Friday, August 30, 2013

Acting Principal's Comments

Kia Ora Kevinians and Supporters,

I have spent the later part of the week at the National Association of Secondary Deputy and Assistant Principals Conference, taking on board information surrounding the latest in devices and interactive aids to enable students to make the most of their learning opportunities at the College.  We are looking to be able to give cost effective recommendations to parents and caregivers in the near future.

Mandarin classes have begun at the College this week and we have extended an invitation to the Waitaki community to also register for lessons which will begin on Tuesday with Miss Qui.  If you are interested in attending there is a small charge of $10 for the six week programme.  Please contact the school office for information.

A number of sporting teams will be heading away over the weekend to various winter sporting tournaments being held across the South Island.  Along with a focus on their respective competitions students have been training hard for this series of sporting fixtures and I know that they will engage in these contests with the spirit of good sportsmanship for which the College is renowned.  I wish them all the very best of luck as they compete in the name of St Kevin's College.   

This week the 2014 Course Booklets for Year 11, 12 and 13 were issued to students and they include all information presently available regarding the structure of NCEA and individual subjects offered by the College.  An on line version of each booklet will be available on the College website shortly under the Curriculum heading.  As is now practice at the College a list of subject recommendations were also handed to students and these are due back at the school office by Monday 23 September. Please remember that these are recommendations only and I encourage students and parents to discuss any concerns with the appropriate Year Level Dean for 2014.  There are still opportunities to address potential issues ahead of the examinations during the first week of next term.

I ask that you all continue to pray for safe travels for Mr and Mrs Olsen.

God Bless
Mr Kerry Ryan - Acting Principal.

Special Character


EDMUND RICE
Mrs Austin, Assistant Principal and Edmund Rice Coordinator, has been working with Year 12 and 13 students on Edmund Rice Service, Street Retreat and the India Immersion Experience.  We have three students joining St Thomas of Canterbury on the Edmund Rice India Immersion Experience.

CONFIRMATION
We have students preparing for Confirmation at our Spring Mass, which will be held on 22 September.

Andrew's Take On The Ranfurly Shield

I was shouting for Otago although they couldn't hear me.  I wish to go to Forsyth Barr Stadium and cheer on Otago but I can cheer them on by watching the game on TV.

Their first Ranfurly Shield challenge is against Hawkes Bay.  I wonder what the chance of Hawkes Bay taking our round from us would be.

The score was 26-19.  I was laughing and cheering.  I was laughing at the TV when the shield was handed over to Otago.  I never thought the day would come.  I was happy when Otago won.  If they win every game they will be through to the Premiership.

It's their first shield challenge against Hawkes Bay.  Hopefully they can defend and keep it for the summer.  One of the nurses from Iona is going to the game.  Jane's going to the first Ranfurly Shield challenge to cheer on Otago.

Dad said, "Be careful, because Otago haven't beaten Waikato, so don't get your hopes up".  Mum said, "Go, Otago".

All Thursday I was saying, "Go, Otago", because I wanted the boys to win the Ranfurly Shield, while Dad said, "Don't get too excited", but I was already excited for the game.  I was a wee bit too excited, so Dad said "Calm down."  He said, "The game's not on yet, Andrew, so calm down!"

GJ Tiwani scored a double and I knew then that it was possible for Otago.  Then Hayden Parker missed a shot at goal so I though that was a good sweat.  I knew the Ranfurly Shield was definitely coming home to Otago!

I'm glad the boys won.  Every moment of the game I was yelling at the TV, "Come on boys.  Get the ball back.  Create something for nothing."

The Centre almost scored three tries.  I like the Centre for Otago, although I'm not sure what his name is, but he took a kick last week to score against the Bay of Plenty.

Otago has a never give up, never die attitude.  That's what I said.  It certainly paid off in the long run.  I was rapt when the full time siren went.  I was even happier when the ref blew for full time, and YES!!!! We got the shield.

Please don't loose the plank of wood to anyone, Otago!  Your first challenge is Sunday against the Hawkes Bay Magpies at Forsyth Barr in Dunedin.

I'm missing the Otago players who are in the All Blacks.  I can't wait until the boys come back from the quad nations to make the team stronger.

I believe in Otago to keep winning and never say die.

By Andrew Easton - Yr13

Drama Road Trip

NASDA students during their production of Beauty and the Beast in 2012.
On Wednesday Mrs Newton and some students from her senior drama class took to the road and headed to NASDA for the day, the National Academy for Singing and Dramatic Arts.  Students who study at NASDA are completing a Bachelor in Performing Arts and the Academy is situated within the campus of CPIT. While they were there, they lived a typical NASDA student's day which included sitting in on a tap class, joining the school for the first solo singing performances for first year students, listening to an acting class in action and watching rehearsals for their upcoming production of Hair.  Students were invited to join in the warm up session before the rehearsal and took away some great exercises and games. Thank you to Mrs Newton and Mr Dixon for facilitating the day.

