As a school community we have been particularly upset by the recent negative publicity which has featured - particularly in the ODT. This publicity has been damaging to the reputation of our school. I would like to take this opportunity to give this publicity some perspective from our point of view.

From the outset I would like to make it clear that we as a school community abhor the actions of vandalism that have taken place. We have nothing but the utmost respect for St Kevin’s and treasure our rivalry with them. This week to date has seen a wonderful array of sporting competition take place and is a highlight of the year for many of the boy’s involved.The vandalism and fracas that occurred at St Kevin’s late last week allegedly involved a number of old boys of the school. Speaking with police, only two have actually been identified and the youth who was injured wasn’t even from our school or Oamaru for that matter. The police have said there were a number of youths involved who weren’t from Oamaru.With regards to the second incident where graffiti, (including a swastika) was spray painted on St Kevins’ property. Again, speaking with police no-one has been formally identified as having done this.

On both days when these incidents occurred our buildings were also the target of vandalism.We should be talking about the on-going wonderful deeds of the young men currently at the school who I know our old boys would be extremely proud of.These young men do not deserve to be associated with a small number of ‘old boys’ who did not reflect our school values whilst at school and are certainly not reflecting them at the present moment.

We are all fully committed to our vision of “inspiring young men of outstanding character.

Floreat WaitakiaDarryl Paterson (Rector)