Trident’s year 12 student Isobel Wotton completed the endurance race Coast to Coast with her mother as the only mother/ daughter team and one of only a handful of under 18s in the annual race on the 8th and 9th of this month. The two day course started at Kumara Beach on the South Islands West Coast with a 3km run to help spread out the pack of xxxx competitiors before hitting a 50km bike ride.  This ride had Isobel a little worried as she broke a spoke on her bike tyre after someone’s derailer got caught in it. With a slightly wobbly wheel, Isobel held back a little bit as she was unsure how it would affect her at speed. Despite this hold back she was still travelling at a speed of 30km/hr on undulating terrain! After the ride the team started the 30.5km run which is mainly off trail with the rocky riverbed often the only direct line up the valley. Competitors encountered multiple river crossings with frigid crystal clear water and an elevation gain of nearly 800m on their way to Goat Pass and the start of the descent. With the very fastest athletes taking nearly 3 hours the run is as much a test of co-ordination and strength as it is outright speed.  Isobel says that the run was really exhausting as it was mostly rock jumping for a couple of kilometers so she had to dig deep to get to the end point at Klondyke Creek on day 1.  There the team debriefed, ate a good meal and slept as much as they could before having to be up early (4.30am) to get their gear to the drop off point for day 2. Day 2 saw the team start with a 15km ride along more undulating terrain, finishing that leg in half an hour.  Then it was into the kayak, the leg Isobel was most nervous about. Having not had much experience paddling in rapids the 70km stretch of paddling was somewhat daunting for Isobel who was steering at the front of the kayak.  After the first three sets of rapids and no incidents, Isobel says she felt a lot more confident and they completed the paddle in 5.5hours. During this leg Isobel picked up a tip or two for when she competes in the race next - she saw some competitors with a straw that went through a hole in the bottom of their kayak into the river and then hooked up just below their chin.  This meant they didn’t have to move to drink and it was plentiful and cold coming from the glacier fed river. Getting out of the kayak the team headed into the last leg of the race - a painful 70km bike ride along New Zealand’s longest, straightest road towards Christchurch. During this flat ride Isobel says her and her mother managed to get into a good group to draft with and combat the head wind.  Biking 20cm apart while drafting they managed to finish the ride in 3 hours. Biking into New Brighton, Christchurch was fun, with supporters cheering them on as they whizzed past, with one supporter spraying the athletes with his hose in the blistering heat. With a completion time of 17:46:03, a placing of 7th in the Family Team Category and 17th in the Mixed Teams, Isobel and her mother are proud of their achievement, and rightly so! Isobel plans to compete in the race again next year, but she wants to do it alone in the 2020 race, having had the experience of doing it this year she knows what she can improve on.  We look forward to following Isobel’s journey and know she will shine bright! Well done to Isobel.

Today we look at how well resourced the Trident PE and Health department is!  The resources that this department have are spread over much of the total school grounds so no matter how many PE classes are running at once, everyone has their own space.  A big well done to the PE and Health teachers who ensure all these resources are well respected and maintained. The Turf Trident boasts a large astroturf where our students play hockey and tennis.  It is well utilised year round and boasts all day sun so even in winter it is booked up most days.  The turf is available for the public to hire through our website. Rockwall The gymnasium features a rockwall that regularly has students challenging their strength and agility to climb to new spots. Gymnasium and Auditorium Our large gymnasium and adjoining auditorium are perfect for year round indoor sports and skill based sessions.  It is regularly set up for volleyball, badminton, basketball, multisport and netball. These spaces are available for hire through our website. Large field Games of touch, rugby, soccer and athletics track and field events are all possible on our large school field.  Trident regularly hosts other schools for inter - school games and there is enough space for several different games to be played at once.  Every lunchtime students are able to book out sports equipment from the sports co-ordinators office and this gear is used every lunchtime, with students playing different sports across the field.  Our field is well looked after by our groundsmen who ensure it always looks green and lush! Basketball court Behind the auditorium is an outdoor basketball court where students practice their slam dunks and challenge each other to games, using the skills they have learnt in PE classes. Volleyball sandpit For all our keen beach volleyball players we have a specially made sand pit that gets year round use. Weights and gym room With the new addition of a rowing machine to the weights room our students are able to train hard and build muscle to improve their strength for specific sports. Fleet of surfboards and boogie boards Having the opportunity to learn to surf and board board when living in our area is important! Trident has a fleet of boogie boards and soft top longboards that are ideal for beginner surfers.  Already this term our PE Outdoor classes have been using them at West End. Fleet of mountain bikes The Bay of Plenty has many fantastic mountain bike tracks and a dedicated mountain bike park at Onepu.  Our fleet of mountain bikes enables students to have access to this sport, which would otherwise be difficult for those not living within biking distance to school. Fleet of kayaks Trident’s fleet of kayaks and purpose built trailer means our students are able to take advantage of the waterways that surround our area.