Traffic Reminders

Please remember that the ONE WAY SYSTEM operates at the College between the hours of 8.30-9.30am and 3-4pm.  All vehicles are to travel IN through the Taward St gates and OUT via Redcastle Road during this time.

The school buses do not have the space to move to the side of the driveway and there have been an increased number of close calls with other vehicles.

Also, the drop off area for the buses is becoming very congested in the morning and causes safety concerns for students as they make their way to class.  Now that the warmer Spring weather has finally arrived we would encourage and expect parents to drop students off at the respective College gates and have them walk up the path to class.  A brief amount of exercise to begin the day, ie; a walk up the path, will aid students' learning during class.

Thursday, August 29, 2013

Tournament Week Build-up

Team work is the name of the game and key to tournament success!  A squad of 9 players will head to Christchurch on Sunday ahead of the South Island Secondary Schools Netball Tournament and training sessions took a lighter turn this morning when the Senior A and B team were challenged to rely on their listening and communication skills rather than their physical abilities.  Good luck to all of the teams heading to Tournament next week!


Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Flying High

Year 11 student Tiana Mihaere is flying high thanks to a $2000 scholarship from the Royal New Zealand Aero Club (RNZAC).  

Tiana was awarded the scholarship thanks to the Young Eagles Programme and is committed to continuing her flying lessons beyond the scholarship allowance, aiming to secure her private license before graduation in Year 13 and a career in the Airforce.

Monday, August 26, 2013

Canoe Polo Championships


With inspiration from Mr Haig St Kevin's College was proudly represented at the Secondary School South Island Championships which were held at the Oamaru Aquatic Centre over the weekend.  Although the team found the standard to be quite high, they managed to get a draw in their second game against Middleton B. Sean Daly scored all three points, the last in the final 30 seconds of the game, making for an exciting finish.

Friday, August 23, 2013

Acting Principal's Comments

Kia Ora Kevinians and Supporters,

Last weekend I was able to join Mrs Austin and the the Bishop's Shield team at Kavanagh College in Dunedin and was very proud to be able to congratulate them on an outstanding set of results at assembly this week.  St Kevin's College has a sound tradition of public speaking and to be able to take first place in half of the events on offer as well as two of the four individual "best" cups is a testament to the talents of our students and the dedication of staff who give so much of their time to help them prepare.  Congratulations and thank you.

At long last we welcomed our second Assistant Principal Ms Jo Walshe to the team on Monday morning and she survived the Top 6 Hot Seat at assembly on Wednesday with admirable ease.  Ms Walshe is also our Dean of International Students and will work closely with Mrs June Campbell who continues in her role as our International Student Manager.  

You will recall Mr Olsen's visit to China earlier in the year with principals from around New Zealand and the Confucius Institute at the University of Canterbury.  As a result of this visit an opportunity arose to bring a Mandarin teacher to Oamaru and yesterday Miss Emma Qui and the Deputy Director from the Confucius Institute, Ms Hong Hu, arrived at St Kevin's.  Miss Qui will begin Mandarin classes with Year 9 students next week, with a number of additional Mandarin learning opportunities being extended to other students in due course.

Following on from our successful SADD presentations last week, Year 12 students have attended the Drive To Survive programme which is facilitated by Elton Crane from Road Safety Waitaki.  Our thanks to Mrs Burton for co-ordinating this on behalf of the College.  Drive To Survive is an effective programme aimed specifically at senior students and I encourage parents and caregivers to discuss the presentation with them. 

Looking ahead, next week is a "green week" on the school calendar and I would remind all of our students about the importance of effective study and revision habits.  The end of year examinations will be upon us in no time at all and poor performances may effect decisions surrounding courses for 2014. 

I ask that you all continue to pray for safe travels for Mr and Mrs Olsen.

God Bless
Mr Kerry Ryan - Acting Principal.

NZAQ Fees and Financial Assistance

2013 NZQA Fees and Financial Assistance

A reminder that the final date for school fee payment is 30 August 2013.

The Financial Assistance Application form and the Information Sheet for applicants are published on the Forms page. 

Special Character - Assembly Liturgy


"Respect" was the theme of Mrs Austin's Year 9 class when they presented the Assembly Liturgy this week.  Alex Gonzales was the musician on the saxophone, Chris Olsen narrated the liturgy and students performed three role plays on - respect for others, respect for the environment, respect for yourself.


We have marked the Year of Faith at the College with a Rosary Challenge led by Mrs Dooley.  Students have been learning this traditional devotion at lunchtimes this week.  Year 13 won the Rosary Challenge.


Eastern Districts Swimmer of the Year 2013

Year 12 student Isobel Ryan has been named Eastern Districts Swimmer of the Year for 2013.  The last time someone from Oamaru was awarded the title was in 1973 and the College is rightfully proud of Isobel's momentous achievement.  The award acknowledges her role as an ambassador for the sport and as an inspiration for young swimmers from across the district.  Isobel is renowned for her swimming prowess and has a number of school records to her name.  Congratulations!

