This year, St Bede's is delighted to welcome back old boy James Lilley (2007-2011) as a fantastic new addition to our teaching team.

James has returned to school to embark on a new adventure. This time, he is not here as a student but as a Science, Chemistry, and Maths teacher, and also the Teacher in Charge of Rowing. 

Since leaving St Bede's in 2011, James' career path has led him down a variety of paths. After graduating, he pursued a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Canterbury and it was during this time that he discovered an interest in coaching through his involvement with the Avon Rowing Club. This led James to help establish the rowing programme at Shirley Boys' High School in 2013, where he also taught Science and Social Studies for seven years. 

Returning to St Bede's has been a nostalgic experience for this old boy. While familiar sights  evoke memories of his student days, he also acknowledges the changes that have occurred since he studied here. 

"For the first couple of weeks, it was quite surreal. A lot of the place seemed very familiar, however some buildings are no longer there or in a different location like Chanel Hall, the original Chapel, and the Grimes block, and this has taken some getting used to. Some of the old Science labs being re-purposed for Religious Education rooms was a bit of a shock to the system!" 

But it's not only buildings that have given James pause. St Bede's enhanced focus on and commitment to providing diverse opportunities for students has also not gone unnoticed. 

"One change for the better that I have picked up on is the breadth of opportunities and the sway they have on school culture. Being welcomed back to the school on Day 1 by the Kapa Haka boys and them playing a major role in kicking off the start of the year School Mass was impressive. Also seeing an increased profile present in the school from sports like basketball, hockey, football, water polo and rowing, while rugby and cricket are still being able to maintain their profiles, is really pleasing."

Still reflecting on the evolution of St Bede's, James highlights the challenges of comparing past and present dynamics. 

"Looking at changes over time and comparing the vibe of the place now versus then is tough. Especially when you are looking at them through the lens of a teacher as opposed to a student - you become more aware of the overall workings of the school.
"Having a handful of the teachers that taught me still on staff has also allowed for opportunities to reflect on times back then.. and it's made me realise that some of them were perhaps not as old as I originally thought!"

As James settles into his new role, we're excited to see the positive impact he'll undoubtedly have on our students' academic and extracurricular pursuits. 

Welcome back to the fold, James!