Rob's Powhiri and Handing Over Ceremony

My first day at Burnham School was an extremely special time for me as your new Principal. I feel honoured and extremely touched having experienced the powhiri and handing over ceremony to start my new role in the community. Here are some photos of the FOS (Fendalton Open-air School) manuhiri prior to the ceremony:

I was lucky enough to have my a number of family members with me as well as one of the classes I taught at Fendalton and a number of close colleagues. I wish to express my gratitude to Whāea Lucy for her karanga, Mātua Joe, Chris Thurlow and James Petronelli for their whaikōrero welcoming me and offering me the challenge to help take our school to the next level, which I accept! 

Thanks also to Commander Jim Bliss and Chris Wilson for their support as well as other staff from the base and community members. Finally my thanks goes to the children for their welcome and warm, friendliness. What a wonderful bunch of young people we have at our school!