New Arrivals At The College

Assistant Principal and Dean of International Students Ms Jo Walshe, pictured with Ms Hong Hu and Miss Emma Qui (seated).
Staff and students at the College are delighted to welcome our new Mandarin Teacher to St Kevin's this week.  Miss Emma Qui arrived in Oamaru accompanied by the Deputy Director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Canterbury, Ms Hong Hu, and has quickly settled into the Hostel ahead of classes beginning next week.  Miss Qui is here as part of a programme with the Confucius Institute and her schedule will also see her take classes at Waitaki Boys' High School.  

Also arriving at the College this week was our second Assistant Principal Ms Jo Walshe and she was welcomed by students during assembly this week.  Along with her Assistant Principal duties she will take on the role of Dean of International Students, working closely with Mrs June Campbell who continues her role as the International Student Manager.
Ms Walshe in the hot seat at assembly this week

Year 13 Speech Competition

This morning the Year 13 Speech Competition was held in the Auditorium.  Students spoke on the theme of "oppression" and Jibi Kunnethedam was awarded first place.  Ben Latavao and Tui Sinclair came 2nd equal. Our thanks to Ms Jo Walshe for adjudicating the exceptionally high level of competition.

Thursday, August 22, 2013

Mr Haig's Kayaking Quest For Victory


Today marked Mr Haig's last day at school before heading off to North Carolina to compete as part of the New Zealand team at the World Freestyle Kayaking Championships 2013 and students gathered in the Office Quad at lunchtime to help inspire him on his quest for victory!  Mr Haig will join fellow Kevinians Courtney Kerin and Jason Searle who are also flying the silver fern for New Zealand.  We wish him all the best and look forward to updates along the way.  You can follow Courtney's journey by clicking on this link:
http://kokatat.com/blog/2013/08/courtney-kerins-journey-to-the-world-championships-2013

A Message of School Spirit

 Hi everyone.

Today is a nice day outside and it was great to sit in the sun and catch up with a few of you at lunchtime. I was talking about the first fifteen to Kieran Ryan, he said “Come and watch us play this weekend. We need the support of our number one fan”.  I really enjoy the times I get to watch my school play. The boys are always counting on me to turn up to watch. I try to make it to as many games as I can. It’s the best entertainment I can get.   Go St Kevins !!!

I was delighted to attend the St Kevin’s Formal because I was chosen by a friend. It was great to see all you “Dudes” looking handsome in your suits and you “Ladies” looked stunning in your rainbow of beautiful gowns. We all looked so grown up and had a fantastic night.

Looking forward to catching up with friends again next time I’m back at school.


Andrew Easton

The Science Of Music


The music students took a field trip to Mr. Haig's classroom this week to learn about the science behind the art. The Level Two students are about to begin a unit standard on mixing desks. Thank you, Mr. Haig!

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Welcome Back Johannah

Thank you to Rebecca Ryan from the Oamaru Mail for this great picture.

Last Friday the we were pleased to welcome Johannah Kearney back to the College as part of the Oamaru Rowing Club Roadshow!  Jo was proud to show students the haul of medals that success has given her, including her two world championship bronze medals - U19 in 2012 and U23 in 2013.  Jo is part of a strong tradition of rowing success at the College and students interested in following in her footsteps can contact:
Kate Mihaere (SKC Rowing Co-ordinator) 4349939 or 027 434 9939 or kate.oamaru@ljh.co.nz

Monday, August 19, 2013

Bishop's Shield 2013 Full Results

Well done to our Bishop's Shield team (absent Monica Ley & Mitchell Bolstridge) - thanks to Rebecca Ryan from the Oamaru Mail for the photo

A team of 19 students traveled to the Bishop’s Shield Competition, which was hosted this year by Kavanagh College in Dunedin.  The Bishop’s Shield has held pride of place in the St Kevin’s College trophy cabinet for the past two years but the team from St Kevin’s could not complete a trifecta in 2013, suffering a 3 point loss to the overall winners from Kavanagh College. 

However, with 6 trophies and the Marist Centennial Plate for Runner-up the College Trophy Cabinet will be full again and all of our students who competed so well show why St Kevin’s College is renowned for producing confident first rate public speakers.   Our thanks to all of the staff who helped prepare the students for this annual competition – their achievements are a credit to you all.

Full results:
FRIDAY 16 AUG
Prepared Speech – Hibernian Cup
1st           St Kevin’s College; Isobel Ryan
2nd          Kavanagh College; Caitlin Smith

SATURDAY 17 AUG
Junior Debating – Coral Paris Trophy
1st           Verdon College; Samantha Keene, Travis Oudhoff, Riley Place
2nd          St Kevin’s College; Jino Kunnethedam, Mark Whittet, Scott Ruddle (won their debate, but came second on points overall)

Senior Debating – Father Christopher Gaffey Cup
1st           Kavanagh College; Shania Fox, Tom Henderson, Josh Meikle
2nd          Verdon College; no information
St Kevin’s College team placed 4th in fierce competition.  Our team were; Christopher Kearney, Kaleisha Jones, Tiana Mihaere

