only by our beautiful Blyth, but also at the talent

shown by so many Iona students. He found it very difficult to judge as “there were so many creative minds

coming together".

There must always be a winner, and their exceptional storytelling wowed us all. Congratulations to Columba for

their performance of 'James and the Giant Peach' and for being awarded the House Drama Cup 2018.

An abridged version of their performance can be viewed on the Iona College YouTube Channel

https://youtu.be/7AK6Z9aC3zs

Other special awards:

Best Actor in a Lead Role - Sasha Currie (Aunt Sponge)

Best Use of Accent Award - Lottie Tattersall (Miss Trunchbull)

Best Costume and Props - Columba

Best Use Set and Visual Award - McNeil

Best Director's Award - Allie Chesterman and Kate Manahi

Best Team Effort - Fraser

Award for Most Co-operative House (awarded by our Technicians) - Fraser

Best Recovery Award – Fraser

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Columba House performers for James and the Giant Peach

Sports News

It has been an extremely busy term with all our winter sports teams well into their competitions. Thank you to

the families for enduring some freezing conditions to support our teams.

Early this term we received the final results of Iona teams in the Hawke’s Bay Secondary Schools’ Tennis

competition. The highlight was our Junior A team that were 1st in the Junior A Girls’ competition while the Junior

B team placed 3rd in the Junior Girls’ B grade – well done girls, a great achievement.

Iona Cross Country

In May we held our Iona College Cross Country event, and the conditions were on point with the sun shining and

a wee bit of mud and water mixed in made for a fantastic House Event. Lots of the girls really put in a big effort to

earn maximum points for their house.

The winning House was McNeil with a whopping 490 points:

Year 7/8 1st Danni Bird

2nd Molly Cardwell-Dray

3rd Elizabeth Boyes

Junior 1st Harriet Lynch

2nd Martha Eade

3rd Hana Peacock

Senior 1st Denby-Rose Tait

2nd Olivia Shannon

3rd Olivia Kirkpatrick

ECNI Cross Country

Following on from our school Cross Country, we took 12 girls from Year 7 – 13 up to Gisborne to compete in

the Annual East Coast Cross Country Event held at the Gisborne A & P Showgrounds. It was a rather flat and

slow track with a fair bit of mud and water which made it hard running for the girls.

We had two girls in the Year 9 division - Harriet Lynch (placed 5th) and Madelin Herbert (placed 7th) - who were

selected for the East Coast relay team and who will also individually represent Iona at the NZ Secondary Schools’

Cross Country event the following weekend in Taupo.

Danni Bird was placed 2nd in the Year 8 race but is not eligible to compete at NZSS competition as that event is

only for Years 9-13.

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Intermediate Quad Tournament

On Wednesday 13 and Thursday 14 June, Iona hosted the annual Intermediate Quad Tournament between Iona,

St George's School, Whanganui, Woodford House and Huntley School from Marton who has now joined in place

of Carncot who have removed themselves due to roll size.

This was a great day of competition for our Year 7 and 8s who played in either the Gold or Navy netball teams, a

7-a-side hockey team and 7-a-side football team. The conditions were cold but clear with the competition strong

but fun for all involved.

Iona finished the competition 2nd in all sports which gave us 2nd place overall just 2 points behind the winners,

Woodford House.

We would like to thank all of our families who hosted a billet(s) for the Wednesday evening. We really appreciate

your help and assistance in this.

The Iona MVPs were:

Football – Amelie Bancks

Hockey – Helena Russell

Netball – Gold – Meg Hansen

Netball – Navy – Lily Stevenson

Junior (Years 9 and10) Pentangular Tournament

On Monday 25 and Tuesday 26 June, we had three teams represent Iona at the annual Junior Pentangular

tournament, this year hosted by St Matthew’s Collegiate in Masterton.

The competition was played between, Nga Tawa, Samuel Marsden, St Matthew’s, Woodford House and Iona.

The Junior A Netball, Junior Pent Hockey and Junior Pent Football teams (both these teams have been made up

from Year 9 and 10 girls in either of our 1st, 2nd or 3rd XI teams) represented Iona with pride.

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All teams did extremely well in the freezing conditions of the Wairarapa in winter. Again, Iona finished 2nd in this

strong competition which was won by the hosts, St Matthew’s Collegiate.

