Friday, September 26, 2014

Principal's Comment

Kia Ora Kevinians and Supporters of the College

As the term comes to a rapid conclusion with examinations and assessment being the focus of the week, I have been reflecting on the achievements of a busy but productive term. Academic, sporting and cultural success has come to be the norm. Our Special Character Review has affirmed the direction that we are heading as a College. This can be summed up in our strongly articulated Values and high expectations. We foster students to use their talents to the best of their ability, for the common good.

With spring enveloping the College grounds, the broader theme of growth and development has echoed in a number of pivotal "future thinking" meetings being held this week.

Hostel redevelopment has been the hot topic of discussion for boarders. Last Friday, Jo Anne Van der Salm wrote to hostel parents indicating that the Trust would be developing a plan to consolidate the hostels onto a single site near Redcastle. This week we have had a series of meetings to explore proposals and craft a plan for our community to give feedback about. Students have had the opportunity to have input and have already given us some valuable insights. We are committed to begin implementation for the 2015 school year.

The second planning stream is "future curriculum". This is being led by the Head of Curriculum, Mr Ryan. We are looking to build on the VPath initiatives of the last two years and add greater diversity of meaningful learning opportunities to retain and engage our Year 12 and 13 students. Examples of these programmes include equestrian studies, trade skills and service sector courses.

The College administration is working hard to be responsive to needs and move with the times. Initiatives such the development of a St Kevin's College App and deployment of the Ultra Fast Broad Band are examples of this proactive approach. I would encourage you to download the app if you have not already done so. It is available on both Google Play and Apple Store as free downloads for your phone.

Looking forward to the start of Term Four, I will be out of school for the first three weeks. Mr Ryan will be in the role of Acting Principal and any urgent issues should be directed to him in the first instance.

Finally, please keep the Fauth and Pope families in your prayers as they grieve the loss of loved ones.

May God bless you all these holidays.
Paul Olsen, Principal

No comments:

Post a Comment