Junior Drama – Alpha Cup
1st           St Kevin’s College; Pierce McLeod, Ceilidh Brookes, Max Stewart, Niamh Farrell
2nd          Verdon College, Invercargill

Senior Drama – JB Lynch CFC Cup
1st           Kavanagh College
2nd          St Peter’s College, Gore
St Kevin’s College team placed 3rd in this event.  Our cast was Tui Sinclair, Danielle Trewavas, Monica Ley, Jaishiv Narayan, Mitchell Bolstridge

SUNDAY 18 AUG
Impromptu Speech – Dowling Cup
1st           St Kevin’s College; Gray Doppenberg
2nd          Kavanagh College; Callum MacLeod

Junior Scripture Reading – Gerard Curran Cup
1st           St Kevin’s College; Karan Ratgali
2nd          Kavanagh College; Lucy Wilkins

Senior Scripture Reading (Study Questions) – Bishop Kavanagh Cup
1st           Kavanagh College; Olivia O’Kane
2nd          St Peter’s College; Morgan Pearce
The St Kevin’s College Team Member for Senior Scripture was Georgia Holland and she placed 4th in this tightly contested category.

Senior Scripture Reading (Pslam/Sight Reading) – Nora Brophy Cup
1st=        Kavanagh College; Olivia O’Kane AND Verdon College; Sarah Hughes
2nd=      St Kevin’s College; Georgia Holland AND St Peter’s College; Morgan Pearce

Best Speaker in Junior Debates – Dominican Cup
St Kevin’s College; Mark Whitett

Best Speaker in Senior Debates – Hibernian Cup
Kavanagh College; Isaac Mullin

Most Promising Dramatic Performance (Senior) – Boyce Family Cup
Kavanagh College; Sovannara Lu

Most Promising Dramatic Performance (Junior) – Terry Angus Cup
St Kevin’s College; Max Stewart

Runner up for the Bishop’s Shield – Marist Centennial Plate
St Kevin’s College with 28.5 points

Winner of the Bishop’s Shield 2013

Kavanagh College with 31.5 points

Obirin Memories 2013

Yesterday our Obirin visitors said farewell to their host families and buddies as they headed for home after a very busy time at St Kevin's College.  As well as their English lessons, students took in the education sights of the district including a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre and the North Otago Museam.  Our sincerest thanks to Mrs Trudy Foster and of course Mrs June Campbell for all of their tireless work during the Obirin visit, but also to all of the student "buddies" and the families from our College Community who billeted students this year.  

Friday, August 16, 2013

Acting Principal's Comments

Kia Ora Kevinians and Supporters,

The St Kevin's College Ball was held last weekend and once again the standard of the evening exceeded all expectations.  I was proud to lead the reception line as our students and their guests, transformed in to young adults with gowns and suits, presented themselves upon their arrival at the venue.  Congratulations to Mrs Austin, Heather Burgher, the student members of the Ball Committee and of course the Home & School Committee on a magnificent evening and our sincerest thanks for their relentless dedication and the eye for fine detail that makes our College Ball such a highlight on the social calendar.

A group of Year 12 students had the opportunity to meet Prime Minister John Key on Tuesday.  He was at the Oamaru Opera House as part of a visit to the Waitaki District and he spoke to students about the value of higher education.  It is a wonderful reflection on the College when our students attend community events like this, they conduct themselves with so much pride in both themselves and their school.

This week is SADD week and thank you to Mrs Fowler, Elton Crane from Road Safety Waitaki, Candice Burgher and the College SADD representatives for organising a thought provoking lunchtime activity and assembly presentation on Wednesday.  We are always very mindful of ensuring our students are given the appropriate tools to go into the world with confidence once they finish their time at the College.  SADD week ties in very nicely with the Drive To Survive programme which will be held for all Year 12 students next Friday and our appreciation is extended to Elton Crane for helping us to facilitate these important programmes.

The College celebrated the Feast of the Assumption this week with a special liturgy in the Chapel.  As a College we should all take the time to look deeply at the personal qualities that Mary displayed and give thanks for all those who offer the strength of unconditional love in our lives.  Thank you to Father Wayne, Helen Mulheron and the Edmund Rice Singers for their contribution to the liturgy and to Megan McKenna for her thought provoking address.

Finally as the weekend begins we wish the best of luck to students and staff traveling to the Bishop's Shield Competition being held at Kavanagh College in Dunedin and ask that you continue to keep Mr and Mrs Olsen in your thoughts as they continue their travels.

God Bless
Mr Kerry Ryan - Acting Principal.

Assumption Liturgy


This week at St Kevin's we celebrated the Feast of the Assumption with a liturgy in the College Chapel.  As the principle feast of the Blessed Virgin, the mother of Christ, and it commemorates the departure of Mary from this life and the assumption of her body into heaven.   We were joined by Megan McKenna who spoke to the students and it was wonderful to hear the Edmund Rice Singers perform during the liturgy.  As a College students reflected on those who have encouraged and empowered us in our lives, and prayed for those in our College Community who have passed away.