The Iona MVP’s were:

Football – Isabella Bancks

Hockey – Harriet Lynch

Netball – Aria Stephenson

Iona 1st Winter Sports: mid-season review

1st XI Hockey - Has gone through the first round of Division 1 unbeaten and played off in a mid-season final

against Napier Girls’ winning this strong battle 1-0. The second round is now underway, the team winning their

last game of the term 13-1 against Taradale High School.

1st XI Football - Is placed a very tight 2nd in Division 1 of the HB Secondary School Girls’ competition and should

make the final and play Napier Girls’ with whom they drew in their first match of the season.

Premier Netball- Has made the Super 12 competition, is sitting about mid-table and doing very well. Great team

with a fresh new coach.

Winter Representative Sport – So far this year, the following girls have been selected into either Central or

Hawke’s Bay Rep sides:

Central Hockey Under 18 women's - Lexie Heaphy, Arabella Sheild, Olivia Shannon, Denby-Rose Tait

Hawke’s Bay Hockey Under 18 women's - Gabby Luscombe, Sophie Campbell, Olivia Kirkpatrick

Hawke’s Bay Netball Under 15 A - Brooklyn Bayly

Central Football Federation - Talent Identification Squad - Issy Crichton, Flora Devonshire

Both Arabella Sheild and Olivia Shannon trialled and were selected into the Central Women's NHL (National

Hockey League) Squad. This is a fantastic achievement for these two individuals to be named in this team which

will stand them in great stead for further honours when the NZ Under 21 Women’s teams are named later this

season.

Pathway to Podium Programme - NZ Hockey

Year 12 student Olivia Shannon has also been selected for Hockey New

Zealand’s prestigious new Pathway to Podium Programme.

Pathway to Podium (P2P) 2018/2019 is a partnership programme between

Hockey New Zealand and High Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ),

designed to support the preparation of athletes for the physical and mental

demands of a high-performance sport environment. Just ten female players

have been selected for the 2018/2019 P2P, and Olivia is one of only four

from schools across New Zealand. The new Pathway to Podium model is a

step closer in Olivia’s chances to have a shot at being selected for the Black

Sticks and play for her country.

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P2P is designed to support both athlete and coach development at this top level, with the athlete component

delivered as a blend of camp based hockey specific support and regional delivery of strength, conditioning and

athlete life. According to Hockey New Zealand’s Athlete Pathway Manager, Greg Nichol “The focus will be on

supporting these athletes to prepare for high performance through the following:

- Sport specific development at hockey development camps

- Education about the requirements and demands of a high-performance sport

- Preparation for transition into high performance

- A blend of education and educational support in key areas of athlete performance support.”

Hallie Sullivan

Director of Sport

And More News from our Students…

Chamber Music Success

The BAI Trio of Allie Chesterman (Violin), Imogen Daysh (Piano) and Bella Greig (Cello) from Iona were awarded

highly commended at the recent Hawke’s Bay Chamber Music Competition District Finals.

They went on to be selected for the Central Regional Finals along with 12 groups from Wellington, Whanganui,

Manawatu and Hawke’s Bay. Timeless Trio from Wellington was named the winning group, but our girls played

extremely well and were awarded Bronze.

Two other groups entered the Chamber Music Regionals – The Tui Trio which also included Allie Chesterman

and The Beddington Buddies with Julia Ashby and Milou Lodewijks.

All played beautifully!

Photo Credit: The BAI Trio - Hugh Chesterman

Virginia Baird Cultural Exchange Trip

During the April school holidays, Year 11 student, Virginia Baird

was selected to go on a cultural exchange trip to China with a

dozen instrumentalists from the Hawke’s Bay Orchestral

Society. The purpose of the trip was to exchange music with our

Hastings sister city Guiyang.

The tour started in Chengdu, the city which is also home to the

famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, and

then made its way through three different cities, finishing in

Guilin, home to the Reed Flute caves, also known as the "Palace

of Natural Arts”.

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The group mainly played their instruments in schools and, in return, their hosts would share a dance or song

accompanied by their native instruments.

