Edgewater College Yearbook 2020

Whanau competition 2020

Since sports day, the number of events has had some very capable students competing
been quite limited but still played with a friendly in the E-Sports but again it was Sheppard
competitiveness. Table tennis, Tag and E-Sports who came out victorious. The results of the
all still managed to be played, strangely with reading competition are still to come with that
E-Sports providing the most vocal crowd! competition running through Term 3 and some
of Term 4.
The Tag results ended up being identical to the
Sports Day results, showing that Sheppard was A huge thanks to the student leaders, staff
indeed the whānau to beat this year. However managers and organisers of the whānau
Table Tennis was Hillary’s time to shine and they competition.
came out as winners after a tough competition,
with Cooper a very close second. Ngata - Ms Dawson, HOD PE

MĀTOU - 2020 49

Whanau Sports Day

Wednesday 26th February started
early for the PE and Sports
departments getting ready for the
annual whānau sports day.

The weather was once again
amazing. This year the students
were able to come to school in
mufti, there was an amazing array
of colours and costumes coming
through the front gates.

The competition started with
a round robin of 400m run,
shot put, obstacle course and
for the first time this year high
jump. There was something for
everyone, including the staff.
Despite the heat the participation
levels were fantastic.

The atmosphere of the day was
incredible, with the colours
and costumes all contributing
to this. With all the whānau
competing against each other the
camaraderie and banter made
the day fun.

After the morning’s round robin
activities we stopped for a well-
deserved lunch break. After
lunch it was time for the serious
runners to show their abilities
with the relay races. As always, the
competitiveness in the relays was
high.

The results were:

1st Sheppard 2nd Hillary

3rd Ngata 4th Cooper

- Ms Benjamin, Director of Sport

50 MĀTOU - 2020

Whanau E-sport

Over weeks 10 and 11 of Term 2, the library hosted the Whānau E-sports competition in the library at
lunchtimes. This is always a very popular and well attended event, much enjoyed by both contestants
and supporters alike. Huge thanks to Ms. Minahan, Mr. Taylor, Miss Benjamin, and Mrs. Dawson for
their support and assistance with running this event in the library. Congratulations to the winning
Whānau – Sheppard.

MĀTOU - 2020 51

International
students

This year we welcomed 26 International students
from Japan, Germany, Philippines, West Papua,
Cambodia and Papua New Guinea to Edgewater
College.
In March we had a group of 25 girls from
Shinagawa Japan join us for 2 weeks. Their
highlight was joining buddy classes and
performing at the Culture evening.
Due to the Covid pandemic, we could not have
additional students join us, but are hopeful they
may be able to attend Edgewater in the near
future!

52 MĀTOU - 2020

Year 13 Camp 2020

The year started off, yet again with another wonderful
Year 13 camp on Ponui Island. We have the very special
privilege of staying on this private island for 3 days,
camping right on the water’s edge.

What makes Year 13 camp so special? Firstly, the only
way to get to the island is a private cattle barge owned
by the farmer who manages the Island. Crossing the
harbour from Kawakawa bay to the calm waters of
Ponui is always a fun way to start camp. Pitching tents
near the water, engaging in team building games and
exercises. Swimming when it just gets too hot, getting
fed delicious meals from the cooks and then at night,
having the opportunity to head out onto the island and
look for wild kiwi. These are just a few of the memories
that our Year 13 students will take away with them.

Most of our students have never tented before, let alone
get to wake up in the morning hearing the waters
lapping up against the shore. If they’re lucky they will
hear wild kiwi talking away throughout the night, calling
to each other.

This year was very special. On the second night we
ventured out at dark, on the lookout for kiwi. You didn’t
have to go far before stumbling across these marvelous
birds in their own habitat, walking around us as if they
didn’t care we were there.

A big thank you to the staff who came along with us. If
it weren’t for them, this camp could not happen. Yes,
you come back from camp tired, and in need of a warm
shower, but more importantly than that, you have made
new friends, gained new experiences and bonded as
a year group. I highly recommend Year 13 camp to any
student. You won’t regret it.

MĀTOU - 2020 53

54 MĀTOU - 2020

Student Committees

Academic Committee 2020

This year’s academic committee has brought many great ideas to the
school. Due to the restrictions of this year, not many ideas have been
taken into action. Throughout the school year, the team has offered online
academic assistance to support students, especially during the lockdown
periods. In addition to this, the committee also began developing and
volunteering towards study sessions to further support students to
reach their academic potential. As believers in hard work, the academic
committee of 2020 has laid a foundation for online learning assistance for

