Junior Prize Giving 2015

The Christmas Liturgy and Junior Prize Giving was the last event on the College calendar.  Thank you to all of the parents and caregivers who joined us and congratulations to all of our prize winners.

Class Prizes:

9S

Jharli Blake - English, Science

Michael Elstone - Science

Ben Sew Hoy - Maths

Abbey Mabon - Religious Studies, Social Studies

Nicholas Plieger - Religious Studies

Seth Humphries - Physical Education

Jonte Kydd Law - Drama

Kelsey Mills - Music

Amy Coutts - Visual Art

Diligence Awards - Seth Humphries, Nicholas Plieger, Michael Elstone, Ben Sew Hoy, Abbey Mabon, Jonte Kydd Law, Amy Coutts, Jacinta Richardson, Francesca Black, Tia Hunter.

9K

Duncan Watt - English, Visual Art

Josh Gibson - Science, Maths

Socrates Catapang - Religious Studies

Bree Louden - Physical Education

Serena O'Brien - Social Studies

Caleb Jopson - Drama

Max Johns - Music

Diligence Awards - Duncan Watt, Josh Gibson, Socrates Catapang, Serena O'Brien, Caleb Jopson, Jayden Pope, Noelle Brew, Taylor Pickworth, Ryan Kennedy, Hannah Cunningham, Ray Meech

9C

Tessa Blakely - English

Lily Hill - Science, Social Studies

Callum Bishop - Maths

Tiana Mansfield - Religious Studies, Visual Art

Joel Klenner - Drama

Corbyn Hocken - Music

Diligence Awards - Tessa Blakely, Lily Hill, Tiana Mansfield, Anna Taylor, Ryan Woods, Lucy Hellewell, Breidy Johnston

9T

Cara Anderson - English, Maths

Charles Mosedale - Science, Social Studies

Bethany Pope - Religious Studies

Brylee More - Physical Education

Laura O'Brien - Drama

Matthew Moore - Music

Bridget Hunter - Visual Art

Diligence Awards - Cara Anderson, Charles Mosedale, Bridget Hunter, Megan Shea, Rata McMullan, Jack Souness, Alyx McDougall, Jerome Misiloi

10S

Brytnee Firman - English, Science, Maths, Religious Studies, Social Studies

Tama Wooldridge - Physical Education

Diligence Awards - Joseph Moffat, Tasmyn Aitcheson, Liam Elliott, Amber Cunningham, Mose Vahai, Briar Swanson, Broady Taylor

10K

Samantha Jorgensen - Cambridge English, Religious Studies

Levi Sherman - Science, Cambridge Maths, Social Studies

Rebecca Whittet - Religious Studies

Teil Murphy - Maths

Molly Kay - Physical Education

Diligence Awards - Samantha Jorgensen, Rebecca Whittet, Anna Craig, Connie Metcalfe, Jordan Kennedy, Sarah Dodd, Rhiannon Jonston, Shea Direen

10C

Georgia Vickers - English, Science

Piper Beach - Religious Studies, Social Studies

Ben McCarthy - Physical Education

Diligence Awards - Piper Beach, Max Smith, Laura Preston

Year 10 Subjects

Brytnee Firman - Agriculture, Food & Nutrition, Financial Literacy

Roshni Crow - Art

Samantha Jorgensen - Art, Graphics

Rebecca Whittet, Art

Georgia Ashton - Muisic

Ellie Graham - Digital Technology

Joseph Moffat - Material Technology

Makeyla Masses - Literacy

Matthew McEldowny - Literacy

Georgia Vickers - Numeracy

Achievements in Mandarin 

Seth Humphries, Michael Elstone, Serena O'Brien, Socrates Catapang, Tiana Mansfield, Ellie Graham, Madeleine Harrop

Special Awards

Junior Sportswoman (Camellia Cup) - Molly Kay

Junior Sportsman (Boyle Cup) - Ben McCarthy

All Round Sportsman of the Year (Carrickmore Cup) - Jaxson MacDonald-Piner

Diligence & Determination (Daniel Gillies Memorial Cup) - Jacinta Richardson

Service to the College (SKC Cup) - Georgia Vickers

Most Improved Equestrian (Anklew Trophy) - Ellie Graham

Piping (Bruce Carlyle Memorial Trophy) - Callum Bishop

Outstanding Cultural Female, Junior (Keep Family Cup) - Rebecca Whittet

Outstanding Cultural Male, Junior (Musical Theatre Oamaru 60th Jubilee Cup) - Levi Sherman

Principal's Comment

Kia ora Kevinians and Supporters of the College

Welcome to my final blog post for 2015.  As I reflect on our achievements, I am sure you will agree that it has been another year of outstanding academic, sporting and cultural success.  Thank you to the many staff, caregivers and supporters who have enriched the learning experiences available to our students. Your contribution, in both classroom and co-curricular settings, has really helped to develop the character and values of our young people. One of the emerging areas of strength has been increasing the number of school – business partnerships. Thank you to employers, local business and service groups who have mentored students in a diverse range of activities.

