TNIS Pānui Wiki 5, Wā Kura 1 2026

From the Senior Leadership Team: Term 1 Update

It is remarkable to think that we are now over halfway through Term 1, yet Takapuna Normal Intermediate School feels settled and calm. Our learners have stepped into the new year with purpose, and the corridors are one of focused engagement and positive connection.

Our Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) programme is well underway and proving enjoyable for all. These experiences are vital for building resilience, teamwork, and school spirit.

• Tree Adventures: Several of our classes have already ventured into the canopy, facing heights and personal challenges with impressive courage.

• Vector Wero: The whitewater rafting sessions are well underway, providing our teams with a unique opportunity to work together and navigate the rapids.

• Zone Days: From Softball to Cricket and Tag, we have seen fantastic sportsmanship and competitive drive across the various North Shore venues.

A reminder that HPV and Boostrix immunisation forms have been sent home. We need every parent to complete either the consent or non-consent section of the form and return it to school as soon as possible. TNIS offers this service on behalf of Health New Zealand. For more information, visit the Health NZ Website.

Navigating the Digital World: Social Media & Our Learners

You might have noticed that the discussion around young people and social media is again in the headlines. From government debates to global research, the consensus is growing: the digital world poses challenges that our children’s brains are still developing the ability to handle.

At TNIS, we see this impact every day. Since introducing the ‘Off-At-The-Gate’ phone policy, the difference among our learners has been remarkable. Without the constant distraction of notifications or the social pressure of ‘likes’ and ‘comments’ during school hours, we see more genuine engagement, more active play on the field, and a noticeably higher level of focus in the classroom.

An Evening with Rob Cope: "Our Kids Online"

While we manage the school environment, we know the ‘online life’ follows our learners home. To support you in navigating this complex landscape, we are excited to host (and continue to advocate for) Rob Cope's insights, author and producer of the documentary Our Kids Online.

Rob’s message is clear and often a wake-up call for parents. He highlights that being a ‘digital native’ doesn't mean a child has digital wisdom. His talk emphasises:

• Presence over Privacy: Why parents need to be actively engaged and present in their child's online world.

• The Dopamine Loop: Understanding how social media and gaming are designed to keep young brains hooked.

• Practical Solutions: Setting firm boundaries and having the tough conversations before issues arise.

Rob will be at the TNIS Auditorium on Monday, the 9th of March. Tickets are selling fast, but are available on our Community Kindo page HERE. This talk is strictly adult-only and designed for honest, eye-opening discussion.

We strongly encourage all our families to remain curious and vigilant about their children's digital footprints. The most effective filter we can provide for our learners is an engaged, informed parent who is not afraid to set clear boundaries.