Last week, whilst the rest of the senior group rested up for the start of school on Wednesday, 53 Year 13s volunteered to attend Leadership Camp at Berwick to develop their leadership skills and deepen their bonds as the Seniors of 2022.

Assisted by some amazing staff who gave up their precious time, our young men worked through a program that aimed to challenge and inspire them to consider the legacy that they will leave as leaders of our great school. The program which followed on from last year’s Leadership Workshop, was centred in our school values of Whakaute (Respect), Toa (Courage), Hōnore (Honour), Manawanui (Perseverance) and Hiranga (Excellence). The guys were determined to establish what these values look like in everyday school life for a leader at OBHS.

It's an understatement to say that the enthusiasm and pride that this group of young men display is infectious. It fills one with confidence to know that we have men of character leading the younger students. One message that was continually raised by the group was that they want to take ownership of the school in the everyday encounters and all the ‘unseen’ things that actually make the culture of our place better, stronger and genuine. Furthermore, it’s important to note, some students who attended the camp have or may receive the honour of a badged leadership position, that was never the focus of the camp. In fact, this fantastic group of young men made a clear commitment to lead regardless of who ends up in what positions when all is said and done. This is honourable and speaks to the focus of the senior group.

A massive thanks must go to the amazing teachers who gave of their time away from their families and their classes at the start of the school year. Their passion for the school and care for our young men is a continual source of pride and inspiration to those around them. Thank you to Mr Andrew Swan, Mr Mike McGarry, Mrs Elaine Kelly, Mr Dave Thomas and Mr Peter Odgers who attended the whole camp. Also, thank you to Mr Gwyn Pratley, Mr Steven Sharp and Mr Andrew King who travelled out to spend time with the group until late Monday night to ensure that all four houses and the Senior Leadership Team had a presence on the camp. Thank you to Mrs Mary Rabbidge, Mr Rhys Foster and Mr Matt Dadley who helped lead the Leadership Workshop last year prior to the camp. Finally, thank you to Ms Emma Moore who worked tirelessly to assist with the preparation of the food throughout her holidays. You all role-model the culture we want in our young men and I’ve got no doubt that the lads were very grateful to you all.