Rector’s Message - December 2021

By Dave Thorp | Posted: Sunday December 12, 2021

Kia ora whanāu. I’m writing this on Monday, December 13 and junior students are drifting in with their parents for Conferencing. This is the last official day of school for 2021. Phew!

It was a year that was marred by tragedy. Our thoughts go out to Niko Hill’s parents at this sad time. Thanks to our wonderful Pastoral team for all the important work that went into checking on and caring for the large number of boys who were affected by this horrific accident.

Like any public entity, schools have to carry on with normal life and we did our very best to do that. We went into a lockdown that nobody wanted, even the students. It took many of them until Term 4 to get fully back into a positive frame of mind for learning. Thanks to the teachers and support staff for responding sympathetically to this situation. Also, thanks to all you parents for your efforts. Teenagers are complicated and school works best for them when teachers, support staff and parents work together. He waka eke noa.

All the best to our Prefect team of 2021. You guys were awesome. Balkrishna led with enthusiasm and wit. I know that James Guerin and his team will be excited to get into next year and make their mark as well. Thanks also to our outgoing Year 13 and any other boys who are leaving. You contributed lots over your time here. All the very best for the next instalment of your lives!

Recently, we had our Welcome Day and the 2022 Year 9 boys came in for an orientation exercise. It was a wonderful experience. We have something in the vicinity of 150 Year 9s for next year, which means that after the previous 2 years of strong numbers, our school is starting to really grow. Thanks to the whole community for your continuing support.

Have a wonderful Christmas and a restful break everyone!!

Scientia Potestas est - Mā te Mātauranga te Mana

Nga mihi

Dave Thorp

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