The Board of Trustees met on Thursday, 27th May and enjoyed hospitality alongside members of the Student Executive before the meeting proper began. It was an opportunity to connect with these student leaders and to support their ministry. We are very proud of the way these young leaders presented themselves as leaders of the College. We were also fortunate to enjoy a demonstration of some fabulous barista skills from Year 12 students, Jennifer and Nina, out of the College’s new Coffee Cart. Last year, the Board supported the purchase of this coffee cart to provide our students with authentic learning opportunities and a potential pathway into part-time work. It was great to see it in action!
As well as hearing from the College Arts Faculty regarding their results, goals and aspirations, the Board also received an update from Graeme Roil, Schools Property and Finance Manager for the Catholic Diocese of Hamilton, regarding future plans for growth at Aquinas College.
Following the opening of Suzanne Aubert Catholic Primary School in Papamoa late last year, the pressure on Aquinas College to increase the school roll to meet demand has continued to escalate. The Diocesan Schools Office on behalf of the Proprietor is actively and constructively engaged in preparations to submit an application to the Minister of Education to increase the College roll. This will be subject to The Minister’s approval and funding the growth. To prepare and plan for the necessary construction to accommodate a further 200 students on campus the Diocesan Schools Office has announced the appointment of a Tauranga-based Project Manager commencing in June. Introductions will follow at a later date.
The Board also reviewed results of the recent Uniform Policy survey – see separate item on Uniform Review
Uniform Review
Earlier this year you were invited to comment and provide input on the Uniform and Appearance Policy. While response from the parent community was low, we had responses from 323 students providing feedback around the current uniform.
In response to this feedback, the Board of Trustees will be appointing a Uniform Review Committee to consult with a range of stakeholders and potential providers and present recommendations to the Board for revising the current uniform.
Any potential change to the uniform will be carefully considered, communicated and transitioned over a period of time.
We are seeking two parent representatives to sit on the committee. If you are interested in participating please email admin@aquinas.school.nz
