Rector's Message - March

So reads the Timaru Boys’ Vision at the top of our 2015–2017 Charter. It underscores our mission statement and the goals set for 2015. It is also on our website with our school values. Where does this Vision come from and what does it mean to us? It reflects elements of our past. A past rich in values-based education and a firm focus on elevating salient qualities in each boy. It embodies our present. That is, a modern world in which schooling is the cultivation of capability and character, and readiness for rapidly changing environments. This Vision is a declaration of student-centredness. It reminds us that everything we achieve is ultimately, and rightly, judged by how well it meets the needs of students, as they experience the benefits of positive learning.

This Vision hints at the importance of citizenship. With this aspect is a sense of belonging and a responsibility to commit to the support and success of others. Finally, our Vision refers to a state of mind. It is to strive to grow a keen mind — one open to new knowledge and opportunity; to help each boy become informed, individualistic, and effective in thought as well as action. 

Our students are moving towards this Vision. I am pleased to confirm that we received an additional 2014 NZQA Scholarship, awarded since the last Newsletter. It was won by Michael Wood in Agricultural and Horticultural Science. Congratulations to Michael and his family. Our 2014 Scholarship tally now moves to eight awards, up from three in 2013.

The boys are gathering momentum in 2015. Some stand out already. Eighteen new prefects are now selected for 2015, following consideration of staff and student voting preferences, and other relevant information. In receiving this honour, they occupy a unique place in the school. To be a prefect is to earn but not assume higher standing in the eyes of students and staff. With this privilege comes distinct obligations. Prefects join staff to steer Timaru Boys’ in the right direction, to represent us and our interests well in the community – extending our excellent reputation, and providing sound leadership and fellowship.

The new prefect leaders have been chosen from this group. I am delighted to announce the appointment of Shaun Coles as Head Prefect for 2015. He will be ably supported by Oscar Keys and Jesse Drake, as Deputy Prefects, and Jack Leslie as new House Captain.

I wish these young men all the best for this year, as they discover and develop their leadership disposition, and for their activities in service of the school and its community. Leadership qualities, however, reside in many of our boys at all year levels – waiting to be realised and elevated. This is something of even greater import going forward.

I finish by commending all the boys and staff who participated in the Hadlow to Harbour Run last weekend; especially those Year 10s running it as the second step in their individual Rite Journey.

Scientia Potestas Est

Nick McIvor
Rector