Introducing Regan George- New Groundsman/Assistant Property Manager

Introducing Regan George, our new Groundsman/Assistant Property Manager.

Regan is a past pupil, and attended the College between 1997-2001. A keen sportsman, Regan has played club rugby in Oamaru, has represented North Otago in cricket and has also played cricket overseas in Holland. He is also a keen golfer.

Regan comes to us with a wealth of experience in the building and construction industry and combined with his passion for sport will go a long way in helping keep our sportsgrounds in tip top shape!

Welcome Regan!

NCEA Art Teaching Cover Required

St Kevin's College is looking for a suitably qualified teacher to cover the last four weeks of this term teaching NCEA Art.

We are specifically looking for a person who understands how NCEA works and has an understanding of painting and drawing.

If you feel you could help, please contact the school on 03 4371665.

Job Vacancy- Groundskeeper/Assistant Property Manager

We are seeking a self-motivated Groundskeeper/Assistant Property Manager to take care of our park like grounds and assist our Property Manager with building repairs and maintenance.

You must be reliable, have good time management skills and the flexibility to work alongside staff and pupils in a busy School and Hostel environment.

This is a permanent full-time position, 40 hours per week 52 weeks per year. Accommodation may be available to the successful applicant.

If this sounds like you then please complete the Non Teaching Generic Job Application Form on the College website https://www.stkevins.school.nz/vacancies and forward to:

Colleen Rusbatch, Executive Officer, crusbatch@stkevins.school.nz

Applications close 5pm Friday 19th June 2020.

Staff Profile- Mrs Rachel Fowler

Introducing Mrs Rachel Fowler! Rachel teaches Food & Nutrition and Religious Studies, and is also the 1st VII Netball Coach.

1. How long have you been at SKC?

I've been here teaching 10 years.

2. Where were you and what were you doing before coming to SKC?

Teaching at Marian College and Christchurch Boys High School in between having the children.

3. If you could invite any 3 people to a dinner party who would you invite and why?

Lois Muir she is someone who I watched coach as I grew up and have admired.

Bernice Mene - I went to school with Bernice and played with her at school, however I have not seen her for about 20 years and would love to talk to her about her experience in the Silver Ferns and also see what she is up to now.

Jamie Oliver - I love his cooking style and also love that he has spent lot of time in America helping with nutrition in schools.

4. What do you do outside of teaching?

Spend time watching my wonderful 4 children play sport and running around after them and my husband. I coach the Senior A netball team which I love, I also umpire senior netball and I love spending time walking our dogs and going to the gym.

5. What's your greatest sporting achievement?

My greatest playing achievement is being part of the team that won SISS when I was at high school, and my greatest coaching achievement was at SISS last year, seeing the huge improvement the girls made from the start of the week to the finish, finishing the last quarter of the last game 12-6 against Colomba to come 10th overall.

6. If you could have one super power what would it be?

Time travel - I would like to be able to go back in time to watch more netball.

Rachel and Justin have just become grandparents to 11 golden retriever puppies! Check out their Lucy below with her brood.

Staff Profile- Mr Ben Rawson

Introducing Mr Ben Rawson! Ben teaches PE, English, Maths, and is the Year 13 Dean. He is also the Manager of the 1st XV Rugby Team.

1. How long have you been at SKC?

I arrived in 2016. Was just meant to do some relieving as my younger brother and sister were both here but liked the place so stuck around with a few hiatuses here and there.

2. Where were you and what were you doing before coming to SKC?

I had just come back from being overseas. I went and did Camp America in USA (obviously), and then did 2 years teaching in the UK. I do love to travel so was ticking off some countries.

3. If you could invite any 3 people to a dinner party who would you invite and why?

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Lebron James, and then my dinner would just be popcorn as I watch them argue over GOAT status.

4. What do you do outside of teaching?

I enjoy (yes you read it right) working at the hostel but like to go driving and explore different scenic places. Still got plenty of places locally and internationally left to tick off my travel list.

5. If you could have one super power what would it be?

Probably teleportation. Not only would it allow me to travel easily but also see my friends around the world. Check out the 2008 movie Jumper to see what I mean.

Staff Profile- Ms Jo Walshe

Introducing Ms Jo Walshe!

