Principals Message

Dear Parents and Friends of St Kevin's


Malo e lelei, Talofa lava, Bula vinaka, Taloha ni, Kia orana, warm pasifika greetings.

On Thursday evening the Oamaru Pasifika Success Talanoa Project was launched at the College Auditorium.  Students and families gathered to hear local Principals and representatives from the Ministry of Education share plans for improving educational outcomes for our Pasifika students.  This work follows on from the community fono (gathering) held last year and seeks to build stronger family links with the College.  Over 200 people were in attendance and with entertainment provided by a number of groups, including the combined St Joseph's - St Kevin's Multicultural Group.  I was very proud of our students who gave a stunning performance.  Thank you to Mrs Plunket who manages the group.  A special thanks to Mrs Burton who organised the mammoth catering task with consummate ease.  The launch was timed to mark Tongan Language Week and Ben Latevo, a Year 12 student, took the opportunity to display his fine oratory skills as MC for the evening.  We look forward to celebrating more Pasifika Success as the project develops.

Over the week we have had a number of teams at winter sports tournaments throughout the lower South Island.  The details follow in later blog items, however I would like to formally thank the Coaches and Parents who have made these events possible.  With tournament week occurring in school time, the teacher relief cost limits the number of staff who can attend.  In many cases, colleagues have covered classes and parents have taken annual leave to support the teams, so thank you on behalf of the College.

Finally, I encourage people to join us for the Sports Evening next Friday.  The event will be a celebration of sports at the College and provide a venue for younger students to see high achievers and aspire to excellence in their chosen code.  While there will be awards presented, the evening is intended as much more than an end of season trophy session.  The Home & School team are decorating the venue to ensure the evening is a gala event for parents and students.  We have kept costs to a minimum while trying to deliver a quality evening.  Warren Lees is an excellent speaker and there will be drinks and nibbles provided. The cost can be charged to your school account.  I look forward to meeting you at this inaugural event.

May God Bless You

Paul Olsen
Principal