This year we have a number of staff movements that I would like to acknowledge. Mr Burton - HoF Arts, Mrs Newton - Drama, Mrs Jackson - Dean of Vocational Pathways, Miss Casey - HoF Physical Education, Mrs Potter- HoF Mathematics. We wish you every success in retirement, change of career and promotion respectively. I am pleased to welcome Mr Smith – HoF PE (past pupil), Mr Bristow – English and Mrs Ambler – Science, into the College to build on the excellent results already achieved.

May you receive every Christmas blessing and spend valued time with family and friends.

Advent Blessings
Paul Olsen, Principal

Year 9 Activities Week

Our Year 9 students have had the run of the College this week and thanks to staff, have had a wide variety of fun and challenging activities to try.  With everything from movie making, crafts, baking, water/mud sliding, swimming and the annual SKC's Got Talent there was something for everyone!  They were even lucky enough to be the very first students to use the new archery equipment, with an archery range set up in the Dining Room.

Y10 Camp

Students arrived back from camp today ... a little weary but having had a wonderful time.  Thank you to all of the senior students, staff and parents/volunteers who give up their time each year to make this such a memorable experience for our students.

Lions International Youth Camp

Head Girl for 2016 GypsyMae Harihona Harrison will be seeing in the new year with approximately 60 other students at the Lions Club International Youth Camp, being held in Rotorua from the 27 December through till the 7 Jan.  With young people from around the world attending it will be an amazing experience for GypsyMae and an opportunity to connect with others involved in this worldwide organisation.  She is very grateful to the local Waiareka Valley Lions Club who have generously supported her with a $600 donation.  

Junior Performance Unit 2015

The Junior Performance unit was held on Friday afternoon.  This is the last PE assessment of the year for our juniors and always popular with students and indeed our community.  Judges this year were 2015 Deputy Head Boy, Michael Lockley, Head Girl for 2016 GypsyMae Harihona Harrison, Mrs Foster and Mr Dixon.  9S rolled out the winners for their year level while 10K won for Y10.  A huge congratulations to all of our juniors on a great effort!

Christmas Appeal 2015

You will remember the Mufti Day and lunchtime sausage sizzle held a couple of weeks ago, where over $300 was raised for the Christmas Appeal.  On Friday the appeal boxes were taken up to the alter as part of the offering at Mass and the Society of St Vincent de Paul will ensure they go where they are most needed.  Thank you to all of the students and staff who gave so generously.

Principal's Comment

Kia ora Kevinians and Supporters of the College

Last Saturday evening the 2015 graduates, caregivers and staff gathered at The Homestead for a very convivial final farewell dinner. I would like to thank Mrs Burton and Mr Nyika for organising the evening and Mrs Anna Keno for providing inspiring words of wisdom to the graduates.

This week the Board of Trustees and Hostel Trust held their final meetings for the year. At the conclusion of proceedings, we farewelled Mr Kevin Kearney and Mr Baxter Smith who have generously given years of passionate governorship to the College. Kevin has been one of the proprietor's representatives for seven years and has been chairman for one of his terms on the Board. Baxter has had a long and ongoing association with the Hostel Trust both as chair and governor. We thank both of them for their commitment and dedication to the College.

At the BOT meeting the Home-School Partnership agreement was ratified. Please take a moment to review this document.

The junior reports have been published and are available to view on the Parent Portal under the Student Report/Middle School Achievement tab.  Please call by the school office if you wish to have a hard copy printed out.

Finally we wish all those embarking on camps and activities next week all the very best. We hope the weather holds for you and I ask our community to keep you in our prayers as we enter the Advent Season.

Hei konā mai i roto i ngā mihi
Paul Olsen, Principal

Retreats For 2016

As our Year 10 students ready themselves for their annual Camp & Retreat next week, we would like to take this opportunity to give parents and caregivers a heads up about retreats that are happening early on in Term 1 next year.

