It was a delight to welcome grandparents and grand-friends to Ficino School this morning. Our Junior and Senior Choirs opened the morning with performances of ‘On the back of an eagle’ and Stodola Pumpa, showing just why they are strong contenders in the upcoming Kids Sing competition this August. Our Choir Master, Elise Bradley, bid the audience farewell as she departed to spend time with her own 3-year-old granddaughter.

Ficino students then treated their guests to a vibrant display of recitations, dances, and songs before proudly guiding them into classrooms to share their latest work. Junior students were especially eager to display their detailed artwork and carefully crafted handwriting. In keeping with Māori tradition — where the first fish caught is returned to the sea as a gesture of respect — some of our Year One students presented their very first flax fish creations to their guests.

Staff also enjoyed connecting with our visitors who shared stories of their own travels, inspired by the display of the upcoming Renaissance trip our Year 8 students will take this year. This spectacular journey, much like the morning’s performances, reflects the broad and enriching education offered at Ficino School — one that nurtures excellence not only academically, but across the whole child.

A special congratulations goes to Mr and Mrs Crompton, who recently joined the grandparent ranks with the birth of their grandson.