Our Seniors finished school today and in many of the ceremonies over the last couple of days we acknowledged the Year 13s and their time at the College.

On Thursday night we had the Prize-giving, and a feature of the evening were the musical items, performed by the College Jazz Band, the Senior Choir and our very own Head Boy, Norbert Muller, singing Votre Toast by Georges Bizet. For this he received his first standing ovation. His speech drew the second one and a feature was the touching tribute he made to his mother. Norbert has been an incredibly popular Head Boy, a most talented young man in a range of activities but humble, faith-filled and on many occasions inspiring.

The Special Prizes awarded on the night are listed in a separate article in the Newsletter. The announcement of Dominic Gardiner as the Head Boy for 2019 was warmly received.

The Year 13s and their families enjoyed the final day. Beginning at the Papanui Club for breakfast, which is sponsored and organised by the Old Boys’ Association. Guest speakers were Shaun Bradley, father of Joe who was the Deputy Head Boy this year, and he recounted some memories of his time at school as a boarder in the 80’s. Joe is a fourth generation student, and it was great to see his grandfather, Michael in attendance at not only the ceremonies over the last couple of days, but also at the Leavers Ball that was held two weeks ago.

Loreto Colvin was the second guest speaker, and mother of Ben who also is leaving. She has many connections to the College as well in her family, and picked up in her address, Norbert’s lovely tribute to his mother, and the role of parents in service of their sons as they navigated their way through their time at school.

Both addresses set the scene for the day, one of celebration, but one with a recurring theme of brotherhood a feature of many of the speeches.

The Mass followed and the rest of the College honoured the Year 13s with terrific singing in an often, emotion charged atmosphere. Fr Alister Castillo (2004-2008), the youngest priest in New Zealand, was the main celebrant, and in the Mass challenged the Year 13s to entertain the idea of following in his footsteps!!! His homily had a fitting message as this was All Souls Day, and he paid tribute to the many bold boys of the past, and the legacy they have left.

It has been a great couple of days. I acknowledge the efforts of the Development Office, the Ministry and Musical teams, and Mr McDowall’s coordination of the Prize-giving. 

Until next time,

Justin Boyle