Year 9 - Wednesday 3 Feb, held at the College (there is no charge for this)
Year 13 - Tuesday 9 Feb, held at The Homestead (approx $35)
Year 12 - Thursday 11 Feb, held at Teschemakers (approx $30)
Year 11 - Thursday 25 Feb, held at Moeraki (approx $30)

Watch Your Money Grow

A selection of work from the St Joseph's technology students was put on display in the staff room today.  They were asked to design and make money boxes, and a lot of thought was put into the variety of finished results.  What a great way to watch your money grow!

School Magazines

If you have ordered and paid for a school magazine they will be available to pick up from the school office from Friday 4 December. 

Those that aren't picked up will be posted once school has ended.

Home & School Thanks

Home & School would like to thank everyone that supported us during the year.  We wish everyone safe holidays and a very happy Christmas.

Library Books

A REMINDER TO STUDENTS:

Please return all library books to the College Library.

Thank you!

 

 

Robotics Challenges

An industrious group of Year 9 and Year 10 students spent the day with Sandy Garner from the Otago University Computer Science department, and her assistants Ryely Burtenshaw-Day and Annabelle Ritchie.   Working in pairs students had to programme their robot to complete a series of challenges throughout the day.  Thank you to Dr Maret for helping to facilitate this fascinating opportunity.

Ashburton Regatta

 

Check out these action photos from the Lake Hood Regatta held in Ashburton last weekend. SKC athletes were out in force and turned in some very promising results. Our athletes have been working very hard under the guidance of Coaches Neville Hill and Nicki deBuyzer and qualified Fitness Trainer and SKC old-girl,Bethany Robertson.   A special mention to the Girls U15 Quad who came second overall in Silver - Molly Kay, Caitlin McCoy, Hannah Cunningham, Abbey Mabon and Janaya Allan.  Well done girls!

We look to the Otago Champs 12/13 December in Twizel for our next challenge.

 

 

Graduation Dinner 2015

On Saturday evening our graduating class for 2015 came together with staff and family to celebrate their time at St Kevin's with the Graduation Dinner.  Held at the Homestead, students were addressed by past pupil Anna Keno who is the driving force behind Giant Leaps Speech Company.  Anna shared tokens of wisdom to graduates in the form of her "4 rules of life".  We wish them all the very best as they venture forth into the world past the Redcastle gates.

Principal's Post

Kia ora Kevinians and Supporters of the College

Riding up Thames Highway as a pillion passenger on a 1800cc Suzuki motor cycle in leathers is not on my normal Tuesday afternoon agenda. The White Ribbon family violence campaign asked local Principals to do just that, highlighting the importance of healthy family relationships in our community. The riders were warmly welcomed to the College with a haka and mihi followed by cup cakes and a drink for the road weary travellers. The riders have been working their way around the South Island visiting schools and communities and we wish them well on their journey.

Strategic planning and staff appointments for the 2016 year have been this week's focus for the Board of Trustees and Senior Management team at the College.

I am pleased to confirm the following appointments:

• Mr Craig Smith - HOF Physical Education 
• Mrs Hayley Ambler - Biology and Year 10/11 Co-Dean 
• Mrs Margaret Burton - Dean of Vocational Guidance 
• Mrs Phillippa Sutton - Fixed Term Science/Maths for 2016 
• Mrs Victoria Blair - Year 12/13 Co-Dean 
• Mr Nick Bristow - Teacher of English 

Congratulations on your appointment and we look forward to you joining the St Kevin's Family.

Our congratulations also to Mrs Janette Potter who has been appointed the Deputy Principal of Kaikorai Valley College in Dunedin. She commences in 2016.

Please keep the Year 9 Activity Week and Year 10 Retreat permission forms coming in to the office.

Hei konā mai i roto i ngā mihi
Paul Olsen, Principal

SKC Christmas Appeal

Our junior students were a credit today, raising over $300 for the SKC Christmas Appeal with a mufti day and lunchtime sausage sizzle. The money will be used to make up Christmas hampers for those in need within our community this holiday season.

Y10 Camp Kayaking Safety

Year 10 Camp preparations are under way and today students have been under the watchful eye of Mr Haig who has been teaching them kayaking safely - in this case how to get out of your kayak if you get into strife and the signals for asking for assistance!

A reminder that with less than two weeks to go, permission slips should be handed into the school office or completed via the permissions portal on the school website. Likewise, payments can be made at the office or through the School Payments page on the Parent Portal. Thank you.

White Ribbon Ride 2015

There was a distinct rumble as the White Ribbon Ride rolled into SKC yesterday afternoon as part of their annual nationwide ride to raise awareness and speak out against family violence.   The ride is a powerful reminder about the effects of violence on our families and communities but provides us with inspirational stories of courage and change.

