ECS Update Term 4, Week 5 – Friday 7th November 2025

ECS Update Term 4, Week 5 – Friday 7th November 2025

Kia ora e te whānau,

Last week’s House Dance Competition was such a celebration of rhythm, creativity, and teamwork, it was wonderful to see every student contributing their own energy and joy. This week the theme of music continues, as a number of our students take part in the Christchurch Schools’ Music Festival, both in representative groups and as part of the massed choir. What a privilege to see them using their gifts alongside others from across our city!

Music has a special place in God’s creation. The Psalms remind us, “Sing to the Lord a new song; play skilfully, and shout for joy” (Psalm 33:3). Whether through dance, instruments, or song, our students remind us that worship and creativity are deeply connected, both are ways of expressing joy, gratitude, and unity in Christ.

As the days grow warmer and the sun stays longer, we can sense summer approaching and Christmas drawing near. It’s a season filled with anticipation, activity, and celebration. Yet also a gentle reminder to stay centred on the One whose coming we celebrate. Amidst the busyness, may we keep Christ at the heart of all we do, finding in Him both peace and purpose.

Ngā manaakitanga,
Alistair McKinnon
Tumuaki | Principal

This newsletter contains information on the following:

• Important Dates
• Teacher Only Day 17th November
• Increased National Risk of Measles

Important Dates

Friday 14th November – Canterbury Show Day Holiday

Monday 17th November – Teacher Only Day

Wednesday 10th December – Final Assembly (Prizegiving) – at La Vida

Friday 12th December – Last day of Term 4

(The School Calendar including 2025 Term dates can be found here)

Teacher Only Day – 17th November

On Monday 17th November the school will be closed for a Teachers Only Day.  This is a day where staff will focus on ensuring we are ready to deliver the updated Mathematics and Literacy Curricula in 2026.  These have undergone a significant revision and this day will be well used and appreciated by the staff.

Increased National Risk of Measles

You have likely seen on the news that measles is occuring in different parts of the country and this is of significant concern.  As of this morning there are no known cases in Christchurch, however, this could change at any time. 

The ministries of Education and Health have asked schools to pass on the following messages to school communities. Please take the time to read these.

Guidance following increased national risk of measles

Health New Zealand is alerting schools to an escalating risk of measles as it responds to a measles outbreak following confirmation of 17 new cases of measles since 20 October. 

This escalating risk is a concern, especially for education settings where measles can spread rapidly. 

Measles is highly contagious and serious – about one in three people may need hospital care. It spreads when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes.  

• Measles is circulating and is very contagious. There is now measles in Northland, Auckland, Manawatu, Nelson and Wellington, and we expect further cases across New Zealand.
• Watch out for symptoms – fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes, and a blotchy rash:

Measles – Health New Zealand 

• Anyone with measles symptoms must stay at home and should seek urgent advice by ringing their doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116. 
• Anyone who is closely exposed to a measles case must stay at home. Heath New Zealand will provide individuals with advice on a case-by-case basis (including when they can leave quarantine at home).
• Health New Zealand is actively working with the schools that currently have measles cases.
• People are considered immune to measles after having two doses of a measles vaccine from 12 months or older, or if you have had measles before. For more information on measles immunity visit:

Measles immunity – Health New Zealand

• In New Zealand, our measles immunisation rates are too low to prevent outbreaks from happening when measles is circulating in our communities. Our low immunisation rates contribute to this lack of community protection.  
• Families and whānau are encouraged to check their own and their child/childrens’ immunisation status through My Health Record:

My Health Record – Health New Zealand 

• Anyone born between 1969 and 2004 may have only received one vaccine dose and might not be fully protected. It’s safe to get extra doses. A free vaccine can be booked online or via the Vaccination Helpline on 0800 28 29 26.

Book my vaccine – Health New Zealand