13 Nov 2025

13 November 2025 

Subject: Important Health Notice Regarding Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)

Kia ora Parents and Whānau,

This letter is to inform you that we have had confirmed cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) within the junior school area.

We understand that hearing the term "Foot and Mouth" can be concerning, but please be reassured that Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common, generally mild viral infection that mainly affects children, and is completely unrelated to the Foot and Mouth Disease that affects livestock.

HFMD is spread through close personal contact, coughing, and sneezing, and by contact with contaminated surfaces. It is most contagious during the first week of illness.

Recognising the Symptoms

If your child is unwell, please monitor them closely for the following signs:

1. Fever: Often the first symptom.
2. Sore Throat and Loss of Appetite.
3. Rash/Blisters: Painful, red blisters or spots can appear on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth (often presenting as painful ulcers). Blisters may also appear on the buttocks or genital area.

Action Required by Parents/Whānau (Exclusion Policy)

If your child shows any symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, they must be kept home from school immediately to prevent further spread.

The Ministry of Health advises that a child should be excluded from school or kindergarten until:

• They are feeling well.
• Any blisters have dried up.
• Any open sores can be covered with a waterproof dressing.

If you are unsure, please consult with your GP or health professional.

Preventative Measures

We are taking the following steps at school and ask for your support at home:

• Hand Hygiene: We are reinforcing the importance of thorough handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet and before eating.
• Cleaning: We are increasing the frequency of cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces, toys, and shared equipment in the junior block.
• No Sharing: Reminding children not to share drinks, food, or personal items.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our school community safe and healthy. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the school office.

Nāku noa, nā

Matua Danny

12 Nov 2025

WPS Kapa Haka Festival Cancelled 

Kia ora whanau.

Due to unpredictable weather over the next 24 hours we have made the tough decision to cancel our Kapa Haka festival tomorrow, Thursday November 13th.
It will now be a normal school day for our students.
We will look to do a scaled back Kapa Haka performance for you all before the end of the term.

Office@WPS

11 Nov 2025

WPS Newsletter

Kia Ora,
This is our latest newsletter for Week 6 of Term 4, 2025

Please click on the link below to open and view our newsletter:
WPS Newsletter - W06T04 - 11 November 2025

If you would like to view any of our previous newsletters, please click on this link below:
WPS Newsletters and Notices

Nga mihi

Office@WPS
Ph: (09) 438 3186
office@whangareiprimary.school.nz