Aoraki Mathematics Competition


A group of sixteen students traveled to Timaru to compete in the Aoraki Mathematics Competition yesterday and the College was well represented with some worthy performances.  The Year 9B Team in particular came a commendable 7th out of 28 teams.  Well done!

Thursday, August 15, 2013

St Kevin's College Rugby

U16 action from the North Otago Secondary School Sports Day
Firstly congratulations go to the St Kevin's College Girls 1st XV who fought off Craighead Diocesan School from Timaru last night at Centennial Park.  The team has come a long way under the guidance of Karolyn Jones and are contesting for a spot in the final for the competition they play in.  The game was tight with St Kevin's only breaking away in the final minutes with a Gypsy-Mae try.  Special mention must go to Kaleisha Jones who linked well, Sophie Moynihan who sniped well around the ruck, Nicole Dowling for the many bustling breaks that she made throughout the game and also Chelsea Seddon and Sophia Alotolo who played and ran well as part of the back three.  Good luck for Ashburton next week!

Congratulations to Dan Keno and Jason McCoy, the dynamic coaching duo behind the U16 team's success.  The U16 team will take on Waitaki Boys' High School this coming weekend in a semi final clash at Milner Park (Waitaki Boys High School).  Kick off at 1pm!

The 1st XV this week take on St Peter's College from Gore.  We wish Mr Fowler and his team the best of luck in this clash as the team sets their sights on winning their section of the Highlanders Competition.  The kick off is at 12 noon, St Kevin's College.

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Rockin' And Rollin' At SKC


St Kevin's College students jamming after school.  Kyle is enjoying the new drum kit funded by a generous grant from Youthtown. Students attending Youthtown's School of Rock will also be making good use of this new resource. School of Rock's first Term 3 session starts at 4pm today and Jae Bedford, the tutor, is hoping for some keen young musicians to join the regular jammers. It will meet every Wednesday for six weeks in the SKC Music Suite.

SADD Week At St Kevin's College

As part of SADD Week at St Kevin's College we were pleased to be able to welcome Elton Crane from Road Safety Waitaki to the College today.  Along with our SADD representatives he created a lunchtime challenge using the fatal-vision goggles, giving students a real sense of what "impairment" can mean!  Teams of three raced to put on a science lab coat (thank you Mr Seddon!), do a math calculation (sorry Mrs Potter but Cole stepped on his before he even began!) and then throw a tennis ball into a bucket to finish.  All while walking along a straight crack in the pavement!

The entire College assembly then took part in an activity called "Stand up and be counted" where a road accident scenario is played out using students to demonstrate the 180 people potentially affected by one road fatality.  Thank you to Mrs Fowler for facilitating the day.

" SADD is a peer education programme that aims to shape the behaviour of secondary students across New Zealand.  SADD is unique in this way, in that the group is run by students for students and they are the motivating force behind their own activities.  I was invited to join St Kevin's College today to run through some activities with the fatal-vision goggles.  I always enjoy spending time with students and the goggles are a fun way to open up conversations about alcohol, partying and being responsible for yourself and your mates.
Statistics from the SADD website:
Over the past decade more than 700 New Zealand teenagers have lost their lives on our roads, with an average of one teenage death every week.  If you are aged 15-19 years in our country you are more likely to die in a car crash than by any other cause. " - ELTON CRANE, ROAD SAFETY WAITAKI
A powerful assembly presentation from our SADD Representatives


"If Music Be The Food Of Love, Play On.”

Mrs Newton's Senior Drama students are tackling the challenge of William Shakespeare by directing and performing selected acts from the classic "Twelfth Night".  Today they spent time with renowned actor and director Duncan Whiting, who is currently in Oamaru directing the Oamaru Operatic production of "Chicago".  Based in Blenheim he has been nationally acclaimed for his contribution to theatre over many years and now a "Living Treasure" having been presented with the Marlborough Living Cultural Treasure Award earlier this year.

As well as travelling nationally as a professional director for various theatre groups, Mr Whiting also runs a children's theatre company in Blenheim and works regularly with the Marlborough College, having recently directed their production of "Jesus Christ Superstar".   He is always pleased to be invited to St Kevin's College whenever he is working in Oamaru and his visits provide an opportunity for our students to workshop with a career actor and director.




Applications Now Open For 2013 Mana Pounamu Young Achievers' Awards

Hannah Mihaere and Merekite Wahitapu at the 2012 awards ceremony
The Mana Pounamu Young Achievers' Awards Ceremony, which recognises the achievements and potential of rakatahi Maori (Maori youth) in secondary schools across Otago, will be held on Friday 1 November in Dunedin.

The objectives of these awards are to:
  • Celebrate the success and achievement of rakatahi Maori;
  • Encourage rakatahi Maori to participate in tertiary study;
  • Identify leadership potential; and
  • Provide positive role models to rakatahi Maori.
The Mana Pounamu Young Achievers' Awards were realised through the vision of the late Taua, Alva Kapa, a local Kai Tahu educator.  The celebration was given this name because it was first held in 2001, the Year of Mana Pounamu.  It is a Kai Tahu initiative supported by Ka Papatipu Runaka ki Araiteuru, the University of Otago, the Otago Polytechnic, Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu and the Ministry of Education.

