Friday, December 13, 2013

Principal's Comment

Kia Ora Kevinian's and Friends of the College

This week the college campus has seemed rather deserted as our Year 10 students have headed to the Ohau region for their camps and retreat, leaving only the Year 9 students on site for their activity week. I have had the pleasure of helping with the abseiling activity at the South Temple Gorge during the first part of the week and have been back at school to see the final section of the activity week. It was a great opportunity for the staff and I to get to know our students in these settings outside the formality of the classroom. After viewing some of te challenges of the week, I am confident have a fine young group of potential leaders in our junior school.  Later in the blog there are postings with images of these very successful events.  I would like to this opportunity to formally thank our staff, parents and community supporters for the time and help they have so generously given over the week. Without the commitment and dedication of staff and helpers these programmes would not be able to run. Thank you to Mrs Walsh and Mr Brand for coordinating the Year 9 and Year 10 weeks respectively.  Thank you also to Mr Collins for ensuring that the Risk Management considerations have been covered so competently and the Religious Studies Faculty for the coordination of the Year 10 Retreat.

There are a number of staff appointments and movements that I would like to share with the College community at this time.

  • Congratulations to Mr Tony Mullally who has been appointed to the position of Director of Religious Studies. This position is one of the key roles in a Catholic College and the caliber of applicants was extremely high. We are blessed with a wealth of talent in this area within the College.
  • The College Hostel farewells Mrs Ryan, Dean of Girls' and Mr Seddon, Dean of Boys'. We sincerely thank you both for the outstanding support you have given the College and we wish you every success as new chapters in your lives unfold.
  • As a result of the appointment process for the DRS position created by the retirement of Mrs Austin, an English position is being advertised. I hope to fill this vacancy early in the new year.

We ask you to keep Mr Rooney in your prayers as he faces challenging health issues. We ask every blessing on him as he continues his treatment. We also ask your prayers for a number of staff and students who are struggling with the loss of loved ones in this advent season.

As this is our final emailed blog for the year, I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Please take the opportunity to enjoy the break and return to the College reinvigorated in February 2014.

Advent Blessings to you all
Paul Olsen, Principal

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Murihiku Servant Leadership Award


Congratulations to Year 12 student Parewhero O'Brien-Harrison on being awarded the Mentors Choice Award for Outstanding Leadership at the Murihiku Servant Leadership Camp, being held this year at St Peter's College in Gore.  

Thirty two students from Verdon College and St Peter's College joined Parewhero, Georgia Holland and Helena Graham for the five day camp and they will  bring back a wealth of leadership skills as they head into Year 13 in 2014.  Well done Parewhero!


Year 10 Camp


Looks like fish may have been on the menu at Lake Middleton!  Our Year 10 students are away on their annual camp and retreat and Mr Ryan sent in a few pictures to share from the sunny shores and also from the abseiling at Temple Basin.

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Kickin' It With Year 9 Activities Week


Our Year 9 students have been kickin' it during Year 9 Activities Week, with a bit of beginners taekwando from local instructor Paul McGeown and past pupil Dominic Houlihan.  They were at the College as part of Year 9 Activities Week and along with Ten Pin Bowling and some creative art activities, students have been kept busy.  The very popular Year 9's Got Talent was coupled with baking (a big thank you from the staff for a delicious morning tea!) and concluded with a community project, a beach cleanup.  Thank you to all of the staff and friends of the College who have helped with activities over the course of the week.

Principal's Mobile Office

Mr Olsen may be away on camp with our Year 10 students, but the office is never far away!  He is sharing is abseiling expertise with students at South Temple Gorge.

Top Shot


Congratulations to Georgia Blair and Jessica Fraser on their medal winning trapshooting performances at the New Zealand Youth Games which were held in Hamilton over the past weekend.  Georgia came away with a bronze medal in the ladies' point score and Jessica also took a bronze in the ladies' trench.  The girls then paired up to win a silver in the ladies' team trench event.  What a great effort!  Well done girls!

Friday, December 6, 2013

Principal's Comment

Tēnā koutou Kevinians and Supporters of the College

Last Saturday evening, the Graduates of 2013 met at the Homestead for a final dinner, after their NCEA examinations. It was a pleasure to be able to welcome back ex-pupil, Detective Inspector Dylan Ross as our guest speaker. Dylan's message around goal setting and persistence was well received. He was an eloquent and thoughtful speaker who clearly captured and inspired our graduates, staff and families. He is a credit to his family and the College. Many thanks to Dylan, Mr Mullally and the Senior Management Team for a splendid evening.

As the penultimate school week draws to a close both staff and Year 10 students have been hard at work preparing for the camps and retreat next week. The College pool has been booked out for kayak lessons and an excellent spell of fine weather has made learning how to exit the kayak a much more pleasurable experience. A big thank you to Mr Grant our caretaker and Fabian our GAP student for managing our school pool. This is a much more complex process in these days off health and safety regulations and so it is pleasing to have competent people responsible for the meticulous preparation of this facility. Thank you to Mr Haig and Mr Brand for their kayak instruction.

There are a number of minor building projects currently underway at the College. These include the establishment of a Religious Education Faculty office in the locker area off the Redcastle Room, opening up of the old dark room in the Art Suite and a rearrangement of office space in the Administration Quadrangle. These alterations will be ready for the new school year.

