On Thursday evening Elyjah addressed our 2021 Year 9 students about the importance of taking advantage of the opportunities that are available to you - a great message for all in our school community.

"As you would have heard, there are countless co-curricular activities that Palmy Boys’ offer which range from major sporting codes such as rugby, football, hockey and cricket to other codes such as smallbore shooting, chess, boxing and more.

The opportunities that Palmy Boys’ offers are varied and cater to many different interests and abilities, so no matter what you are looking for, there will be a team, activity or club for you.

I have been involved in the school rugby programme since Year 9 and this year I was named as captain of the 1st XV. Being a part of the 1st XV has taken me all over the North Island and the Super Eight Competition has allowed me to compete at the highest level.

The rugby programme has high-quality coaches and trainers who are dedicated to ensuring that all players have the opportunity to reach their full potential. This is true for all sporting codes at Palmy Boys’.

Throughout my five years here, I have been involved in opportunities such as the Sports Development Programme, the Gateway Programme - which is a programme where you work with a company to gain on-the-job experience in your field of choice. This year I have been working with InHouse Construction and have been offered a full-time job for next year.

I was also a part of the Crest to Crest Challenge, and various Student Leadership opportunities such as the yLead Conference, the Head Boarders’ Conference and was selected onto the 2020 College House Boarders' Council.

Through these opportunities, I have learnt how to be independent, and skills such as goal setting, time management, learning good values and work ethic, how to overcome barriers, and networking within the community.

The relationships that we have with our teachers is extremely important; the staff at Palmy Boys’ are high quality, professional teachers who you create good bonds with and makes school much more enjoyable.

Being in a single-sex school caters specifically for boys’ learning and ensures we stay focused. The culture at Palmy Boys’ is extremely important to me; the boys here have all formed a brotherhood where we unite as one, look out for each other and I have made friendships that will last a lifetime. It may be daunting at first, but everyone is welcoming and friendly – join the brotherhood.

I encourage you to take every opportunity that comes your way. Don’t be afraid to try something new - be willing to step outside your comfort zone. This is an exciting new chapter for you boys. This school has a lot to offer so get stuck in and enjoy your time here."