Year 10 student, Holly Thomas will soon be on our television screens in the feature-length film 'Bliss'. The film tells the story of a particular time in Katherine Mansfield's life (when she first moved to London) and Holly plays a young girl by the name of Dolly Trowell. It's not a huge part, but she does have some lines in a few scenes!
Holly is enrolled at a talent agency called the Odd Agency and she was invited to attend for the part through them. A number of girls auditioned for the part of Dolly.
The movie is filming over the next couple of months so Holly will be busy but happily juggling her role and her school work over this time. We look forward to seeing the results of her efforts.
Motivational Speakers
Recently, the Year 8 students were treated to exciting guest speakers in the form of Mike Newdick and Tina Cross. Both Mike and Tina are Kristin parents and extremely successful people in their own right.
Mike Newdick is a passionate and skilled surfer who has pursued a legal career. He spoke to the boys about the importance of having a good education, setting goals, and working towards achieving success. The boys also enjoyed hearing about his many escapades with sharks!
“He told us that you should focus on something and don't give up. And to remember it's never to late to try something new,” said Harrison Hill.
Tina Cross addressed the girls. A vibrant, exciting and enthusiastic entertainer and singer, she traced the path of her growing up. Tina emphasised the importance of taking advantage of every opportunity, using the skills you have, and not being afraid to take risks. She treated the girls to some beautiful singing.
Grace Grant reflects, “She reminded us only you can make the right choices for you. And that you can do all the things you want to do in life.”
The Year 8s came away from both these speakers inspired, enthused and hopefully motivated to believe in themselves and use their talents to their full extent.
ICAS Science Competition
Enthusiastic science students rose early on Wednesday 9 June. Arriving at school as the welcomed sun peeked over the icy grounds, students were ushered into the Middle School Learning Centre (MSLC) classrooms.
Eventually, 130 keen scientists from Year 7 to Year 10 sat down to take part in the annual ICAS Science competition. They faced problems on all manner of matter, from microbes to molecules.
The competition was one hour long and the students finished just as the period one bell rang. Results will be announced next term and students will be congratulated for their successes, making this early morning effort all worthwhile.
Year 7 Trip to Auckland War Memorial Museum
Lachlan Mackenzie from 7LHD wrote this recount following a recent class trip to Auckland Museum.
We arrived at the museum, eager to get started. We met our guide and were led in. In groups we went to see the wall of memories. Our guide told us all about it and about some people's stories from World War One. We learned a little about the life of a soldier during war time. It seemed horrible to be in the war because the soldiers ate bad food, they were living in a diseased environment and almost everyone they knew in the war probably died. It was a very sad time in history.
After that, we watched a play. It was about a soldier who was going to fight in the war with his brother. We all participated in the play as soldiers going to Gallipoli and they made us do push-ups! We had to move things out of a ship and sit in a trench for awhile. In the end the soldier killed his brother because his brother was in so much pain. We learnt even more about life in the war.
Later, we got to go off in our groups and have a little time to roam around before returning to the foyer for lunch. While I was looking around the museum I noticed a few pictures of soldiers and their experiences whilst fighting in the war. Again it was really sad and depressing.
See the video below of images from our time at the museum.
Island Sanctuary Inspiration
Year 8 student Hyungjun Kim wrote this poem following a recent class trip to Tiritiri Matangi Island.
The weather is bright and sunny,
Excitement is in the air, as today we go to Tiritiri Matangi
Time flies by as we reach the island.
The rocky road lay ahead welcoming us
Chatters soon turn to whispers.
Children open their ears as the birds start to chirp
Smiles form the people's faces.
The rocky road continues in a zig-zag formation.
After the walk, the children all rush to the souvenir shop.
The shop is crowded with children and their curiosity.
As we return, the fun memories of Tiritiri Matangi are cherished through the times we had with our friends.
Surf Team Making Waves
It's no surprise that Kristin's newly formed Surfing team attracts a bevy of keen students - road trips, sunsets and wicked waves sound like a pretty good way to cap off a hard week at school.
This term has seen the continuation of the after school 'Learn to Surf' sessions run by the Muriwai Surf School. The three-week programme has been fully attended and accordingly there will be more opportunities for students to get involved in Term 4.
Aside from weekly training sessions at Muriwai Beach and the odd weekend getaway, students have been focused on raising funds for a possible trip to Noosa in 2011. The Kristin Family Picnic saw a surfboard raffled off and a mufti day sausage sizzle were both great initiatives.
Extra Curricular Weekend with Duke of Edinburgh
On Friday 26 March, 26 Year 10 students and 3 Senior students embarked on a Duke of Edinburgh Bronze tramp. The students were split into groups for instruction on Navigation and What to do in an Emergency from members of the Search and Rescue team. Before it became too dark, the students quickly set up their tents and settled in for the evening.
On Saturday they tramped to the Pararaha camp site, a picturesque site next to the Pararaha River. The river provided some lovely swimming after a long tramp in the sun. In the afternoon they walked to the dunes and enjoyed another swim in the river on the way back to camp. On Sunday, the task was to complete a steep climb before joining the Gibbons Track, where they walked along the ridge to Whatipu.
It was a full weekend for all campers with some amazing views of the coastline along the way.
Camp Clips
Post camp the Middle School is still buzzing. Wanting to make the memories last, students in each year level have volunteered their expertise to create a movie jam-packed with hilarity and adventure.