Virginia played the violin with the occasional piano solo. As well as enjoying learning and sharing new classical and

contemporary pieces, Virginia especially enjoyed the attractions, meeting new people and discovering the Chinese

Culture. Virginia was a wonderful ambassador for Iona, and the trip was an incredible experience and learning

opportunity.

IOGA Special Scholarship 2018

Victoria Lamb, Year 13, has been awarded the Iona Old Girls’ Special

Scholarship for 2018. This scholarship is awarded annually with the purpose of

enabling a student to further develop their self-confidence, leadership ability or

personal skills.

Tori was thrilled to be this year's recipient, and the scholarship will help cover

the costs and resources required to complete a community care project Tori is volunteering for during the July school holidays.

She will travel to Fiji and join a group of high school-aged students from all

over the world and will be assisting the local school and kindergarten. Victoria

will stay with a host family in the village and be fully immersed in the local

culture.

Congratulations Victoria.

Penny Manahi

President, IOGA

Edible Fashion Awards 2018

The Wednesday afternoon programme this term was a hive of creative energy in the Design Technology room.

More than 20 students participated in the Edible Fashion Awards 2018, involving all stages of the creative process

from designing and making to modelling the final garments. The theme was Peace, Love and Diversity. Both Year

9 and Year 10 students took part, and as groups developed the eight entries, they shared ideas, stories and

creative concepts and explored a wide variety of materials ranging from jute coffee sacks to food magazines.

All eight entries were placed in the senior category, ages ranging from 13 to 18 years, and we were proud to see

four of the eight entries make it through to the finals. These finalists were from designers Elise Ramage and

Alexandra Stubbs which Alexandra modelled ‘A Spoon Ran Away with the Fork’, Ella Hume and Charlotte Wilton

with Maggie Higgins modelling "Textually Chaotic", Libby Christie with Shiloh Perrott modelling "Drum Roll" and

Giulietta Whitney both designer and model with her entry; “Together”.

These wonderful creations were seen on the Saturday evening, and our lovely Giulietta took out second place.

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We are very proud of all the girls involved and what a huge accomplishment at such a young age in this category

to have four Iona College student finalists.

Giulietta Whitney – Together Alexandra Stubbs – A Spoon Ran Away with the Fork

After convincing support from the girls, Iona’s Head of Technology, Kirsten Le Bon entered the ‘Growing for

Nourishment’ category, an historic take on women’s fashion and the need for peace in the garden. Kirsten was

placed second in the adult section, with her daughter modelling 72 edible plants in milk bottles on a wine barrel

structure and a bird cage in her hair.

Kirsten Le Bon’s Design – placed second in the Adult section - Growing for Nourishment.’

Highland Dancers awarded on National Stage

Ava Woodbury Rinkle, Year 8, competed at the East Coast & Poverty Bay Highland Dancing competition in

Gisborne and was awarded two trophies - Under 14 years Champion and most points in the competition across

all ages.

Congratulations also to Year 9 student, Alexandra Stubbs who recently competed at the North Island

Championship of New Zealand held every two years. Alexandra danced in the 12-16 age group and was runner-

up in this Championship.

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Ava Woodbury Rinkle Alexandra Stubbs

Iona student wins The Amazing China Face Race Challenge

This term we celebrated the news that Caitlin Thomas in Year 10 had won The Amazing China Face Race.

The Amazing China Face Race, the first of which was held in 2015, requires students to correctly follow clues and

answer questions about subjects ranging from geography to history and culture, to identify one un-named face in

China, among 1.4 billion others.

Open to Year 9-13 students, the challenge is the brainchild of Hastings District Councillor, Kevin Watkins and

designed as a fun way for students and teachers to learn more about China’s culture and history while exploring

both the old and new China.

We are extremely proud of all of our girls who entered the competition, and we are very excited for Caitlin. She

wins a trip to China courtesy of The China Culture Centre (NZ) and will visit Jinan, the city where the Face

resides.

Caitlin and Pippa Flay were two of the three finalists, but a number of other students had been working alongside

them during the challenge, either competing or offering some wonderful support.

A special thanks to our Director of International Students, Geraldine Edwards and Librarian Lisa Smith who also

supported the girls with energy, enthusiasm and 6.00am starts!

Pictured L-R: Caitlin and Pippa with fellow competitors and supporters, Caitlin with Hastings Councillor, Kevin Watkins.