Our Trident PE and Health Department run an exciting set of programmes where there is something for everyone.  From Sport and Exercise Science to Practical PE to Scuba Diving, this department is diverse in their offerings and has enthusiastic teachers who are dedicated to supporting our students to be the very best they can be. Their Vision aligns with our Trident values: “We show Quality Work, Respect for Others and Courage by nurturing Trident Akonga to show RESILIENCE, possess a lifelong relationship with Physical Activity through HAUORA and SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY with a sense of INQUIRY' The PE and Health departments vision is holistic in its approach to success and fosters a more socially responsible student who understands how their well being is affected through physical activity while promising to help students develop a sense of inquiry and become more resilient. Programmes on offer have been re-developed over the past two years to best suit our students and cater to their needs, giving them the best opportunity to find success.  The success of the programmes rolled out in 2018 - both academically and in terms of student participation - has led to extensions of those programmes for 2019 and the department and students alike are excited about these new programmes.  Our PE and Health Department are not just stars at Trident but are also leaders in their field in New Zealand. Following the success of the department, The Education Gazette got in touch with HOD Mr Stanhope to discuss how Trident has developed their programmes to be inclusive and align with our school values.  The article in the Gazette is was well received and we are sure other schools will be using ideas from this to improve their own departments. The article can be found here. When entering the PE and Health department during any given lesson you will find engaged students working in many different ways - from dissecting sheep hearts to learn about this vital organ in PE Sport and Exercise Science to developing skills in Volleyball to writing a report based on a personal improvement program on how students have developed a range of different skills, techniques and strategies in a range of different sports. A staff member has recently shared her experience of the department and heaped praise to HOD Mr Stanhope in response to what she saw when entering the department: “Today I needed to find Mr Moore and so I had the opportunity to walk through 5 PE classes. I was so impressed by what I witnessed. Every single class I happened to walk through (Yours, Miss Howe, Mrs Emery, Mr Camburn and Mr Moore’s) were engaged, vibrant and focussed. Every student was in uniform, paying attention to the teacher's instruction and the teachers looked good too! Miss Howe stepped out of her class to help, Mrs Emery settled her class and was warm and helpful, Mr Camburn did not see me but he had students fully engaged in tutoring shotput and Mr Moore was engrossed in a theory lesson. If I had been a stranger walking through the school, I would have wanted my children to come to this school. It looked like a slick, professional and energetic department. Well done! I am not sure if you get feedback on how well you are doing in your department, so I wanted to let you know what it felt like to visit you and your staff today.” It is this sort of feedback that inspires and encourages our teachers, helps them to feel successful and appreciated as they consistently work hard both in and outside of school for our students. Below we hear from our teachers who specialise in their programmes and explore some of what we have on offer through the PE and Health Departments. Sport and Exercise Science Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 "Trident’s Physical Education and Health Department are committed to push learning way beyond just credit gathering. We believe that if students are excited by what they learn, the credits and academic success will look after themselves. In 2018 we launched our Level 2 Sport and Exercise Science Course (2PES) with its aim being to offer students who have a strong desire to study Physical Education to an advanced level, a platform to be challenged academically and inspired by the environment in which they learn. During 2018 the 2PES course completed a range of different assessments which saw students study how the body functions and moves, sports psychology and sports sociology to an advanced level. For part of the course the students visited the Velodrome in Cambridge to meet the NZ Cycling Team and had the opportunity to see their world class facilities and speak to the sports scientists and athletes. The class also visited The Adam’s Centre for High Performance in Tauranga and again were exposed to world class facilities and experts in their field. The student successes at the end of the year were exceptional which led to the roll out of PE Sport and Exercise Science to NCEA Level 1 and 3 for 2019. This course will continue to evolve with Scuba Diving being introduced at Level 3 this year and Level 1 shaping up to be an inspiring, exciting course. Students and staff are very passionate about its potential and development over the next few years." PE Practical Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 "Trident Physical Education and Health Department pride ourselves on offering courses to students that fit their personality, learning style and academic profile. In 2018 we launched our Level 2 PE Practical Course with its aim being to offer a more practical based course which could support students who needed some extra time and support with the literacy aspects of the course. During 2018 the 2PEP course completed a range of different assessments which included a 100km charity bike ride event which the students trained for and planned. This allowed them to gain NCEA Credits in the Achievement Standard ‘Demonstrate understanding of the application of biophysical principles to training for physical activity’ as well as the Achievement Standard ‘Examine the implementation and outcome(s) of a physical activity event or opportunity’ Additionally the class visited the Adrenalin Forest High Ropes for the Achievement Standard ‘Analyse the application of risk management strategies to a challenging outdoor activity’. The student successes at the end of the year were exceptional which led to the roll out of PE Practical to NCEA Level 1 and 3 for 2019. This course will continue to evolve and students and staff are very excited about its potential over the next few years." Outdoor Education "The Outdoor Education programme focuses on teaching students to develop their interpersonal skills through social responsibility in the outdoors.  