Ilminster students enjoyed a celebratory end-of-term assembly on Thursday. Entertaining their fellow classmates with a traditional Fijian dance were, from left, Melissa Toi, Aroha Houia, Esmae Fourie, Ibanez Te Pairi, Bridie Alexander and Laekyn Downes.Picture by Liam Clayton
Ilminster students enjoyed a celebratory end-of-term assembly on Thursday. Entertaining their fellow classmates with a traditional Fijian dance were, from left, Melissa Toi, Aroha Houia, Esmae Fourie, Ibanez Te Pairi, Bridie Alexander and Laekyn Downes.Picture by Liam Clayton
Ilminster Intermediate School celebrated Matariki and the upcoming school holidays with a special assembly and concert designed to lift their spirits after what has been a tough term.
The celebration focused on recognising the key values of Matariki such as aroha, kotahitanga (unity), manaakitanga (caring), whakamaharatanga (remembrance) toha toha (sharing),hākari (feasting) and wānanga (discussion).
Staff activated these across the school with a range of experiences such as waiata, mau rākau, sports, dance, whai, art, music, weaving, digital stop motion and storytelling.
A highlight at the end of the week was the school celebration and the hākari with 400 in the school gym for a beautiful feast of hāngī, fried bread and trifle.
“After what has been a challenging term for our community, this week was a wonderful way to end the week with hearts full of thanks for the possibilities and positivity of our young people,” said Ilminster principal Megan Rangiuia.
