Every year Otago Boys' High School has a poem of the year.

Meant to provide inspiration, provocation and reflection, the poems selected connect to what the drive in the school will be. Regardless, I hope that at times during this year they will look to it for inspiration.

This year I have chosen, 'Equipment' by Edgar Guest. Written in 1942, the message it tells is just as poignant today as it was then. Guest born in England, was a prolific American poet, named as the People's Poet for his verse connected to the ordinary, the everyday the relatable. I am sure too that you will be able to click on the file and hear its message.

Courage must come from the soul within,
The man must furnish the will to win,
So figure it out for yourself, my lad,
You were born with all that the great have had,
With your equipment they all began.
Get hold of yourself, and say: "I can."

From Equipment by Edgar Guest

This week we have welcomed over 820 students back into the school. Each one of those students has the same equipment as the others. We all have the potential, if only we have the courage and perseverance to see it through. Each boy has that within them, the trick is getting them to switch it on.

This term is very busy, we start quickly and we do not stop until April. Parents are encouraged to keep a close eye on your emails. For instance, for Year 9 families, we have a Parent Evening on Wednesday, 15 February (sorry for the confusion of date). We look forward to seeing you there.

For everyone, enjoy the good weather and the long weekend. Remember time with your children is time well spent - whether they think so or not!