Students are asked to push their personal boundaries and learn how to extend the hand of friendship to support others. They participate in local place based activities like surfing, mountain biking, and tramping so that they develop life long skills, understand the history and recognise of the beauty of their local area. They are extended to Mountain Bike 84 km on one of New Zealand’s Heritage rides, run through the dark with only headlights in the Rotorua Redwoods, Adventure Race as a team in Manawahe and experience the alpine environment. Every activity is about building the individual, so that when they leave Trident they are confident, resilient students who are not afraid to take chances. They understand that making mistakes is ok, because they know that if they try again and work hard they will achieve." Scuba Diving - Level 3 Physical Education "This year we have introduced an amazing and very exciting opportunity for our Level 3 Physical Education students. After meeting with Dive Zone at our Careers expo, we were given information regarding the PADI Open Water Dive certificate that we could offer to our students. Mr Camburn and Mrs Emery jumped at this opportunity for our Level 3 classes. We had 30 spaces available this year and have filled them all. Students taking part will be issued with an e-learning key and will undertake 15 hours of theory work as well as swim training. We will be travelling to Tauranga for a pool training day, Rotoma for the Lake Dive day and back to Tauranga for the Ocean Dive (all done in Term 1). The PADI course is worth 7 Unit Standard Credits and we are also attaching 8 Achievement Standard credits to the training phase. Next year we will look at offering the Open Water Qualification to Year 12’s and Year 13’s with the intention of then offering the PADI Advanced Open Water certificate in 2021. We plan to look into the possibility of visiting one of the seven natural wonders of the world and taking a group to Great Barrier Reef in Australia to dive in the coming years." What lucky students we have to be able to take the opportunities afforded them by our PE and Health Department! Well done to the department for ensuring our students have the best opportunities in their education at Trident High School.

In January three of our now Year 13 students - Jada Melbourne, Finn Spod and Linette Lengkeek were selected to attend the Rotary National Science and Technology Forum. The programme is for OUTSTANDING all round science, maths and technology students in Year 12 who will be returning to Year 13 and are planning to study the sciences or technology at tertiary level. Students get a real taste of University life as they spend two weeks in Auckland living in dormitory accomodation like tertiary students and attending different lectures across different university campuses. This fully residential programme is conducted by Rotary and the Tertiary Institutions of Auckland. By the end of the Forum students have a better understanding of the tertiary courses they wish to follow and a fuller appreciation of the place of science and technology in the wider community. It also provides an opportunity for high achieving students to spend time with similar minded people, and the experiences gained invariably result in overall personal growth and renewed motivation to succeed. Jada, Finn and Linette share their experiences and hope to inspire others to apply to attend the forum. In January 2019 I was lucky enough to be able to attend the Rotary Science and Technology Forum. It was an experience that was thoroughly enjoyed by myself and my peers, I’m extremely thankful for the Rotary sponsoring us to go to such an amazing programme. The Forum consisted of multiple modules in which we visited the AUT and Massey University campuses located around Auckland, we got to experience many different lectures and workshops held by a wide range of respectable tutors. Through these I got a taste of what course my future could take, and possible study pathways I would like to look further into, I heavily enjoyed biomedical science and engineering. We stayed at O’Rorke hall in the city. With this we got a realistic and close view of what student living would be like living in the dorms. We had to manage our time properly, or risk getting left behind. I absolutely loved meeting the amazing people who came along on this trip, in just 2 weeks the people you meet become your closest friends, they’re like minded people with similar interests and the close bonds formed naturally. During our time outside of the universities we got to do many of the fun things that Auckland has to offer. We got the chance to go up the sky tower, play laser tag, mini golf, and escape rooms. They also took us to the beach for a beach day. And, we had volleyball tournaments, where we dressed up in our teams colours and we all tried our hardest to win while being supportive to everyone the whole time. We made up chants for this, my teams chant was “Orange, Orange, nothing rhymes with Orange!” In the afternoons, once we had a chance to wind down we would all hang out in the common rooms and play cards or watch movies. - Jada Melbourne The Rotary National Science and Technology Forum 2019 was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Arriving at O’Rorke Hall in Auckland on the first day was a bit daunting, with 167 other high achieving students from across the country also there, but