Principals Message

Dear Parents and Friends of St Kevin's

This week I had the honour of officially opening the College fitness trail, situated at the end of Murray Field. Thank you to the YouthTown charitable trust for funding the purchase of the kit-set.  Thank you also to the St Kevin's College LEO Club who together with the Waiareka Lions Club installed the structures. This was an excellent example of College and Community cooperating to achieve a goal. As an  educator I was even more impressed with the learning that resulted from the project. Seeing mature Lions members acting as mentors, passing on their knowledge and skills to the younger LEO's  left me inspired and grateful for this opportunity. 

As the term draws to a close, reports are being sent out for senior students. It is important to reflect on student achievement, asking some key questions like "Am I on track?" and "What are the next steps for my learning?".  While the external examinations are fast approaching there is still time to rectify poor performance and improve grades. The holidays are an excellent opportunity to catch up on missed work and begin a structured revision programme. Setting aside an hour each day for revision will reap tremendous rewards. 

Thank you to the parents who gave feedback on the suggested uniform modifications. I accept that what ever option we implement, there will be pros and cons, however most people were generally happy with the proposals.  The blue shirt and summer blouse will be  introduced for the 2013 Year 9  intake. Year 10 and 11 boys and all other girls will phase these items in as their existing uniform is replaced. The Number One uniform, with its white shirt, remains unchanged. Blue shirts are not to be worn with blazers.

Mrs Manson, our Careers Adviser, has been busy fielding inquires generated by the course selection process. She is available to discuss entry requirements and course details with both students and caregivers. The planned Vocational Pathway options are gaining momentum with a number of students expressing interest in the Agricultural, Carpentry and Cookery Courses for 2013.

Finally, the 2013 College calendar is in the planning stages. I would like to draw to your attention the unusual placement of Otago Anniversary Day and the Easter break. The Oamaru Colleges are planning to join with the Otago region to have a Teacher Only Day on the day following Anniversary Day. All the secondary schools are planning to close for the remaining two days before Good Friday to avoid students having to return to School for two days. With this advanced warning, there may be an opportunity for families to plan a vacation or take advantage of the early Easter. 

May God Bless You

Paul Olsen
Principal