The position of Director of Religious Studies at the College has been advertised and the Board of Trustees will hopefully be in a positions to make an appointment for the new year.

Tessa Robertson and Hamish Moynihan have left for India on the Edmund Rice Network Immersion Programme which involves volunteer work at the Mother Teresa's house in Calcutta. Our best wishes go with them on their work.

Finally, please keep Mr Rooney, who is currently in hospital, in your prayers.

Advent blessings to you all
Paul Olsen, Principal


Thursday, December 5, 2013

Year 10 Agriculture Down On The Farm


The Year 10 Ag Class took a trip down to Moeraki Downs Sheep Farm to get a taste of the rural lifestyle lending a helping hand to Nevelle, Kate Caldwell's dad, helping him out with some drafting, drenching and crutching.  Some got right out of their comfort zones having never been near a sheep before!  But some were eager to hook into it.  We also had a visit at Mrs Eatherley's farm looking at her donkeys, highland cattle, goats, chickens and alpacas.  She also told us about the limestone crusher.

We also had time for a paddle in the sea and a good feed of fish and chips, before heading into Weston to Jessica Fraser's farm, taking a look at the calves they only got a day before!

The Year 10 Ag class had a great day out and about exploring the rural lifestyle.  Thanks Mrs Eatherley, Nevelle Caldwell, Mr Fraser and Mr Farrell.    

by Natalie Preston

Past Pupil Top Of Class

Congratulations to past pupil Samara Halkett who has finished at the top of her second year nursing class for 2013.

Samara graduated from the College in 2011 and is studying at the Southern Institute of Technology.

Edmund Rice Immersion Experience


Hamish Moynihan and Tessa Robertson are in our thoughts and prayers as they leave for the Edmund Rice Immersion Experience to India. Once again, St Thomas of Canterbury have offered our students  a place on this life changing trip. Hamish and Tessa have been attending preparation meetings with the staff and students of St Thomas of Canterbury. The highlight of the trip is the time spent in Calcutta and the places the group will visit include Delhi, Varanasi, Kolkata, Goa and Mumbai.

What To Bring For Year 9 Activities Week

HERE IS A LIST OF EVERYTHING OUR YEAR 9 STUDENTS WILL NEED TO ENJOY: 
YEAR 9 ACTIVITIES WEEK!
Monday
Money for the movies
Packed lunch
Togs and a towel
Tuesday
Clothes you can ‘kick’ in ie sports gear.
Packed lunch
Wednesday
Packed lunch
Anything you need for Year Nine’s got talent.
Thursday
Water proof clothes you can wear to the beach.
Warm clothes
Togs and towel
A packed lunch
Friday
Tidy, clean uniform for prize giving.
A good singing voice
A positive attitude towards your classmates.
Fun in the sun from 2012

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Southland Swimming Medal


Congratulations to Year 9 student Angus Macaulay who picked up a bronze medal at the Southland Swimming Championships held in Invercargill.  Angus made 5 event finals and won his medal in the Mens 14/15yrs 200m Freestyle in a time of 2:10.33.  

Well done Angus!

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Pacific Coast Slam Tour

Congratulations to Year 12 student Helena Graham following her selection to the U17 Girls South Island team which will travel to Port Macquarie NSW, Australia, for the Pacific Coast Slam Tour.  

In between exams she has been working hard training and attending camps prior to departure across the Tasman in early January 2014.  The tour runs from 8-19 January and will be invaluable experience, enabling Helena to take her game to the next level.  Well done!

Monday, December 2, 2013

Year 10 Camp Preparations

Preparations for next weeks Year 10 Camp and Retreat got under way today with the first class hitting the College swimming pool for kayaking lessons with Mr Haig and Mr Brand.  Safety first!  So first order of business, how to call for rescue if you overturn ... second order of business, how to rescue yourself.


Graduation Dinner 2013


The 2013 Graduation Dinner was held at the Homestead on Saturday evening and it was wonderful to see so many staff, parents and caregiver come together for the occasion.  Past pupil, Dylan Ross, was the guest speaker for the evening and in a moving tribute the Year 13 boys performed a final haka for Mrs Austin who retires at the end of this school year.  From everyone at the College, our sincerest best wishes to all of our Graduating Class for 2013.

More Images From The Junior Performance Unit

Saturday, November 30, 2013

Blue Is The New Grey


A REMINDER TO STUDENTS, PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS THAT 
IN 2014 ALL GREY SHIRTS MUST BE REPLACED WITH THE BLUE REGULATION SHIRT.
  
THESE ARE AVAILABLE AT JACK SUTHERLANDS, OAMARU

Friday, November 29, 2013

Principal's Comment

Talofa lava, Kia orana, Fakaalofa lahi atu, Talofa ni, Mālō e lelei, Ni sa bula, Tēnā koutou katoa and Greetings to Kevinian's and supporters of the College.

This week the College has resounded to the passionate chant of the new haka being prepared for today's performance competition in the Gymnasium. The Physical Education faculty have moved the performance unit to later in the year to allow more time to practice after the junior examinations, and judging by the quality of this afternoons hakas the change has been beneficial.  The new haka integrated girls and boys into a stering and powerful challenge that all students can be proud of. Thank you to the parents and guest judges who made today a memorable occasion for the students.