my worries were quickly forgotten as I met the other amazing students selected for Forum. From day one we had a busy schedule, which continued throughout the two weeks. The first few days were dedicated to formalities like the Forum Opening Ceremony, and group activities to meet the others in our group. I was in Yellow, which was obviously the best team. On the first Tuesday, the real programme began, and we headed out to our first modules. This was when the experience really took off, as we were immersed in university life. We spent the days travelling between uni campuses, to take part in a range of incredible classes. My favourites were robotics, astrophysics, and biomedical engineering. The days weren’t over when we returned from modules though, as every evening something was happening. There was a hotly contested Inter-Colour volleyball competition, quiz nights and evening lectures. There was a day that we were let loose on Auckland to explore, and another day at the beach. Overall, the Forum was simply an unforgettable experience, where we were exposed to incredible new things and I met new lifelong friends. It gave me inspiration, and a new direction for my further studies, as I am now looking into a degree in Mechatronics at Canterbury. I would like to express a massive thanks to both the Whakatane Rotary Club and Trident High School for the partial sponsorship for this opportunity, your help was greatly appreciated. - Finn Spod A typical forum day would begin with 7am EMAs, (early morning activities) where we had a choice of either volleyball, aerobics, jogging, gym, or elite walking. After a shower and breakfast we would then head off to our first three hour Science module, hosted by either the Massey Campus in Albany, AUT or the University of Auckland. Next we would return to the O’Rorke hall of residence for our lunch before heading off to our second module. After dinner we’d do a range of exciting things such as go up the Sky tower, have a disco in the Uni, Quiz night, Laser tag, go to the movies, play the volleyball tournament, visit innovating companies such as Stretch Sense and make 185 amazing like-minded friends. Some of the most exciting modules were Biomedical Science where we dissected a sheep's heart and lungs, Biological Sciences where we used E-coli to grow luminescent proteins found in jellyfish and Robotics where we programmed a robot to find its way out of a maze on its own. The most valuable part of the experience for me was being exposed to all the different fields of Science study that are offered at university and connecting with so many incredible people from all across the country. I would like to say a massive thank you to both the Whakatane Rotary Club as well as Trident High school who generously sponsored us, making it possible for us to go on this spectacular experience. - Linette Lengkeek

Trident High School is extremely proud to announce that 19 of our 2018 students gained Academic Scholarships for the 2018 year across a range of subjects. While Trident has a excellent history of scholarship results, this is the highest number of scholarships we have had since the NZQA Scholarship Award was introduced. Scholarship is the highest level of academic competition in NZ. It is a competition, not a qualification and it is run across most curriculum areas. Students who are awarded Scholarship in their subject demonstrate high-level critical thinking, abstraction and generalisation, and are able to integrate, synthesise and apply knowledge, skills, understanding and ideas to complex situations. The prestige of gaining Scholarship awards also comes with a monetary award to help during tertiary study and undoubtedly equips students for life beyond school. Our 2018 Scholars that we congratulate are: Sara Aruquipa (English), Portia De Forest (Art Painting), Mariama Hunia (Art Painting), Megan Joy (Biology and Earth & Space Science), Elena Miller (Mathematics with Statistics), Holly Minchington (Music), Courtney Moir (Art Painting), Jack Nelson (Physics, Earth & Space Science and Mathematics with Statistics), Clarke Spence (English and Music), Lachlan Spence (English and Music), Sophia van der Gulik (English and Mathematics with Statistics), Simon Winship (Earth & Space Science and Music). When congratulating our students on their success we also look to their subject teachers and all of our teaching staff at Trident, as our school sets out to prepare rigourous programmes to support our students learning at this level. Teachers put in time before school, during their break times and after school to ensure our students are as well prepared as possible. The dedication of time and the high level of experience from these teachers is recognised by our students with several of our scholars wishing to pay tribute to their teachers. Portia De Forest says “scholarship was a great opportunity to pursue the subject (Art Painting) which I have a passion for, at a higher, more challenging level. I couldn’t have gained this achievement without the help of my art teacher Mr Barr!” Simon Winship acknowledges the hard work of his teachers and thanks his “passionate teachers who worked with me, not just for the scholarships I gained, but how they worked so hard to extend me. A huge thanks to Ms Nolan and Mr Spence for their amazing support and tireless effort in helping me attain these scholarships”. Megan Joy credits her teachers with empowering her with self belief: “Ms Botha, Mr Andrew and Ms Nolan - your support and guidance has not only lead to these two amazing scholarships but also the belief that I have in myself to excel in anything I put my mind to. Thank you!”. We know these students have bright futures ahead and wish them all the best with their studies that range from studying Medicine to Rocket Science to Music Therapy. What a diverse and talented bunch young people! They will represent Trident High School and Whakatane extremely well as they progress through the next levels of learning into their chosen careers.. We know they will make a difference in our world. Kia manawa nui.

