Talofa lava, Kia orana, Fakaalofa lahi atu, Talofa ni, Mālō e lelei, Ni sa bula, Tēnā koutou katoa and Greetings to Kevinian's and supporters of the College.
This week the College has resounded to the passionate chant of the new haka being prepared for today's performance competition in the Gymnasium. The Physical Education faculty have moved the performance unit to later in the year to allow more time to practice after the junior examinations, and judging by the quality of this afternoons hakas the change has been beneficial. The new haka integrated girls and boys into a stering and powerful challenge that all students can be proud of. Thank you to the parents and guest judges who made today a memorable occasion for the students.
Yesterday, Mr Ryan and myself traveled to the Ministry of Education office in Dunedin to hear details of the PB4L (Positive Behaviour for Learning) Project that is being rolled out to all New Zealand secondary schools. St Kevin's College is one of the last to receive this training and so we have been able to talk to others about their experience. We have been particularly keen to ensure that the programme will compliment our special character. Our plan is to use the best elements of restorative practice to add to our discipline system. I consider that one of our strengths as a College has been our "firm but fair" traditional Catholic approach to discipline. The mantra is "If you get it wrong, put it right". We accept that our young people will make mistakes and should be allowed to learn from them. Adding the best of restorative practice at a classroom level will help give a school wide approach to handling issues in a proactive way, diffusing issues before they escalate. The staff training and community discussion will take place during 2014 with implementation planned for 2015.
On the promotions front, Rebecca Ryan, previously a reporter with the Oamaru Mail, has been collecting video footage to produce short clips showing school and hostel life. Thank you to Rebecca and Cathy Taylor for their commitment to this project and to the students who have generously given their time to feature in the clips.
With the last NCEA examination being held today, I would like to thank Mrs Potter for the sterling work she has done liaising with the NCEA team. With examinations completed is appropriate that our leaver's gather on Saturday evening to celebrate with the graduation dinner. The staff and I are looking forward to meeting everyone in a convivial setting and reflecting on the journey of the 2013 Graduates. For many families this will be their final formal connection with the College. I hope that you will continue your links in the years to come and always feel welcome at St Kevin's.
Na Mihi and Advent Blessings
Paul Olsen, Principal
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