Jo is our Assistant Principal and also teaches Art and Drama.

1. How long have you been at SKC?

I was here for 7 years way back when, and in this, my second time around I have been here 7 years again this time.

2. Where were you and what were you doing before coming to SKC?

I was working at Waitaki Boys High School teaching English and before that I was at Waimate High School as Head of English there.

3. If you could invite any 3 people to a dinner party who would you invite and why?

Mikhail Gorbachev - former Russian President because he was in charge of Russia during the transition from the USSR and what it is today and he would be fascinating. Craig Mawson will be pleased to know I used to have a picture of him on my wardrobe door when I was a teenager .

Robert Smith from The Cure - because I love their music and I love his poetic lyrics, and I will be a Cure fan until I die.

Jacinda Ardern - because she probably needs a break right now and my husband cooks a mean curry.

4. What do you do outside of teaching?

I am so boring. I love working in my garden, looking after my chooks and my aviary birds. I also spend a lot of time running around after my family and I LOVE LOVE LOVE reading. I read about three novels a week.

5. If you could have one super power what would it be?

I think flying would be really cool but then I think, I'm so lazy about running when I have two good legs, so I suspect I may just sit on the couch watching Grand Designs and my wings would be a waste of time. Also, being a chicken owner, I'd worry about getting red mite in my feathers.

At this point healing would come in pretty handy!

Staff Profile- Justin Fowler

Introducing Mr Justin Fowler! Justin is the Director of Boarding, teaches Junior PE, is the 1st XV Rugby Coach and the 2nd XI Cricket Player/Coach.

1. How long have you been at SKC?

I am into my 10th year now

2. Where were you and what were you doing before coming to SKC?

Before coming to St Kevin's I was living in Christchurch and teaching

3. If you could invite any 3 people to a dinner party who would you invite and why?

Donald Trump - I would like to take the opportunity to give him some advice.

Marcus Tullius Cicero - He was a Roman orator, lawyer and politician who lived in the 1st century BC. Cicero stood up for what he believed and was able to argue his point effectively and often at great personal danger. Things went pretty well for him until he was murdered and had his body cut up on the orders of Mark Anthony. I admire his courage and determination. It would be good to have a chat with him.

Don Bradman - Regarded as the greatest batter in Test Cricket history. I would like to get some batting tips from him. I am keen to push for selection in the 1st XI. Currently, I need all the help I can get to impress the selector (Mr Smith).

4. What do you do outside of teaching?

I am pretty busy with Sport. I help organise junior cricket in North Otago. I play cricket and coach a rugby team here at school. I am also keen to help and support my own kids as much as I can. I have four children that play cricket and basketball, three of them also play rugby and one plays netball, my daughter is also getting more involved with horses at the moment. That keeps me pretty busy all year round. Not much time for too much else.

5. What's your greatest sporting achievement?

I played for a few junior rep rugby teams when I was growing up in Canterbury but my greatest sporting achievements would be in coaching. I was an assistant coach/manager of the CBHS 1st XV that won the national title in 2006 and SANIX world title that same year and another moment I am proud of was taking the St Kevin's 1st XV to the National co-ed schools Top 4 championship in 2014. That was a great result for a school our size and to lose the semifinal to a last-minute drop goal was hard to take.

I also take a great deal of satisfaction in seeing former students/players that I coach continue to play sport after they leave school. I like to think I have played a small part in them enjoying the sport enough that they want to continue playing at whatever level when they leave.

6. If you could have one super power what would it be?

The ability to hit a cricket ball to or over the boundary. For some reason, I have not been given that superpower, unlike a lot of other people around. Maybe it is still coming. I wait and hope.

Staff Profile- Mat Harris

Introducing Mr Mat Harris!

Mat is the school Guidance Councillor, teaches Junior Health and coordinates the school Duke of Edinbrugh programme. He is also the staff Water Boy for any sporting fixtures.

1. How long have you been at SKC?

I’ve been here since 2016 (with a year off in between).

2. Where were you and what were you doing before coming to SKC?

I was in Oamaru, pretty much always been here. I was a youth worker and also worked at another boarding school. I did some part-time lecturing and was also a cadet force officer. I originally wanted to be a pilot and started learning to fly about 10 years ago before changing my mind.