Great Barrier Island Programme - Malachi Gerrard shares her experiences with her class on Great Barrier Island last term. 5 weeks of action packed fun and adventure, many weeks of preparation, fundraising, training and great anticipation, finally it's time to leave, our bags are packed our journey has begun, leaving behind us the comforts of home, technology, junk food, relaxation and sleep. Emotions were high we are prepped and got ready for the bus trip to Auckland an overnight stay and onto the ferry ride to the island. As we approached the island it was as if time stood still, I gazed from the ferry silenced and mesmerized by the tranquil water and lush green flora. I knew I was entering a very special place, in my silence I acknowledged the islands pure perfection, and on arrival I felt the warmth of the islands welcome. As we docked energies were high with excitement, hydrenaline and curiosity embraced every individual in our class - we were finally here. Straight off the boat and into a very strict regime of introductions, camp tour, groups and appointed chores, unpacking, ground rules, food prep and sleeping arrangements. We even had time to enjoy a kayak on the pristine water. We soon learned organization was the key. So many experiences, too many to mention, so I will highlight my favourite activities and most impressionable memories. GBI day 5 Early morning start after a windy rough night. At 8:30am we gathered with instructors to discuss the programme for the day. First on the list was high ropes. The weather was overcast as we headed to the back of Orama. High ropes, an obstacle course of high poles adjoined by cable chords, we were dressed in safety equipment, and taken through a quick safety course. Adrenaline started pumping time to take the ‘Leap of Faith’. Relying completely on teammates below to hold and pull the ropes connected to safety harness to support and enabling me to swing towards a bar 3 metres away, holding on and swinging until lowered. It was frightening but knowing I had safety equipment and my team, the fear soon turned into excitement and I was able to appreciate the views of Orama from a high height. GBI day 10 This morning we were pumped and ready to start a new week with new challenges and outdoor activities. ‘Coasteering’ the weather was perfect for this activity blue skies and sunshine. To get to the perfect jumps for coasteering, we had to trek over a hill, over jagged rocks towards our first epic jumps. Standing looking down into the crystal blue ocean. Adrenaline starts pumping a feeling we are becoming accustomed to with the activities on the island. The penguin dive, spinning dive, the pin drop and my favourite of all an 8 metre jump that was repeated several times, and enjoyed by everyone fun at its best. GBI day 18 Whanau Overnight all the groups join together for an overnight expedition. This was based at Mike’s beach out of all of Great Barrier Island, this was my favourite place. It’s amazing sunsets and sunrises, views of land and sea. After 1 hour trekking with 65l packs, enjoying spectacular views we arrived at Mikes beach. Settling in, tents up, organised chores and then wetsuits on and we are off to catch some waves on the Boogie boards. The crystal clear turquoise water and powerful waves set the tone for a most exciting time we stayed in the water for hours. On returning to camp we made seating surrounding an open fire on which we cooked sausages, potatoes and damper. The evening was followed by roasting marshmallows, jokes, riddles and stories under a starlit night. Next morning 6:30am early start to watch the sunrise and yoga on the beach, then breakfast, clean up and on our way to Maybees beach for kayak surfing. Maybees beach is spectacular we set up our kayaks put safety gear on and headed out into the ocean gnarly rides, nose dives and flips. GBI day 11 An overcast day with crystal clear water the rowing boats are out, our dry bags taiko, ready to go for a fish and snorkel just out of Orama. Sam and Emerson caught fish which everyone enjoyed it it was delicious. The water was chilling and fresh, snorkeling through the seaweed pathways observing marine life in its natural habitation in great abundance and untouched. Emily and I were startled by a huge stingray it gracefully moved as one with the water leaving us to continue. GBI day 21 Overcast day, duties are finished, sambo instructs us to get helmets and harnesses.Taiko was off to a day of abseiling and rock climbing. It was a long slippery trek uphill, pass the skink, through the predator fence and all the way to the walls. We all stood down the bottom gazing up for most of us it was a first to look at naturally formed rock walls that we were about to climb. No coloured pegs, no handles just rock with its natural crevice formations. It was new, exhilarating, dearing and everyone was ready to conquer the walls graded 14-16. Totally reliant on your partner's to belay and second belay effectively. Everyone made it to the tops feeling empowered and enjoyed the surrounding views. Soon we were strapped and clipped together with carribennas for the ‘Via Ferrata’ 30 metre abseil off a cliff face. Everyone was nervous, sambo covers abseiling safety procedures. We safely, slowly and steadily made our way, across the cliff tops towards the ‘Via Ferrata’. As we arrived we started to support each other as individuals were lowered. Looking around admiring the view and now it was time to abseil down. A thrilling feeling as I jump off the wall into the distance and back. I was stoked and felt accomplished as I watched my teammates experience this and come down with similar enjoyment. We met members of the community and were welcomed into the local school to share activities with the pupils of Okiwi school we had a most enjoyable time. The islands energy clean, fresh and inspiring and the activities, responsibilities, lessons and skills it was inevitable for change to occur. And I know everyone left the island changed grown for the better in some way. GBI class of 2018 are very grateful to all those involved in supporting us in our adventure. Malachi Gerrard