Thanks to the proliferation of recording devices in the hot little hands of camp goers, the students have loads of footage, photos and sound bites to include in their movies.
“The challenge is deciding what to cut out!” says Year 8 student Kelsey Lewis.
The movies will be screened in assemblies and in the MSLC over the next few weeks.
House Spirit
House spirit is alive and kicking in the Middle School.
On the recent Year 9 and 10 Athletics Day, allegiance to one's House was displayed with pride. Not only were the obligatory House t-shirts worn, but students used colourful face paint to proclaim who they were cheering for.
Swimming Sports was another opportunity to fly the flag … literally. Students chanted and waved banners to support their House-mates in the pool.
The Middle School Atrium now displays a running total of House points on the big screen. A great incentive for students to get involved and earn extra points. May the best House win!
Languages are Creative!
Caitlin Beattie of Year 10 in the Middle School designed a winning banner in the 2009 NZALT(New Zealand Association of Language Teachers) nationwide competition. She proudly shows her winning design with Mr Adam Heath, Principal of the Middle School, and her German teacher, Mrs Elaine Jones. Congratulations, Caitlin!
Maori Crafts and Culture (Year 8 Humanities)
The Year 8 camp is a truly 'Kiwi' experience. Based in Rotorua, students enjoy everything from a traditional hangi to a dip in the old Blue Baths. In the build up to the big week, Year 8 students are readying themselves by embarking on a series of Maori craft and cultural experiences.
Students faced the first challenge of weaving a traditional Maori flax design with determination. It was fiddly work – but the results were impressive. In keeping with Maori protocol, students 'gifted' their first piece to their tutor class.
The next task was to tell their family story through the traditional art of Kowhaiwhai. With each koru communicating a different element, the 'stories' were both beautiful and insightful.
Lastly, the students enjoyed playing traditional Maori string games. Who would have thought that a simple piece of string could present so many challenges and be so much fun?
The students leave for camp next week with a greater understanding and appreciation for Maori crafts and culture in their proverbial kete.
2009
Debating
Following a succesful debating season for Middle School students, Mitchell Smitheram and Nadia Sussman have outlined below, the highlights of the Premier and Open Division.
Premier
This year Kristin entered two teams into the Junior Premier Division. Our aims were high with some experienced debaters as well as some great new talent emerging from Year 9. Most of the debates were limited preparation, given only one hour to prepare our debates. One of our teams, made up of Florence Hinder, Matthew Bartlett, Sara Ellis-Jack, Verity Johnson and Mitchell Smitheram, qualified 3rd for the quarter finals. From here we progressed to the quarter finals, held in Auckland University's School of Law. We debated against Rosmini, who qualified 7th in Auckland. In a tough debate, we came out on top to proceed to the semi-finals. Early morning the team was there to watch the Senior Premier team, for any last minute tips and inspiration, before we ourselves were put in the seat. We set out to speak, with Verity opening our case. Then Sara took to the floor, followed by myself at 3rd. After Verity closed our debate we all sat around waiting for the adjudicator's call. Unfortunately it did not go our way, losing in a 2-1 split. This season has been excellent for Kristin debating and we hope to improve on these results and continue to compete at the top end.
Open
This house firmly believes that debating was one of the most worthwhile things they've done this year! True, it was a scary moment standing in front of the serious and bespectacled adjudicator at my teams first debate. In fact I froze up about half-way through the three minute torture, however, once we got into the swing of the argumentative approach we were on a roll. The fortnightly debates taught us so many things about communication, teamwork and logic. From learning how to interrupt each other, to breaking down the oppositions argument, we have gained immense rewards. And not just psychological ones; as of yet our team has only been beaten twice. Next year we are aiming to compete in the higher grade, and hopefully we'll be able to keep our heads above the words!
An Entertaining Project
Year 10 student Joel Granger held a free concert for his Personal Project recently. With an audience of approximately 150 elderly people, the entertainers included Hannah Schunk-Hockings, Hannah Foreman, George Freeman and Joel singing songs from the earlier eras, accompanied by Amy Chang. Joel's team also put on a morning tea on arrival for the guests.
Masterchefs
Students from Middle School visited Ronald McDonald House Auckland in September for their quarterly task of preparing dinner for the residents there. They got down to work upon arrival, peeling carrots, chopping peppers and boiling pasta. Mr Gurney and Mr Haslam worked the BBQ and thanks to great planning by Year 10 student Victoria Brownlee and support from Mrs Macpherson and Mrs Milliken in the kitchen, it all went like clockwork. A delicious meal was served at 6pm.
The students and staff involved, all loved the experience. Click on the below image for more.
Mathex
On Wednesday 2 August, 32 Year 7 and 8 students competed in the annual North Shore Mathex competition at the North Shore Events Centre.
For the first time ever, four schools tied for 1st place – this resulted in the highly anticipated Sudden Death! The first team to get the answer correct would win. Two schools were the first to approach the judges with an answer. However, both were incorrect. Kristin then tried and we were incorrect. However, after a few more attempts, our Year 7 team did come through with the correct answer and took the title. The winning team was made up of: Danni Morgan, Katie Addison-Saipe, Anthony Moon and Ji Won Jung.
Our Year 8 team came 4th in their Mathex event.
Year 8 Speech Contest
Orators abound in the Middle School! A highlight of Term 2 is the Year 8 Speech Contest.