Students with Maori decent can apply to be considered for this award.  Application forms will be available from the school office and must be completed and returned to the office by Wednesday 21st August.  Students will need to state their Iwi and bullet point their academic, sporting, cultural and leadership achievements.  Year Level Deans will undergo a selection process to award one Junior (Yr 9-11) and one Senior (Yr 12-13) recipient.

Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Midnight Glamour - Memories And Thanks


On behalf of the Ball Committee we would like to express our gratitude to the following businesses for their support:
Vinnies Restaurant
Southern Wide Real Estate
Cameron's Clothing
Oamaru Sports and Outdoors
Oamaru Aquatic Centre
Northside New World
Fitness 24
Oak Villa
Soul Surf and Skate
Belle Visage
Tangibles
Filadelfio's Restaurant
Fusion Hair Design
Fotographix
Jonell's Florist
Nancy's
Oamaru Paper Plus
Oamaru Pharmacy
North Otago Dispensary
Mainstreet Music
Ambience Hair Design
Professionals
Jack Sutherlands
Spivey Real Estate

Midnight Glamour At St Kevin's College


The St Kevin’s College Ball was held on Saturday 10 August at the College.  The evening began at 7pm with the Ball Parade in the College Auditorium, which is always a very popular pre-ball event and is extremely well run by the Ball Committee.   The St Kevin’s College Ball is a non-alcoholic event and as in previous years students assembled at 6.30pm to be breathalised before entry to the Ball Parade and once again the College was pleased with the successful 100% pass rate. 

The College Auditorium stage was elegantly decorated and after a welcome by Acting Principal Mr Kerry Ryan, he introduced the College Head Students Jibi Kunnethedam and Brianna Fogarty who went on to introduce each of the Year 13 students and their partners.  The Year 13 students then went to the Castle for the traditional staircase photograph and Isobel Ryan and Christopher Kearney introduced their fellow Year 12 students and partners.

Following the ball parade students were piped by Year 9 student Chris Olsen along a candle lit walkway up to the College Dining Room, which had been transformed in to an incredible “Midnight Glamour” theme, from the table settings, to the stage and dance floor.  Students were formally greeted by Acting Principal Mr Kerry Ryan, Assistant Principal Mrs Karen Austin, Acting Year 13 Dean Tim Hitchcock and Year 12 Dean Mrs Margaret Burton before being given a non-alcoholic beverage and seated for dinner.

After dinner Head Students Jibi Kunnethedam and Brianna Fogarty opened the dancing with a Snow Ball Waltz and all of the students relished the opportunity to put two weeks of lunchtime Ballroom Dancing lessons with Mike and Madeline Birnie into practice.  


The buffet dinner was catered for by Tracy Siggelko and Jane McCone, and they were ably assisted by members of the Home & School Committee.  Once again the standard of the meal was exceptional.  Heather Burgher, the event organiser, left no stone unturned with her eye for detail, her meticulous planning and her enthusiasm.  The student Ball Committee worked tirelessly with Heather for weeks before the event.


The wonderful efforts of the St Kevin’s College Home & School, the Ball Committee, students and staff continue to create an evening which is renowned for its elegance, fun and sense of a family celebration.

Friday, August 9, 2013

Acting Principal's Comments

Kia Ora Kevinians and Supporters,

This week at the College we celebrated both the Feast Day of St Dominic and the academic success of students throughout the College during our St Dominic's Day Mass.  In what has become somewhat of a tradition at the College the uniforms of St Thomas's and Teschemakers were modeled alongside the attire of a Dominican Sister and once again the local Dominican Sisters; Sister Madeline, Sister Mary and Sister Nola, joined us as our special guests.  

Congratulations to all of the students who received Dominican Awards, which were presented as part of Tuesday's Mass.  These awards acknowledge the academic excellence that is expected of all of our students and you can view the list of successful recipients in this week's blog.


An air of excitement has been lurking around the College this week as students make last minute preparations for the College Ball this Saturday.  The dining room has been transformed with Mrs Burgher and her army of student and parent volunteers adding a touch of "Midnight Glamour" for the occasion. Students have been attending ballroom dancing lessons in the lead up to the Ball and are now well practiced at "one, two, three".  We are looking forward to a wonderful evening and acknowledge the tremendous effort of the Home and School team.

Finally I ask that you keep the Carlyle family in your prayers and continue to keep Mr and Mrs Olsen in your thoughts as they continue their travels.

God Bless
Mr Kerry Ryan - Acting Principal.

The Sky Is NOT The Limit

Mr Haig and the SKC Rocket Club went to Oamaru Intermediate School to share "Launch Day" with students and staff at the school.  A total of five rockets were launched and they were all given a healthy cheer from the large crowd of lunchtime onlookers.  