Yesterday, Mr Ryan and myself traveled to the Ministry of Education office in Dunedin to hear details of the PB4L (Positive Behaviour for Learning) Project that is being rolled out to all New Zealand secondary schools. St Kevin's College is one of the last to receive this training and so we have been able to talk to others about their experience. We have been particularly keen to ensure that the programme will compliment our special character. Our plan is to use the best elements of restorative practice to add to our discipline system. I consider that one of our strengths as a College has been our "firm but fair" traditional Catholic approach to discipline. The mantra is "If you get it wrong, put it right". We accept that our young people will make mistakes and should be allowed to learn from them. Adding the best of restorative practice at a classroom level will help give a school wide approach to handling issues in a proactive way, diffusing issues before they escalate. The staff training and community discussion will take place during 2014 with implementation planned for 2015.

On the promotions front, Rebecca Ryan, previously a reporter with the Oamaru Mail, has been collecting video footage to produce short clips showing school and hostel life. Thank you to Rebecca and Cathy Taylor for their commitment to this project and to the students who have generously given their time to feature in the clips.

With the last NCEA examination being held today, I would like to thank Mrs Potter for the sterling work she has done liaising with the NCEA team. With examinations completed is appropriate that our leaver's gather on Saturday evening to celebrate with the graduation dinner. The staff and I are looking forward to meeting everyone in a convivial setting and reflecting on the journey of the 2013 Graduates. For many families this will be their final formal connection  with the College. I hope that you will continue your links in the years to come and always feel welcome at St Kevin's.

Na Mihi and Advent Blessings
Paul Olsen, Principal

Junior Performance Unit 2013


Congratulations to all of our juniors for a fantastic display this afternoon.  Year 9 students performed an aerobics display as well as the new College Haka and the Year 10 students added a dance element in as well.  9N were placed first for Year 9 and 10S for Year 10 .... well done!

Final Duke Of Ed Explorations For 2013


I suppose you can’t have good weather all the time for tramping, and any way, thunder and lightning and a little flash flood offer their own interesting experiences to learn from.  Twelve boys with Mr Brand and Mr Dixon set off for Chinaman’s Hut last week, the boys completing their Bronze Award Expedition, the teachers watching out for them and completing the next phase of hut repairs.  While the thunder and lightning and flood were short lived, the drizzle was more or less constant for the two days we were away.  

The boys however were determined to enjoy themselves and were well prepared for whatever they might encounter, some overly so, but that is another story.  Waterfalls, rock climbs, rough country and a fire to stand around and tell stories all made for a great couple of days and had a group of boys asking, “When can we come back?”.




Using The E-Permission System

How to use the E-permissions System


The e-permissions system is a facility where parents and caregivers are able to give student permission for College trips and events on-line.  The Permissions Portal can be found on the College website and is quick and easy to use by following these simple steps.

  1. Go to the College website - www.stkevins.school.nz - and click on the Permissions Portal (this can be found under the Contact Us tab)
  2. A number of types of general activities are listed … eg; Basketball, Interschools, Cultural Events, Curriculum and Field Trips etc.  Click on the general activity that is relevant to the event you are giving permission for.  This will take you to the e-permission form for that general activity.
  3. At the bottom of the page you will be able to view or download the student and parent information relevant to the event you are giving permission for.  It is important that you read this information (please note that some general activities, eg; Curriculum and Field Trips, may have multiple events running at any given time)
  4. Enter the student information directly into the boxes on the e-permission form, beginning with their name and your individual parent and caregiver PIN.  This is a security code that should NOT be shared with students.  This code can be set up for you by simply contacting our Office Staff (03 4371665, ext 701)
  5. Complete all of the boxes, being sure to clearly name the event you are giving permission for in the last box.
  6. Your permission has now been given!


This information is now transferred to a e-permission response document private to the appropriate administrative and management staff at the College and the Teacher In Charge of the event you are giving permission for.  


Thursday, November 28, 2013

Camp Preparations

Taking a moment out in 2012
Next week Year 10 students will be involved in Camp Preparations and these will commence at the beginning of Whanau Time on Monday and Tuesday and at 1.40pm on Wednesday and Thursday.  Students will need to bring their swimming togs and a towel on the following days:
Monday 2 December - 10N
Tuesday 3 December - 10S
Wednesday 4 December - 10V
Thursday 5 December 10K
Friday 6 December is a catch up day and any students away on their specified day MUST come with their togs and a towel on this day (Please note this includes students involved in the Agriculture Trip on Tuesday).

It is important that students have the correct equipment for camp, in particular for the outdoor elements of the trip.  The College has options available if parents and caregivers are having difficulty sourcing items and they should feel free to contact Mr Dixon or Mr Brand with regards to these.


Junior Speech Competition For Otago


Hot off the press!!  Congratulations to Year 10 student Karan Ratgali who has placed second in the Junior Speech Competition for Otago Schools.  The event was held this afternoon at Kings High School in Dunedin with an extremely high standard set by all of the speakers.  Karan also won the Gerard Curran Cup in the Junior Scripture Reading at the Bishop's Shield this year.  Well done!!

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Calculator Special

Mrs Potter has managed to get an extremely good price for Graphics Calculators.  $99 each compared to the regular retail price of $132.95. All students studying year 11, 12 and 13 Mathematics are required to have a graphics calculator.  Any year 10 students who wish to purchase a graphics calculator now at the special price in preparation for next year can see Mrs Potter. These can  be charged to your school account.


Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Pipes at Papakaio


On Tuesday afternoon, the College Piper's played for students at Papakaio School. A number of Papakaio students have been learning how to play the snare drums and this was an opportunity for them to display their learning. Thank you to Natalie and Chris for helping Mr Stephen Strachan the drum tutor.

Friday, November 22, 2013

Principal's Comment

Kia ora Kevinian's and Friends of the College

As the major NCEA examinations are concluding and our junior's students have completed their end of year assessment, staff are busy with report writing. The focus in the College has moved to planning for the new year. The strategic planning for the 2014 Charter has reached the draft stage and I have included a link so that our wider community can have input into this important document. Draft Charter

On Wednesday the White Ribbon Riders visited the College. This visit is becoming an annual event, to raise the awareness of family violence. The large group of riders were very impressed with the passionate performance of the new haka. The whole junior school was actively involved with the preparation of food, welcome haka, speeches and karakia before morning tea. This visit is one of the events in a structured programme through our Religious Education classes that focuses on healthy relationships. In Year 12 this links to Lesley Elliot's Love Me Not programme that was piloted at St Kevin's this year. Feed back has been overwhelmingly positive and is another way we build our Special Character dimension.

On Wednesday evening the College Sports Council meet to round up the year. Our chair, Mrs Sinclair thanked the leaders of sport for their work during the year and we discussed a number of developments in risk management approach and financial funding. Thank you to all the representatives on the Council. Your community links and passion for sport have enriched the profile of sport within the College.

Today the College has held a Mufti-day to help with the Caratas appeal for the victims of the Philippines disaster. This is a practical way to help those in dire need of support at a critical time.

Finally, can you keep the Burton family in your prayers as today is the funeral of Mr Burton's mother.

Na mihi and Advent Blessings
Paul Olsen, Principal

Federation Representative

Congratulations to Rosie Pope who has been selected for the 15th Grade Federation Team.  Rosie has been travelling to Timaru once a week as part of the Federation Talent Centre and her selection is a testament to her dedication and ability on the football field!  She will take part in a 4 day tournament in Wellington, beginning on the 14 December.  

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Truffles For Christmas

Truffles for Christmas
The Home and School are selling truffles - $5.00 dozen - and order forms have been sent home with students and via email for you to collect orders from friends and family.  These would make a great Christmas present for that person who is always a bit tricky to buy for!

The truffles will be ready for pick-up on Friday 13th December (Junior Prize-giving).   
Text your order to: Mandy - 027 3814436 or give to any Home and School committee member by 29th November.


Thanks to everyone for all your support.  Keep an eye on the Redcastle Roundup to see what we have provided this year to benefit every child at St. Kevin’s.

White Ribbon Ride 2013



This week the College was visited by bike riders on the White Ribbon Ride 2013.  Riders traveling all over the country were joined by local riders and Lesley Elliott (Sophie Elliott Foundation) was also part of this year's ride.  They were greeted by Year 9 and 10 students who performed the new College Haka for the first time for visitors to the College and a special thanks to Mrs Burton, Mrs Fowler and the thirty two junior boys who prepared the morning tea.


"The White Ribbon Ride is New Zealand's most exciting initiative to tackling this country's crippling domestic violence record.  Violence destroys families, sets our children on a destructive journey and affects one in three women.  This week-long motorcycle tour happens every November - White Ribbon Month, and is a powerful and inspirational voyage for all involved.  Recently the ride was featured at the International White Ribbon Conference." 

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

St Patrick's Parish, Oamaru - Celebrations

St Patrick's Parish, Oamaru, will be celebrating this coming weekend, marking the 140th anniversary of the Oamaru Parish, the 120th anniversary of the laying of the Basilica foundation stone and also celebrating the end of The Year of Faith.

St Kevin's College will be joining the celebrations by taking part in the Mass on Saturday 23, at 5pm.  This will be followed by The Big Night Out at St Patrick's Hall, with pot luck finger food and entertainment from a number of performers, including some of our students. All members of our College community are welcome to join us in these celebrations 

(please contact Nicola Mountain for full details of the weekend's events - 021 659 757)
                 

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Junior Performance Unit Date Change

The boys begin their performance in 2012
The Junior Performance Unit has been pushed out a week to Friday 29 November in the College Gymnasium.  Parents and caregivers are welcome to join us from 1.30pm.

Monday, November 18, 2013

Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Tramp



Last Friday Russell Dixon supervised a group of 13 junior girls on their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh tramp to Chinaman's Hut, near Dansey's Pass.  The girls made short work of the tramp to the hut on Friday night, in the morning some sprinted to the top of the hill and back, then the whole group walked further up the valley to the waterfall.  Ranger Russell took the opportunity to fit a new comfortable toilet to the longdrop, repaired the roof damaged by a winter rockfall, and fixed part of the garden wall broken in the same event.  A great weekend was had by all.  Our thanks to Tiernach Farrell for driving the school van.

Ballooning Adventures


Thanks to Carol Edwards for these great shots!