The riders (with one certain Principal on board) were greeted with the College Haka before students and staff were challenged to think about their own personal relationships with their friends, family and teachers/students at school.  Are they respectful?    The cupcake efforts were shared among all those present after which everyone took the opportunity to admire the bikes close up.

Thank you White Ribbon NZ for including the College in this important initiative.

Orientation 2015

Over the past two days classes have been a little fuller than normal with our visiting Year 8 students spending "a day in the life" at SKC and taking an active role in classes and school activities.  See you all for the first day of term in 2016!

Tongan U20 Selection

A week after returning home for the Christmas holidays Kelepi Funaki trialed for the Tongan U20 rugby side, and has been selected for a four nation tournament which begins in Fiji in a week. The winner of this tournament continues on to play in a second tier international tournament in Zimbabwe during April. Congratulations Kelepi!

White Ribbon Ready

Juniors were joined by our Y8 Orientation students today as they prepared some tasty treats ahead of the White Ribbon Rider's visit tomorrow afternoon.   The afternoon tea has become a tradition over the last couple of years.  The riders will arrive at the College at about 1.20pm.

West Ham Elite International Academy

When Y12 student Rosie Pope attended the national West Ham Academy up in Auckland during the last school holidays, little did she know that it would lead to an invitation to the Westham Elite International Academy in London!  Held in April 2016, there will be a week of intense football sessions, as well as inductions over a nine day period.  The Auckland Academy saw Rosie as one of only two girls out of 15 in her age group.  However the London Academy will be an all girl affair, with the boys travelling in March.  Congratulations on this amazing opportunity!!!!!

Principal's Comment

Kia ora Kevinians and Supporters of the College

With junior examinations completed, staff are busy marking scripts and writing reports. Thank you to the many helpers who have acted as reader writers during the junior examinations. These roles are important but are not funded by the Operations Grant. Staff and community goodwill allow students to access the curriculum in a meaningful way and enjoy success at a personal level.

At our assembly on Wednesday, we reflected on the events in Paris and had a moment's silence for the victims of these terror attacks. As a special character school it is important for staff to help unpack these events for students, so that they gain some insight into the geopolitical and religious issues being confronted in places like Syria. We encourage students to seek to understand a global perspective as they strive to become citizens of a very turbulent 21st century world.

This week we have also completed some updates to our website. The following pages have been added to give more curriculum overview:

• Confucius Classroom
• Broadcast Academy
• Equestrian Academy
• Primary ITO Academy
• Trade Training

I would encourage you to visit these pages to refresh your understanding of these courses. There are an amazing number of opportunities that are available with the partnerships we have established.

Caregivers of Year 9 and 10 students: please get the student permission forms into the office for Y9 Activity Week or Y10 Camp and Retreat, or go to the permissions portal on the College website.

Finally, please keep the Ryan family in your prayers as Mrs Ryan recovers from surgery.

Hei konā mai i roto i ngā mihi
Paul Olsen, Principal

ONE WAY TRAFFIC SYSTEM

One Way Traffic System

Please remember our One Way Traffic System which operates Monday to Friday during the time periods 

8.30-9.30am and 3.00-4.00pm.  

All vehicles are required to travel
IN via the Taward Street entrance 

and OUT through Redcastle Road.  

This allows for a safer flow of traffic when students are walking and biking around parking areas and using the main College driveway.  It also reduces the risk of accidents with wider vehicles and buses.

We also encourage parents and caregivers to drop students off to school either at the Taward Street and Redcastle Road entrances or closer to Gym area to avoid dangerous congestion at the entrance to the Administration Block.

Haka Ready

Year 9 and 10 students gathered in the Gym this afternoon to hone their haka presentation ahead of the White Ribbon Riders visit to the College next Tuesday.  Thank you Mrs Plunkett, Levi, GypsyMae and Tivinia for your help and pointers.

SKC Project Runway Continued

From the America's to Egypt, the land of the pharaohs, King Tut and the mighty sphinx.  Such was the design brief for our Year 13 Textile students during SKC Project Runway 2015.

KIMBERLEY ALLAN
Kimberley's full lined pure new wool navy cape is perfect for the discerning woman wanting a queenly touch to her winter attire.  Inspired by the bulrushes which protected Moses, this beautiful garment is designed to protect it's wearer from the cold and from any accusation of not being fabulous!

HANNAH KEITH
Hannah was inspired by the sand of Egypt when she designed this three pieced outfit with cowl neckline.  Taking its colouring from the sand and its lines from the windswept landscape, the look is completed with the hand printed belt in the shimmering blues of the Egyptian sky.

