News from Southland Boys' High School

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September Newsletter

From the Rector

 

Kia ora whānau and welcome to the end of the term and the start of the school holidays. To say that your sons have earned this holiday is an understatement. It has been an eventful, busy, and brilliant term.

The boys of this school have again proven that they are capable of collective brilliance when they put their minds to it. From culinary excellence at national championships, to sporting titles and accolades, we have had the chance to see amazing feats performed. 

 
 
From the Rector: Read on for the full message
 
 

New Associate Rector - Mr Leon Dunn

E tipu, e rea, mō ngā rā o tou ao; Ko tō ringa ki ngā rākau ā te Pākehā hei oranga mō tō tinana, Ko tō ngakau ki ngā taonga a o tūpuna Māori hei tikitiki mō tō mahuna, Ko to wairua ki te Atua, nāna nei ngā mea katoa i hanga.

It is with immense gratitude and excitement that I step into the role of Associate Rector at Southland Boys' High School, a place steeped in history, excellence, and tradition.

 

As I take on this new position, I am humbled by the responsibility to contribute further to the school’s rich legacy while helping shape the future of young men in our community.

For over a century, Southland Boys' High School has built a reputation for nurturing strong, capable, and responsible young men. Its culture of excellence in academics, sports, and personal development has set a high standard, making it one of the most respected boys' schools in New Zealand. I am honoured to be part of this institution, where education is not just about imparting knowledge but also about fostering character, resilience, and leadership.

Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to empowering students to reach their full potential, whether through academic pursuits or personal growth. This position will allow me to continue that work on a larger scale, collaborating with an exceptional faculty and staff to ensure every student receives the guidance and opportunities they deserve.

As Associate Rector, I look forward to working alongside the Rector, Ray Laurenson, the Board, and the entire school community to further the goals and mission of Southland Boys' High School. I believe that the success of any school lies in a collaborative approach, where teachers, parents, and students work together toward common objectives. My vision is to help foster an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and challenged to be their best selves.

One of my key focuses will be on student well-being, ensuring that every boy feels connected to the school and to each other. I am committed to creating an inclusive atmosphere that respects diversity and promotes mental, emotional, and social well-being, understanding that these are the foundations upon which academic and personal success are built.

Southland Boys' High School has always been future-focused, balancing tradition with innovation. In my role, I will work to uphold the school’s values while also embracing new opportunities for growth, whether through curriculum development, integrating technology, or enhancing extracurricular programs. I am eager to help equip our students with the skills and knowledge they will need in an ever-evolving world.

Finally, I want to extend my deepest thanks to the Southland Boys' High School Board of Trustees and Rector for granting me this opportunity into this position. I am inspired by the dedication of the staff, the enthusiasm of the students, and the unwavering support of the parents and community. Together, I believe we can continue to elevate the school’s standard of excellence and build a future that reflects the best of what Southland Boys' High School represents.

In closing, I am thrilled to embark on this new journey. I embrace the challenges ahead and am excited to work together with all members of the Southland Boys' High School family as we move forward. It is a true privilege to serve in this role, and I am eager to contribute my energy, passion, and experience to this extraordinary school.

 
 
 

Student Board Representative Elected

 

Congratulations to Levi Te Amo, our newly elected Student Board Representative. Levi takes office immediately for a one-year term.

Schools with students above Year 9 must have a student representative on the Board. Student representatives have equal standing, voice, accountabilities and voting rights as any other board member.

 
 
 
 

Academic Mentors

 

Congratulations to our first group of students who have been awarded their academic mentoring badges. 

Ajay Smith, Michael Crean, Tom Smith, Rory Coe, Hayden Millar, and Joshua Reynolds gave up their lunchtimes to tutor junior students sitting the ICAS exams this year, mentoring them through exam technique and content preparation. 

Academic mentors are available for peer tutoring every Tuesday and Thursday lunchtime in 47P, for anyone from Year 7 - 13 who requires help with homework, NCEA preparation or tutoring.

 
 
 

National Rugby Selection

 

Congratulations to Mika Muliaina, Thomas Jennings and Presley McHugh, as well as old boy Gregor Rutledge, who have been selected for New Zealand rugby teams.

Thomas was selected for the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ squad, and Mika, Presley and Gregor were selected for the New Zealand Barbarians U18 team.

Photo courtesy of Robyn Edie/Southland Times.

 
Article: Boys' High trio earn national rugby honours
 
 
 
 

Junior Production - Cast Announcement

This year's junior production is Aladdin! Held in conjunction with Southland Girls' High School, the show will run from 26 - 28 November. Thank you to everyone that auditioned, and congratulations to those who made the cast. 

 
 
 

Recent News

 

Cultural Competition 2024

The annual Cultural Competition had powerful performances from all five houses - with Grant the winners on the day.

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Gateway Graduates

An inspirational group of students have recently graduated from Gateway with a variety of qualifications.

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James McLeay - World U20 Athletics Championship

James McLeay travelled to Peru in August 2024 to compete in the World U20 Athletics Championships, and South Africa for the World Secondary School Cross Country Championships.

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Tournament Week 2024

A round up of tournament week 2024 - a week of challenges, achievements, and team spirit.

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