Oamaru's annual Victorian Fete has the theme of Explorers and Adventurers this year. To get in the spirit of these heritage celebrations, a team of enthusiastic hostel students braved the 5.30 am conditions to help launch four hot air balloons from the Weston Domain. Brendan and Joel are pictured helping prepare for take off and Brendan was lucky enough to be one of the passengers.The event runs over three days and the organizers are grateful to our students for lending a hand. 



Friday, November 15, 2013

Principal's Comment

Kia ora Kevinian's and friends of the College

NCEA examinations have been the focus for our seniors this week. Students have settled into the routine and most of the examinations papers have received  favourable comments from both staff and students. Mr Dixon and our guidance staff are still available to offer support to students who have issues over this stressful examination season. Thank you to Mrs Potter and her team for the support given to the NCEA staff running the examinations.

Our promotions team has had a presence at the Christchurch Show in the later part of the week. Thank you to Mr Brand, Mr Fowler and Ms Walsh for helping with the College display.

It was with sadness and regret that I accepted the resignation of valued and long serving Assistant Principal, Mrs Austin, yesterday. Mrs Austin will be retiring from the College at the end of the year and we wish her every blessing as a new chapter of her life unfolds. I will give more details about a function to acknowledge Mrs Austin's contribution later in the year.

I am pleased to announce two appointments for next year. Firstly, Mrs Sutton will take up the Maternity Science position replacing Mrs Beckingsdale. Secondly, Mr Nyika will be returning to the College as a Social Science teacher with responsibilities for Deanship in the Hostel. We welcome you to the Staff team and hope your tenure with us is positive and rewarding.

Finally I would ask you to remember Mr Burton and his family in our prayers as they mourn the loss of his mother who passed away on Thursday.

May God bless you. Na mihi.
Paul Olsen, Principal

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Basketball Otago Endeavour Award


Congratulations to Year 10 student Matt Brien who was recognised at the Basketball Otago Awards with the Endeavour Award, having played for the U15 representative team this season.  


Matt is certainly someone to watch in the sport of basketball after winning the Most Improved award in 2012.    Well done!

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Books To Return To School


A reminder to all senior students to return your texts books to the College as soon as possible following your end of year examinations.  

Thank you.


U19 Most Improved Player

Year 12 student Hamish Robertson is increasing his basketball accolades having been named the Otago U19 Most Improved Player for the 2013 season.  The Basketball Otago Awards were presented at a special event during the weekend.   Congratulations Hamish!

Monday, November 11, 2013

Year 10 Camp Parent And Student Information

Memories from 2012
Year 10 Camp will be held during the last week of the term from 9 - 12 December.  Students will travel to the Hopkins Valley area near Twizel to three separate camps.  They spend a day at each on a rotation focusing on water based activities, bushcraft skills and reflection/retreat activities.  Copies of the Parent and Student Information sheet are available from the school office or CLICK HERE to download a copy now.

E-permission slips are available on the College Website - CLICK HERE do go directly to the page.  Please contact the school office for your verification code if you do not already have one.  

If you have any questions or concerns please contact the Year 10 Dean, Mr Brand.

Ritejourney


During the weekend the Girls Hostel saw the launch of the community aspect of the Ritejourney.  There are four parts to this journey.  Three of the Year 10 students went to Iona Rest Home where they did volunteer work, involving reading letters and playing bingo with the residents.  Year 13 student Andrew Easton and the rest of the residents were very excited to have the girls there, bringing their fun and energy into their day.  The girls were excellent representatives of the College and plans were made to start a small, non alcoholic, Happy Hour on a Friday afternoon with guests from the Hostel or College attending.

Friday, November 8, 2013

Principal's Comment

Dear Kevinian's and Friends of the College

This week staff have been hard at work delivering the final lessons, making preparations for the external examinations and signing off the internal assessment grades. My thanks to our dedicated staff for the extra tutorials and out of class revision opportunities offered to students at a time that is so stressful.

On Wednesday evening we held the Hostel High Tea, Senior Prizegiving and Year 13 Graduation. It was a pleasure to be able to celebrate the academic, sporting and cultural achievements of the year in these ceremonies and gather as a Senior College at our final Mass for the year. Thank you to all those who helped organise these events and to our chaplain, Fr Wayne Healey who con-celebrated the Mass with Monsignor Paul Mahoney. It was an honour to be able to host our graduates and their families for supper at the Redcastle.

Congratulations to the Dux of the College for 2013, Jibi Kunethedam. Jibi has made an outstanding contribution to the academic, sporting, cultural and leadership dimensions of the College.

One of the innovations introduced this year was the announcement of the Head Boy and Girl for 2014 at the prizegiving ceremony.  My congratulations to Isobel Ryan (Head Girl) and Chris Kearney (Head Boy) on their appointment to their 2014 leadership roles. It is fitting that they were announced by the current Head Students, Brianna Fogarty and Jibi Kunnethedam who have been such able and respected leaders. The newly blessed Pounamu Toki (green stone adze) symbols of leadership were passed on to the new leaders in a short ceremony during the evening. The announcement of the leaders at this stage will allow them to take part in leadership training before school starts in the new year. The training is being organised in Melbourne by our sister organisation, Edmund Rice Education Australia.

On Thursday evening the newly elected Board of Trustees meet to produce the latest version of our strategic plan. This is an exciting development and allows for the feedback from the latest ERO visit together with current educational best practice to chart the College's direction for the next three years. My thanks to the Trustees and Mr Kerry Ryan for their help and support in this development.