GEORGIA-KATE BLAIR
Georgia designed a full length black dress fit for Cleopatra herself.  This gorgeous special occasion dress is heavily embroidered at the front with cut away panels at the back.  The geometric designs reflect the symmetry of the ancients with the ease of transition from day to night with an appliqued detachable collar.

AYSHA HIRAMA
Aysha captured not only the look of ancient Egypt in her choice of colour but also the feel.  Made from turquoise linen this dress moves with the body with a long silhouette and a machine embroidered bodice and cut out neckline.

OLIVIA CAMPBELL
Olivia really pushes the Egyptian barge out with this gorgeous full length gold and navy special occasion dress.  Capturing the dark allure of the evening Nile, this dress plays on colour and shape with its dramatic gold hues and sunburst bodice.

HOPE NERI
Hope presented a wedding dress for Project Runway.  The dress is made from Cream Oyster satin and is created in two pieces.  The bodice boast hand printed designs reminiscent of the paparys plants of Egypt, which reflect the flowing shapes of the mermaid skirt.

Thank You Lions

Riley Chandler is heading away on the Spirit of Adventure tomorrow which will see her spend 10 days on the ship travelling from Auckland to Napier.  Riley would like to acknowledge the generous support of the Lions Club who have helped her fund this exciting adventure.  Have a great time!

Uniform Shop Opening Hours

UNIFORM SHOP OPENING HOURS

The Uniform Shop is open every Thursday 12.30-1.30pm. 

The last day for 2015 will be on Thursday 3 December. 

The shop will be OPEN on Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 November from 1-2.30pm.

Extra opening hours for 2016:

Wednesday 27 January 3-7pm

Friday 29 January 11am-2pm

Sunday 31 Janaury 10am-2pm

The St Kevin's College Uniform shop accepts donations of uniform clothing in good condition.  

We offer payment for some items; eg kilts, blazers, PE tops, jerseys.  

All profit from the Uniform Shop benefits the students at SKC.

Home & School Christmas Truffle Orders

The Home & School are set for a busy weekend of truffle making but there is still time to place late orders!!

Fantastic as gifts for friends and family, or even as a treat for you!

$5 per dozen (money with orders please)

To order contact Mandy Farrell - 027 381 4436 (tiernach24@xtra.co.nz)

Heads Down

There was lots of nervous energy at the College yesterday as junior end of year exams got under way!  

Principal's Comment

Kia ora Kevinians and Supporters of the College

The College campus is a considerably quieter place this week with the NCEA examinations in full swing and juniors preparing for their end of year examinations. It is pleasing to receive generally positive feedback about the NCEA papers; with most of the students I have talked to feeling they have been well prepared in the lead up to these public examinations. Thank you to the many staff who have gone the extra mile to provide special revision classes and tutorials over the final term.

On Wednesday at the junior assembly, Mr Ryan briefed students about course requirements for 2016. Year 10 students are being encouraged to take courses rich in Literacy, Numeracy and Science credits. As the NCEA system has developed, these credits are no longer solely found in English, Mathematics and Science. It is important that as students build their courses, that they give careful consideration to keeping their options as open as possible. As an example, not taking a science course at Level 1 (Science or Agriculture) closes off a huge number of options or forces students to do catch-up courses in later years.

With this in mind, the Year 9 students heard that their core course will have all the essential learning areas of the national curriculum built into it, preparing students for any of the NCEA paths in Year 11. Students with a particular strength will be able to specialise in their particular interest while still keeping options open. This gives them the best of both worlds.

Exciting developments to be aware of are the call for members to join the Rocket Club run by Mr Haig and the Robotics Club being established by Dr Maret.

On Monday we farewelled the first of our international students as they return home for Christmas. Hikari and Clement took the opportunity at the international dinner to gave a final thank you present to Mrs Campbell. We wish these young men every blessing as they head to university.

Monday also bought the announcement of Holly Malcolm's selection for the Thai /NZ Language and Cultural Exchange Programme sponsored by the Royal Thai Embassy in Wellington.  You can read more about the exchange in this week's blog and we wish Holly all the best as she prepares for this exciting opportunity.

Finally, caregiver’s of Year 9 and 10 students need to get their permission forms into the office for Y9 Activity Week or Y10 Camp and Retreat, or go to the permissions portal on the College website.

