Kia ora,

This week we held our first Grandparents Day with around 200 grandparents being welcomed and shown around the college by their grandsons. It was such a special occasion. Seeing the smiles and pride on the faces of both the boys and their grandparents reminds us all of the gift of family and loved ones, both those who are present and those who have passed.

At the Senior Prizegiving, we celebrated the achievements of a large number of students. I would like to take the opportunity to recognise Ryan Wilson for being named Dux of the college for 2023, as well as congratulate Simon Curnow (Head Boy) and Troy Cutbush (Deputy Head Boy) on their appointments for next year. You can read more about the senior prizewinners in the 100th edition of the Bedean, which is ready for collection from the main office, as well as our student leaders for 2024 in this newsletter.

Last week was busy with Year 10 Camps, Big Days Out, as well as a number of sports teams travelling for national events. Congratulations to our junior water polo team on winning the South Island title recently.

2024 will see the establishment of the Centre of Faith and Leadership as we look to build on the great work already happening and continue to provide our young men with encounters with Christ each and every day. It is our sincere wish that, in time, the centre is enriched with the engagement of our old boys, current families, and the North Parish.

As the year draws to a close, we thank and farewell a number of staff who will finish their time with us at the end of the year. Mr Brian Dunne, Mr Hall, and Mrs Brennan will all be enjoying a well-earned retirement, Mr Jordens is moving to Papanui High for a promotion to Head of Maths, and Mrs Lawson, Mr Beswarick, Mrs Clarke, and Mrs Hughes will finish their fixed-term contracts. Their service and commitment to our community, regardless of tenure, are much appreciated. We wish them all the very best for their next steps.

Lastly, I wish to thank our community for your support of the college this year. We are blessed to have a community that comes together in faith, and that values education and the care and wellbeing of our young men.

May God's blessing be with you all through these joyous seasons of Advent and Christmas.

Ngā mihi o te Kirihimete ki a koe