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NEWSLETTER |
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TERM 2, ISSUE 1 |
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Principal’s message
Talofa lava,
This week is Samoan Language week, a time when we celebrate the language and culture of Samoa. I acknowledge the work of our student leaders for the events that they have planned for the week and I encourage students to participate and take the opportunity to learn more about the Samoan culture.
In recent weeks we have met with leaders of our student council to hear feedback about issues that are priorities for our student body. Representatives from each tutor class have collated student feedback from across the school and we value the ideas and issues shared. Students have let us know that cleanliness of, and easy access to, bathrooms is very important to them as they go about their learning and activities at school (and one of the highest priorities across all year levels). In response to their feedback, and to address the anti-social behaviour of a small number of our students, we are installing vape censors in selected student bathrooms. These sensors are used by many schools in New Zealand and have been found to be very effective. If you have any questions relating to the use of these vape sensors, please contact creadhead@eggs.school.nz.
Student reports will come out next week. More information about how to access these will be emailed separately. These reports are designed to provide clear information about the academic progress your daughter is making in her subjects, and feedback on next steps in her learning. In week 8 and week 9 we will hold parent teacher conferences, where this progress can be discussed in more detail with subject teachers.
Sincerely, Chloe Gong Author Visit
On 28 May, students from Year 10 and Year 11 English classes, along with senior writers and school librarians, had the opportunity to attend a special presentation by best-selling New Zealand author Chloe Gong. Known for her young adult fiction, Chloe is the author of These Violent Delights, a New York Times bestseller that reimagines Romeo and Juliet in 1920s Shanghai.
The visit offered students a unique chance to hear from a professional writer and gain insight into the creative process. Chloe and her publisher were impressed by the thoughtful questions from the audience, and the long line of students waiting for book signings and selfies was a clear sign that a love of reading is thriving at EGGS. |
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Languages achievements
Congratulations to the 22 French learners who were awarded their DELF certificates in assembly last week. The DELF qualification, administered by the French Ministry of Education, certifies students’ proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students sat A1, A2, and B1 level exams, with B1 being the level required for French citizenship. The next DELF exam will take place in August.
We also celebrated students who achieved Excellence Endorsement in their language for 2024. To earn this, students needed at least 14 credits at Excellence level, including both internal and external assessments. Congratulations to the 72 students across French, Japanese, Spanish, Chinese, and Te Reo Māori who reached this impressive milestone. |
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Year 13 drama performance – Chaos by Laura Lomas
Chaos, by Laura Lomas, is a fast-paced, thought-provoking play made up of dislocated yet interconnected scenes, where characters search for meaning in a complex and unstable world. Touching on themes of physics, the cosmos, love, and violence, the play finds order in the disorder of human connection.
Our Year 13 Drama students brought this challenging work to life with energy and heart, under the direction of pre-service teacher Jacob Dale and Drama teachers Jaclyn Druitt and Michelle Hesketh. With a student-led crew and bold performances, the production was a huge success, earning excellent feedback for its creativity, emotional depth, and strong ensemble work. |
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Year 13 Art Design experience day
Year 13 Art Design students recently visited central Auckland galleries Artspace and Tautai as part of a design-focused trip aimed at deepening their understanding of contemporary design practices. At Tautai, students explored the work of artist and graphic designer Linda Va’aelua, who generously met with the group to discuss her exhibition and design process.
At Artspace, students took part in an interactive workshop focused on typography and composition. The day concluded with a stop in Mt Eden Village, where students worked in groups on an urban design task before returning to school. It was a valuable and inspiring day of creative exploration. |
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Year 13 Physics trip to Rainbow’s End
On Friday 23 May, 120 Year 13 Physics students and six staff visited Rainbow’s End to experience physics in action. From Bumper Boats to The Invader and the Roller Coaster, students explored key concepts like forces, energy, and momentum through hands-on learning.
After each ride, students answered questions that connected theory to real-world experiences. The trip was a memorable blend of fun and education, strengthening critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. |
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World Scholar's Cup 2025
Twenty students represented EGGS at the Auckland Regional Round of the World Scholar’s Cup, held at Kelston Boys High School. Over two days, students competed in debating, collaborative writing, and quiz events, with several teams earning top honours. Sophia Liu, Olivia Robinson, and Selena Yin won the Champion Writing Team Trophy, while multiple teams achieved Silver Overall, including Vani Singh, Elizabeth Barrie, Ivy Pollar, Grace West, Emma Burt, and Yana Puna. Fatema Munji, Mayoori Krishna, and Angel Chang placed 2nd in Debating, and Kavya Boddapati received the Asimov Scholar Award.
All participants earned individual silver and gold medals across a range of academic categories, showcasing their knowledge, teamwork, and enthusiasm. Congratulations to everyone involved! |
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Strings and amplifiers
Strings and Amplifiers was a fantastic opportunity to showcase our Chamber Music groups as they prepare for the NZCT Chamber Music Contest, alongside performances from our growing contemporary music rōpū—some of whom recently took the stage at the Rockquest Heats.
Students have been rehearsing diligently since Term 1, delivering captivating original songs and polished pop and rock covers. Their performances reflected not only their talent and creativity but also the strength and diversity of our music programme. |
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Smokefree Rockquest
Seven of our talented student bands took the stage at the recent Smokefree Rockquest regional heats, performing original songs with confidence and creativity. Their captivating performances showcased not only musical skill but also the courage it takes to share original work in a live setting.
