Online Gaming 

Games are an integral part of human behaviour. It is normal and healthy for young people to engage in play as a part of their daily lives, including playing games online. And like most activities, online gaming can have both positive and negative outcomes. It can be intimidating and confusing for carers trying to understand a young person’s online experiences with many considering that staring at a screen is an unhealthy habit. However, the World Health Organisation does believe that as well as the risks, there are also many positive benefits associated with online gaming and these could be key in nurturing bonds with others.

During the pandemic, there was explosive growth in gaming as people sought much-needed connection during isolation. In the media, gaming often gets bad publicity because most coverage tends to concentrate on the minority of gamers who play to such an extent that it compromises all other areas of their life. However, online gaming can teach young people many skills including teamwork, concentration, communication and problem-solving. It requires a level of interaction and skill from the player; unlike watching television, which is more passive.

Online communities provide opportunities for young people to feel socially connected and have a sense of belonging. At healthy levels, gaming can increase their self-esteem and social acceptance. However, any behaviour, when taken to extreme, can also have a negative impact on a young person’s everyday life. Understanding what your young person experiences online and knowing the warning signs if they are at risk, will help nurture a more positive relationship with online gaming and help your family find the right balance.

If you are concerned about your young person’s online gaming habits, it’s important to consider a number of factors. This edition will provide strategies on how to deal with any issues you may be experiencing. We hope you take the time to reflect on the information offered in this month’s edition, and we always welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the well-being of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to this month's edition https://hbhs.nz.schooltv.me/newsletter/online-gaming

Dear Parents/Caregivers

Please see attached, the Board of Trustees Election results for the Parent Representative Elections.

Staff Representative Election Results: Luke Katene.

Kind regards
Kristin Rillstone
Returning Officer

Dear Parents/Caregivers

Thursday, 8 September is Te Rā Tuakiri.

If students wish to wear mufti, we ask them to please bring $2.00.

All funds raised go to Hospice Waikato Rainbow Place.

Thank you

Building Belonging Post Pandemic

Having a sense of belonging involves more than simply knowing other people. It is also focused on gaining acceptance, attention and support from others, as well as having the opportunity to provide the same to other people.

When the pandemic interrupted our lives and changed the way we live, this meant that suddenly many of our young people’s main sources of connection with peers and extended family members was removed overnight without warning. As human beings, we have a basic emotional and biological need for connection. It provides us with feelings of identity, security, support, acceptance and community.

Students who have a sense of belonging will experience these feelings which in turn supports their academic, psychological and social development. When young people come together again after a period of instability, there is a period of adjustment. Whilst the rules of the group may be established, acceptance remains paramount and can therefore mean some behaviours become far from rational, making it difficult for their brain to focus on things, such as learning. All these factors combined, leave young people open to being vulnerable. It can sometimes tempt them into making choices or becoming involved in situations they might not ordinarily consider.

As a result of the pandemic, there are still many young people struggling to connect and regain their sense of belonging. This Special Report provides guidance to families who find themselves in this situation. We hope you take a moment to reflect on the information offered, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report https://hbhs.nz.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-building-belonging-post-pandemic

Dear Parents/Caregivers

All photos taken at Hamilton Boys' High School this year, are available for you to view and order online with PhotoLife Studios.

Your son will be bringing home today, a form with your unique "Access Key Code" on it.  The Access Key Code will bring up all photographs that your son is in.  It is then an easy process for you to shop online and purchase the photographs you want.

All orders will be sent directly to your specified delivery address and will incur a $6.00 postage and packaging charge.

Thank you
Liz Caskey
HBHS Shop
shop@hbhs.school.nz