Read the latest news from Rutherford College

Kia ora te whanau ō te Kōtuku

In recent weeks, my panui articles have focussed on resilience and staying focussed on your must do priorities. I trust that the following quotes will act as reminders of who makes the biggest difference to our happiness and success. As individuals if we want things to improve, the change required will be linked to how hard we are willing to work. 

“One important key to success is self-confidence. An important key to self-confidence is preparation.” Arthur Ashe        

“ Believe you can do it. Believing something can be done puts your mind to work for you and helps you find ways to do it.”     George Shinn 

“Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it.” Lou Holtz

Celebrating Community at Our Parent Breakfast and Cultural Evening

Rutherford College was buzzing with energy and community spirit as we hosted two special events on the same day that brought together students, whānau, staff, and members of our wider community.

The day began with our Parent Breakfast, where parents and caregivers joined their children for a relaxed breakfast at school. It was a wonderful opportunity for families to connect with one another, meet staff, and enjoy the warm hospitality of our senior students, who worked alongside staff to prepare and serve breakfast. Events like these help strengthen the partnership between home and school and create a strong sense of belonging within our community.

Later that evening, the college came alive with our annual Cultural Evening. The event showcased the rich diversity of Rutherford College through a vibrant programme of performances representing cultures from around the world. Students proudly shared their talents through music, dance, and cultural presentations, highlighting the many backgrounds and traditions that make our school such a special place.

Adding to the festive atmosphere was a delicious range of food from different cultures, giving attendees the opportunity to sample flavours from around the world while enjoying the performances. The event attracted a large and diverse crowd, with families and community members from many different countries coming together to celebrate culture, identity, and connection.

Both events were a wonderful reminder of the strength of our Rutherford community. We thank our students, staff, whānau, and volunteers whose efforts made these occasions such a success.

Property Update

We are pleased to share an update on several property projects that will enhance our facilities for students, staff, and the wider community over the coming year.

One of our most anticipated projects is the new Student Services Centre, which is nearing completion and is expected to be ready for use next term. If all goes to plan, our Deans will move into the new space during the holidays, creating a central hub where students can access pastoral and wellbeing support more easily.

Over the upcoming holidays, the Turangawaewae kitchen will undergo a significant upgrade, improving the functionality of this important space and supporting the many activities that take place there.

Plans are also progressing for the Student Health Centre, which will be relocated and remodelled within the Community Education building. This project remains subject to final approvals and scheduling.

A major Ministry of Education-funded project is the Block B upgrade, with funding of approximately $2 million now confirmed. While we are awaiting a start date, the building remains safe and suitable for occupation. This project will involve significant structural work, including lifting the building as part of the refurbishment process.

Staff will also benefit from improvements, with a planned staffroom upgrade during the Term 3 holidays, providing a more modern and functional space for collaboration and wellbeing.

In addition, D Block will undergo scheduled repairs and maintenance work which is likely to take place during the end of year holiday period to ensure the building remains in good condition.

Looking ahead, we have recently received official confirmation of funding for a new six-classroom teaching block to accommodate continued roll growth. This new facility will be located in the area currently occupied by the bike sheds and represents the first step towards our bigger vision of developing a new U Block in that location.

These projects represent a significant investment in the future of Rutherford College and will help ensure our facilities continue to meet the needs of our growing school community. We look forward to sharing further updates as work progresses throughout the year.

End of Term

This is a reminder that school finishes on Thursday 02 July at 1.30pm.  Thursday evening the school ball is held at Ellerslie Convention Centre. The early finish allows time for students to get prepared for the big event. There is no school on Friday 03 July. Term 3 commences 20 July.

What's Coming Up?

25-27 June - School Production
02 July - School term finishes at 1.30pm. School Ball - Ellerslie Event Centre - 7pm-midnight.
03 July - School closed
20 July - Term 3 commences
30 July - Open Evening 6pm - 8pm
31 July - Open Day 9.30am - 1.30pm
03-06 Aug - Enrolment Week
08 Aug - Saturday enrolments 9.00 - 11.30am.

Ngā mihi 

Gary Moore