With the largest turnout of any central school, EGGS students stood out for their energy, originality, and stage presence. It was a proud moment for our music community and a testament to the strength of our contemporary music programme. |
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Ngā Kōhine o Maungawhau performs in Division One at Polyfest
Ngā Kōhine o Maungawhau had an incredible campaign at this year’s Polyfest, competing in Division One for the first time since 2004. We’re proud to share that our rōpū placed third in the Haka Taparahi and were honoured to receive the Ngākau Nui ki te Kaupapa trophy—recognition of their deep commitment to kaupapa Māori and excellence in performance.
These achievements are a testament to the dedication, heart, and hard work of our amazing kōhine. We are so proud of each and every one of them for representing our kura and culture with such mana. He mihi maioha ki ō mātou kaiako—Matua Teeps, Whaea Pare—me ngā whānau katoa mō tō koutou tautoko. |
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World Challenge Tanzania - July 2026
Get ready for an unforgettable expedition to Northern Tanzania. From the sands of the east to Mount Kilimanjaro’s peaks and the Serengeti’s vast plains, this journey offers students a unique chance to explore one of East Africa’s most culturally and geographically rich regions. Travelling by jeep, students will spot wildlife, meet Maasai communities, and experience life far beyond the classroom.
This World Challenge adventure is open to all students and will take place in July 2026. The cost of the trip is $14,350. An information evening will be held on Wednesday 19 June at 6:30pm, with a link shared to those who register their interest via this form. For any questions, please contact Ms. Brooks at sbrooks@eggs.school.nz. Don’t miss this opportunity to step outside your comfort zone, embrace new cultures, and develop lifelong skills. |
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Volunteer opportunity – support our students
Our Learning Centre-Whare Akoranga is looking to build a team of dedicated volunteers to support junior and senior students who receive Special Assessment Conditions (SAC). We are seeking individuals who are calm, reliable, and either native English speakers or highly proficient in spoken and written English. Volunteers will be trained to act as readers, writers/typists, or supervisors for students during assessments. Please note: volunteers must not be current students.
Once trained, volunteers can let the Centre know their availability and we will be in touch the week prior to any assessments where support is needed. We deeply appreciate those who are able to give their time, whether occasionally or more regularly, to help our students thrive. If you can volunteer, or would like more information, please contact Natasha Muschamp at nmuschamp@eggs.school.nz Winter code success
Our winter sports codes are well underway this term, with multiple teams competing in weekly competitions and tournaments. It’s been a strong start to the season, with students showing great commitment and enthusiasm across a range of activities.
The EGGS Climbing programme has launched with great momentum, with many students participating in tournaments and the weekly College Sport Auckland Climbing Series. At the recent Auckland Championships, Amy Kirkham (Novice Junior) and Lucy Ernst (Novice Senior) both secured 1st place in their respective divisions. EGGS climbers continue to impress, with Addison Ledger earning a bronze medal in the Novice Senior Girls category. Well done to all involved! |
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Swimming success
Congratulations to Olivia Bates, who has been selected to represent New Zealand at the 2025 Tri Series in Ballarat, Victoria. Olivia has been named one of the top 20 female age group swimmers in the country—a remarkable achievement that reflects her dedication and passion for the sport.
Seventeen students represented Epsom Girls Grammar School at the College Sport Swimming Zones, achieving outstanding results with a total of 4 bronze, 3 silver, and 5 gold medals. Highlights include 1st place in the Senior 100m Freestyle Relay (Laura Watts, Maya Botti, Olivia Bates, Pare Teura-Davies), and 1st place finishes by Emily Rope in the Intermediate 50m Breaststroke, Freestyle, Butterfly, and Backstroke. Other podium finishes came from both Junior and Senior relay teams, as well as individual events by Clemence Dehon and Olivia Bates. Well done to all our swimmers for their impressive performances. |
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Multisport events
Congratulations to all the athletes who competed in the College Sport Triathlon Championships. Our Girls U19 Team—Ava Gatie, Olivia Bates, and Nina Worral—took out 1st place, as did the Girls U16 Team of Violet Young, Kate O’Brien, and Emma Rosie. Clemence Dehon placed 3rd in the Open Bike Race. In the Girls U16 category, Ava Moffat, Amaia Grevers-Smith, and Hazel Johnston placed 2nd, while Pare Teura-Davies, Lucja Gascoigne-Spittle, and Poppy Brown placed 3rd. The Novice Girls Team of Yasmina Bauarschi, Keira Treagus, and Briar Kerr also achieved an impressive 2nd place.
Eighteen students represented Epsom Girls Grammar School at the College Sport Duathlon. Congratulations to our medalists: Lucja and Keira placed 3rd in the U14 Team event; Emily Hammond placed 1st in the U16 Individual; Millie and Hazel placed 1st in the U16 Team, with Ayawa and Cerise placing 3rd. In the U19 Team category, Emma and Ava placed 2nd, as did Zoe and Zoe. Well done to all competitors for their outstanding efforts and results.
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The Parent Portal aims to provide you with information about your daughter and an ability to make payments online. Access to all the functions within the Portal is available to all parents and caregivers. Snapshots of what is available on the Parent Portal are here. Instructions for accessing the Parent Portal for new students are here.
Should you have any questions regarding this newsletter, please contact my PA, Catherine Readhead, on 09 9706 707. |
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