The 2023 year proved to be challenging for Wesley College in light of the Royal Commission and media attention. However, the school, its staff and its students persevered and continued to do what they do best. In words and pictures, we highlight some of the year’s events and successes.

The Service of Beginnings in February led by MCNZ President Rev Peter Taylor and Vice President TeRito Peyroux-Semu marked the official start to the school year. The Inter-House Athletics Day, also held in February, was a colourful, vibrant and strongly competitive day for all participants.

Culture is an important aspect of our school life and in readiness for the Polyfest Festival in Term 1, the school was represented on the Cook Island, Tonga and Fiji stages.

The Pink T Shirt Day held in Term 2 acknowledged the national campaign within schools against bullying.

Music is a strength that many of our students display, and this was reflected by the school band ‘Tribe 801’ competing at the annual Tangata Beats competition.

The Senior School Ball in July is an enjoyable annual event celebrating our young people.

In Term 3 the New Zealand Army Band visited the school and during chapel delighted us with their gift of music and song. The band rocked and so did chapel to the enthusiasm of the students.

The Spirit of Adventure event occurred in October and involved ten of our female students who thoroughly enjoyed the learning experience from being at sea.

Senior Prizegiving in November was a wonderful celebration of academic achievement by our Senior School. We congratulate 2023 Dux Falo Fifita and Proxime Accessit D’Artagnan Faitala.

Sadly, in October the Head of Music, Miss Anne Marie Lalakai passed away after a brief illness. It was a great shock to our school family and community. The Lalakai family graciously allowed their daughter to be brought home to Wesley one final time. The Service of Thanksgiving and Celebration was a tribute to her love of music and her ability to share that passion with students and staff alike. RIP Anne Marie.

On behalf of the Principal Dr Evans, staff and students, we thank you for your service to our School and extend the blessings of the Christmas season to all.