God bless you all
Paul Olsen, Principal

Mana Pounamu Awards


Congratulations to Tiana Mihaere and Jazz Roundhill for recieving Mana Pounamu Awards last Friday in Dunedin.

Tiana recieved the Teina Award for Achievement and also one of three scholarships from Ag Research to attend the Hands on Science Summer School.  Jazz recieved the Tuakana Award for Achievement and an ODT Award for English.

It was an inspiring evening of celebration of Maori student success. The evening was opened by Moeraki Runaka at the Otago University School of Education. Schools from all over Otago supported and acnowledged their students with waiata and haka tautoko.  Guest speaker Case Mews delivered an insightful closing speech before a hangi dinner completed the evening.  It was a evening that left us inspired and challenged to achieve our best in all that we do.

Well done Tiana and Jazz and all your whanau for their endless support.  Thanks also to Eva Gregory Hunt our Kapa Haka kaiako and Merekite Wahitapu, Jessica Latavao, Sesilia Latavao, Jasmine Latavao, Masi Titilo and Tivinia Misiloi, who supported our Mana Pounamu recipients and St Kevin's College on the night.

Whāia te iti kahurangi, ki te tuoho koe me maunga teitei.

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Head Boy And Head Girl 2014

Congratulations to Isobel Ryan and Christopher Kearney who were named as Head Girl and Head Boy for 2014 at the Senior Prizegiving and Graduation Ceremony held last night at the College.  The announcement marks the beginning of a new tradition where a pounamu stone pendant was presented to them by Brianna Fogarty and Jibi Kunnethedam as our current Head Girl and Head Boy.  The remaining College Leadership Positions will be announced at the beginning of 2014.

Old Boys Returns As Cricket Player/Coach

Ben Cant graduated from the College in 2009 and last week returned as the College player/coach for the 2013/2014 cricket season.  Ben studied a Bachelor of Commerce at Lincoln University, majoring in Accounting and International Business, after being awarded a cricket scholarship through Canterbury Cricket.  He played for the 1st XI at the Lancaster Park Wollstein Cricket Club and coached junior teams.  Ben is in Oamaru for the 2013/2014 season and will then travel overseas to play during the Northern Hemisphere summer.  Welcome back Ben!

Senior Prizegiving And Graduation Mass


Last night we celebrated the senior academic year at the College with our Senior Prizegiving and Graduation Ceremony.  The evening began with a Mass celebrated by Father Wayne Healey and we were delighted to be joined by Msgr Paul Mahoney for the occasion.  As is the tradition of the Mass, students lit their graduation candles before processing out of the Chapel and gathering for a group photo, after which staff, friends, families and invited guests moved into the Auditorium for the presentation part of the evening.  For the first time the announcement of the College Leaders for the following year was made during the evening beginning a new tradition in the handing over of a pounamu stone pendant to the incoming Head Boy and Head Girl.  Congratulations to Isobel Ryan and Christopher Kearney on their appointments for 2014. The senior academic prizes for the year were then presented culminating in the presentation of the Br MM O'Connor Plate to the College Dux for 2013, Jibi Kunnethedam.  Charlotte Hunt was presented with the McKone Cup as the Proxime Accessit to the Dux.  Congratulations to all of our prizewinners, but a special congratulations to both Charlotte and Jibi.  A full prize list will be available shortly.

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Duke Of Edinburgh Dingle Explorations



On the 1st of November, five intrepid trampers set off from school, between thunder storms, heading for the Ahuriri Valley and the track over into the Dingle Burn.   This was a Silver Duke of Edinburgh expedition, some weeks in the planning.  The climb up and over into the Dingle looks daunting at first, especially with a few snowflakes blowing past, but the group managed well and were pitching tents and preparing tea by 8.00pm. 

Saturday dawned clear and cold ( ice on and in tents!!!).  After breakfast we set off down the valley for a walk to see the sights and have lunch at the next hut, before returning later in the day.  The boys fished their way back, enjoying having the valley to themselves on just the second day of the fishing season.  The pictures show just how much the day was enjoyed.  After tea we had a demonstration of trout filleting and cooking by Logan.  The rest of us were happy to enjoy the results of his efforts.

Sunday was again clear and even colder than the day before.  Frozen tents made packing up a challenge for some, but we were soon into the big climb, back over the ridge to the van in the Ahuriri Valley.  The back markers set some kind of a record for slow travelling, but we had enough time for a snack at Omarama before completing the journey home.

This was a great tramp in amazing country.  Well worth the effort to get to and see and thoroughly enjoyed by everyone involved.  I’m sure we will go back sometime.

The Trampers:
Logan Chandler, Mitchell Bolstridge, Camrin Sidon, Georgia Malcolm and Justine Middlemass.

Scholarship Success

Congratulations to Vanessa Vidallon and Kerry Bryant who have both secured scholarships for their tertiary studies next year.  Vanessa has been awarded a $10,000 International Undergraduate Scholarship and will be studying a Bachelor of Commerce at Canterbury University.  Kerry is heading to Victoria University with a Victoria Achievers Scholarship worth $5,000, where she will study for a Bachelor of Architectural Studies.  Well done girls!

