Dawn Blessing at The Terrace School

A frosty cold start couldn't deter the crowds at the dawn blessing of the new classrooms and technology block at the Terrace School in Alexandra this week. The blessing, conducted by local Ngai Tahu kaumatua Darren Rewi, was held on Monday 22nd June to a gathering of whānau, family, build team, trade partners, friends, students and teachers. 

Students sang choruses of Tūtira mai ngā iwi, and tea and cakes were consumed within the warm walls of the new teacher's staff room. Speaking at the opening, Principal Sarah Graham remarked on the connection to the ingenuity of the early Māori people who explored the region, their many innovations represented in the name given to the new technology buildings. Describing the journey to gain knowledge and understanding, technological thinking, initiative and perseverance, "the name Te Rau Mātaki is an apt inspiration for the students today". 

Project Manager from Cook Brothers Construction Craig Studholme then spoke to the joy of fostering problem solving and creativity. He observed it that it was again an honour to be working alongside the Ministry of Education to bring these spaces to life for the young minds of our region. "Spaces like this made me want to become a builder when I was at school. This is where the dreams of becoming a carpenter, designer, architect or engineer begin". The technology building, fitted with woodworking and food and design tech facilities, will cater to year 7&8 students from across the district.

 
A project of real local power, delivered by Site Manager Hamish and his local build team and trade partners also gathered at the blessing, commenting on their early days of learning at the school, and how their children now in attendance would benefit from the new spaces. 

Cook Brothers, along with Frequency, Powell Fenwick Consultants, DesignGroup and the Ministry of Education, were pleased to hand over Te Rau Mātaki, Te Whare Kaimahi, Tari, Te Whare-iti; the technology block, staffroom, and office spaces to the Terrace School so that they may continue their vision to nurture, challenge and inspire Caring, Connected Learners.

Wasting no time to move into their new space, students and teachers of Terrace School set straight to work unpacking their equipment eager to start imagining and learning. Enjoy your new facilities all. We can't wait to see what you create.