WAKA Leader Ariki Purton rounds up the last few weeks in his final article for 2024! Greetings everyone, and welcome back to my final term here at Twizel Area School and as the best WAKA leader the school has had (I'm the first one, by the way). Over the past holidays, I celebrated my 18th year, which has made my parents feel old. In the past term, unfortunately, we didn't have any house competitions. However, the school Waka cards were still added to the “House Point Pool”, and I'm thrilled to say that Ōhau has taken home the final shield for the year (See, I didn't rig it because Pūkaki is in 3rd). In the latter part of term 3, we farewelled Senior House Captain Dave White for Ōhau. I wish him all the best, but in his departure, I'm happy to announce that Lulu Dodds will be Filling in for his role. We held the 24’ T.A.S. Formal, which was a success, and I would like to thank everyone who supported the formal this year. The junior school participated in the Fire and Emergency “Get Fire Wise” Programme, which ensures junior students understand 1. that fire can be dangerous, 2. that they know how to prevent fires from starting, and 3. that they know how to get themselves out of a burning building quickly and safely to a safe meeting place.Over the next term, we will be winding down for the year, but the learning will never stop. I am excited to welcome Megan from St Johns ASB to school this week. We also have Netty Fest on Wednesday and Thursday. On Friday, we welcome back Meditrain to train our gateway students in First Aid, which is a course that, if given the opportunity, everyone should take.Thursday 24th is a busy day; we have the National Shake out and the much-anticipated school Fun Colour Run. There is an EXTRA LONG WEEKEND with Friday 25th being a teacher only ACCORD Day and Monday in Labour Day.Finally, on October 30th, the 2024 year 13s will be saying goodbye to Twizel Area School!Many Thanks,ArikiWAKA Leader 24’