Teenaa koutou e ngaa whaanau,

It is with a heavy heart that we share with you that Ngaaruawaahia Primary School will be closed this Friday, 18 September, to allow our staff to attend and pay their respects to a dear former member of our kura whaanau, Joyce Symons.

Joyce was a dedicated, passionate and much-loved member of our kura, who gave many, many years of service to Ngaaruawaahia Primary. Joyce wore many hats over the years – from teacher aiding and taking reading groups, to keeping our kura clean, running the school canteen, supporting our Social Club, and volunteering countless hours wherever she was needed.

Joyce gave so much of herself to our kura. Her infectious smile, laughter, humour and genuine care for others touched the lives of so many tamariki, whaanau and staff over the years.

For many of us, Joyce will always be remembered as someone who simply cared – about our tamariki, our staff and our kura. Her contribution to Ngaaruawaahia Primary has been significant, and her presence will be deeply missed.

We extend our aroha and deepest sympathies to Joyce's whaanau at this incredibly sad time.

We thank all of our NPS whaanau for your understanding and support as we acknowledge Joyce's life and allow our staff to come together to pay their respects this Friday.

Haere raa, Joyce. Moe mai raa.

Hohi Moeke

Ngaruawahia School Secretary