Kia ora e te whānau o Te Kura o Hato Karama Katorika,

Celebrating First Holy Communion and Confirmation

We began the week with a truly special occasion, the celebration of First Holy Communion and Confirmation with our Parish and School community on Sunday. It was a day filled with faith, joy and togetherness, as 65 of our young students took an important step in their spiritual journey.

The celebration began with the 8am Mass, a moving ceremony led by Bishop Richard Laurenson and our Parish Priest, Father Stuart Young. Their presence and words of encouragement added great meaning to this sacred milestone for our children and families.

Over the past two months, our students have been lovingly prepared for this moment through the dedication and guidance of Parishioner Elaine Fernandes and her committed team of parish supporters. Their time, teaching and faith have been instrumental in helping the children understand and embrace the significance of the Sacraments.

A heartfelt thank you to all the parents and whānau for your support and commitment throughout the programme. Your encouragement and example of faith have helped your children arrive at this beautiful day with confidence and reverence.

To our 65 children, what a magnificent witness you have given to our community. Your decision to walk your life journey forever with Jesus and within the faith family of St Columba’s is both inspiring and uplifting. May the Holy Spirit continue to guide and strengthen you in the years ahead.

It was, without doubt, a day to remember, one filled with light, laughter, and the love of God present in our community.

Camp Kids - Our amazing senior students set off on Tuesday morning for an unforgettable four days at Tui Ridge, Rotorua! Spirits were high and smiles were wide as 110 excited campers boarded the buses, ready to embrace new challenges, friendships and adventures beyond the classroom. We wish Team 5 all the best as they dive into outdoor learning, teamwork and fun-filled experiences that will create memories to last a lifetime. Go well campers, we can’t wait to hear all your stories!

Quiz Night - To all our families who came to the Quiz Night to support the FOTS - thank you. The FOTS made $4,000.00 and they were extremely happy with this event. Thank you!

Mums and Sons Breakfast (Friday 7 November) - start your Friday with something special! Join us for our FREE Mums and Sons Breakfast on Friday 7 November at 7.30am in the St Columba’s School Hall.

We are pleased to welcome one of our own as guest speakers, Teuila Maggof and her son Hymie-John Maggof, SCCS alumnus. Teuila, a former parent representative on our Board of Trustees and Hymie-John.  They have both been away from our school for several years, and we’re thrilled to have them back to share their story.

Together, they’ll speak about their journey as mother and son, and Teuila will reflect on how mums can find balance and nurture their own wellbeing while supporting their children. This session is about connection, community and celebrating the relationships that help our children thrive.

If you’re new to St Columba’s, this is a wonderful way to meet others and enjoy a relaxed morning together, breakfast is on us!  We look forward to seeing you there.

FOTS Movie Night (Friday 7 November) - Grab your picnic blankets, bean bags and whānau, it’s time for our FOTS Movie Night on the Village Green! Join us on Friday 7 November for a fun evening under the stars. There will be food, treats and drinks available to purchase. It’s a great way to relax, connect and enjoy some community time together.

When: Friday 7 November (set up at 6.30pm - movie starting at 7pm)
Where: The Village Green
What: Family-friendly movie (title to be announced soon!)

Bring the whole family, get comfy, and enjoy a great night out with our St Columba’s community!

Wool in School trailer - We’re excited to host the Wool in Schools mobile “Wool Shed” - a hands-on learning experience travelling across New Zealand. Housed in two converted shipping containers, the Wool Shed gives our students the chance to explore the amazing world of wool, from farm to fabric, through science, design, and technology. It’s a fun, creative way for our tamariki to see innovation in action and learn about one of Aotearoa’s most iconic industries.

Ngā mihi nui,
 

Gareth Duncan

Congratulations to those who were Confirmed and received their First Holy Communion on Sunday 19 October. Please keep these students in your prayers as they continue to grow in their faith. A special thank you to those who helped prepare our students for this programme.

Thank you to our community for engaging in consultation regarding our house names. The house names which will be in use from Term 1 2026 are - Euphrasie Barbier, Suzanne Aubert, Bishop Pompallier and St Carlo Acutis. House colours will remain the same but each will receive one of our new names.

Sunday 19 October was World Mission Sunday. It is a global day of prayer, sacrifice and financial support for the Catholic Church's missionary work. It provides essential funds and support for local churches, schools, hospitals and other initiatives in areas of the world where the Church is new, young, or struggling. Let’s remember and pray for those who need hope in our world at this time.

Facts about John Paul II
Saint John Paul II was the first and only pope to visit New Zealand. He came to Christchurch on 24 November 1986. Here he is with our Dunedin Bishop at the time, Bishop Len Boyle. He travelled more than any other pope before him, visiting many countries around the world. He is also famous for starting World Youth Day, a big gathering for young Catholics.

Term 1:  Monday 2 February to Thursday 2 April

Term 2:  Monday 20 April to Friday 3 July

Term 3:  Monday 20 July to Friday 25 September

Term 4:  Monday 12 October to Monday 14 December

Tuesday 16 December 2025
12.15pm - 2.45pm -$12 flat rate applies - extra charge for half day
2.45pm - 5.30pm - normal ASC rates apply

Wednesday 17 December 2025
8am - 5pm - flat rate of $50 for the day (9hrs care)

Thursday 18 December 2025
8am - 5pm - flat rate of $50 for the day (9hrs care)

Friday 19 December 2025
8am - 5pm - flat rate of $40 for the day (7hrs care)
 
"MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE FROM THE SCCS KIDS CLUB TEAM"
 
Monday 22 December 2025 to Friday 26 December 2025 - closed
 
Monday 29 December 2025 to Friday 2 January 2026 - closed
 
Monday 5 January 2026 to Friday 9 January 2026 - closed
 
Monday 12 January 2026 to Friday 16 January 2026 - closed
 
January/February 2026 - Holiday Programme  
Week 1
Monday 19 January 2026 to Friday 23 January 2026 - 8am - 5pm

Week 2
Monday 26 January 2026 - (anniversary weekend) - closed
Tuesday 27 January 2026 - closed
Wednesday 28 January 2026 - 8am - 5pm
Thursday 29 January 2026 - 8m - 5pm
Friday 30 January 2026 - 8am - 5pm (information flyer and enrolment forms for HP out 2 weeks before term 4 ends) 
 
Term  1  2026 - first week back at school  
Monday 2 February 2026 - 7.30am - 8.30am B4Care / 2.45pm-5.30pm ASC

Friday 6 February 2026 - closed
 
We need to confirm staff rosters and purchasing for after school care toward the end of January 2026, please contact Deb on either Seesaw classroom or text the Kids Club mobile on 021 586633 to confirm your childs days for 2026.

ALL permenant bookings will roll over automatically to Term 1, 2026 unless you advise a change from 2025. Please contact Deb ASAP prior to school starting if you need to start the year off with changes to your bookings.

New 2026 enrolment forms will need to be completed prior to 3 Feb 2026 please and site visits need to be scheduled in before school starts if you are new to ASCare - forms available on school website.