3. If you could invite any 3 people to a dinner party who would you invite and why?

I would invite Sir Edmund Hilary, sometimes the greatest leaders are those without position or power. A pioneer who dedicated his life selflessly to making the world a better place. He is an interesting and significant historical figure. I would also invite Bono. He’s an inspirational songwriter, storyteller and advocate. And finally, Sam Tatupu.

4. What do you do outside of teaching?

Not a lot. I’m studying part-time at university (again) in my spare time. I Like to get out tramping or ride my bike. I enjoy photography and sometimes operate a steam train. Also catching up with friends and family is important.

5. If you could have one superpower what would it be?

Be a Jedi.

Welcome to our New Gap Students

A big welcome to our Gap Students for 2020- Theresa (Germany), Duncan (South Africa), Michael (Zimbabwe), Mitchel (South Africa), Kaye (South Africa).

Welcome to the St Kevin's College family!

Farewell to Mr Russell Dixon

At the end of this term we farewell Mr Russell Dixon 😪. With Seniors off with school exams this week, the school performed a haka on Friday to honour and show their respect for a wonderful man who has been such a big part of College life through the years.

Mr Dixon has been associated with St Kevin’s College for 36 years in total. There were five years as a boarder and 31 years as a member of staff, Board of Trustees, and School Counsellor.

During his time at the College he crossed paths with many of the students as he coached rugby; ran the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme; organised most student charity collections locally, led the Spirit of Adventure Trust; helped Otago aspirants gain entry to the Residential Hall of their choice; coached boys and girls Softball; represented the staff on the Board of Trustees; as well as made himself available for every outdoor adventure, field trip, every retreat, and every initiative possible.

We wish Mr Dixon all the best in his future endeavors.

Staff vs Police Futsal Game

At the conclusion of the Turf Opening on Friday, we hosted a Staff vs Police Futsal game.

With a 2-2 draw at full time, the game went into extra time, to eventually be won by the Police through a (lucky) 'golden goal' by Senior Sergeant Jason McCoy.

Well done to both sides for a great game! We look forward to a rematch on the netball court next time!

Principal's Comment

Kia ora Kevinians and Supporters of the College

Today, it was tremendous to be able to welcome Anish back to school with his support person, Mr Stewart Graham.

On Thursday, a busy School Council met to consider plans for creating a more welcoming space in the College dining room. The partitioning of areas to make the hall a more friendly space will be coordinated by our Year 12 Carpentry class. This is an ideal project for the team under the supervision of their teacher Mr Ken McCallum. Below is a draft plan of developments.

Also today, the staff acknowledged the sterling work that Miss Becky Busfield has done this year in her role with communications. Our morning tea marked Becky's last day as she moves to a new role next week. I am pleased to announce that Mrs Melissa Smith will be extending into this role next Tuesday.

In conclusion, I want to draw your attention to an email to caregivers that the Board of Trustees has sent, detailing the planned PPTA follow-up action beginning on Tuesday with the rostering home of Year 9 students. As Principal, I hope that there will be a prompt resolution to the current impasse and that teaching and learning will not be impacted.

Manaaki te atua ia koutou

Ngā mihi nui
Paul Olsen, Tumuaki

Keep up to date with College news by visiting our News Blog >>

Principal's Comment

Kia ora Kevinians and Supporters of the College

Yesterday afternoon and last evening, we were honoured to show prospective students and whanau around the College. Despite the weather being chilly, we had an excellent turnout. Thank you to our student volunteers and staff who worked hard to allow our guests a glimpse of college life. Thanks to Mr Harris for his introduction and for supporting our student speakers.

Today we welcomed artist Ayisha Green to the College for the second of two collaborative workshops, with an emphasis on well-being. Once again thank you to Waitaki District Council's 'Creative Communities' for the funding to run these inspiring events.

Last weekend I had the pleasure of supporting both Netball and Rugby wins in the local competitions. Keep up this solid start to the competitive season.

Finally, I wanted to acknowledge the changes that have been foreshadowed for NCEA. The alteration with the most immediate impact is the scrapping of the $76.70 NCEA fee which comes into effect now. The other changes will be implemented over four years. The link to the full report can be found here >>. On my initial reading of the document, there are some sensible suggestions that will be implemented.