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Knitting on Wednesday Afternoons

Over the last two terms on Wednesday afternoons, more than 40 girls have been knitting – learning to knit and

further developing their skills. It is a great skill for them to have. They have thoroughly enjoyed it and have been

found knitting all around the school, in sits and bedrooms. A huge thank you to all the staff that have helped: Mrs

Saywell, Mrs Hardy and Mrs Brenda Duff. A few girls have now finished making some hats for babies, and several

are keen to carry on with knitting in Term 3, during some lunchtimes and Wednesday afternoons.

So our plan… we would like to donate hats, singlets and socks to premature babies as well as to babies of families

in need. If you are able to help us by contributing $5 - $10 or whatever you can to buy 4ply wool and smaller

needles to be able to knit these it would be very much appreciated. Please e-mail me (at@iona.school.nz) if you

are able to help us out with the amount that you can donate.

News from our Departments…

Tears in the Library

A special message to all students …

On the library wall, you will find the Library Tears display. Each tear contains the picture of one missing book that

we really want back. Please help us reduce the tears in the library by returning books that you have not checked

out to us. If you want to keep reading them, we’re happy to support that.

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As Neil Gaiman said in his 2014 speech for the Reading Agency in London, “Reading fiction builds empathy …

forces you to learn new words and think new thoughts … and teaches you that the world can change.” So please

carry on reading, just drop me an email (librarian@iona.school.nz) and let me know which books you have.

Read the full 2018 Tears in the Library article here and share with your daughters. Learn what being a good

library citizen means.

Lisa Smith

Librarian

Religious Studies

Term 2 Evening Chapels

This term we have enjoyed two evening chapel services. On Sunday 10 June, all the senior students arrived at

Lindisfarne College for a joint service to be led by the Chapel Prefects from both schools. The girls enjoyed the

Lindisfarne band and contemporary hymns. Emmie Mulinder, the Iona Chapel Prefect, delivered an excellent

message on the challenges we face with our growing reliance on technology and devices.

Emmie then presented this message to the junior evening service at St Martin’s on 17 June. The full service was

led by the junior members of the Chapel Worship Team, and they each carried out their roles with great dignity

and competence. They can all be extremely proud of the way they conducted themselves.

Year 10 Chapels

Each year, the Year 10 students in small groups plan, create and present a full chapel message to present to the

school. For 2018 the theme was NZ Charities. Each group picked a charity close to their hearts and worked

together to create a strong

message with a power point to

share at a Thursday Chapel

gathering. This year, the offering

collected at the Friday worship

service went to the charity

presented the day before. The

quality of the work and the

strength of the message each

group presented has been

wonderful. Well done to all Year

10.

Hannah Johnston

Molly Nilsson Jessica Wilson

Caitlin Thomas

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Year 12 Social Action Projects

All Year 12 students in Religious Studies are asked to form a small group to identify, plan and implement a social

action that will identify a need and/or support a local organisation or charity. This year the students have been

required to take an active part in the implementation of their plan – to connect with the people from the

organisation or group they have targeted. 2018 has given rise to some excellent and creative projects across a

variety of organisations and the full age range.

Organisations the girls have chosen to work with are Women’s Refuge, Cranford Hospice, Presbyterian Support

East Coast, Lucknow School, Te Whare Aroha O Nga Mokopuna, Hastings District Council, Jammies for June and

FarmStrong-Rural Mental Health.

Through their projects, the students are supporting pre-school and school-age children, addressing environmental

issues, raising awareness of the need for rural mental health services, fitness for the elderly and the importance of

donating blood.

Students will be volunteering at local op-shops, fundraising for sensor mats to prevent falls at the Hospice while

others are designing and producing sustainable bags for the Iona boarders to use when shopping in the village.

Some students will be tree planting at the Tainui Reserve, others funding vouchers for a bra and knicker set for

women in the local women’s refuge and another group are collecting children’s books to be donated to the

Starship Hospital.

Some will be teaching team and leadership skills to children from Lucknow School, others creating an adventure

Teddy Bears Picnic for pre-schoolers and another group are organising and running a Quiz Night event for

FarmStrong. One group supported ‘Jammies for June’ by holding a school Onesie mufti-day.