Trident High School has a strong history of students receiving Scholarships across many of our NCEA Level 3 subjects.  Scholarship is the highest level of academic competition in NZ. It is a competition, not a qualification and it is run across most curriculum areas. The top approximately 3% of those who sit the exams gains Scholarship with the top .5 % gaining Outstanding Scholarship.  Each year Trident has students gain Scholarship and Outstanding Performance Scholarship.  Students who are awarded Scholarship in their subject demonstrate high-level critical thinking, abstraction and generalisation, and to integrate, synthesise and apply knowledge, skills, understanding and ideas to complex situations.  The prestige of gaining Scholarship awards also comes with a monetary award to help during tertiary study and undoubtedly equips students for life beyond school. Our teachers are busy working with our Level 3 students entering Scholarship in their chosen subjects, they put in time before school, during their break times and after school to ensure our students are as prepared as possible.  The dedication of time and the high level of experience from these teachers means that Trident has an unsurpassed record of achievement at this top level in the Bay of Plenty for a school of our decile rating. To build confidence and develop critical thinking skills for the students we also run a cross curricular programme of workshops which see the students problem solving and thinking both critically and creatively. These are team based challenges and develop thinking and learning relationships between the students and also between students and teachers. They might be centred around ethics – first introducing the concept of ethics and then presenting some dilemmas to solve. The benefits of teaching at this level, is that that the robust critical thinking generated in Scholarship classes help shape wider school academic and curriculum programmes that benefit all learners. In fact, the Scholarship programme is an open door opportunity for students to enter should they like a challenge. The door is never closed to students who like thinking, and year after year we find that often the ‘wild card thinker’ who is unafraid to take risks, gains Scholarship.  Students enjoy the opportunity to extend and challenge their thinking, Courtney Wilson (Year 12) says "I love my English and Statistics Scholarship classes as they really open your eyes to just how much of the subject lies beyond the classroom” Our principal Mr Gurney leads the way, along with a busy role as Principal he continues to be a hands on teacher, teaching a Level 3 Classics class as he has done for many years.  Every Friday morning before school you will find Mr Gurney and his scholarship students working through various readings from different writers in university tutorial/seminar style where students lead the discussion and then argue various points.  He also prepares students for examination papers by developing essay skills and wider thinking. The PE and Health department has three students gunning for PE & Health Scholarship this year.  All three students are required to write a report which focuses on a sporting topic of their choice which challenges assumptions and allows them to critically analyse the subject using media research as well as gathering their own evidence. They must also embed the Underlying Health Concepts as well as elements from the Physical Education Curriculum to have their best chance of being successful.  All three students have been working hard on their reports since July and Mrs Emery and Mr Stanhope, who are acting as Mentors for the students are extremely excited to read their final pieces of work. In English, Ms Bowe runs a Scholarship workshop every Wednesday where students explore how literature positions us to think about our human experience. Students learn to think critically about how texts reflect, reinforce and challenge social, political, psychological, philosophical, cultural and historical ideologies. Additionally, students are encouraged to read texts through an alternate lens such as: postcolonial, feminist, Marxist, structural in order to develop perspectives other than their own. Our aim is to create global citizens who want to be the change. On Monday lunchtimes Ms Deeley can be found with her Spanish Language Scholarship students where they practice exams as well as have discussions about social and political issues affecting the Spanish Speaking world.  In the group is a native spanish speaker so scholarship with her is not based on her acquisition of the language, but on the formulation of arguments and the discussion of topics. Ms Nolan is busy running two scholarship sessions a week, Wednesday lunchtimes she meets with her Earth and Space Science students where students write essays for her to read and provide feedback on.  Her week doesn’t stop on Friday afternoons, on Friday’s she runs an after school Chemistry Scholarship session where she looks at questions that will extend student knowledge of their current topics. Ms Botha began Biology Scholarship sessions with her students in Term 1.  Every Monday morning she takes a class from 7.30 - 8.30 where for the first two terms students completed an extra external assessment that is essential before tackling the Scholarship part. In Music Mr Spence has five students working towards Scholarship this year, all majoring in Performance.  They have been attending before school lessons since February with Mrs Chapman on Monday and lunch times on Wednesday to prepare for the exam in late November, now she has retired Mr Spence is taking these until the exams.  Scholarship for these students involves a recorded 15 minute recital in early November and once that is completed they must complete a 3000 word reflection on their preparation and presentation of the recital. Mrs Webster’s Statistics Scholarship group meet every Thursday morning at 7:30 am.  The group work on different tasks that challenge them in analysis and critiquing studies and making conclusions based on statistical output.  Year 13 Scholarship student Lachlan Spence says scholarship preparation “has really enhanced my understanding of level 3 curriculums. It has allowed me to have a more a comprehensive understanding of statistics as a whole and shown me how to draw connections between each of the different standards that we complete at level 3.” Scholarship in the Visual Art’s differs from those in other subjects, students do not sit a separate exam, but submit work to accompany their folio board.  The Art Department run lunchtime and after school classes to help Art students understand how to best support their folio submission through their workbook pages.  Mr Lee supports 2 of his designers by finding them exemplars of past scholarship pages and brainstorming established artist models that fit well with what what is already completed for the folio and will also help inspire the next briefs. In Calculus Mr Carroll meets with his scholarship students after school on a Wednesday where they solve difficult Math problems across and beyond the Mathematics Curriculum.  Mr Carroll says the exam is extremely difficult as students are guaranteed to encounter mathematical contexts and problem types they've never seen before as it is what the whole exam is about: unfamiliar contexts.  Year 13 student Christian Van Der Gulik describes Scholarship preparation as being very effective at linking up all the different areas that are touched on in class, and then extending upon this. He says that “above all it has definitely been very good for consolidating what we have learned in class." Mrs Harison is running a scholarship programme for the first time this year in Japanese.  Her student works with support from both Mrs Harison and our Japanese language assistant. The exam involves translating, comprehension and an oral section. In Metal Technology Mr Dobbin works with his student whenever he gets spare time to do so and similar to Art there is no exam but a written assignment that accompanies the design portfolio. We wish all our Scholarship students the best of luck and pay thanks to our hard working teachers who give so much to our students.