future student leaders to develop.
- Eric Wong

MĀTOU - 2020 55

Community Committee

It has been my greatest pleasure being the Community
Committee leader of 2020 for Edgewater College. I must admit
that this year's unpredictability has made things difficult, but not
impossible. Alongside my committee members, I say with pride
that we have accomplished yet another successful year as leaders.
I give great gratitude to my deputy leader, Tala Salu for working
alongside myself and stepping up for the times I was unable to -
he has played a massive role in this committee. I also give thanks
to the council representative: George Gray, Kaiārahi Ākonga Māori
Lavinia Marsh and of course this year’s Whānau Leaders, Carlos
Floriann and Claren Nookura from Sheppard, Bella Wakerkwa
from Hillary, Maasi Ta'akimoeaka from Cooper and Faiza Khan
from Ngata, for their constant support, effort and love they put
into each event that was planned. Also, I sincerely thank Mrs
Dawson for her constant support within the group and catering to
our needs as our teacher-in-charge, we couldn’t have asked for a
better teacher. Lastly, the community committee is grateful for the
help, support, time and effort Miss Cook has provided us with.

We carried out a Black Lives Matter Project which required us to
educate the students of EC about the importance of knowing the
issues coloured people face. We had a successful week of doing so,
devoting 45 minutes of our own lunchtime each day. With various
teaching techniques, our goal was accomplished, with students of
different age groups, different cultural backgrounds and different
lifestyles attending and departing having learnt something new
about the issue! We waited a while after the social media blast
about the issue calmed down, so we could portray that even when
it isn’t ‘trendy’, the issue still needs to be faced.

As I leave Edgewater, I’d like to leave with this quote, “you can take
me out of EC, but you can’t take the EC out of me”.

- Stephanie Ibarra

56 MĀTOU - 2020

Pastoral Committee

and we weren’t going to let that stop us from
carrying on with our project. We managed to pull it
off on social media (instagram) and a lot of students
participated in sending in videos of things that
made them happy, compliments, doing old school
games, cooking and wearing gumboots as part of
kindness week.

In my final year I was selected as the pastoral The pastoral committee’s second project was the
committee leader 2020. The pastoral committee is Auckland City mission where students could donate
all about caring for one another, communicating anything they would like out of kindness, where it
and encouraging students at Edgewater College, would be a gold coin or unused/ speared clothes,
getting everyone to participate in activities held blankets and canned food.
by Edgewater College and letting the students of
Edgewater College know that we are here to support These were two of our events that were very
them in any way that they may need us and that we successful. Nothing but thanks to the team Davinia,
are all ears if they ever need anyone to talk to or to Michelle, Willie, Christain & Salesi, you all have been
just hang out with. really awesome for all the hard work and for all the
effort you've put into our committee. Also would
The pastoral committee's first project was kindness like to give a special thank to Mrs. Scott for standing
week where students get an activity to do each day by us and helping us and guiding our committee
to spread kindness. However, Covid-19 happened throughout this year. Without you all this wouldn't
have been possible.

- Meliame Tatafu

MĀTOU - 2020 57

SBchaollol On the 16th of October, 2020, the Edgewater College
school ball took place at Ellerslie Events Centre.
The Ball Committee, along with numerous staff
members, put in hours of planning and research to
make this night come true and it definitely paid off.
The night was absolutely amazing! An enchanted
garden was held with the theme "Midnight
Fantasy." As the venue was decorated in white and
green color, it complemented everybody's formal
and semi formal wear.

Being welcomed with sparkling water in elegant
champagne glasses as you walked in the venue
made us all feel so fancy. The delicious buffet
consisted of an entrèe, some salad, main courses
and dessert. As the night went on everybody lost
themselves in the dance floor - rap, hip - hop, old
school and slow dances. Some students were also
privileged to go on stage for awards near the end of
the night.
The smiles captured in these photographs are
simply just not enough to show how happy
everyone was that night - huge thanks to all the
organisers and students for making it such a great
event!

-Michelle Prasad

Awards:

King & Queen
- Stephanie Ibarra & Stanley Hingano

Best Dressed
- Sanjay Mane & Tyron Fulumu’a

Best Dancer
- Amol Maharaj

Best "Hypeman"
- Cody Stephenson

Best/Cutest Couple
- Claren Nookura & Kevin Sipa

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60 MĀTOU - 2020

LeAarrenaisng

MĀTOU - 2020 61

Visual Art

We would like to start by saying how immensely and their own identity to create some beautiful
proud we are of every Edgie Artist that has grid and layered artworks. Printmakers made the
come through our doors this year. Despite the most of etching, wood cutting, stenciling, pronto
lockdowns and disruptions to learning 2020 printing and collage techniques to create work
has thrown at us, our students have been around a variety of themes. Our senior painters
engaged, excited and passionate about their Art have inspired us with colourful and creative
projects. They have inspired each other and us art works completed by hand and with digital
to keep going, even when some felt there was painting techniques. The senior designers have
no light at the end of the tunnel. The work they mastered making logos, magazine spreads and
have produced this year is nothing less than websites for their own businesses. A few of our
outstanding and it has been a privilege to teach year 13’s have even designed graphic novels
and learn alongside our students during a year combining the best of their painting and design
that for many has been very difficult. skills together. Our photographers have learnt
how to use SLR cameras to document and
You will see in many students work how Covid-19 capture important moments in time. Students
has inspired their work in obvious and subtle attendance at our after school workshops were at
ways. We have seen students take inspiration an all time high as students worked furiously on
from places where most would not be able to their external folio boards.
see the beauty and turn it into something worth
remembering. To all our Level 3 Art students that leave us at
the end of this year- we are so proud of all you
We welcomed all Year 9’s to our department this have accomplished in the arts and we will miss
year and it was exciting for our teachers to see you so much next year. We want to congratulate
all the new talent coming into our school. They and wish you all the best for the future and you
completed drawings inspired by their identity will always be welcome back for visits! To all our
and painted some quirky and fun self portraits. returning artists we look forward to another
Our Year 10 artists have learnt about Harakeke creative and fun year in 2021 with lots of new and
Raranga, typography, collage and painting exciting projects on the horizon.
techniques, designing and creating characters
and painting on unique surfaces like a skateboard. - Miss Cunningham (HOD Art)
The Year 11 artists have explored imagery from NZ

62 MĀTOU - 2020

“Art has been a big part of my life. Taking art at school has
really allowed me to experience things I would not have
otherwise. I did etching and carving, abstract and realism, I
got to experience art in its fullest. The teachers are nothing
short of supportive and push me to do my best, helping me
improve my art and cultivate my skills. The art boards are fun
to do, especially when they are finished and you get to see
how you've changed over the course of the year. This year
was really hectic and I am glad I took Art as it helped me to
relax while also getting some work done. I really enjoyed all
my years taking art.”

- Jade Thompson-Tavai, Year 13

MĀTOU - 2020 63

Drama

2020 has seen Drama students across Years 10 – 13
sharing their voices and stories in writing some very
powerful scripts, exploring an array of themes from
love, loss, self-refinement to overcoming struggles
and holding on to hope. Through workshopping
these scripts Senior Students have united to support
one another, expressing themselves through
creating relatable stories that are performance
worthy.
The department has collaborated across year levels
providing guidance for and learning from one
another, a truly co-creative learning experience and
constantly adapting to a new normal.
To our wonderful Year 13 Drama students, your
enthusiasm, tenacity, vibrance and positivity
have been a blessing. Thank you for rising to the
challenges set for you this year, your efforts are to be
commended. Stay strong and all the very best for
your future endeavours.
- Ms Jansen, Teacher in Charge - Drama

64 MĀTOU - 2020

Edge Innovation Programme

By Emma and Teryn Stephens

We’ve made a Students have developed their confidence,
lot of progress communication and presentation skills by
throughout history, regularly presenting to their peers and having class
and as the world discussions. Students have said one of their favourite
changes, the parts of the programme is the social aspect. Most
education system work is done in pairs or groups, and each course has
should, too. The the same people in it, which helps grow confidence
Edge Innovation and trust between students. The Edge Programme
Programme has has a diverse range of culture, backgrounds,
been designed to experiences, and views which help students grow
prepare students and adapt.
for the future with
new ways of learning and more realistic subjects, All other Year 9
while still learning the regular Maths, English, students have had
Science, and Social Sciences. The Edge Programme two trimesters of
has four courses; Creative Design, Future Studies, EDGE subjects
Community Action, and Problem Solving. Each (Future studies
course is a merge between two traditional subjects, and Community
with the added focus of the 6 C’s; Collaboration, Action) this year.
Character, Citizenship, Creativity, Critical Thinking Feedback from
and Communication. students has
been very positive
The Edge Programme gives students the room and the students
to pursue their have developed future focused capabilities such as
current passions communication and collaboration.
and develop new
ones. Students Student opinion is being taken into account for the
feel that the Edge future of the programme. The majority of students
Programme has in both 10I and 9I will be continuing the programme
made learning next year, and a new class of Year 9s will join them in
regular subjects 2021.
more enjoyable
and has given
them new
perspectives on
certain topics.
So far this year we have delved into topics such as
Artificial Technology, Mechanics, Human Rights, and
the Future of Music. Students have created cyborg
stage makeup and taken a manaakitanga approach
to develop resources to support Year 8s get to know
Edgewater College (eg Edgewater Minecraft and
digital brochures of key sites at EC). Each topic has
explored different ways of learning and broader
subjects to learn about. Each subject is practical and
strengthens their awareness of the world around
them.