Aoraki Sports Awards



Congratulations to our finalists and winners from the Aoraki Sports Awards who were celebrated at a special ceremony last Friday.  A special mention to our St Kevin's College winners; Holly Edmondston (Cycling), Stacey Kerin (Trampoline) and Micayla Brenssell (Rodeo).  Well done!

Friday, November 1, 2013

Principal's Comment

Malo e lelei, Talofa, Kia orana, Kia ora and Greetings Kevinians

On Tuesday evening St Kevin's played host to the Oamaru Pasifika Success celebrations. The College has been involved with this development project for two years and so it was an honour to be able to invite the Oamaru Pasifika community to see first hand the amazing results of this project. My special thanks to lead teacher Mrs Tina Dooley for her inspiration and commitment. Our students performed with distinction and the links established with the group at St Josephs School will ensure the continuation of the work. Thank you also to Mrs Burton, Mr Farrell and Mrs Austin for supporting me on the evening.

As Wednesday was the last formal assembly for the senior school, we farewelled our leavers and thanked the Student Leadership Team for their work throughout the year. Assembly co-ordination has evolved into a much more student centred activity. With the hard work, commitment and leadership shown by the team we have had much more interesting and creative offerings. Assembly was also an opportunity for me to share some images of my travels with the students and thank them for supporting me with my sabbatical.

The annual Student Orientation Day on Thursday provided an opportunity for me to meet and greet both the students and parents joining the Kevinian Family next year. Thank you to the Year 9 and 10 students who acted as guides on the day and thanks also to the Home & School team for organising uniforms and the afternoon tea. We are looking forward to seeing our new entrants on February 4th next year and encourage them to contact us if they have any follow up questions.

Tommorow, Mr Ryan and I will be marketing the College at the Ashburton A&P Show. We would welcome a visit from parents, prospective parents and past students at our display. 

Congratulations to the students nominated for the Aoraki Sports Awards which will be held in Timaru this evening. Our congratulations also go to Tiana Mihaere and Jazz Roundhill who will receive the Mana Pounamu Award for Student Achievement in Dunedin to night.

May God bless you this Feast of All Saints
Paul Olsen, Principal

All Saints Day Mass



Today students and staff gathered with Father Wayne in the College Chapel to celebrate All Saints Day with a Mass.  The theme of the Mass was based on the work of St Francis of Assisi whom our Pope has taken as his role model.  It was a time to reflect on the importance of service to both the school and the wider community, to remember the importance of the St Kevin's College family, of working together to prepare students for life's path after they finish school.  

Aoraki Secondary Schools Sports Awards Finalists


Good luck to all of our finalists in the Aoarki Secondary Schools Sports Awards which will be held this evening.  As always the College has a variety of sports represented, celebrating our regional, national and international successes.

Finalists from St Kevin's College are:
Helena Graham - Basketball
Holly Edmondston - Cycling
Stacey Kerin - Gymnastics/Trampoline
Julia Fauth - Rowing
Isobel Ryan - Swimming
Micayla Brenssell - Rodeo
Isak Gunnarsson - Contribution to Sport
Kaleisha Jones - All Rounder
Benedict Yanzick - All Rounder
Angus Macaulay - All Rounder
Rowing U16 Girls Double Scull (Julia Fauth and Tiana Mihaere) - Sports Team
Kate Mihaere - Staff Contribution
Mandy Farrell - Staff Contribution
Mike Seddon (Cricket and Football) - Sports Coach

New Student Representative For BOT

Congratulations to Kaleisha Jones who has been elected as the new Student Representative on the Board of Trustees.  Kieran Ryan has served on the Board for the past year and handed over the reigns at the last meeting.
"In regards to my role on the Board of Trustees, it is a role that I have really enjoyed and learnt a huge amount from.  I wish Kaleisha all the very best in this upcoming year"

Champions Tour

Celebrating with the Year 5 and 6 students at Fenwick School.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW A SNAP SHOT OF THE GAME!
Yesterday our National Champions Basketball Team took to the road, visiting local primary schools with their medals and national trophy.  Beginning in Weston and moving on to Fenwick Primary School, St Josephs School, Oamaru North School, Pembroke School and finally up to Ardgowan School, the boys spoke with students before laying down a basketball challenge ... two top teams going head to head!   Our thanks to all of the schools for inviting us in and to Mr Ryburn for accompanying the boys.





Thursday, October 31, 2013

Senior Drama Presentations

Mrs Newton's Senior Drama students presented their practical assessments during the past week.  They were given the challenge of devising, creating and presenting a dramatic piece themed around an aspect of violence in today's society.  

With a thought provoking piece about family violence,  CLICK HERE to the presentation by Monica Ley, Tui Sinclair, Ellen-Margaret Powers and Taylar Renalson.

Driving Lessons


Hi everyone
Just wanted to let you all know that I am learning to drive my chair again. I don’t have the yellow “L” plates – because there is nowhere to put them on my chair! But using lights and a head control button I can chase my teacher aides around in circles making myself dizzy. Hopefully in the next couple of weeks they will add forward and backward to my bag of tricks.
Take care

Andrew 

Financial Freedom

THE DREAM CENTRE

Sounds like a place where you might go for a sleep study.  Not quite...