Early in the term, all students are required to present a prepared speech on their chosen topic. The culminating event being the Year 8 Speech Contest where the top 12 students compete. The contest was held on Tuesday 19 May and the adjudicators, Mrs Bronwyn van der Geest and Miss Hillary Fee, were very impressed with the quality of the presentations.
The joint winners of the contest were Sally Campbell and Anna Townend with their entertaining speeches on 'Underwear' and 'Weird Rules' respectively. In 2nd place was Laura Townend, uncovering the 'Worlds Silliest Criminals' and 3rd place went to Yanni Wetzell with a light-hearted tribute to his family.
Other top-class speakers were Charles Michel, Elspeth Carroll, Nicholas Thornton, Hannah Lockie, Kirsty Sutherland, Anna Wingham, Stephanie Sole and Natasha Katavich. Our superb commentators for the event were Emma Poole and Christian Silver.
Our top speakers will go on to represent Kristin in both the APPA and the Milford Rotarian speech contests. It is gratifying to see young people present with such confidence and creativity, captivating audiences with their skill.
10, Year 10
Year 10 students enjoyied the James Bond-themed Social on Thursday 11 June. The event was organised totally by the Year 10 Student Council members as a fundraiser. Proceeds will go towards the purchase of food for the Terms 3 and 4 visits to Ronald MacDonald House Auckland where the council will prepare meals for the 150 parents and patients.
Tessa Duder Visit
Tessa Duder came to Kristin on 4 and 8 June to talk to Year 7 and 8 students, as well as to participate in the Year 9 Reading Day. As the author of a novel much beloved by many young New Zealanders, 'Alex', she is the perfect role model for aspiring writers and it was a great pleasure to have her with us. Next year, she will be a guest tutor at the Michael King Writers' Centre workshops which two of our Senior School students are invited to attend each year. We hope that Tessa will come and visit Middle School classes again in 2010.
Children's Literature Quiz
The 'Lit Quiz' was held at St Cuthbert's in June. Students chosen for the two Kristin teams were: Madeleine Williamson, Libby Williamson, Solomon Klinger, Holly Cullimore-Gressier, Antonia Wilks, Gracie Scott, Caitlin McKissock and Rachel Cho.
30 schools were competing, with some unusual categories of questions such as 'Finances' and 'Galaxies'. All were all very nervous, but excited. There were questions about authors, comics, novels of all kinds, cartoons, movies and picture books. Both teams did very well. Kristin A won the Galaxy category, and came 10th overall with 77 points. The Year 7 participants are keen to take up the challenge next year.
Anzac Day
A total of 35 Middle School students joined Middle School Principal Ted Berry at the parade and the ceremony for Anzac Day held at Takapuna on Saturday 25 April. They gathered at Sanders Ave in immaculate uniform making a special effort to represent the school at this important event. The students marched with the Poilice, Navy, Air Force and returned service men and despite the inclement weather, it will be an experience they remember for a long time.
Surf's Up
During Week 1 of the April school holidays, Mrs Diane Webb and Ms Jan Oliver took a Middle School group from the Kristin Surf Team to Whangamata in the Coromandel. The purpose of the trip was to work with coach Mike Newdick to hone skills and develop competition techniques. It was a successful trip with many highlights along the way. If you require further information about up-coming surf trips or learn to surf programmes please contact Diane Webb extn 2432. Click the below image to see more of the action.
Michael King Writers' Centre Workshop Success
Augusta Connor and Kaitlyn Crabb joined other talented young writers at the Michael King Writers' Centre Sunday Workshops which concluded on 5 April.
They were under the tutelage of poets Michele Leggot and Vincent O'Sullivan, novelist and editor Graeme Lay, publisher Christine Cole Catley and English teachers Ros Ali from St Cuthbert's and Jo Emeney from Kristin.
Senior students interested in this opportunity for 2010 should start building a portfolio to prove their dedication to writing. Miss Emeney will be pleased to speak to any student who wishes to be considered.
Graeme Lay Visits English Students
On the last day of term, Graeme Lay came to speak to Year 9 and 10 English classes. Most students were conversant with Graeme's short stories and to hear the real stories that lay behind their creation was fascinating - and helpful for study!
As a young writer, Graeme was mentored by Frank Sargeson, and he currently belongs to the rich literary community of Devonport which includes other New Zealand literary icons as Kevin Ireland and Poet Laureate Michele Leggott. As a travel writer, short story writer and novelist, Graeme was able to open out the possibilities of writing before many young eyes on 3 April, and it was encouraging to see quite a few students staying back after each session to talk further with him. He was a very human, very warm speaker and we thank him for spending time with us.
Dinner Time Again at Ronald McDonald House
Once again in Term 1, 15 Year 10 Student Council members went to Ronald McDonald House to cook dinner for and to socialise with 130 residents as part of their Community and Service Programme. Community and Service is a vital part of the Middle Years Programme of the International Baccalaureate that the students and the teachers enjoy very much. Click on the below image to view the students at work.
Middle School Learning Centre Official Opening
It was a long-awaited day of celebration at Kristin School this morning as Prime Minister John Key performed the official opening of Kristin's new Middle School Learning Centre (MSLC).
Staff and students were joined by those involved in the construction as well as parents, Principals of neighbouring schools, Kristin Board members, Kauri Club Alumni and Northern Ward Councillor Joy Brett, while Prime Minister John Key cut the official ribbon and unveiled a plaque to open the building. Click on the image below to see more of the event.