MĀTOU - 2020 65

Employment Skills

The Employment Skills course is a programme that mile to support
is unique to Edgewater College. It is an alternative them. Thanks for
way for Year 12 and 13 students to achieve NCEA everything and see
Level 1 – 3. The course involves three days a week at you next year!
school and two days a week on work experience
I would also like to
What makes us really unique though is that we do give a quick shout
everything in the one class and we stay together all out to Mrs Andrea
the time (that’s the best thing!) This gives our class Daly who in her
a real family feeling and as you know families have role as the Gateway
all sorts of little quirks, some good and some not so co-ordinator has
good! And at the beginning of the year you spend assisted my students
lots of time negotiating all the little niggly things to go on courses
until suddenly one day you realise you’re a class of that they have really
classmates instead of a group of individuals. That’s enjoyed and have
what makes this programme so special and why I helped them to
love being a part of it. gain knowledge,
Okay how has our year been? Two words, very confidence and
strange!! No-one could ever have predicted there credits! Thanks for also being a great department
would be a national lockdown and that we would colleague and Lockdown Zoom buddy! Thanks also
have to learn remotely for six weeks! So yes it’s been to Miss Carol Woodroofe for being our Teacher Aide.
a challenging year but I think the Employment Skills We have appreciated all your support this year.
students have been amazing both in the classroom
and in their workplaces. I have been really impressed And finally I just want to say goodbye (boo hoo!) and
with their attitude, commitment and resilience and all the best to my Year 13s. Most of you have been in
I know these are qualities that will stand them in the Employment Skills class for two years now and
good stead for the future. I have seen you grow and mature into fine young
adults. You have made these past two years a real joy
I would like to thank my fantastic employers who and I am going to miss you all very very much.
take such great care of our students. Their expertise,
patience, kindness and words of wisdom are very I shall leave you with this inspirational quote from
much appreciated. We’ve been fortunate enough one of my favourite individuals:
to have a regular group of employers that are
always willing to take our students and go that extra “It’s not who I am underneath,
but what I do that defines me.” – Batman

So go forth and be great!!

Ms L. Lui-Webster
Head of Employment Skills

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English

"English has been an interesting
journey for me through years 11,
12 and 13. New to the country and
the Edgewater community in 2018,
Ms Chan really helped me catch
up with the missed work through
activities and games in class as
well as on the basketball court!
She made it easy for me to get
along with peers who had a good
balance of work and fun/humour!

While reading novels used to be
the hobby closest to my heart
during younger ages, soon my
passion for reading and writing
began to fade. It was hard for
me to do novel studies and write
essays in class. Thanks to Mrs.
Truter's persistent support and
input into my work, I was turned
back on. I regained my hunger for
books and found peace in writing
once again. This not only increased
my grades, but I feel closer to
myself too!

Although 2020 has been intense
and tough for most of us, English
is surely a highlight for me
personally, and I hope that's
true for other students as well. I
thank God for opening my heart
to English again through the
teachers I've had these years.

- Davinia Sivapragas

MĀTOU - 2020 67

Gateway / Industry Pathways

"As a student that has taken Gateway for the past three
years, I can definitely say that it has been worth it.
Gateway opens many different paths for our students,
gives us a small insight of all these different jobs and
careers. Gives us skills that we can expand on, we get
to make our own connections and it really helps us
determine whether or not we want to pursue these
careers. "
Also! I really hope i'm not too late with my quote,
" Just growing with the flow, cause lifes gonna give you
hell, up to you on how you take it "
- Ngametua Greig

68 MĀTOU - 2020

Japanese

At the beginning of the year we were lucky enough
to host some students from Japan. We shared our
culture with them, and they in turn, taught us about
amazing aspects of Japanese life. We were really sad
to see them go! But we will treasure the memories
they left us with.

Covid kept us on our toes in class, as did new units;
the Level 1 class undertook a Dungeons and Dragons
inspired campaign that saw their avatars travelling
to Japan, then getting stuck in quarantine in Narita!
(Yup, Covid even made it to our fictional game!)

The Level 2 and 3 Japanese class undertook another
game inspired unit in Term One, where they
planned to rebuild life on Mars after an apocalypse
on Earth! They researched and debated culture’s
worth and what traditions should matter to a future
society. After the first lockdown, the Level 2s and
3s pivoted to exploring health in a mask wearing
society like Japan - and maybe picked up some tips!

And we’re not done yet! As the magazine goes
to print, the Junior Japanese Trivia competition
is gearing up to finally hold its LONG postponed
competition in Term Four. Can Edgewater bring
home the top prize this year?

- Ms Minahan, Teacher in Charge - Japanese

MĀTOU - 2020 69

Mathematics

“Do not imagine that mathematics is harsh,
crabbed and repulsive to common sense. It is
merely the etherealization of common sense.”

- Lord Kelvin

The Mathematics Department has seen interesting
changes this year. Most courses, along with other
subjects, were changed. With changes, come
problem solving, diligence and adaptability, both
staff and students are able to tackle these changes,
supporting each other both outside and inside
classrooms.

