Week 8 Update

Kia Ora RVS Community,

It has been quite a week since the events of last Friday in Christchurch.  Our thought and prayers are certainly with all those involved and effected by the attack.

I spoke with the students first thing on Monday morning and encouraged them to talk with someone they trust, be it mum and dad, teachers or others about the things that are worrying them.  We also return to Philippians 4v6 when times like this arise.

We have  well considered and practiced emergency procedures in our school.  Our earthquake and fire evacuation procedure sees our students in their entirety evacuated calmly, assembled and accounted for in 1 minute and 45 seconds.  Our reverse evacuation/lockdown procedure is also efficient and well known by our staff.  Students return to class (if outside) after 3 or more bells, classes are locked and teachers communicate with management via phone while remaining with the students.  No one is permitted in or out of the classroom during this time apart from school staff.  The school keep parents up to date during lockdown via the school app and txt (via our Student Management System).  It is important that the RVS Office always have your latest details.

We also have always had an engaged, high ratio of staff on duty at morning tea and lunchtimes keeping watch.  They wear high-vis vests so they can be easily spotted by the students and other staff alike.

Psalm 46 reminds us that The Lord is our refuge and shield, our ever present help in trouble. Proverbs 21v31 also says that "We prepare the horse for battle, but the victory is the Lords".  We prepare and work hard to be ready, knowing also that He oversees our coming and going. 

Please contact me if you wish for further clarification of anything mentioned above.

God bless
​
Dave Pauling
Principal