I am impressed by the girls’ creativity and I do so hope the girls find that making a commitment to give of their

time and energy to support others, brings its own reward.

Ellie Burge

Chaplain

Intermediate School

Term 2 has been a busy term for the girls academically, sporting and culturally. Here is an overview of their

happenings.

Me Whakaro Rangatira - Think Like a Leader

Ten Year 8 students had an inspiring day at NYLD in Palmerston North. 2500 students attended this event. Guest

speakers included Kelly Wilson (Keeping Up With The Kaimanawas), Lisa Tamati (ultra marathoner), Jono Naylor

(ex MP and Mayor of Palmerston North), Riley Hathaway (youngoceanexplorers.com) and Vince Harder (singer,

songwriter).

Key messages from NYLD included:

Work hard

Be a lifelong learner

Set goals

Face your fears

Leaders have HOPE:

H - humility

O - others focused

P - play to their strengths

E - extend themselves

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Peter Blake Young Leader Award

The Sir Peter Blake Young Leader Award, in association with Westpac, recognises young people who have shown

promising leadership in their schools and communities. The award is given to one student in each primary and

intermediate school that participates, as selected by teachers and peers. This year's recipient from Iona College

was Emma Bartram.

Emma Bartram

TACS Speech Contest

Elizabeth Boyes was selected to represent Iona at the Intermediate Town and Country Schools’ speech contest.

She spoke admirably and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to represent Iona. The standard of speeches from

the Iona girls that entered was excellent, and it is fabulous to see so many confident young students delivering

well-constructed speeches.

Hawke’s Bay Mathletics competition

The annual Hawke’s Bay Mathletics competition was held in Week 9 of this term. Two teams of Year 7 and two

teams of Year 8 students were selected and attended the event, held this year at Hastings Intermediate.

In the Intermediate competition were the Year 8 teams of Nyssa Farquhar, Molly Cardwell-Dray, Ava Woodbury

Rinkle, Emma Bartram, Leila Burder and Francesca Johnson.

Also competing in the teams’ event this year for Iona were the Year 7 teams consisting of Molly Lawson, Emily

Rogers, Ruby Chan, Stella Moore, Erin Duncan and Caitlin McKinnon.

Special mention to Alice Young and Aimee Argent who received a bronze award for their statistical investigations.

This is an excellent achievement as there are hundreds of entries entered into this section.

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Debating

This term we selected eight students to work in two teams to compete in the Kidnapper’s Radio Talk-to-Talk

Debating competition. There are eight schools competing this year with each team debating three times before

quarter-finalists were identified. The students involved - Leila Burder, Francesca Johnson, Greer Gresham,

Hannah Ritchie, Ava Woodbury Rinkle, Molly Cardwell-Dray, Sasha Currie and Charlotte Hayden - put in a

tremendous amount of time and effort to ensure they were well prepared for each debate. This competition

requires a lot of extra work outside of school time preparing for each debate and we have been extremely

impressed with the effort and dedication shown by the students and their support team of Andrea Woodbury

and Lisa-Jane Easter. The moots required the girls to do a lot of research and gain a deep understanding of each

of the topics. Mrs Woodbury has been instrumental in assisting the girls in their preparation and organisation.

Her enthusiasm, dedication and determination to helping the girls understand the debating procedures and

practices has helped both our teams progress enormously.

The Iona 1 team of Molly, Sasha and Ava were placed third after the initial three debates meaning they went

through to the quarterfinals from our school. The Iona 2 team consisting of Greer, Francesca and Leila were

placed fifth after their first three debates. Unfortunately, only one team per school was permitted through to the

finals. The quarterfinal is due to be held on Thursday 28th June. We will keep you updated with the results of

our Iona 1 team.

Congratulations and thank you to all involved with this competition. It has certainly lit the debating fire in many

girls and our Year 9 Debating Academy is looking very healthy for next year!

Iona 2 Debating Team

Young Reporters for Education Environmental Inquiry

This term our Inquiry focus has centred around investigating a local environmental issue. The ‘Young Reporters

for Education’ is a competition run nationally and globally to identify environmental issues affecting the world we

live in. The competition requires students to identify, research and provide solutions for a local environmental

issue. Students are required to produce either a newspaper article, photograph or video explaining their findings

and promoting their solutions.