- Mrs Blake, HOD Mathematics

Media Studies

Junior Media Studies Senior Media Studies

This year, Edgewater College introduced Junior Our enthusiastic and talented Level 3 Media
media studies for the first time alongside the senior students started this year by refining their script
program. In a short semester-long course, two junior writing skills - including mastering the conventions
classes have explored what reflective representation of script writing within a distinct genre, as well as
means, and what it means to see diverse peoples engaging audiences with compelling narratives and
of all different ages, races, genders, sexualities and believable characters. Their vision then came to life
physical body types on the screen. Then on to a short through the production of a short film. Finally they
practical film project involving plenty of (delicious) wrestled with the anxieties of Western society post
fake blood! 9/11, and how this climate was portrayed in some of
our favourite dystopian films.

70 MĀTOU - 2020

Music

2020 has been an interesting and unpredictable
year for everyone. The Music Department has
certainly had a lot of challenges this year. One of
those challenges was developing new content
for most of our courses. Each year level had gone
through an overhaul of course material and we
were ready to teach new programmes and create
new learning opportunities for our students.

The Year 9 and 10 courses were introducing more
Music Technology resources and the Senior Levels
were developing content around Song Writing
and individualised programs. One of the wonderful
things about Music as a course is that each student
from Year 11 -13 can choose standards that suit
their skill levels yet still broaden their thinking and
learning.

At-Home Learning brought about some real
challenges for our department. Many of our
students found this style of learning difficult. Many
did not have their instruments at home with
them so their performance skills went on hold. It
was great to see the Government begin to supply
devices for families that were in need and this really
helped our students keep up with their studies.

Sadly, nearly all our public and in-school
performance opportunities were cancelled this
year. The school choir ‘EC Voices’ and our award
winning Jazz Band were practising weekly ready to
perform but Covid-19 decided that was not going
to happen. We have had senior music students
wanting to perform their original compositions
to family at our Annual Music Showcase Concert
‘SHINE’ but lockdown saw us have to cancel. Our
Annual Music Tour was cancelled, the first time it
has had to do so in over 15 years. Performing and
showcasing our students' talents is a big part of the
heart of our department and so it has been difficult
to keep our spirits high amongst these uncertain
times.

Amongst all of the hardship we have faced this
year, the department is as strong as ever. The joy,
enthusiasm, and passion for music making at
Edgewater College has not wilted. Our creative and
inspirational students will continue to use their love
of music to battle through and come back next
year even stronger.

- Mr Holmes, HOD Music

MĀTOU - 2020 71

PE / Health / ODED

The PE and Health department have had a great
year in 2020 with what we’ve been able to achieve in
the time we’ve had. The students have been really
enthusiastic and although a wide range of activities
are done, the classes have been really supportive
and encouraging of each other. It has been great to
reconnect with the students after the two lockdowns
we’ve had and the students have worked really hard
to ensure they didn’t miss out on too much learning.

Some of the highlights of the year have been the Covid derailed the promotions they started in term
Get Active unit for the junior classes, started at Level 1 and they had to start again after lockdown, but the
4 and continued once we were back at school. We students took this in their stride and stayed positive.
received some great photos of students working
out with their whanau during lockdown. The senior Level 1 health students were challenged by the
classes have worked really hard to complete some assertive communication topic and had to rethink
tricky assessments and their practical performances how they might respond differently in conflict
have also been at a really high level. situations. These skills will be valuable to them as
they move through the senior school and some may
Level 2 health was added to the curriculum in 2020 put them into use as peer support leaders next year.
meaning health is now a subject available at all
year levels. Level 2 students have been learning Level 3 students explored different perspectives
about diversity and inclusion and have discovered on euthanasia which has helped them to make
how inclusive Edgewater College is. They have informed decisions about how they want to vote
been looking for ways to continue to celebrate in referendum later this year. They chose domestic
diversity and make our school even more inclusive violence as one of the class topics and discovered
by carrying out health promotions. Unfortunately why NZ has such high rates and more importantly
what they can do to influence change.

Junior students have been buzzing about learning
about real life issues and strategies for dealing with
them.

- Ms Dawson, HOD PE

72 MĀTOU - 2020

Science

2020 has been a year of massive change and Covid disruptions hadn’t occurred we would have
although this has been challenging it has also also been building and testing bridges. Something
provided opportunities to do things differently. to look forward to next year.
In Science we have significantly reworked the
junior programme to focus on science capabilities Level 2 and 3 courses in Biology, Chemistry and
such as gathering and interpreting data, using Physics continue to provide career pathways for
evidence to form conclusions and interpret science students and have offered additional assessments
representations. These capabilities have been for students whose learning has been disrupted by
developed in a range of contexts such as the wide the events of this year. A couple of highlights include
world of sports, mighty microbes, genetic futures the Level 3 Physics trip to Rainbow’s End where
and forensic science. students applied their Physics understanding to
the various rides and the experience of trying out
In Level 1 Science we have been piloting a more paleolithic tools in biology. We have a number of
personalised approach with students able to choose students who are planning to move into Science
from a range of different topics and assessments related tertiary education and we hope they will
based both on their interests and future pathways. come back and see us in the future and pass on
Students have been investigating how listening their experience to the next group of Edgewater
to music through headphones can cause hearing College Science students.
damage, used a scientific approach to test a rugby
fitness training programme and researched the - Ms Booker, HOD Science
issue of genetic testing in relation to cancer. If the

