Botany Downs Secondary College

On Thursday 21 May, the Pasifika Council hosted their second fono that brought together students, whānau, and staff for an evening of connection, culture, and celebration. Led by senior council members Mele Manuatu 13K12, Herriot Porter 13K12, and Travis Davies Faleuka 12J11, the event highlighted the importance of Pasifika identity and student success.

Read about the evening here: https://www.bdsc.school.nz/general/pasifika-council-fono-term-2/

Join us for our Year 11 Options & Careers Information Evening!

Year 11 students, parents and whānau - come along to learn about the option selection process and explore future pathways with insights from our Head of Careers.

🗓️ Wednesday 24 June
⏰ 6.30 - 7.30pm, Doors open at 6.15pm
📍 PAC

From Friday 24 to Sunday 26 April, the second group of Silver Duke of Edinburgh students embarked on a three-day, two-night sea kayaking training and practice expedition around the beautiful Maraetai coast. Serving as essential preparation for the upcoming qualifying journey, they were required to use their skills and knowledge to navigate across the water and camp self-sufficiently.

Read about their adventure here: https://www.bdsc.school.nz/general/duke-of-edinburg…enturous-journey/

Students from our Level 1–3 Food Technology and Hospitality classes recently took part in the MIT Hospitality Training Competition, where they showcased their growing culinary talents and professionalism in a high-pressure, industry-style environment.

This competition provided an authentic experience that challenged students to apply their practical skills, creativity, and time management under strict conditions. From preparing burgers and smoothies to crafting fruit flans and classic Kiwi biscuits, students were pushed to meet industry standards while demonstrating precision, presentation, and flavour development. The experience helped build resilience, confidence, and a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed in the hospitality sector.

See who are winners were here: https://www.bdsc.school.nz/general/mit-hospitality-…petition-success/

This week is English Week at BDSC! Dive into engaging activities celebrating the English language.

As part of our Work and Community Skills subject, a group of students have been attending MIT once a week to continue their learning with the “Skills for Living” course. Our students are thoroughly enjoying this experience. It has been wonderful to see them learn in a new environment, step out of their comfort zone, make new friendships and gain independence.

In Term 1, they learnt about ‘Maintaining Personal Safety’ and ‘Health & Wellbeing’. This covered cyber, personal and community safety and how we look after ourselves. During Term 2, they are learning about ‘Belonging in Aotearoa’ and ‘Overcoming Challenges’. The students learn through role plays, discussions, presentations and bookwork.

Are you ready to unleash your inner rock star? Join us for an unforgettable night with the School of Rock! Our talented students are ready to deliver a spectacular performance that you won't want to miss.

Dates: Monday 27, 28, 29 July, 7-8.45pm
Location: BDSC PAC
Tickets: Available now for just $10 at the Finance Centre
Mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready to rock out with us at School of Rock! 🎸✨

Homestay Families Needed – Possible Term 3 start!

We are looking for caring, English-speaking families to host international students. Particularly seeking families interested in hosting students from Europe and South America.

Hosting is a rewarding way to:
✔ Share Kiwi culture
✔ Build lifelong international friendships
✔ Earn an extra $400 per week

All students are carefully matched, and full support is provided.
A spare room and a welcoming attitude is all you need!
https://www.bdsc.school.nz/international-2/become-host-family-2/ or email: [email protected]

On Saturday 23 May, three students – Mia Jessop 10B1, Gurnoor Kaur 10E8 and Alex Rusu 10D3 took part in the 19th Chinese Bridge Chinese Proficiency Competition for secondary school students, held at the University of Auckland. The competition brought together more than 100 Chinese language learners from across the region.

As part of the competition, students were required to deliver a three-minute speech in Chinese and present a cultural performance, showcasing both their linguistic ability and cultural understanding. Alex demonstrated his calligraphy skills, Mia performed a traditional Chinese dance, and Gurnoor presented a Chinese tea ceremony.

All three students performed extremely well and impressed the judges with their confidence, preparation, and talent. They had been preparing for the competition for several weeks, showing great dedication to and passion for learning the Chinese language. We are very proud of their effort and achievement.