Hei konā mai i roto i ngā mihi
Paul Olsen, Principal

SKC Project Runway 2015 Up Close

The success of SKC Project Runway is just reward for the work and dedication of Mrs Mellor and her textile students.  In 2015 the design brief was very specific and all of the final garments had to have interesting features based on the set cultural theme for either Y12 or Y13.  All garments had to be approved by the major stakeholders (SKC Management Team).  This week we introduce the students behind the Y12 creations.

The design theme for Y12 was Ancient Mayan with a modern Mexico influence, meaning students drew influences from the colourful and heavily decorated designs of the South Americas.  Motifs included heavy floral patterns and birds, woven fabrics and geometric shapes indicative of the stories of the ancient peoples and their architecture.

SKYLA BLAIR
Skyla created a bright orange and yellow cocktail or party dress.  The garments is made in satin with an appliqued godet skirt (additional filled in pleats on the skirt).  Blue accents add contrast and a cheerful touch of the Americas to complete the piece.

JOSHUA CUNNINGHAM
Josh's cheeky little two piece combines dramatic burgundy with large box pleats.  It can carry you from the stage to the after party in dramatic fashion.

 

NATALIE PRESTON
Natalie presented her take on dark burgundy with a two piece outfit to dress up or down as you might see fit.  The skirt fabric embodies the Mayan theme with delicate lines of orange, yellow and pink shot through it on the vertical .  The taffeta top is decorated with twin needle embroidery.

BRITTANY TIFFEN
Brittany's gorgeous pink asymmetrical skirt is overlaid with ruched organza.  This is a pretty and whimsical take on the Mayan theme, embracing the ideals of youthfulness and fun with applique flowers dancing across the front of the piece.

 

SOPHIA ALALOTO
Sophia created a more traditional piece.  This beautiful cloak is fully lined with pure wool, just right for the cold desert nights.  The machine applique celebrates strong geometric themes indicative of the South American Indians.  The fur collar finishes the garment with a splash of luxury.

  

Thai Language And Cultural Exchange

There is an exciting summer ahead for Holly Malcolm who has been selected as one of seven students nationwide to take part in the Thai/NZ Language and Cultural Exchange Programme for 2016.  The programme is sponsored by the Royal Thai Embassy in Wellington to promote people-to-people links between Thailand and New Zealand, and to enhance the English language proficiency of Thai secondary school students.  Holly will spend four weeks with Thai host families and through day to day interactions with her Thai peers provide them with the opportunity to learn and improve their English conversational skills.  For Holly, this will be an amazing cultural experience and we look forward to hearing all about it in the New Year.  Congratulations and safe travels!

Y10 Camp

Year 10 Camp will be held in the last week of the term and once again students will be able to experience four days in the Hopkins Valley.  Please read the attached information carefully and return your permission slip by 30 November (or go on line via the permissions portal).  Payment should be made to the school office or you may pay through the "school payments" page on the parent portal.  If you have any concerns or queries please contact Mr Collins.

STUDENT CAMP INFORMATION

English Novels

Please remember that all English novels need to be returned ASAP. These novels are:

Trash
Letters from the Coffin Trenches
Tomorrow when the war began
I am not Esther

Mr Pip
The Hunger Games
Noughts and Crosses
Animal Farm

The Kite Runner
Lovely Bones
One Thousand Splendid Suns
Gone Girl

Thank you

Mrs Evans

Principal's Comment

Kia ora Kevinians and Supporters of the College

Congratulations to the Year 13 Leavers who graduated on Monday evening and to the Award winners who were recognised at Prizegiving.

This annual celebration of excellence is an opportunity to report to the community, thank staff and supporters and farewell those who are leaving. This year we farewell a number of long serving staff: Head of the Arts Faculty, Mr Burton, and Drama teacher Mrs Newton,retire at the end of the year. Head of the Physical Education and Health Faculty, Miss Janelle Casey and Dean of Vocational Pathways, Mrs Joy Jackson, move to new opportunities. Geography teacher, Mr Rooney is taking a year's sabbatical. We wish you every blessing for the future in your new roles and adventures.

.

I am pleased to announce the following appointments:

• Mr Craig Smith - Head of Physical Education
• Mrs Plunkett - Head of Arts
• Mrs Ambler - Teacher of Science

We look forward to working with our new staff in the new year.

This week we also commissioned our new high speed wireless internet capability. This delivers wifi to mobile devices and will provide the backbone service for the "bring your own device" program we are embarking on for 2016. Following on from Mr Ryan's BYOD evening, you may like to consider a "Chrome Book" as a Christmas present this year. This will allow students to take full advantage of the learning opportunities being provided at the College. 