MĀTOU - 2020 73

Social Sciences

Is there a better time to understand why studying “Social Studies was a unique, interesting and
Social Studies is important and relevant for any interactive experience for all students. It was an
young New Zealander? The world is in the middle of exciting way to explore the world around us; past,
a health crisis driven by the contagious Coronavirus, present and future.
New Zealanders are asked to choose who is going
to lead them through and out of this crisis, while the This year, we covered four main topics: Our
most powerful nation faces an identity crisis in an community, Refugees, Disasters and Enterprise &
electoral year. Innovation.These topics were interesting and useful
for our research. For our community, we looked
In 2017, when she was sworn as Prime Minister, at our identity: Who we are, what our culture is,
Jacinda Ardern invited her high school Social Studies our beliefs and aspirations. These were helpful in
teacher to the ceremony. Through her gesture, discovering more about who we truly are. In the
our Prime Minister recognised the role played by refugees topic, we learned about what refugees are,
her teacher and this school subject in becoming a what they go through and how they impact the
better, more effective leader. Understanding that world. This was helpful for deciding what the best
all events have causes and effects, that people decision to make when it comes to the Refugee
are different and therefore they have different Quota in New Zealand. Disasters was personally my
needs and see the world in different ways, that the favourite topic to research. We started by looking
world keeps changing and we need to base our at the eruption of Mt. Tarawera. We looked at the
decisions on Science, helped Jacinda Ardern and her event, the causes and the outcome of this disaster.
government to deliver one of the best responses to We would go on to use this method when it came
the Covid-19 crisis. to researching our own selection of a disaster: the
Tangiwai Railway Disaster, the Sinking of the Wahine
Our department offers a range of subjects - Ferry, the Mt. Erebus Plane Crash or the Sinking of
Geography, History, Media Studies, Social Studies the Titanic. Each student made their own selection,
and Humanities - which all include the values and researched it, and then gave information in their
concepts listed above. But more importantly, the own words about the event, the causes, and the
students taking one or more of these subjects get outcomes. This topic was useful in discovering
a balanced understanding of the world, taking in more about what a disaster actually is, how they are
consideration money, environment, past and future, caused and what the outcome may look like when
but having people at the core. predicting disasters in the future. Our final topic was
Enterprise Innovations. We looked at McDonalds,
But the best way to describe what happens in our a successful business throughout many years. We
department is to allow students to voice it. Hopefully, looked at how they’ve changed and how they’ve
one day in the future, one of them will invite a adapted to become a better company. We used this
teacher from Edgewater College to the Government as an example of how the world has changed and
House to attend a special ceremony… adapted.

- Mr Muresan, HOD Social Sciences Social studies was a great subject. I enjoyed the
variety of the topics, and how it is really relevant and
essential to the world today. It really changed my
fixed perspective of each topic and forced me to
widen my knowledge of what I know and see. Our
discussions were always intriguing, and helpful in
our learning. Social studies was a great subject that
any student can look forward to.

- Samuel Scanlan, 9E Social Studies class

74 MĀTOU - 2020

Technology

Design and Visual Communication and internationally. In the kitchen, the students
Level one DVC students have been working on put their food terminology theory into practical
a design for a students outdoor shelter. Level 2 experience - so some yummy apple pies, quiches,
and 3 have been developing a design for a pop- pumpkin scones etc were consumed.
up movable shop that could be used at markets.
Students have been learning to apply design Level 2 Hospitality students gained a very useful
thinking and develop design awareness through standard which allows them to work in the food
research, sketching, and using digital modes and industry i.e. cafes, restaurants. Some of our Level
modelling techniques. At the end of last year 2 students formed the catering and events team
students visited the Graduate Architecture Design which catered for a school event . They did a
Show at the Auckland University Fale. This was great wonderful and professional job. Our latest work is in
inspiration for our own displays students are working the Barista Room making hot chocolate, tea and a
on at the moment. variety of coffees.