Practical elements to science are popular with students and the Rocket Club provides a great opportunity for scientific creativity to flourish!

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Celebration Of St Dominic


This week at the College, students and staff gathered in the Chapel to celebrate the Feast of St Dominic who founded the Dominican Order.  It was the Dominican Sisters who founded both St Thomas's and Teschemakers, the two girls' schools that are part of our tradition.  Their motto "Veritas" is at the College today and we were delighted to welcome the local Dominican Sisters; Sister Madeline, Sister Mary and Sister Nola, as our special guests.

The Dominican Awards which acknowledge the value of education were presented during the Mass.  Congratulations to the following students:
YEAR 9 GIRLS
1st Holly Malcolm, 2nd Amy Hunter, 3rd Emma Fox, 4th Ceilidh Brookes, 5th= Harriet Hanning and Ella Hitchcock
YEAR 9 BOYS
1st Adam Sew Hoy, 2nd Brinkley Botting, 3rd Alex Gonzales, 4th Louie Baster
YEAR 10 GIRLS
1st Rachel Esselink, 2nd Jessica Fraser, 3rd Fran Yanzick, 4th Gypsy-Mae Harihona-Harrison, 5th Rosie Pope
YEAR 10 BOYS
1st Jino Kunnethedam, 2nd Pierce McLeod, 3rd Max Stewart, 4th Tarn Crowe, 5th Kayden Fraser
YEAR 11 GIRLS
1st Georgia Malcolm, 2nd Matali Singh, 3rd Byrony Brown, 4th Eva Liardet, 5th Lily Webster
YEAR 11 BOYS
1st Michael Lockley, 2nd Pani Papaioannou, 3rd Jack Sinclair, 4th Brady Kingan, 5th Charles Wallis
YEAR 12 GIRLS
1st Kevalee Sriutaisuk, 2nd Megan Tessier-Varlet, 3rd Lucy Tyrell, 4th Georgia Holland, Sara Gunnarsdottir
YEAR 12 BOYS
1st Kyle Andales, 2nd Christopher Kearney, 3rd Jacob Coghlan, 4th Jinnesh Ramu, 5th Jaishiv Narayan
YEAR 13 GIRLS
1st Charlotte Hunt, 2nd Vanessa Vidallon, 3rd Grace Malcolm, 4th Tarentaise McLeod, 5th Salena Xie
YEAR 13 BOYS
1st Jibi Kunnethedam, 2nd Benedict Yanzick, 3rd Ben Latavao, 4th Arjay Laraga, 5th Brian Driessens



Thoughts And Prayers

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Carlyle family after the passing of Bruce Carlyle, a well known piping tutor and mentor in the North Otago District.

Bruce was the Pipe Major of the Waitaki Youth Pipe Band and was very much respected by all of the St Kevin's students who had the privilege of his tuition.

Bishop's Shield Programme: 16/17/18 August

Bishop's Shield 2013
hosted by Kavanagh College - Dunedin

FRIDAY 16 AUGUST, EVENING
7pm
Official Welcome followed by Prepared Speech; The Year of Faith:Journey of a Lifetime (SKC - Isobel Ryan)

SATURDAY 17 AUGUST, MORNING
9am
Junior Debating begins with the first debate between St Peter's College and Verdon College; Topic:That food banks break the poverty cycle.
10.15
Morning Tea
10.45
Junior Debating continues with St Kevin's College taking the Affirmative against Kavanagh College; Topic:That the Ministry of Youth Development is effective. (SKC - Jino Kunnethedam, Mark Whittet, Scott Ruddle)
12pm
Lunch

SATURDAY 17 AUGUST, AFTERNOON
1pm
Senior Debating begins with St Kevin's College taking the Affirmative against Verdon College; Topic:That good politicians are hard to find. (SKC - Christopher Kearney, Kaleisha Jones, Tiana Mihaere)
2.30pm
Afternoon Tea
3pm
Senior Debating continues with the second debate between Kavanagh College and St Peter's College; Topic: That public opinion is this country's main moral referee.

SATURDAY 17 AUGUST, EVENING
6pm
Finger Food Dinner (provided)
7pm
Mass
7.45
Junior Drama; Topic:The Parable of the Sower, Luke 8: 5-15 (SKC - Pierce McLeod, Ceilidh Brookes, Max Stewart, Niamh Farrell)
Senior Drama; Topic:Preference for the Poor, Ecclesiasticus 19 (SKC - Tui Sinclair, Danielle Trewavas, Monica Ley, Jaishiv Narayan, Mitchell Bolstridge)

SUNDAY 18 AUGUST, MORNING
9am
Impromptu Speeches (SKC - Gray Doppenberg)
9.45am
Morning Tea
10.15
Junior Scripture Section; Psalm and Second Reading of 2nd to 6th Sundays of Easter, Year C (SKC - Karan Ratgali
11am
Senior Scripture Section; Memorised Psalm; Sight Reading; Questions on Luke 10 (SKC - Georgia Holland)

SUNDAY 18 AUGUST, AFTERNOON
12.30pm
Closing Session and Presentation Ceremony

Zonta Ball Scholarship


Congratulations to Charlotte Hunt who is the 2013 recipient of the Zonta Yellow Rose Ball Scholarship.  Each year the Oamaru Zonta Club present a scholarship to one of our Year 13 girls as a contribution to ball expenses.  Jill Squire was at the College today to present Charlotte with her scholarship.  Well done!