Manaaki te atua ia koutou

Ngā mihi nui
Paul Olsen, Tumuaki

Keep up to date with College news by visiting our News Blog >>

St Kevin's in Lockdown!

St Kevin's went into 'lockdown' yesterday, as our school took part in a large-scale emergency services exercise. Don't panic, it was all a drill! This was an important learning opportunity, not only for the emergency services, but for our school too, in how to respond effectively in an emergency situation.

Thank you to all teachers for making this exercise run so smoothly, to all emergency services involved, and of course to all students...We definitely have some future actors in the making!

If anyone needs support after this exercise, please contact your Dean and we can make suitable arrangements.

Keep up to date with College news by visiting our News Blog >>

Stronger Together!

Yesterday, Mr Mawson, Mr Haig and Mr Bristow headed to Dunedin for a Change Management Hui, for our Community of Learning (CoL). St Kevin's are members of the Whitestone CoL, along with its partner schools St Joseph's, Papakaio, and Weston. The Col aims to improve student achievement by working together, improving transitions from primary to secondary education, and sharing educational practices between schools.

The Hui provided professional development around managing change in the College, and improving teaching and learning for our ākonga. It was a valuable opportunity to network with educators from the Whitestone and other CoLs, and we thank our tremendous teachers for attending!



Keep up to date with College news by visiting our News Blog >>

Meet our Marvelous Matrons

Raelene and Lou, our Matrons for the girl's and boy's hostels, have been busy away planning something very exciting for our boarders! Starting this weekend the boarders will have a special dinner with their year group and family...a wonderful chance for everyone to get to know each other better, whilst enjoying some tasty food!

This weekend we look forward to hosting Year 9 and 10 whānau. Thank you marvelous Matrons!

Keep up to date with College news by visiting our News Blog >>

Staff Appointment

Congratulations to Mr Mathew Harris who has been appointed as the Teacher of Social Sciences, Religious Studies and Guidance and support for 2019. Mathew is a familiar face to many as he was the student advocate in 2016 -7. Mathew has been training in the Masters of Education programme with the Faculty of Education at Otago University. We warmly welcome Mathew to our Staff.

Exeat Weekend

A reminder that this weekend is our Exeat Weekend and school will be closed on Monday 3 September & Tuesday 4 September. The Hostel will also be closed from Friday, August 31 from 4:30pm and will open from 2pm on Tuesday, September 4. Have a restful long weekend!

SKC e-news Week 3

We have been experiencing some technical issues with delivery of the SKC e-news. For those who may have missed it, please find the latest newsletter below.

Welcome to your weekly e-news

Student-Lead Conferences are on Friday, August 17 from 12pm. These meetings are a fantastic opportunity for students, teachers and caregivers to reflect on students' studies and their academic and vocational goals. This session is particularly important in regards to selecting subjects for 2019.
Bookings are now open and can be arranged via by clicking here and entering your details. School will be closed for the day, though students are expected to come to school for their conference

Year 11, 12 and 13 students have now had the fee for NCEA added to their accounts in the Parent Portal. The domestic student fee for 2018 is $76.70 per student and this must be paid by 31 August. Applications for Financial Assistance have now closed. However. if you have any questions, please contact Mr Seddon on mseddon@stkevins.school.nz or via the school office.

A new, computer-generated text system has been implemented at Student Kevin's College to follow up on unexplained student absences. The system will generate a text to parents, informing them of the unexplained absence and requesting parents reply to the school by following the prompts.For added security, the text will come from an individual, one-off, randomised number that will only be available to reply to until the end of the current school day. It can not be used to report absences on any other day. Please continue to report absences by leaving a message on the absence phone line, submitting an absence report online via the website or emailing absences@stkevins.school.nz.

Student Led Conferences - August 17, 2018

Student-Lead Conferences are on Friday, August 17 from 12pm. These meetings are a fantastic opportunity for students, teachers and caregivers to reflect on students' studies and their academic and vocational goals. This session is particularly important in regards to selecting subjects for 2019.
Bookings are now open and can be arranged via by clicking here and entering your details. School will be closed for the day, though students are expected to come to school for their conference