FPS Presentation to Kerridge and Partners
On Thursday 26 March, the Kristin FPS team presented to Kerridge and Partners as part of their fundraising efforts for their trip to the international competition in United States. They had been asked to work on the problem of 'how to widen the leadership field in New Zealand'. Although nervous to start with, the presentation went very well and as a result the main idea suggested – the Leadership Bebo - is being brought up at the partners' meeting for discussion as to its implementation.
A fantastic result; Kerridge seemed very interested in not only the FPS process but also the ideas for solving their problems. The team hopes other companies will choose to use their skills in a similar manner. The Kristin FPS team consists of Andrew Chen, Verity Johnson, Amy Martin, Hamish Mouat and Patrick Oxnam.
Entertaining at Lady Allum
The Middle School Student Council recently spent the afternoon at the Lady Allum Home for the Elderly. The students gave a concert of individual and group singing, and clarinet solos. They also spent time talking with the residents. This is part of their Community and Service programme in the Middle School.
Spooky House
The Year 10 Council team and Year 13 Middle School Liaison Prefects set up a Spooky House at the Kristin Picnic on Friday 13 March and raised $1200 for the Australian Bush-fire Relief Fund and to assist the Future Problem Solving Team in getting to the World Champs in Chicago. Click the image to see more spookiness.
Student Council
The first 2009 meeting of the Middle School Student Council was held On Friday 13 March. All Class Captains and Year 10 Council members attended. Following the meeting, Council leaders meet the Principal to discuss the matters brought forward. The meetings allow the students to bring to the school's attention positive aspects of school life and matters that they feel need to be addressed.
GATE Paving the Way
The Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Visual Art workshop was held on 5 March. Here, 15 students from Years 8 - 10 were selected to create a mosaic paver using pebbles for the new Middles School Learning centre grounds. It was a fun day and the students worked alongside Mrs Oliver and Miss Catchpole to create their own design. Problem solving was a high priority of the day to ensure the designs were clear and balanced in their use of colour. The colours of white, black and green glass pebbles were used to create unity across all of the pavers. A total of 25 pavers of a variety of sizes were created and we now look forward to them being set in the ground. Click the image to see the students creating.
Year 7 and 8 Swimming Sports
The Year 7 and 8 and Year 9 - 13 Swimming Sports were held at the Glenfield Leisure Centre Pools recently. Some fierce competition, combined with fun races and relays ensured that swimmers at all levels had an opportunity to participate. Highlights of the day were the House relays and the Staff v Students relay. Over the course of the two days, 24 Kristin Swimming records were broken and the following students were named Swimming champions:
Boys
Year 7 Taylor Gauld
Year 8 Archer Roelants
Junior (U14) Matthew O'Hara
Intermediate (U16) Ryan Roelents
Girls
Year 7 Kelsi Boocock
Year 8 Charlotte O'Hara
Junior (U14) Leah Hall
Intermediate (U16) Stephanie Rich
2008
Lady Allum Christmas Visit
The Middle School Student Council for 2008 went to visit Lady Allum House on Friday 28 December to help put up and decorate their Christmas trees and to talk to the residents. While they were there they sang Christmas carols and told stories to them. This was the Council's second trip to Lady Allum House this year and was very enjoyable.
Celebration of the Year
During the Year 7 Celebrations of the Year, on Tuesday 25 November, Year 7 got together for their Celebration of the Year (COY). Class Captains read out their Tutor teacher's citations and Vice Captains presented gifts to show their appreciation to the Tutor teachers for their hard work. A large group of Year 7 parents, teachers and invited guests were entertained by the Year 7 students. What a special event it was with the students showing us glimpses of what they have achieved throughout the year. The singing, music and student participation were suburb. Thank you to the parents who managed to come. This was a very special milestone for us all: the end of Year 7 and the start of Year 8. Afterwards the students enjoyed a delicious catered lunch in the shade outside the Roy Munn Gym.
IB World School
In October, Kristin Middle School were officially accredited to teach the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) – the first school in New Zealand – earning the title of IB World School.
Chinese Day Camp
Eight Year 8 students : Kayin Hey, Wong Tien-Yu, Alec Xie, David Chang, Mitchell Palmer, Tahara March, Madeleine Smith and Danielle Nutsford attended last weekend's Chinese Day Camp at Kristin School. The students learned many Chinese cultural activities such as lion dance, diabolo, bamboo dance, Chinese characters, paper-cutting, calligraphy, abacus, Chinese costumes of different dynasties, chopstick match and spinning Chinese tops. Fourteen schools from all over Auckland attended the camp for the 2 days and had great fun learning more about the culture.
Feeding Families
The Year 10 Student Council served dinner to children and their families at the Ronald McDonald House Auckland recently. This is the third time the Year 10 Student Council has done this activity. We are looking at doing this four times next year and using other year levels in the Middle School to work with the Year 10s on these rewarding evenings. Click the image to see the students at work.
Humanities and Maths Study the Sky Tower
Year 8 students visited the Sky Tower in Auckland City recently, for their Humanities and Maths Unit study on Urban Design – why cities are created and how? The topic covered building types and infrastructure and students had many questions to answer about the construction of the Tower: Why was it put here? What was here first? Why was it designed this way?
After taking in the magnificent views they returned to school where they will now begin work on designing their own futurist city. Click the image to see more of their trip.
Our Art at the Aotea Centre
Kristin students have been included in the opening of the Annual Auckland Intermediate Schools Art Exhibition for Year 7 and 8 students at the Aotea Centre in Auckland City. Kristin was very well represented with 16 pieces accepted out of 30 entries.