Waikato Bay of Plenty Brass Band Championships 13 Trident High School students recently competed at the  Waikato Bay of Plenty Brass Band Championships held in Hamilton.  As members of the Eastern Bay of Plenty Brass, the band dominated the competitions winning all 5 events and finishing clearly ahead of their arch rivals Hamilton Brass who are also a nationally ranked A grade Band.  There were also many fine performances from Trident students in the solo performances with Gemma Wilshier winning both the under 16 variation and slow melody solos. Lachlan Spence won the open slow melody with Clarke Spence finishing second. Clarke then won the Under 19 Variation event with Simon Winship finishing second and Courtney Wilson 3rd. National Secondary Schools’ Band Year 13 Trident High School Student,  Clarke Spence, Principal Cornet of EBOP Brass led the band to victory at the recent Waikato  Bay of Plenty Brass Band Championships. The National Secondary Schools’ Band Championship is held annually and students are required to audition for a place in the band. For the last 6 years, Trient High school has had the largest number of selected members from any school in the country. This years band was 45 strong from 32 difference secondary schools around New Zealand. 2019 National Youth Band National Youth Band of New Zealand In January 2019 Clarke, Lachlan, Simon, Leo, Courtney and another Trident student Joeal Mita will travel to Australia as selected members  of the National Youth Band of New Zealand. In this band will also be a further 4 past Trident student. The National Youth Band is for musicians under 23 and is regarded  as the next step up from the secondary Schools Band. Once again Trident students form the largest contingent from any one area. They will be based in the Gold Coast and spend a week presenting concerts in that area. Waikato Bay of Plenty Brass Band Championships Clarke made his debut as a Principal Cornet when he lead the EBOP Brass to victory at the recent  Waikato Bay of Plenty Brass Band Championships.

In the recent holidays a group of 8 Trident High School students from years 11 and 12 and two teachers spent two weeks in Japan. Mrs Harison - Trident’s Japanese Language teacher describes the tour below and is followed by a few students who write of different parts of the tour. “To begin with we were hosted by families from Kamagaya city, Whakatane’s Sister City, for a week.  This part of the programme is important to Trident in terms of the relationships we continue to build with the people of Kamagaya and the learning gains students make. Students not only build their language skills and cultural knowledge but also grow as people. They often establish relationships with Japanese families that can last their whole lives and this group were no exception. From Kamagaya we travelled down Honshu to the old capital Kyoto. We not only explored many Cultural World Heritage sites such as Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavillion), but we also went to Universal Studios Japan for a modern Halloween amusement park blast. From there we travelled further down the island to Hiroshima to a more sobering experience viewing the Peace Park and museum, learning about the devastating effects of the nuclear bomb dropped there in 1945 Throughout the tour both in the homestay and on our travel around the country students certainly showed the Trident ‘kia manawanui’ spirit of courage, giving everything a try. They also worked well as a group showing Manaakitanga in all situations, encouraging each other to new challenges. I am very proud of the students and what they achieved both personally and as a group.  I would like to thank all those in our community who helped and supported us in our preparation and fundraising.” Hilary Harison Homestay in Kamagaya While in Kamagaya for 6 days we each stayed with host families. My host family was amazing! My host mum and her father took me to me to ‘boso no mura’ which is an open air museum that focuses on traditional things from the Edo period (1603-1867). I got to see old traditional buildings and luckily got to try on real samurai armour. My host family also made a fun dinner where I saw how okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) and takoyaki (octopus balls) were made and tried them. They were delicious! When I left my host family made me a photo album with pictures of all the things we did together with personal comments under each in English and Japanese.  Jayvin Neupane The Bombing of Hiroshima On the 6th of August 1945 an american B-29 bomber jet, the “Enola Gay” dropped the first ever nuclear bomb that resulted in the deaths of over 100,000 innocent people including young children. Even after the bombing the death toll would continue to climb as radiation poisoning resulted in the deaths of thousands more. During our visit we went to Hiroshima Peace Park which commemorates those who have died and were impacted heavily by the bombing of Hiroshima. We came away with the realisation of how dark this world can be, and what we ought to do to make things better for our own future. The people of Hiroshima have told the world that we need to rid this planet of all nuclear weapons so that we may all feel safe again and that the atrocities done in the past may never happen again. Our visit to Japan’s city of peace has embedded us with a message that rings through the hearts of all those left behind. Never again, “No more Hiroshimas”   Phoenix Tohaia-Vercoe Miyajima Island Miyajima island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that visited on the last day of our Japan trip. To get there we took a tram from our the Japanese inn, (said as ryokan in Japanese) we were staying at and then took a train to get to Miyajima-guchi station. However to get to the island we had to take a ferry. From the ferry we were able to enjoy the full view of Hiroshima city in the distance.  