Digital Technologies Two of our Level 2 students were selected to attend
a holiday hospitality course in Rotorua with all
Year 10 has learned how to make simple websites expenses paid. They had a wonderful time and thank
using HTML and CSS as well as programming you to Mrs Daly and Mrs Blase for organising this
concepts such as sequence, selection and iteration opportunity.
using Scratch. We have also been developing
games with a New Zealand flavour using Gamefroot. Early Childhood Education
Level 1 and Level 2 Digital Technology students have
been designing and creating websites using HTML This is a fun hands on subject where students learn a
and CSS. Level 1 students have also been learning variety of skills that will be useful for future careers in
about Human Computer interaction and the 10 teaching, nannying, nursing, social work or one day
Usability Heuristics. Level 2 students have also been being a parent. The most fun unit of work has been
reflecting on the development of their website Nutrition Theory where each student has to plan
focusing on tools, techniques and the methodology and create a healthy meal for a toddler or young
used in the development. Level 3 have been child. Of course we do have to conduct trial testing
programming using Python and learning about the and tasting.
agile methodology for software development.

Hospitality
At Level 1 the students learnt the art of making
mocktails, which are cocktails without the alcohol!
They then moved onto looking at careers and roles
in the Hospitality industry. The Hospitality industry
has a vast range of work opportunities both locally

MĀTOU - 2020 75

Construction Technology
Students in 1TECC were involved in creative and
purposeful activities that result in technological
solutions. Students had the opportunity to study
design, planning, and development of technological
solutions; safe working practices; materials and
joining processes used in construction; workshop
procedures and processes.

course provides students with the opportunity to
study the following: basic drawing skills (isometric
and orthographic) to workout cutting list of
materials for projects, safe working practices;
materials and joining methods used in construction;
workshop procedures and processes.

3TECC focused on the building and construction
industries and will include knowledge of Health and
Safety, selecting and using tools and machinery;
safe use and care of hand and power tools; and
documentation of projects.

2TECC students undertook an individual course of
study involving creative and purposeful activities
that result in at least 2 technological solutions. This

76 MĀTOU - 2020

Te Reo Mãori

During my five years in Te Reo Māori I created a
stronger connection with my class, culture and
language. There have been positive vibes and
good times all round during Te Reo Māori. This
year,
I was grateful to be given the opportunity to be
the Kaiārahi Akonga Māori role for the school.
This includes showcasing Te Reo Māori within our
school. Despite Covid we still try to express Te Reo
Māori in our everyday lives.

- Lavinia Marsh, Year 13

MĀTOU - 2020 77

Class of

2020

78 MĀTOU - 2020

Tuli Dalley Ngametua Greig Lavinia Marsh
Just growing with the flow, Never let the fear of striking
cause life is going to give you out keep you from playing the
hell, up to you on how you take
game.
it

Cezar Scott Natalia Topia Maria Tupou
They said I couldn’t reach Mars Shoutout to my earphones
for being the real MVP with
so I turned to the stars. getting me through these past

5 years of school.

Zachery Allan Siale Finau Sailasa Kunaika

My pain may be the reason for Life is like the ebb and flow of the
somebody’s laugh but my laugh must tides, there are highs and there are
lows. What you have to remember is
never be the reason for somebody’s during the low tide you find the best
pain – Joker (Dark Knight Rises)
shells – Anonymous

MĀTOU - 2020 79

Ayden Larson Graeme Macmillian Cheyenne Olivier
The future begins today, not "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is “No matter how far you fall,
tomorrow, but the best is yet a mystery but today's a gift that is you will rise up like a phoenix
why we call it the present." – Oog- and be stronger than before.” -
to come.
way (Kung Fu Panda) Anonymous

Filomena Tuuta Adrienne Anae Willy Ili Leiataua
“Oua lau e kafo kae lau e lava” Sometimes you don't realize We don't take much, just a little
– Tongan Proverb Stay positive your own strength until you
come face to face with your bit! That's motivation!
and count your blessings Love on ya!
greatest weakness.

Connor Magatogia Travis Marcroft-Ryan Sini Pa’o-Salu

"Certainty of death. Small chance of My unknown future is in the hands of
success. What are we waiting for?" - an all-knowing God :)

Gimli, son of Gloin

80 MĀTOU - 2020

Daniel Pearson TJ Salu Davinia Sivapragas
Ne Obliviscaris. 'S Rioghal Mo Just a donkey for His use
Dhream. (Forget not, Royal is

my race)

Ma’asi Ta'akimoeaka Christian Tausinga Rebecca Afaese-LeNeol
The best way to predict the "Work for a cause, not an applause, live
to express not to impress. Don't worry
future is to create it about what I CAN accomplish, worry

about what I can't, GGZ my guy ".

Nabeel Ahmad Paula Katoa Faiza Khan

Be Steadfast and Conquer! High school couldn’t take me out,
neither could Covid.

MĀTOU - 2020 81

Marley Lavemai Mathew Leeuw Ameleah Leone
:) Yes, there is only one ‘t’ Keep it real homies

Amol Maharaj Casey Mano’o Preniven Naicker
A strong person stands up for
themselves but the strongest

stands up for all others

Malachi Natana Aramus Nevalagi Sione Palenapa
I had to put my grades up
"There are no accidents for adoption ‘cause I couldn’t Put God first & everything else will fall
-Master Oogway" into place
raise them
82 MĀTOU - 2020

Amato Pepa Cody Stephenson Mele Ta’ofi
I ain't got no friends only got Blood makes you related but To those that doubted me, I
family in my section I count my
blessings and I thank God for loyalty makes you family. made it.

them lessons.