Finally this week, year 10 students are making plans for the camp and retreat in the last week. Please ensure that permission slips returned to the office and payment is made on the caregiver portal, before camp. If you need financial assistance, please contact Mr Collins next week.

Hei konā mai i roto i ngā mihi

Paul Olsen, Principal

3D Poetry

Mrs Blair's Y9 English class put a three dimensional spin on their latest poetry assignments.  Students were given the challenge of choosing an object and then writing a poem from the viewpoint of that object.  The colourful and creative boxes reflect the environment in which that object is usually found.  With everything from dancing pumps, to horses and motorbike helmets it was a very interesting display!

Cambridge Exams Under Way

The first of the Cambridge English examinations were held this week and it was a relieved group of Y10 students who emerged from yesterday's exam.  They continue next week and we wish them, and all of our students sitting end of year NCEA examinations, the very best!

Mitchells Hut Make Over

Trampers who venture up Mt Dasher will have new bunks in which to rest thanks to Mr Fulton and student Josh Botting.  The bunks, which were constructed in the Mtech room, were dismantled and transported to Mitchells Hut by local hunters for all to enjoy.

Senior Prize Giving And Graduation Mass

On Monday evening the College community gathered for the 2015 Senior Prize Giving and Graduation Mass.  It was an occasion in which celebrating the academic success of our students and the Kevinian journey of our graduating students was key.  Our Top Six for 2016 were announced .... they are:
Head Boy - Max Stewart
Head Girl - GypsyMae Harihona Harrison
Deputy Head Boy - Mark Whittet
Deputy Head Girl - Ellen McAtamney
Deputy Head Boy Special Character - Thomas Pickles
Deputy Head Girl Special Character - Niamh Farrell

Sporting Blues were presented to Amber Cunningham (Cricket), Georgia-Kate Blair (Trap Shooting), Reuben Mihaere, Charlie Wallis, Molly Kay and Georgia Dyson (Rowing) and the TopV Boys Basketball Sqaud (Basketball).  A Pennant was presented to Caitlin Middlemiss for Gymnastics.

Scholarship certificates were presented to Brady Kingan, Jack Sinclair, Brittany Caldwell, Julia Fauth, Georgia Haggerty, Sydney Telfer, Mitali Singh and Sean Daly for their success in gaining university or Polytechnic scholarships for study next year.  Congratulations to all of our award winners and in particular Georgia Malcolm (Proxime Accesit to the Dux) and Mitali Singh who was named Dux of the College for 2015.

Thank you to Rebecca Ryan Photography for these great images - visit our Facebook page to view them all

Level 1 - First In Class
Holly Malcolm - Religious Studies, Business Studies, 1st = Science
Jacqui Malcolm - English (Allan Cup), 1st = Science, 1st = Art
Charlotte Page - Alternative English
Adam Sew Hoy - Maths, History
Ella Sanderson - Agriculture
Levi Emery - Physical Education
Jared Hardy -Material Technology
Jayde Pickworth - Graphics, 1st = Art
Stan Papaioannou - Information Technology
Ellie Monk - Food Technology
Emma Fox - 1st = Art
Tom Sinclair - Geography
Emma-Kate Newlove - Music

Level 2 - First In Class
Max Stewart - 1st= Religious Studies
Emma Middlemass - Biology, Chemistry, Business Studies, 1st= Religious Studies
Ashley Pink - English, Geography
Jazmin Parker - Alternative English
Kate Nally - Media Studies
Mitchell Lowen - Maths: Algebra & Calculus, Physics
Moriah Tyrrell - Maths: Statistics
Meg Knowler - Agriculture
Sophia Alaloto - 1st= Physical Education
Rose McCarthy - 1st= Physical Education
Sean O'Brien - Graphics
Brittany Tiffen - Fabric Technology
Sinamaru Whippy - Information Technology
Georgia Firman - Food Technology
Rosie Pope - 1st= Art
GypsyMae Harihona Harrison - 1st= Art
Josh Cunningham - Drama
Pierce McLeod - History
Jase Ryan - Vocational Pathways

Level 3 - First In Class
Mitali Singh - Religious Studies (Teschemakers Prize), English, Chemistry, Art
Sydney Telfer - Media Studies, Maths Statistics, Biology (Teschemakers Prize), History
Charlie Wallis - Maths Calculus
Jack Sinclair - Physics
Brittany Caldwell - Agriculture, Economics
Brady Kingan - Physical Education
Josh Macaulay - Material Technology (Mitre 10 Prize)
Shaun Andales - Graphics, Music
Georgia Kate Blair - Fabric Technology (Ivy Pollard Memorial Prize)
Brooklyn Johnston - Food Technology, Drama
Kimberley Allan - Art Sculpture
Julia Fauth - Classical Studies
Lily Webster - Geography