The exhibition work is selected by a panel of Art specialists from Intermediate schools and invited guests from the Art Department at Teachers College. Three of our students; Sophie Gow, Lucy Baylis and Florence Hinder each had two works selected.
The exhibition is on from 3 – 14 November at the Aotea Centre on the 5th floor. Click the image to see more.
Future Problems Solved
Congratulations to teachers Christine Mackway-Jones and Raewyn Casey and the Future Problem Solving (FPS) Team on their recent success at the Future Problem Solving National Championships.
The students reacted with astonishment and joy on hearing the announcements from the adjudicators who said that for the first time ever there was a consensus in the Middle Division as to which teams booklet was first.
Andrew Chen - Senior Individual New Zealand Champion
Hamish Mouat Amy Martin, Haya Awni Patrick Oxnam - Middle Division New Zealand Champions (second year in a row) also 2nd in Dramatic Performance
Sara Ellis-Jack - 2nd in Scenario Writing (her team was 3rd in on-site scenario writing)
Their achievements would not have happened without the patience, perseverance of the two FPS coaches and the skills and hard work of the students.
Click on the image to see more.
Battle of the Bands
On 30 October, the Year 8 Chapel Band 'The Mercury Cougars', competed in the North Shore heats of the Battle of the Bands. Although not winning a place at the regionals they certainly won the crowd over with enthusiastic renditions of Why Does Love and Living on a Prayer. Sam Conway won 'Best Bass Player' for the night, which is a real achievement, being relatively new to the instrument.
The Mercury Cougars are:
Tien-Yu Wong, Vocals
Cameron Williams, Drums
Kayin Hey, Keyboards
Sam Conway, Bass
Zeljan Kust, Guitar
Andrew Wetherell, Guitar
ESOL Graduation
Kristin Middle School staff and students, for whom English is their second language, celebrated their success at the Term 4 Graduation Ceremony.
Students who attended the celebration wish all current ESOL students, and future students, a great learning experience with Mrs Van der Geest and hope that they will also succeed and enjoy graduating as much as they did.
Lit Quiz
This year, the Year 7 and 8 Lit Quiz teams were chosen slightly differently for the 2008 Literature Quiz. Mrs Trebilcock and Mrs Prince ran a Lit Quiz competition between Year 7 and 8 classes in the library at lunchtimes for four weeks. Four students from each class took part and the air was very competitive. Mrs Prince and Mrs Trebilcock selected eight students, (one Year 7 team and one Year 8 team), from everyone who took part over the four weeks of the practice quiz and gave us a booklet of questions and answers from the previous Lit Quizzes to look at. We learned and revised them thoroughly, as well as keeping up our reading of a wide variety of books. Each person in the team also specialised in a different genre.
The Lit Quiz was held at St Cuthberts in late June and there were more schools (over 50) competing than we thought there would be. We were all very nervous, but excited. The questions asked were in ten genres including; 'Cats', 'Gods and Goddesses' and 'Harry Potter'. Even so, the questions within those genres were varied. There were questions about the authors, comics, novels of all kinds and picture books. Both of our teams did well, each winning book prizes for their individual rounds. The whole experience was wonderful, and we really hope to do it again next year.
Middle School Success in the 2008 World Haiku Competition
Schools in the Auckland and Christchurch area were recently invited to take part in the biennial Japan Airlines 10th World Haiku Contest. This is a contest that encourages students to observe nature through the Japanese culture inherent in Haiku, and hopes to develop the growth of and exchange between children of nations throughout the world. The theme this year was “Wind”. Many outstanding entries were received and the top fifty entries were sent to Japan. Five Kristin students were tutored by Julie Prince in the art of Haiku during lunchtimes in Term 1 and entered their poems and illustrations. All five were placed, as well as two being included in the the top 10. All five poems will be sent to Japan.
Niall Cairns who gained the honour of 2nd place earned these comments from the judge: “ Haiku have the ability to set an unexpected image in our minds as Niall's example demonstrates. I love the way this poem represents a surprising image that works on a number of levels. Niall's words flow beautifully across each line and as you read them aloud the effect is striking. A fine haiku indeed!”
Niall's Haiku:
Flying fish at night
Shadows dancing on the wall
Eerily quiet
Sorina Casvean-Muresan was 6th and her poem also impressed the judge: “The haiku creates a striking image where the dancing wind comes alive in the dancing papers but then settles down to play with the poet's hair...”
Sorina's Haiku:
Reckless wind at school
Whipping papers in a dance
Toying with my hair
Isabelle Hunt was Highly Commended and Isobel Campbell and Nadia Sussman were both Commended for their Haiku.
A Visionary Week for James
James Bishop of Year 8 was one of 20 students across New Zealand to win a scholarship for his work in the World Vision 40 Hour Famine. James' dad is also on the Board of Governors for World Vision so James was keen to be a part of something his dad is so passionate about. This week, all the winners came together to spend time with World Vision, having fun and learning more about what World Vision does. Last night the winners had a had a dinner with their parents and Principals from all over New Zealand.
Year 8 Formal
On Tuesday 23 September the second of the Middle School Formals was held. All of the students turned up in their finery, however, their teachers perhaps took the black and white theme a little too far! The culmination of periods practicing formal dancing paid off, with the students successfully dancing the Samba, Cha Cha, Rock & Roll and the Foxtrot. The Year 8 team would like to thank Nadja Court, Kara Barnston and Rosemary Hunt for their help in the Kitchen, and Claire Selak and her team for the outstanding decorations. Click on the image to see more of the night.