TJ Talatau Konifesi Meliame Tatafu Simone Tuteru
Normal is boring. Everybody that's ridin’ with
you aint ridin” for you, let the
gas run out and see who helps

you push.

Jaevan Ali Ali Alzergawi Caitlin Edwards
School? What’s that? The cutest EC student Beautiful Miss Rihanna

MĀTOU - 2020 83

Tyron Fulumu’a Sharon Hansen Kevin Sipa
Sometimes when I close my Started off as friends,

eyes I can’t see. left with family.

Lawrence Smallman Denzel Toka Lolo Tuionetoa
I’ve got a heart of a mother
I joined rugby to keep out of trouble, & a mind of a king! You can
instead it kept me out of school. I may not say what you want, but I’ll still
openly express my appreciation but I am
stand on my feet.
truly grateful for all that you’ve done.

Zachariah Vao Josiah Vaovasa Losaline Vi
Coming together is the My brothers neva in front, neva They asked me to write
beginning, keeping together something. So here it is:
is progress, working together behind but ALWAYS by my
side. Something
is success!

84 MĀTOU - 2020

Davnesh Chand Aidan Crowhurst Sanjay Mane
I don’t know I just work here May not be on time but I’m

never late

Royal Talex - Nookura Pritesh Patel Niu-Alinghi Peni
"Cool..." It's depressing and a blessing Work until you no longer have

to introduce yourself !

Sia Santaweesuk Keaton Stephens Salesi Tuipulotu

“When I came to this school, I only ever Just do it
wanted to draw and create. Now I’m in
Wellington writing this quote after getting
my art into a national exhibit. Do what you

love, and let no one get in your way.”

MĀTOU - 2020 85

Eric Wong Yasmina Daskapan Kashvi Dayal
Hey, have fun out there. Bai bai im out Body in the abyss, heart in

paradise

Louie Dela Cruz Zoe Felix Janelle Gutierrez
Take risks. If you win. You will "Life is surreal. Don't let it get to The Talmud says not to regret
be Happy if you lose, you will the things you've done, but the
you.” - Real Onigokko 2015 things you have not done that
be wise.
you were wanting to do.

Stephanie Ibarra Anju Kaintura Claire Mano’o
Hold my poodle! I don't need an inspirational Sometimes you will never
know the value of a moment
86 MĀTOU - 2020 quote - I need food! until it becomes a memory.

Aye Khing Maung Claren Nookura Jan Posadas
"It'll be fun, they said." FREEDOMMMM! Time to get lit.

Michelle Prasad Delahaye Raikadroka Michael Rogando Jr
Phillipians 4: 13- I can do all If you have good thoughts they You are my fire, the one desire.
things through Christ who
will shine out of your face like
strengthens me sunbeams and you will always

look lovely. - Roald Dahl

Zoe Lee Saal Analii Sipa Jade Thompson Tavai
Hannah Montana said When I felt like giving up I "Life is pain. Anyone who
remembered why I started in tells you otherwise is selling
nobody’s perfect… the first place . 5 years & I’m something." -The Princess
but here I am :)
officially signing out. Bride

MĀTOU - 2020 87

Danielle Tibangwa Mision Mayau Yoshiki Sato
Some expectations are form When the last bell rings,
of greed that you set your own I might actually miss this place. Life is not easy, that's interesting.
You have to believe in yourself, feel free
standards for someone to to learn what you taught, but you have to
fulfill it
keep your head and eyes to yourself.

Jimmy Situ Jein Waker Bella Wakerkwa
Stop trying to be liked by the harajuku barbie <3
What the teacher taught me is my eter- everybody, you don’t even like
nal wealth, the school brings me forever
memories; friends accompany me is my everybody.

forever friendship.

WenHang Wei Hao Xu Hong Yu

We spent a lot of happy time together. In the two years of school the teacher has
Thank you very much to all the teachers given us a lot of help. Especially I

and students. Thank you for all who don't understand English, are very
the memories brought to me by kind to me, and are little bit reluctant

Edgewater College. after leaving.

88 MĀTOU - 2020

Kayci Mavaega Jason Olo
"Everyone wants to eat, "Don't worry about
But only a few are willing
tomorrow"
to hunt."

Year 13 Camp 2020

MĀTOU - 2020 89

Artist - Norry Tanga
90 MĀTOU - 2020

Artist - Delahaye Raikodroka

MĀTOU - 2020 91

Autographs

92 MĀTOU - 2020



EDGEWATER COLLEGE

Mātou 2020

32 Edgewater Drive, Pakuranga
Auckland 2010, New Zealand

www.edgewater.school.nz