Tena koutou katoa, Kia orana, Talofa lava, Mālō e lelei, Bula, Nǐ hǎo, Namaste, Kumusta, Xin chào, Salaam Alaikum, peace be with you.

Thank you to the students and whānau for your contribution to this kura over the time I have been the dean. I am grateful for the support I have received and I am confident that the students are ready for the life that awaits them after secondary school.

Although my knee replacement surgery was delayed, yet again, fortunately I was still able to be part of the final three major events for my cohort. I want to thank Andrea Cosgrove who did so much work in the background, with printing the tickets, the formal programme, leavers certificates and leavers booklet. It was a huge task and the results were outstanding. Thank you Andrea.

Formal: On the Red Carpet

I was so proud of how mature and responsible the students were at the Formal. Their conduct and good manners were appreciated by all that attended. It was an enjoyable night of eating, laughing, socialising and dancing.

Prizegiving

It was fantastic to see how many students were acknowledged and rewarded with prizes. To me, all students are winners by setting goals and doing their personal best throughout the year. Academic achievement is only one part of education and I have watched students mature and contribute to our kura in so many ways, with their kindness and care for others.

Leavers Assembly

What a marvellous celebration this was to end the year for the Year 13s. The dancing, slideshow, video and speeches were very moving. I am known for sayings and one I am fond of is ‘Good manners are always in fashion’. This was demonstrated by the Year 13s who acknowledged not only me but also their form teachers. Their kind words and gifts were truly appreciated and I thank them so much for showing that ‘Gratitude is the best attitude’. It was extra special having Mrs Elley attend and present the students with their Leavers Certificates. I was so filled with awe at the students, they did themselves and their whānau proud.

Health, peace and happiness

Ngā mihi nui

Whāea Chris

Year 13 Dean