A Personal Project Gift
Middle School student Alexander Lee performed his very first charity recital in the Kristin Chapel on Saturday afternoon. There were 120 people there to watch Alexander play his violin. He did the recital for his Personal Project as part of the Middle Years Programme where one of his goals was to raise money through a concert for Starship Hospital.
Alexander organised the entire concert, programme, publicity and repertoire by himself and his efforts were rewarded with a $1238 gift for the children of Starship Hospital.
Art on Display at Westfield
Some clever Middle School students currently have their very own works of art on display at the popular Westfield Albany Centre. The collection covers a range of media and styles and is selected to demonstrate the talent and skill level of our students across all levels in the Middle School. The following students are involved:
Year 10
Julia Bartlet, Summer Bishop, Lily Hong, Augusta Connor, Ping Cowey, Millie Van Hest, Karen Goedeke, Michael Greenop, Maddie Dillon, Anna Spence, Metal Patel and David Yu.
Year 9
Shannon De Kock, Cairan Lee, Tom Van Schaik, Sophia Anderson, Tom Lloyd, Blayse Heaven, Jocelyn Ho, Cindy Wei, Remy Morgan and Jasmine Li.
Year 8
JJ Manning, Lucy Baylis, Sophie Gow, Todd Selak, Melody Cao, Leah Hall, Sam Conway, Christian Topp, Liam Sharma and Carol Shen.
Year 7
Dup Ao Sun, Penny Peng, David Cho, Kirsty Sutherland, June Cheng, Celeste Yeung, Mirella Grierson-Ryrie and Isabella Wicks.
Craft Club
Mrs Milliken has been running a Craft Club once a week at lunchtime during the winter terms. This club has been well supported by a very enthusiastic group of mainly Year 8 students. The students turn up every week and sometimes twice a week (when they can talk Mrs Milliken into it) to make a variety of hand crafts. The students have enjoyed the opportunity to be creative working with fabric. Some of the projects the students have made are patchwork pin cushions, designer aprons and soft toys. Due to the popularity of this group Mrs Milliken is looking at it continuing in Term 4.
Robert Hewitt
In February 2006, Navy Diver Robert Hewitt was lost at sea, for four harsh days and three terrifying nights he survived at sea before being rescued after an incredible 75 hours. The news media at the time described it as, "A Miracle!" and a true, "testament to the human spirit".
Since being pulled from the water in February 2006 he has been in high demand around the world among experts and safety organisations, keen to learn what kept him alive when most had given him up for dead.
Robert has travelled to many different countries to talk about his amazing story of survival, including; South Africa, Australia and many nations throughout Europe. His story of survival against the greatest of odds has also been turned into a documentary which has been televised in many countries throughout the world.
We were extremely fortunate to hear first hand from Rob, his inspirational story on Friday 5 September at our Father and Son Breakfast.
Year 10 Speech Finals
On Tuesday 2 September, the following contenders from the Year 10 group competed in the finals, adjudicated by Mrs Wassung:
Hamish Borsboom
Anna Guise
Brianna Kerridge
Riley Wilson
Adam Frecklington
Hugh Lowther
Kate Thimbleby
Genevieve Lyon
Corry van der Geest
Jamil Khan
Iyia Liu, Michael Greenop and Alexander McNaughten compered.
First place went to Anna Guise for her speech on 'The Bebo Craze'. Second place went to Riley Wilson for her speech entitled 'Closets are for clothes; not homosexuals' and third place was awarded to Jamil Khan for his speech about 'Sheep - the human instinct to conform and follow'.
Contestants are to be congratulated on the high quality of their speeches this year.
International Week in Middle School
Middle School students celebrated International Languages Week with an international assembly where students from a wide variety of cultures performed. A soccer tournament was held amongst language classes and a wonderful international food market gave students the choice of Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Korean and Spanish cuisine.
Click on the image to see more.
Maoritanga
Year 8 classes have begun making poi and learning the haka in preparation for the opening of the new Middle School building. Each week, Mr Syd Crawford works with the classes discussing with them Maori protocol and explaining the significance of Maori action songs. The students are thoroughly enjoying this aspect of the programme and can't wait to begin singing and performing at the event.
A.P.P.A Speech Contest
On Tuesday 26 August Nadia Sussman and Hannah Ostick represented Kristin in the Auckland Primary Principals Association (A.P.P.A) Speech Contest. There were 19 speakers from various Intermediate schools in the competition who spoke at Northcote Intermediate School before a large audience. Both girls presented polished and expressively presented speeches to an appreciative audience.
Although unplaced, both students were superb ambassadors for the school both in terms of oral ability and presentation.
Hockey Fundraiser
The 1st XI hockey boys held a fundraiser recently in preparation for Tournament in Week 6. A very popular sausage sizzle helped to raise some funds for their trip to the Secondary School Boys Hockey Tournament in the Wairarapa which runs from 31 August until 5 September.
Ronald McDonald House
On 14 August, 2008, members of the Middle School Year 10 Council prepared and served dinner to 160 parents, staff and children at the Ronald McDonald House Auckland. This activity is done on a regular basis by Middle School students and is part of their Community and Service Programme.
Click on the below image to view more activity from the afternoon.