We were lucky enough to have the tide in and saw the Itsukushima jinja and its torii gate ‘floating’ in the water. This is one of the top 7 sights in Japan. As we moved through the shrine we were also able to get a stamp and calligraphy signing as a record of our visit. As we exited the shrine there were many shops selling street food such as creamy coffee ice cream and other delicacies of Miyajima like oysters. Wild deer roam freely around Miyajima similar to Nara, a town we visited near Kyoto. Many gift shops had little deer and Itsukushima shrine keychains. An aquarium on the western side of the island showcased many unique marine animals and included doctor fish that we were able to stick our hands into the open tank of. Miyajima also had a scenic ropeway to the top of Mt Misen. You can do a return trip or walk one way and ride the ropeway for the other. My group decided to take the two short gondola rides up and we got to see a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains of Hiroshima and the inland sea surrounding Miyajima.   Jade Broughton In Kyoto we stayed at the Ryokan Kyoka which is a Japanese style inn where you sleep on futons (mattresses) on the floor. While we were in Kyoto we visited Nijo castle which was made by the first shogun, Tokugawa with squeaky floorboards as a defense against ninja who sought to assassinate him. We also visited Todaiji temple in Nara which is the largest wooden building in the world and is next to the Nara national park where deer live and roam freely around the town. The next day we visited Kinkaku-ji which is a 3 story buddhist temple covered in gold leaf and the Nishiki markets which is known for having many of Kyoto’s famous foods and goods, like octopus and quail egg on a stick like a lollipop and sparrow on a stick!   Nikora Ruawai

During the school holidays Year 12 Service Academy students Tu Ua Keepa and Brody Palmer attended the ‘Defence Careers Experience’ in Devonport, Auckland at the Naval Base.  They spent 4 nights and 5 days living in barracks and being shown around the Navy Base by New Zealand Defence force personnel, experiencing the day to day life of Navy Sailors.  With flights, accommodation and food paid for by the Defence Careers Experience operation, both feel very fortunate to get the opportunity to gain some insight into their career direction.  Brody is looking at getting into the Navy when he leaves school, specifically he is interested in becoming a Marine Electrician. He enjoyed the lifestyle around the Navy base and said the food was awesome!  Te Ua is looking at getting into the Army when he leaves school, specifically into Physical Training. The recruiter who he spent time with said he would be suitable Officer material and gave him insight into what that looks like.  For both boys the experience has cemented their career direction. Being in the Trident Service Academy led both boys to gain the spots on the Defence Careers Experience and they say having the experience through the Service Academy has been beneficial in helping them navigate their opportunities.  Te Ua says he has enjoyed and worked well within the routine and structure that Staff Shaw demands of his students. He also likes wearing the Services uniform, it provides a sense of belonging and pride in the group of students and he likes the way the community gives them positive recognition when they are out and about as a group.  For Brody, being part of the Service Academy has meant he has been challenged mentally and physically through camps and other exercises. He says being put under pressure like that has helped him to grow as a person and has meant his school work and sport has improved. Working one on one with Staff Shaw has also been a bonus as he feels supported in his school life. Both Brody and Te Ua would like to thank Staff Shaw for his guidance and support this year.

Just like Gotham City, Whakatane has its own superheroes and more specifically we at Trident have three!  Seth Hands, Tayla John and Cole Hands are all Year 12 students who successfully balance their commitment to their education with their full time volunteer firefighter duties.  During a recent singing practice our resident FireFighters left to respond to a callout and were treated to a round of applause from their peers who knew where their committed friends were off to.  When Cole’s pager goes off he says he shifts his focus immediately and as he is committed to respond, he instantly focuses on his role as an employee of the NZ Fire Service. This type of juggle and commitment is no mean feat for anyone, let alone year 12 students, but all three agree the struggle is definitely worth it and they are more than happy to juggle their time and energy between school life and their community service. For all three it was the influence of their fathers that led them to train and join the essential service that sees them respond to emergencies at any given time of the day or night.  Tayla says that following in her father’s footsteps and watching him help their small community of Taneatua influenced her in wanting to help people in need, and the gratitude that the public give for the service she provides makes her day.  Seth echoes this sentiment and says that when he finishes a job and people come to shake his hand on a job well done it is the best feeling ever. The adrenaline rush that the students get when they hear a siren or get the call on their pagers is unsurpassed by other experiences of most people their age and they recommend that students who are interested in giving back to the community and helping those in need consider volunteering. We are very proud of our FireFighters and with a passion like they have, we know they will have a lot of very thankful members of the public out there!

Through Trident’s Gateway Programme Celine Sellars has been lucky enough to get work experience in Aviation at the Whakatane Airport.  She chose Aviation to learn more about the history of the aviation industry and the different functions of planes used back in WW1 & WW2 which is an interest of hers.  Celine had her first flying experience while learning and working at the airport, having never been in a plane before it was a challenge that she readily faced. Seeing all the different types of planes that live at the Whakatane Airport, looking inside them and learning how they work has been a highlight for Celine, made more enjoyable with the tutors who she rates highly. Work experience at the airport has meant that Celine is now broadening her career focus from Tourism and Hospitality into the Airline Industry.  She recommends the course to any students as she says it is a great experience and one she is pleased to have had the opportunity to explore. Thank you to Whakatane Airport and the tutors that work with our students!