A warm farewell to Ben Kessler, our international student for the first half of 2025

Ben Kessler, who joined us at the beginning of the year, is now returning home to Germany after spending Terms 1 and 2 at St Kevin’s College.

We have truly loved how Ben integrated himself so well into college life, embracing every opportunity and becoming a true Kevinian. From playing rugby and making new friendships to exploring Aotearoa and representing the spirit of SKC, Ben made the most of his time here.

We spoke to Ben about his experience at St Kevin’s College:

Why did you choose to study at St Kevin’s College?
I had a few schools to choose from through my organisation, and I picked St Kevin’s College because I visited the website and saw all the opportunities it offered. There were so many activities available, like rugby and swimming (although the pool wasn’t open during my time). Another big reason was the location – right by the sea, with large sports grounds. That really stood out to me.

What did you enjoy most about your time here?
I really loved playing rugby for SKC and going on trips. We went on so many as international students, and also with our regular classes – to places like Christchurch, Dunedin, Wanaka, Mt Cook, Moeraki Boulders, the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, Totara Estate, Chinaman’s Hut, Elephant Rock, and even surfing! It was amazing. I’ll also really miss the classmates and people I met here.

What was your favourite memory from your time at SKC?
Definitely the trips I mentioned – or the school formal. Both were unforgettable experiences.

How did coming to SKC help you grow?
I learned to speak English better and made new friends. I also got to try a new sport – rugby – which was a big part of my time here.

What would you say to other students thinking about coming to SKC?
It’s a great school, and you’ll always have someone to help you and sort out any problems. That support was really important for me. The only thing I’d mention is that it’s a Christian school, which might be different for some – but for me, as a Christian, that wasn’t an issue at all.

This has been a wonderful round-up of Ben’s time with us, and we’re grateful he took the time to share his experience. We wish him all the best as he returns home to Germany.

Ka kite anō – you’ll always be part of the SKC whānau.