To support our study, we were very grateful during our Wednesday afternoon sessions to have guest speakers

that contributed to the girls understanding of the environmental issues and how they would best develop a

newspaper article, photograph or video to showcase their inquiry.

A BIG thank you to the following parents and members of the community who spent much time and effort

organising excellent presentations to assist the girls, we really appreciate you sharing your advice and expertise in

your field.

Mrs Rachael Gresham who presented to the girls from an environmental planner’s perspective. Rachael

had a wealth of information about the environment which helped the students begin to understand the

different perspectives people can have surrounding environmental issues.

Mrs Helen Shea who spoke to the girls about her role at the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, Civil Defence

Media Liaison and also about her time as a journalist. Helen provided us with some excellent information

about a variety of different environmental aspects which the girls have used in their investigations.

Milton Naylor presented to students about videography and how to make an effective video. Milton is

well known in our community for his fabulous videos for the Love Havelock North Facebook page, and

- 22 -

he also helped design, develop and create the winning Kimi Ora School’s ‘Richie’s Milk Run’ Fonterra

promotion video.

Michelle Hepburn presented from a photographer’s point of view. Sharing important tips and ideas with

the girls about how to take stunning photos. Michelle is an award-winning photographer who had a lot of

very helpful information for the girls.

The students are continuing to investigate and develop their product in a chosen area of focus, with the

competition concluding in mid-August.

News from our Boarding House…

The term has flown by, and we’re halfway through the school year already. The girls have all been busy with

winter sports’ commitments, and most have been settling down to some serious academic study. The girls have

coped admirably with all of the demands on them, academically, culturally and on the sports’ grounds. Illness has

befallen some, and we had a period when the sick bay beds were full day and night. Fortunately, this was only for

a short while before things settled into the usual winter routine of dealing with coughs, colds, sore throats and

such like.

I thought that it might be timely for a few reminders:

Pickups at exeats and ends of term.

The Boarding House closes at 4.30pm on these occasions. It is imperative that all girls are collected by this time

as the main buildings are locked, and the boarding staff leave the campus. Sometimes it is a daygirl who we have

to wait with; please be considerate of the boarding staff who often have places to get to themselves.

Leave requests during the week

As stated in the School Handbook ‘Requests for dinner leave during the week should be rare as they disrupt the

structure of the school week.’

I would like to clarify the issue of leave for birthday celebrations. A girl may go out to dinner with her own family

on her birthday if it falls during the school week, but may not take other girls out with her unless this request is

for a Friday night or the weekend. Please understand that this policy must be applied consistently to ensure

fairness.

Going home if sick

It is our policy in the Boarding House that a girl must have the permission of the School Nurse or myself before

arrangements are made for her to go home. We will assess the situation and then get in touch with parents to

collect the girl if it is deemed to be necessary. We are quite able to provide medical care for girls with relatively

short periods of sickness and minor issues.

It is not permissible for a girl and a parent to make this decision themselves over the phone or by email.

Heaters and Electric Blankets

These are not permitted in the Boarding House. We have plenty of spare blankets on hand if we have a period of

colder weather and the girls are cold. Girls are able to heat wheat bags and water for hot water bottles as

required.

Appointments during the school day

Please try to arrange these for after school where possible. Mrs Blundell must be notified of any appointments,

including driving lessons. Quite a few girls have gone to appointments lately of which we have had no prior

knowledge. You will appreciate our need to know of the whereabouts of the girls at all times.

A message from Nurse Angela

Please check your daughter’s hair for head lice over the holidays. We have had quite a long period without their

presence at school and would like to maintain this! Thank you for your co-operation.

GAP Tutor

Linda Schulte-Frankenfeld leaves us after a year’s stay to return to Germany. She has been a wonderful asset to

Iona in general and to the Boarding House in particular. Nothing has ever been too much trouble for her and she

- 23 -

has a delightfully calm demeanour. We thank her for all her hard work amongst us, and she leaves with our very

best wishes for her future endeavours. The boarders made a special presentation to her at dinner one night in

her last week here.

Our new Gap Tutor, who is also from Germany, will be joining us at the start of next term. Her name is Lara

Müller and, interestingly, she was an exchange student to Havelock North High School a few years ago. We look

forward to welcoming and getting to know her soon.