Middle School
Learn about the Kristin brand and our fundraising campaigns
Year 10 student, Holly Thomas will soon be on our television screens in the feature-length film 'Bliss'. The film tells the story of a particular time in Katherine Mansfield's life (when she first moved to London) and Holly plays a young girl by the name of Dolly Trowell. It's not a huge part, but she does have some lines in a few scenes! 
Recently, the Year 8 students were treated to exciting guest speakers in the form of Mike Newdick and Tina Cross. Both Mike and Tina are Kristin parents and extremely successful people in their own right.
Enthusiastic science students rose early on Wednesday 9 June. Arriving at school as the welcomed sun peeked over the icy grounds, students were ushered into the Middle School Learning Centre (MSLC) classrooms.
Lachlan Mackenzie from 7LHD wrote this recount following a recent class trip to Auckland Museum.
Year 8 student Hyungjun Kim wrote this poem following a recent class trip to Tiritiri Matangi Island.
It's no surprise that Kristin's newly formed Surfing team attracts a bevy of keen students - road trips, sunsets and wicked waves sound like a pretty good way to cap off a hard week at school. 
Post camp the Middle School is still buzzing. Wanting to make the memories last, students in each year level have volunteered their expertise to create a movie jam-packed with hilarity and adventure.
House spirit is alive and kicking in the Middle School.
Caitlin Beattie of Year 10 in the Middle School designed a winning banner in the 2009 NZALT(New Zealand Association of Language Teachers) nationwide competition. She proudly shows her winning design with Mr Adam Heath, Principal of the Middle School, and her German teacher, Mrs Elaine Jones. Congratulations, Caitlin!
The Year 8 camp is a truly 'Kiwi' experience. Based in Rotorua, students enjoy everything from a traditional hangi to a dip in the old Blue Baths. In the build up to the big week, Year 8 students are readying themselves by embarking on a series of Maori craft and cultural experiences.
Following a succesful debating season for Middle School students, Mitchell Smitheram and Nadia Sussman have outlined below, the highlights of the Premier and Open Division.
Year 10 student Joel Granger held a free concert for his Personal Project recently. With an audience of approximately 150 elderly people, the entertainers included Hannah Schunk-Hockings, Hannah Foreman, George Freeman and Joel singing songs from the earlier eras, accompanied by Amy Chang. Joel's team also put on a morning tea on arrival for the guests.
On Wednesday 2 August, 32 Year 7 and 8 students competed in the annual North Shore Mathex competition at the North Shore Events Centre. 
Orators abound in the Middle School! A highlight of Term 2 is the Year 8 Speech Contest. 
Tessa Duder came to Kristin on 4 and 8 June to talk to Year 7 and 8 students, as well as to participate in the Year 9 Reading Day. As the author of a novel much beloved by many young New Zealanders, 'Alex', she is the perfect role model for aspiring writers and it was a great pleasure to have her with us. Next year, she will be a guest tutor at the Michael King Writers' Centre workshops which two of our Senior School students are invited to attend each year. We hope that Tessa will come and visit Middle School classes again in 2010.
The 'Lit Quiz' was held at St Cuthbert's in June. Students chosen for the two Kristin teams were: Madeleine Williamson, Libby Williamson, Solomon Klinger, Holly Cullimore-Gressier, Antonia Wilks, Gracie Scott, Caitlin McKissock and Rachel Cho.
Augusta Connor and Kaitlyn Crabb joined other talented young writers at the Michael King Writers' Centre Sunday Workshops which concluded on 5 April. 
On the last day of term, Graeme Lay came to speak to Year 9 and 10 English classes. Most students were conversant with Graeme's short stories and to hear the real stories that lay behind their creation was fascinating - and helpful for study! 
On Thursday 26 March, the Kristin FPS team presented to Kerridge and Partners as part of their fundraising efforts for their trip to the international competition in United States. They had been asked to work on the problem of 'how to widen the leadership field in New Zealand'. Although nervous to start with, the presentation went very well and as a result the main idea suggested – the Leadership Bebo - is being brought up at the partners' meeting for discussion as to its implementation. 
The Middle School Student Council recently spent the afternoon at the Lady Allum Home for the Elderly. The students gave a concert of individual and group singing, and clarinet solos. They also spent time talking with the residents. This is part of their Community and Service programme in the Middle School.
The first 2009 meeting of the Middle School Student Council was held On Friday 13 March. All Class Captains and Year 10 Council members attended. Following the meeting, Council leaders meet the Principal to discuss the matters brought forward. The meetings allow the students to bring to the school's attention positive aspects of school life and matters that they feel need to be addressed.
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The Year 7 and 8 and Year 9 - 13 Swimming Sports were held at the Glenfield Leisure Centre Pools recently. Some fierce competition, combined with fun races and relays ensured that swimmers at all levels had an opportunity to participate. Highlights of the day were the House relays and the Staff v Students relay. Over the course of the two days, 24 Kristin Swimming records were broken and the following students were named Swimming champions:
The Middle School Student Council for 2008 went to visit Lady Allum House on Friday 28 December to help put up and decorate their Christmas trees and to talk to the residents. While they were there they sang Christmas carols and told stories to them. This was the Council's second trip to Lady Allum House this year and was very enjoyable.