Sprecial Prizes
Dux of College (Br MM O'Connor Plate) - Mitali Singh
Proxime Accessit to the Dux (McCone Cup) - Georgia Malcolm
College Captains Teschemakers Trophy - Sydney Telfer
College Captains Bill Higgins Memorial Trophy - Brady Kingan
Junior Application and Participation (Langley Cup) - Ella Hitchcock
Senior Application and Participation (McCarthy Plate & Paperplus Prize) - Ilaisipa Tahaafe
Junior General Excellence (Bill Nolan Cup) - Holly Malcolm
Senior General Excellence (McKechnie Cup) - Sydney Telfer
Most Outstanding Pasifika Female - Ilaisipa Tahaafe
Most Outstanding Pasifika Male - Antonio Misiloi
DJ Mulheron Sciences Cup - Georgia Malcolm
The Rotary Club of Oamaru for 1st Aggregate in Y11 - Holly Malcolm
The Rotary Club of Oamaru for 1st Aggregate in Y12 - Emma Middlemass
Champion Academic House (John McCarthy Cup) - Magee
Champion House for 2015 (Redcastle Cup) - Treacy
Y13 Christian Leadership (Br C Marlow Cup) - Julia Fauth
Y13 Christian Leadership (Br BJ Lauren Cup)) - Jack Sinclair
Ryan Moynihan Memorial Affability Award - Ilaisipa Tahaafe
Otago Polytechnic Principal's Leadership Award - Connor Ryan
Dominican Tertiary Award - Quin Paterson
North Otago Masonic Lodges' Scholarship - Samuel Ball
Altrusa Margaret Crombie Memorial Tertiary Award - Georgia Malcolm
Mana Pounamu Teina Award - Reuben Mihaere
Mana Pounamu Tuakana Award - Quin Paterson

School Magazine

This Friday (6 November) is the LAST DAY to place your order and pay for the 2015 SCHOOL MAGAZINE.

Early Morning Dedication

Check our Molly Kay, Brytnee Firman, Caitlin McCoy, Abbey Mabon and Janaya Allan up bright and early for 6.30am harbour training Monday morning. Amazing water and some fantastic training going on, our Coach Neville Hill was very impressed. Keep up the great work SKC Row Team.

Scarfing Dinner

The senior A & B squad had a great night last Thursday at the annual SKC scarfing dinner. Receiving a scarf at St Kevin's College is a privilege and an honour and there is a very difficult criteria to achieve this.   Well done to all the girls who were presented with scarfs as well as all the netball players at St Kevin's College for a great year.

Principal's Comment

Kia ora Kevinians and Supporters of the College

This week was the last of formal tuition for seniors as they prepare for their NCEA external examination. At our Tuesday assembly we celebrated student academic achievement with the presentation of certificates for the international Mathematics and Science competitions. The outstanding level of achievement of our top students is pleasing and it is satisfying to see the high level of participation and engagement of students generally. Senior reports are being emailed home and published in the parent portal on Musac Edge today. Musac has had a minor software glitch this week. This should now be resolved but if you have an issues around reports please contact the school office.

On Wednesday the student leaders delivered their annual valedictory assembly. Pictures of the year 13 group were shared with the College and as always the year 9 images were greeted with a smile.  At the end of the assembly, student performed a farewell haka for long serving staff member Mr Peter Burton, who had retired. The haka was delivered with passion and it was a poignant moment for Peter as he acknowledged the occasion and thanked the students for their support.

Following on from Mr Burton's retirement, is a pleasure to be able to formally announce the appointment of Mrs Sara Plunket to the position of Head of the Arts Faculty, commencing next year. Mrs Plunket has been a teacher of art at the College and has also had the role of Arts Co-ordinator within the College. We wish her success in her new appointment.

Today I attended the Gold Award presentation ceremony for the Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Awards. Head Girl, Sydney Telfer, was among the recipients presented with their award by Governor General Sir Jerry Mateparae. The Gold Award is a significant and as a school we are committed to this excellent program. Later this evening we will celebrate the achievement of our sporting winners at the Aoraki Sports Awards in Timaru. We congratulate all the nominees.

Finally this week, I would like to extend an invitation to our community to join us for our end of year Mass and Prizegiving on Monday evening commencing at 7pm.

Hei konā mai i roto i ngā mihi
Paul Olsen, Principal