Weekend Activities

Trips to K-Mart and Spotlight are always popular, along with outings to Napier, and the girls always enjoy their

village leave. Friday evenings often become games nights with Bingo arguably being the most popular. This term

the girls have been to Laserforce, Superstrike ten-pin bowling and to the Pigeon and Poultry show at the Hastings

showgrounds. Now the weather has cooled, various craft items have been produced, including the ever-favoured

no-sew blankets. We are always keen for the girls to let us know what they would like to be doing so that we can

plan accordingly.

Of course with the winter sports well

underway, we are fully involved with

transporting the netball girls on Saturday

mornings.

L-R: Boarders with their no-sew blankets and

a delightful Havana Fierro smiling at being

recipient of the Kindness Cup for the term.

Start of Term 3

The Boarding House reopens at 3.30pm on Monday 23rd July. Although this is a Teachers’ Only day and the

school will be open, please do not arrive earlier as the boarding staff have meetings to attend prior to this time.

ALL BOARDERS ARE REQUIRED TO BE IN ON THE FIRST NIGHT OF TERM AND TO ARRIVE

BY 8.30pm.

If your daughter requires dinner at school that evening, it is imperative that we know this in advance. Please ring

or email the school office during the holidays to request this. Please also note that the boarding emails will not be

cleared during the holidays.

Final Note

Although it has been short, the second term can often be tiring, and I would like to thank the girls for their

ongoing co-operation and resilience. They really are a fabulous group and it is a pleasure to work amongst them.

Thank you, too, to the boarding staff who work tirelessly for the good of our girls and to the boarding parents

who support us all. I hope that you all have a happy and safe holiday period, and look forward to seeing you again

on 23rd July.

As always, please get in touch with me if you have any concerns at all about your daughters.

Marianne McKnight

Director of Boarding

- 24 -

News from the PFA

The highlight of the term was the PFA Quiz and Curry night, raising around $10,000 towards a number of

projects which will ultimately benefit the girls. Around 120 attended a very close-fought contest with a range of

entertaining questions set and presented by Jerry Flay. A good number of parents embraced the Indian theme by

decorating their tables and dressing up for the event and Namaskar in Havelock North provided the catering.

Tony Rasmussen from Bayleys was the auctioneer for the night and ensured competitive bidding for a range of

items, very kindly donated by parents and staff of the College.

So far this year the PFA has already funded both an amplifier and electronic keyboard which are used by the girls

when they are performing externally and a laser cutter which will be used by girls in technology which should be

delivered in the next few weeks. A much bigger and much-needed project in the pipeline is the re-surfacing of the

hard courts near the Sports Centre which will provide an improved playing surface for netball and tennis. Both

the PFA and Iona Old Girls have already ear-marked funds for this project which the College is aiming to have

completed before the end of the year.

An informal drinks evening was also held for parents of girls in Years 7-9 at Vidals which, indeed, was one of the

final functions held before Vidals shuts its doors in Hastings to the public. Around 35 parents attended.

PFA merchandise is now on display outside The Railene Mabin Heritage Room, and orders for items may be

placed by emailing the PFA at pfa@iona.school.nz or through the school office. Andrea Woodbury has

enthusiastically set about promoting these items, and we are also considering what we might add to the range.

Any ideas or suggestions would be most welcome here.

We sadly said farewell to Heidi McLeod this term who has moved to Australia. Heidi has been our secretary for

the last couple of years and has been the driving force behind evenings such as Embrace, the recent Quiz and the

Fathers’ and Daughters’ Breakfast. Christine Holt has very kindly stepped in to take over Heidi’s role.

Richard Brown

President Iona PFA

Staff News

During Term 2, there were changes in our kitchen staff. Janina Kopua left to move closer to her family, and Kelvin

Jeffares joined the College as second chef to work alongside Chef Carl and his team. He has seamlessly settled

into the role, and the students have continued to enjoy first-class meals.

Clark Morris, our Operations Manager, left in Term 2 to take up a new position nearer home. We are extremely

grateful for all that Clark has done for the College during his time here. He is wished all the best with his new

role.

- 25 -

We welcomed Gary Wright to the position of Operations Manager during the holidays. Gary joins us with a

wealth of experience from a local construction company where he was Contracts Manager.