During the Year 7 Celebrations of the Year, on Tuesday 25 November, Year 7 got together for their Celebration of the Year (COY). Class Captains read out their Tutor teacher's citations and Vice Captains presented gifts to show their appreciation to the Tutor teachers for their hard work. A large group of Year 7 parents, teachers and invited guests were entertained by the Year 7 students. What a special event it was with the students showing us glimpses of what they have achieved throughout the year. The singing, music and student participation were suburb. Thank you to the parents who managed to come. This was a very special milestone for us all: the end of Year 7 and the start of Year 8. Afterwards the students enjoyed a delicious catered lunch in the shade outside the Roy Munn Gym.
In October, Kristin Middle School were officially accredited to teach the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) – the first school in New Zealand – earning the title of IB World School.
Eight Year 8 students : Kayin Hey, Wong Tien-Yu, Alec Xie, David Chang, Mitchell Palmer, Tahara March, Madeleine Smith and Danielle Nutsford attended last weekend's Chinese Day Camp at Kristin School. The students learned many Chinese cultural activities such as lion dance, diabolo, bamboo dance, Chinese characters, paper-cutting, calligraphy, abacus, Chinese costumes of different dynasties, chopstick match and spinning Chinese tops. Fourteen schools from all over Auckland attended the camp for the 2 days and had great fun learning more about the culture. 
On 30 October, the Year 8 Chapel Band 'The Mercury Cougars', competed in the North Shore heats of the Battle of the Bands. Although not winning a place at the regionals they certainly won the crowd over with enthusiastic renditions of Why Does Love and Living on a Prayer. Sam Conway won 'Best Bass Player' for the night, which is a real achievement, being relatively new to the instrument.
Kristin Middle School staff and students, for whom English is their second language, celebrated their success at the Term 4 Graduation Ceremony. 
This year, the Year 7 and 8 Lit Quiz teams were chosen slightly differently for the 2008 Literature Quiz. Mrs Trebilcock and Mrs Prince ran a Lit Quiz competition between Year 7 and 8 classes in the library at lunchtimes for four weeks. Four students from each class took part and the air was very competitive. Mrs Prince and Mrs Trebilcock selected eight students, (one Year 7 team and one Year 8 team), from everyone who took part over the four weeks of the practice quiz and gave us a booklet of questions and answers from the previous Lit Quizzes to look at. We learned and revised them thoroughly, as well as keeping up our reading of a wide variety of books. Each person in the team also specialised in a different genre. 
Schools in the Auckland and Christchurch area were recently invited to take part in the biennial Japan Airlines 10th World Haiku Contest. This is a contest that encourages students to observe nature through the Japanese culture inherent in Haiku, and hopes to develop the growth of and exchange between children of nations throughout the world. The theme this year was “Wind”. Many outstanding entries were received and the top fifty entries were sent to Japan. Five Kristin students were tutored by Julie Prince in the art of Haiku during lunchtimes in Term 1 and entered their poems and illustrations. All five were placed, as well as two being included in the the top 10. All five poems will be sent to Japan.
James Bishop of Year 8 was one of 20 students across New Zealand to win a scholarship for his work in the World Vision 40 Hour Famine. James' dad is also on the Board of Governors for World Vision so James was keen to be a part of something his dad is so passionate about. This week, all the winners came together to spend time with World Vision, having fun and learning more about what World Vision does. Last night the winners had a had a dinner with their parents and Principals from all over New Zealand.
Middle School student Alexander Lee performed his very first charity recital in the Kristin Chapel on Saturday afternoon. There were 120 people there to watch Alexander play his violin. He did the recital for his Personal Project as part of the Middle Years Programme where one of his goals was to raise money through a concert for 
Some clever Middle School students currently have their very own works of art on display at the popular Westfield Albany Centre. The collection covers a range of media and styles and is selected to demonstrate the talent and skill level of our students across all levels in the Middle School. The following students are involved:
Mrs Milliken has been running a Craft Club once a week at lunchtime during the winter terms. This club has been well supported by a very enthusiastic group of mainly Year 8 students. The students turn up every week and sometimes twice a week (when they can talk Mrs Milliken into it) to make a variety of hand crafts. The students have enjoyed the opportunity to be creative working with fabric. Some of the projects the students have made are patchwork pin cushions, designer aprons and soft toys. Due to the popularity of this group Mrs Milliken is looking at it continuing in Term 4.
In February 2006, Navy Diver Robert Hewitt was lost at sea, for four harsh days and three terrifying nights he survived at sea before being rescued after an incredible 75 hours. The news media at the time described it as, "A Miracle!" and a true, "testament to the human spirit". 
On Tuesday 2 September, the following contenders from the Year 10 group competed in the finals, adjudicated by Mrs Wassung:
Year 8 classes have begun making poi and learning the haka in preparation for the opening of the new Middle School building. Each week, Mr Syd Crawford works with the classes discussing with them Maori protocol and explaining the significance of Maori action songs. The students are thoroughly enjoying this aspect of the programme and can't wait to begin singing and performing at the event.
On Tuesday 26 August Nadia Sussman and Hannah Ostick represented Kristin in the Auckland Primary Principals Association (A.P.P.A) Speech Contest. There were 19 speakers from various Intermediate schools in the competition who spoke at Northcote Intermediate School before a large audience. Both girls presented polished and expressively presented speeches to an appreciative audience.
The 1st XI hockey boys held a fundraiser recently in preparation for Tournament in Week 6. A very popular sausage sizzle helped to raise some funds for their trip to the Secondary School Boys Hockey Tournament in the Wairarapa which runs from 31 August until 5 September.
