Commitment – a Blue-Black Value exemplified by staff such as John Martin

Thank you to the boys, staff and wider community for what has been a positive start to 2024. We started the year confirming our Blue-Black values (Commitment, Bravery, Honour and Service) and this is a deliberate effort to be clear in what we stand for and what we expect from our staff and boys. We know that acting on a collective belief that we can make a difference is the most powerful things that schools can do for student outcomes.

Our Blue-Black values directly align with academic achievement and academic achievement comes from hard work. This in turn requires commitment. An effective credo for success in NCEA is “find out what is required and deliver”. I spoke with the boys in assembly about the NCEA website and the very clear direction it gives for success for every standard by providing past examinations and assessment schedules. Our own CBHS academic word list provides guidance on how to address questions that ask students for example to “explain”, “evaluate” or “determine”. This word list is now in use at other schools. It is effective, however, only if it used.

Our senior students are a third of the way through their academic studies for 2024. The upcoming holidays are a great opportunity for them to make sure they know what is required of them and make sure they are focused on delivering this when needed.

It was wonderful to combine a talk with the boys on academic achievement with a farewell to a CBHS teacher of 38 years, Dr John Martin. John is an academic and both of his children hold PhDs. John is remembered for his care for others, his humility and his singing. John’s farewell address to the boys was especially moving and reflected his gratitude, bravery and humility. For John everyone is special. It was poignant when John spoke about the first time that he heard his mother tell him she was proud of him. John’s gratitude is humbling, and I know many of the wider community will wish him well in his retirement.

I look forward to seeing many of the school community at our Anzac Service.

Te Kura Kahurangi

Altiora Peto

Nic Hill