In Term 3, we sadly farewell Mathematics teacher Francesca Di Meo-Smith who is re-locating overseas with her

family. We thank Francesca for her valued contribution to the school and wish her well with her new journey.

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Liam Keegan, who will join the College at the start of Term 3

to teach mathematics. Liam has previously worked at Waitakere College and Hastings Boys’ High School. We

look forward to welcoming him to Iona.

Employment Opportunity

We have a vacancy for an evening weekend cook during school term time. Hours are 2.30pm -7.30pm Saturdays

and Sundays.

Our dining experience is the envy of many other establishments, and our dining room is characterised by a family

atmosphere. If you know anyone who may be interested in joining our friendly team, please share this

employment opportunity.

Applications to Carl Jowsey – email carl.jowsey@iona.school.nz

Start of Term 3

Monday 23 July

1.30-4.30pm Parent Teacher Interviews for Year 11-13 students in the IRC.

3.30pm The Boarding House reopens.

ALL BOARDERS ARE REQUIRED TO BE IN ON THE FIRST NIGHT OF TERM AND

TO ARRIVE BY 8.30pm.

If your daughter requires dinner at school that evening, please email the school office

office@iona.school.nz before 12 noon on Friday 20 July to request this. As Monday is a

Teachers’ Only day, Chef Carl will prepare a meal for the girls but needs to know

numbers in advance. Letting us know on the day will be too late!

Tuesday 24 July

8.20am School begins for all students.

Upcoming Events

Winter Quad Tournament – Host Families Needed Sunday 5 August

We are in need of many more host families for the Annual Winter Quad Tournament. If you can assist us in

taking a billet(s) for the night of Sunday 5 August, please contact the Sports Department for further information:

Email: sports.director@iona.school.nz

Phone: ( 06) 877 8149.

The students from St Matthew's Collegiate and Nga Tawa will arrive on Sunday 5 August and will need to be

picked up from Iona by 4.30pm that afternoon. Host families are asked to provide the billets with an evening meal

on the Sunday night and breakfast the following morning before returning them to school by 8.00am on Monday 6

August.

Your help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you to those whom have already offered your homes to help us

out.

- 26 -

Octavius – SAVE THE DATE – 26 August at 7.30pm

Enjoy some of Shakespeare’s best-loved sonnets, speeches and excerpts from scenes expressed in song, words,

and dance in this celebration of the bard’s works.

Napier’s newest choir, Octavius, will be joined by some of our students along with

well-known local actors, and guest musicians Barry Brinson (jazz piano), Dana

Parkhill (flute) and Rosemary Severenson (double bass) to present a feast for the

eyes and ears.

This band of performers will entertain you with songs set to lovely jazz melodies,

sonnets performed by our girls and special guests, and dances by current and past

Iona pupils.

Octavius are generously donating all proceeds from this concert to Stage Two of

The Blyth Performing Arts Centre – a Music School for Iona.

Book your seats now to get excellent Early Bird discounts.

Search for Shakespeare As We Like It on https://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2018/aug/shakespeare-as-we-like-it

Korrin Barrett Evening – SAVE THE DATE – 30 August

The PFA will be hosting a special evening for students and parents with Korrin Barrett – a quad amputee who,

through her own adversity, has learnt that anything in life is possible.

Her story is touching, uplifting and inspiring and she has

garnered a reputation for keeping it real and authentic as she

shares her journey and learnings on Living Life Unlimited.

Testimonial - Genevieve Leech - Year 11 Dean -

Christchurch Girls' High School, NZ

"Korrin spoke to 500 students at our school in 2017, and for

many students, her speech was the highlight of their week. They

talked about Korrin for days, and so many of them said how great

it was to hear from a “real person” about their experiences,

challenges and successes. It is so important for our young people

to see examples of resilience and Korrin’s positivity and

enthusiasm for life, despite what she has been dealt, was

infectious. We would highly recommend Korrin as a speaker for both students and adults alike."

For more information http://www.korrin.com.au/

- 27 -

Winter Sports Supporters’

COMBO SPECIAL

Umbrella & Sports Rug $65 (save $10) Limited Offer – until 27 July’18 or while stocks last

Order by emailing pfa@iona.school.nz and specify blue or blue/white umbrella.