Principal's comment

We are deep into Term 3 and as usual we have plenty ahead for our students.

This weekend we had our school ball with the theme "Secret Garden". This is an important part of any school and a rite of passage for our Year 12/13 students. I would like to acknowledge the ball committee for all their work that has gone into making this event a reality.

We also have a number of other exciting events on the calendar. On the 23rd and 24th of August, the GHS sports committee are having a fundraiser in the school hall. The comedy stage hypnosis show promises to be an entertaining couple of nights. Please support GHS Sport by purchasing a ticket. A huge thank you to Geraldine Combined Sports Committee for sponsoring the evening.

On the 29th of August, we have the annual Vibes evening where students will be showcasing their performing arts talent. This is a one-night-only show (due to already having the school production of Grease). Get in fast to secure your tickets.

Other notable events include; the Year 8 camp, winter tournament, ski trips, and a music festival.

Next Thursday the 22nd of August we have our parent-teacher interviews. Book a time through the following link School Interviews.

Finally, this term our senior students and Year 10 students (with a selection of Year 9) will sit their derived grade examinations and co-requisite assessments. Students should be starting to get into a study routine that best prepares them for these high-stakes examinations/assessments.

Studying effectively can make a big difference in understanding material and preparing for exams. Here are some study tips to help secondary students succeed:

1. Create a Study Schedule

• Consistency: Set aside specific times each day for studying to create a routine.

• Prioritisation: Focus on subjects that need the most attention first.

• Breaks: Include short breaks to avoid burnout and keep the mind fresh.

2. Organise Your Study Space

• Minimise Distractions: Choose a quiet, clutter-free environment.

• Materials Ready: Have all necessary materials (chromebooks, notebooks, pens, etc.) within reach.

3. Use Active Learning Techniques

• Summarise in Your Own Words: Write down or say out loud the key points in your own words.

• Practice Questions: Test yourself with past papers or practice questions.

• Teach Someone Else: Explaining concepts to someone else helps reinforce your understanding.

4. Take Effective Notes

• Highlight Key Points: Use colours or symbols to highlight important information.

• Mind Maps: Create diagrams to visually organise and link information.

• Review Regularly: Go over your notes periodically to reinforce learning.

5. Use Mnemonics and Memory Aids

• Acronyms: Create acronyms to remember lists or sequences.

• Rhymes or Songs: Make up a rhyme or song to remember specific facts or formulas.

• Visual Imagery: Associate complex information with a vivid mental image.

6. Stay Healthy

• Balanced Diet: Eat nutritious foods to fuel your brain.

• Regular Exercise: Physical activity can improve concentration and reduce stress.

• Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough rest, as sleep is crucial for memory consolidation.

7. Practice Time Management

• Set Specific Goals: Break down your study sessions into clear objectives.

• Avoid Procrastination: Start tasks as soon as possible, especially larger projects.

• Use Timers: Set timers to stay focused during study sessions and to keep track of time.

8. Seek Help When Needed

• Ask Teachers: Don’t hesitate to ask your teachers for clarification on topics you don’t understand.

• Study Groups: Join or form study groups to discuss difficult concepts with peers.

• Online Resources: Use online tutorials or educational websites for additional help.

9. Stay Motivated

• Set Rewards: Treat yourself after completing study sessions or achieving goals.

• Visualise Success: Imagine yourself achieving your academic goals to stay focused.

• Stay Positive: Keep a positive mindset even when the material is challenging.

10. Review Regularly

• Weekly Reviews: Go over what you’ve learned each week to reinforce knowledge.

• Mock Exams: Simulate exam conditions with timed practice tests.

Implementing these strategies can help students study more effectively, reduce stress, and achieve better academic results.

We also have a homework Club on Wednesdays after school from 3.15pm-4.30pm where teachers drop in to help students with their work.

Gym Update: The roof has now been installed on the gym and we are on schedule to have this ready for 2025. Exciting news!

Nga mihi nui

Marcus Cooper

Principal/Tumuaki

Geraldine High School