Samantha Martin is a young Oamaru lady who is travelling to work at the Dream Centre in Los Angeles next year and Columbia in 2015.  Her main role while in Los Angeles will be to rehabilitate the victims of sex traffickers saved by the FBI.  These victims have been forced to do unspeakable acts. Not allowed to sleep or eat until they have done as requested. Their average age is only 13.  Most of these children have been abused, sold or kidnapped. And many of these young girls are forced into prostitution by an organised, underground business that trades human lives like bags of fertiliser.


To help with Samantha’s mission local author Lindsay Walker is giving a short 20 minute presentation designed for teenagers, young people and families in Oamaru about financial freedom.  If you want to learn how to make money multiply, be there. (everyone is welcome)  
This will be held on Monday 4th November at 7.00pm at the St Kevin’s College Auditorium, doors open at 6.45pm.  There will be a $10 charge per family to attend, in return you will receive a free life skills book to take from the event. 
There are heaps of prizes to be drawn on the night just for attendance.  Prizes are from local businesses including Soul, Surf & Skate, Dick Smith, McDonalds , Waitaki Aquatic Centre, KFC, Portside, Last Post and others sponsoring the event. 
100% of the money raised will be donated to Samantha’s upcoming missions.

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Agricultural Scholarship


Congratulations to Year 13 student Lisa Nolan who has been awarded a Jeff Farms Scholarship valued at $6000 towards her study and accommodation expenses at Lincoln University next year.  Lisa will take up a Bachelor of Agriculture.  Well done Lisa.

Friday, October 25, 2013

Principal's Comment

Dear Kevinians

It is a pleasure to return to the College after three and a half months of sabbatical leave which has inspired and refreshed me professionally. Mrs Olsen and myself were officially welcomed, along with our New Zealand Champion Basketball Team. We were honoured by the passionate reception Haka which was its first public performance. I would like to thank the St Kevin's family for your prayers and good wishes during our absence. I would also like to formally record my thanks to Mr Ryan, Acting Principal and the Senior Management Team who have stepped up in my absence. I am truly grateful for your hard work and professionalism in your extended roles.

As I traveled, I read the College blog with both interest and pride. Of particular note was the excellent Education Review Office Report. I would like to acknowledge the staff and trustees of the College for their commitment to educational excellence which is reflected in such a positive and affirming report.  Sporting and Cultural Award Evenings have celebrated an impressive range of extra-curricular achievements. We have continued to demonstrate that strong academic success goes hand in hand with a rounded education encompassing passionate sports and cultural involvement. My belated congratulations to all award recipients and nominees.

Over the week, senior students have been receiving feedback from their end of year school examinations. I would encourage both students and parents to engage in a conversation about the results and look at planning the next months commitments to limit disruption and maximise study. Please remember that Wednesday Study Club is still running and is a good way to work through any issues highlighted in the examinations. Staff are available for tutorials in all learning areas.

We have a hectic few weeks ahead as seniors complete courses and prepare for examinations. Please keep the dates on the "fridge calendar" highlighted and if you need another copy, call in at the College Office.

May Gods blessing be with you this Labour Weekend.
Paul Olsen, Principal

Street Retreat 2013

During the second week of the school holidays Mrs K Austin took Rebecca Lockely and Parewhero O'Brien-Harrison to the Street Retreat hosted by St Thomas' of Canterbury.

I attended the Street Retreat in Christchurch from Thursday 3rd.  There were 18 of us and we stayed at St Thomas' School with representatives from Kavanagh, St Thomas' and Liston School in Auckland. We were shown a different side to society and were exposed to the many difficulties people have to go through just to stay warm at night or to have food for their children each day. We were fortunate enough to talk to a number of people working for social justice including a social worker, group worker, youth police officer, Salvation Army volunteers, workers at the city mission and Cathy Harrison who has worked most of her life for social justice. We learnt about the different situations and events that happen in people’s lives which lead them to be homeless. I met heaps of teenagers my age and we were all inspired to fight for social justice. We were placed in situations out of our comfort zones which lead us to see the world from a different point of view. We took a tour of Christchurch’s red zones to see the damaged houses, had to budget and buy tea for nine people at $45 dollars the first night and $25 the next. We spent time with the Salvation Army feeding and talking to the homeless and the girls on the street. We were put into the situation of running away from home with only the clothes on our back and spent an hour and a half outside in the cold by ourselves to get a real feel of what it would be like to be in that situation.  I think the street retreat was one of the most compelling and inspiring experiences I have ever had.

Rebecca Lockley

Edmund Rice Service Awards

Another group of students were recognised for completing their Edmund Rice Service Awards at assembly this week.  This service award is a tradition at the College and is open to our Year 12 students.  
Congratulations to all of the students who have completed service this year:
Sara Gunnarsdottir, Lucy Tyrrell, Isobel Ryan, Georgina Wallis, Gray Doppenberg, Melanie Grasmueck, Hamish Robertson, Merekite Wahitapu, Kaleisha Jones, Isaac Gunnarsson, Tessa Robertson, Jaishiv Narayan, Joshua Botting, Helena Graham, Micayla Brensell, Mikayla Cleveland, Shannon Vince, Georgina Wallis, Candice Burgher, Kate Wedge, Kevalee Sriutaisuk, Sari Robins-Laughton, Georgina Holland, Christopher Kearney, William Wallace, Rose Anderson, Mitchell Bolstridge, Alanna McNulty, Jinnesh Ramu and Tessa Newton.