Acting Principal's Comments

Kia Ora Kevinians and Supporters,

Last weekend I was able to join Mrs Austin and the the Bishop's Shield team at Kavanagh College in Dunedin and was very proud to be able to congratulate them on an outstanding set of results at assembly this week.  St Kevin's College has a sound tradition of public speaking and to be able to take first place in half of the events on offer as well as two of the four individual "best" cups is a testament to the talents of our students and the dedication of staff who give so much of their time to help them prepare.  Congratulations and thank you.

At long last we welcomed our second Assistant Principal Ms Jo Walshe to the team on Monday morning and she survived the Top 6 Hot Seat at assembly on Wednesday with admirable ease.  Ms Walshe is also our Dean of International Students and will work closely with Mrs June Campbell who continues in her role as our International Student Manager.  

You will recall Mr Olsen's visit to China earlier in the year with principals from around New Zealand and the Confucius Institute at the University of Canterbury.  As a result of this visit an opportunity arose to bring a Mandarin teacher to Oamaru and yesterday Miss Emma Qui and the Deputy Director from the Confucius Institute, Ms Hong Hu, arrived at St Kevin's.  Miss Qui will begin Mandarin classes with Year 9 students next week, with a number of additional Mandarin learning opportunities being extended to other students in due course.

Following on from our successful SADD presentations last week, Year 12 students have attended the Drive To Survive programme which is facilitated by Elton Crane from Road Safety Waitaki.  Our thanks to Mrs Burton for co-ordinating this on behalf of the College.  Drive To Survive is an effective programme aimed specifically at senior students and I encourage parents and caregivers to discuss the presentation with them. 

Looking ahead, next week is a "green week" on the school calendar and I would remind all of our students about the importance of effective study and revision habits.  The end of year examinations will be upon us in no time at all and poor performances may effect decisions surrounding courses for 2014. 

I ask that you all continue to pray for safe travels for Mr and Mrs Olsen.

God Bless

Mr Kerry Ryan - Acting Principal.