Tuesday, August 6, 2013

Ball Parade Tickets Sold Out

Our College Ball and Parade will be held in the College Auditorium and Dining Room this Saturday evening.

Due to the large number of students parading and attending the ball we regret that we are unable to offer any additional Ball Parade tickets for sale.

Friday, August 2, 2013

Acting Principal's Comments

Kia Ora Kevinians and Supporters,

As you will be aware Mr Olsen is away on sabbatical during Term 3 and we hope to share news from his travels over the coming weeks.  He and Mrs Olsen flew out to their first stop the day after the Waitaki Inter-school giving them little time to enjoy the celebrations of a great series of wins from the day, culminating of course in the 26:8 1st XV win over Waitaki Boys' High School.  Congratulations to all students and staff on a very successful day. If you would like to see photos of the day please visit our Facebook page or track down in this blog.

Term 3 has begun with the arrival of our visitors from Obirin High School.  Twenty students and the St Kevin's "buddies" were welcomed on Tuesday morning, along with their Principal Mr Okoshi, Deputy Principal Mrs Sugimoto and supporting chaperone Miss Tateyama.  Mrs Trudy Foster will be facilitating English lessons while they are in Oamaru and they will take the opportunity to visit areas of interest.  Our sincerest thanks to those families who are hosting a student in their homes.

We have been excited to hear of the international rowing success of Johannah Kearney, who has secured a bronze medal with her Womens Four Rowing team mates at the U23 World Rowing Championships in Austria.  She is an inspiring Kevinian and an example of how far one can go with hard work and commitment.  I am sure that we will continue to hear her name in international rowing circles.

A number of students have competed in both national and overseas events.  Congratulations to all those who have put on representative strips during the holiday break and in particular we congratulate Stacey Kerin as she continues to add to her trampolining medal haul.

Our College Ball is fast approaching and in amongst the preparations and excitement we ask that students retain their academic focus for the term ahead of the commencement of NCEA exams early in Term 4.  Time will fly by and we encourage students to engage in good study and revision habits now to better aid them during exam time.

We ask that you pray for safe travels for Mr and Mrs Olsen.

God Bless
Mr Kerry Ryan - Acting Principal.


South Canterbury Federation Talent Centre

Congratulations to Rosie Pope and Maddy Poole who will be adding more travel time to their football week with Monday training sessions at the South Canterbury Federation Talent Centre.  The girls trialed following their selection in to South Canterbury representative teams and are excited at the opportunity for some small group specialised coaching.  The weekly sessions will continue through the rest of the year and are a potential pathway to national representation.  Well done!

Welcome To St Kevin's

Today we welcomed four new German Gap students to the College.  Over the next twelve months they will work in both the Hostel and the College, and enjoy the opportunity to travel with sporting, cultural and curriculum field trips.  Pictured left to right are Marcel, Fabian, Elena and Marie.  Welcome to the St Kevin's College Family!

Thursday, August 1, 2013

Presentation of the Leo O'Malley Memorial Trophy


The Leo O'Malley Memorial Trophy was formally presented at assembly this week and has a new home for the coming year in the St Kevin's College Trophy Cabinet!  Father Wayne was pleased to attend the assembly and delighted students with one of his "I'm not bias but ..." addresses.

Gold And Silver For Our Trampolining Champion

Yr 13 student Stacey Kerin has added more medals to her career haul at the Australian National Championships which were held at Sydney at the end of the last term and into the holidays.  Stacey took a silver in the DMT (Double Mini Tramp) and paired up with Megan Comber from North Shore to snatch gold in the Synchronised Pair.

Stacey and Megan did not expect to place at all, given that they practiced their routine separately and at opposite ends of the country before meeting for the first time at the competition!  What an awesome effort!  Trampolining is a precision sport that requires an incredible amount of skill and athleticism.  Congratulations Stacey.

Special Character - Paper 4 SKC Trees


Earlier in the year on the Feastday of our Patron, Saint Kevin, students were reminded of the importance of respecting and honouring our environment and the LEO Club are taking the lead in replenishing the beautiful trees that are a feature of our College grounds. St Kevin's College is the latest school in Otago to sign on to the Paper 4 Trees programme which donates seedling to schools in recognition of paper recycling efforts.  

Last year several trees were felled due to safety concerns and of course storms last term brought down trees on the adjoining District Council land.  The LEO Club are rolling out the programme this term and will spend the rest of the year co-ordinating paper recycling at the College.  Green collection bins will be placed in each classroom for any recyclable paper or card products and will be monitored and emptied into a central collection area beside the Caretakers Office.