Principal's Message
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Tēnā koutou St Ignatius community,
Returning to school after the Easter break was a time of sadness and also of joy, following the passing of Pope Francis and his funeral during the holidays and remembering his ministry over the past 12 years. Upon our return, the entire college community came together to honour his memory with a Mass and Rosary, praying for the repose of his soul. Our students showed deep reverence throughout, and it was a fitting tribute to a Pope who was, of course, also a Jesuit. Pope Francis has now joined the Communion of Saints in Heaven, and I am certain he is praying for us, just as we have prayed for him.
We are truly blessed to have lived during Pope Francis’s ministry. He reminded us that faith is not simply about rules or rituals; it is about relationships. A living, breathing relationship with Jesus, and through Jesus, with one another. He did not speak to us as a distant authority, but as a fellow pilgrim on the journey of faith, sharing in all the ups and downs life brings. He urged us to open our eyes to the world around us, and in doing so, to find God.
Pope Francis called on us time and again to see Christ in the poor, the outsider, and in the face of our neighbour. He challenged us to discover God not only within the walls of our churches but everywhere; in the ordinary and the extraordinary, in our relationships, in silence, in noise, in the Earth beneath our feet. More than anything, he invited us to live in such a way that, when Christ looks at our lives, He sees not just belief, but faith expressed through action.
During Monday’s Mass, I encouraged our students to honour Pope Francis’s legacy by putting their own faith into action by being courageous in faith and generous in love. To choose compassion over conflict. To seek Christ not only in moments of peace but also in moments of difficulty. To remember that holiness is not distant; it is found right here; in the way we treat others, in how we forgive, how we listen, and how we live.
In doing so, we allow Christ to know us fully. We come to recognise Christ in the hearts of others, and we allow others to see Christ in our own hearts; through our words, our actions, and our love. This is how we make a difference in the world: by sharing the love of God. By finding God in all things.
Inveniens Deum in omnibus.
Dean Wearmouth |
As a college, we have been reflecting on his legacy of the Pope and as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the Argentinian Jesuit and eventual Archbishop of Buenos Aires. Below are some reflections from our students on the legacy they feel Pope Francis has left for them personally and on the Church:
“What I admired most about Pope Francis’ life is how he made everyone feel equal. Though the title of the Pope is the top in the church hierarchy, his humility showed us that we are all human with emotions just like him, no matter our status or title in society.”
“I think Pope Francis will be remembered for being open and accessible to the public. I think he will also be remembered for being funny even in times of pain.”
“I admire how he spoke from his heart in all his speeches. I think this because he didn’t lie and tell people what they want to hear, he spoke what he thought was right.”
“He will be remembered for his leadership and commitment he had to others.”
“I think Pope Francis is going to be remembered by his love, joy and how different he was to other Popes. This is because he demonstrated this by always being loving towards others.”
Pope Francis will always have a special place for us as a college as he was the first Jesuit to become Pope. There is much for us to be grateful for during his time as the leader of the Church. So this week, while it can be easy to get caught up in the discussion and speculation of who will be the next pope with the upcoming conclave, make sure you spend some time reflecting on the life and legacy of Pope Francis. A man who, 12 years ago, the Holy Spirit chose to lead the Catholic Church, and whose influence will be felt for many years to come.
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Mass and Rosary for Pope Francis
During his Homily on Monday Fr Michael spoke about the times he met Pope Francis, and how we continue on the Pope's work. This work of kindness, inclusion, and finding God in all things that was key to Pope Francis during his time, and as the first Jesuit Pope, and first Pope from the Southern Hemisphere, Pope Francis holds special significance for our college. After Mass had concluded the whole school said a Rosary for the Life of Pope Francis.
Photographs from this event are available on our website, or via the News link at the bottom of this Newsletter.   |
Sport
We begin Term 2 by launching straight into the winter sports season. We look forward to seeing our ākonga in action, using their God-given talents on and off the field.
This season, we continue to emphasise the importance of positive sideline behaviour, with all teams receiving the Sport Code of Conduct as a reminder of the values we uphold as a school community.
Let’s come together to celebrate the success, growth, and achievements of our ākonga as they represent our school with pride.
Orienteering
During the final weekend of the school holidays we had a team of Orienteering students attend the North Island Secondary Schools Champs.
Day 1
The wild weather held off for the afternoon as our team including four students making this their debut event arrived at Wesley College ready to take on the weekend. There were a total of 382 students across all the age groups making this the biggest event we’ve attended.
In the ‘Sprint’ event around the school students covered around 1.8 - 2.3k’s.
Day 2 & 3 were held at Muirs Farm, out Otaua. The second day was the ‘long’ event, distances covered around 3ks over hilly farmland, including some hills that required students getting down on their hands and knees to climb up.
Special mention to Saskia for taking out 3rd in the Intermediate girls standard category.
The third day brought the wild weather and the relay event. Students face wild winds & relentless rain while learning the rules of the relay. The second and third runners had to wait in a holding area as the first runner set off.
Toughing it out was definitely worth it as the year 7 & 8 girls teams, Clara, Sian & Emma came 4th and our debut team of Bella, Azariah & Poppy came 8th.
The junior boys also came 8th.
Year 7&8 Girls
Sian Balle
Clara Wielenga
Debut students
Emma Wattanapradit
Azariah Stobart
Bella Harman
Poppy Illston
Junior Boys
Nacho Esquivel Garcia
Drew Liefting
Kees Smith
Max Ovington
Intermediate girls
Saskia Balle
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Auckland Secondary Schools Triathlon
On Thursday the first of May, seven brave students battled the stormy weather to compete in the College Sport triathlon held at point England in Auckland.
We had two teams and one individual competing. The under-sixteen girls team was led by Eva Coe in the 500m swim, who made a strong transition to Saskia Balle for the 16km bike ride around the point. Finishing off the race was Annabelle Shields with a 4km run. The girls claimed first place in the open bike category.
The under 14 boys teams was quickly led out by Jacob Ennor with a speedy 250m swim, quickly passing on the reigns to Jack Bethel as he powered through the 8k bike and finishing the race was a determined George Moody with a 3k run, ultimately taking out second place in the under 14 boys open bike category.
We only had one individual competing today and that was the incredible Kaeleb Alison. Kaeleb tackled the whole triathlon by himself with the support of his team taking out an amazing seventh place in a hotly contested junior boys field of 21.
Great job to all of our amazing athletes who represented St Ignatius so well. The next event coming up is the Duathlon at the end of the month, 29th May.
With such great results at the Triathlon this week we encourage everyone able to come along and compete in the Duathlon either in a team of two or individually to represent St Ignatius with pride.
Please forward your interest to Miss Knight by Friday 9th May.
We hope to see you all there!!!
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Clay Target Shooting
On Wednesday evening we had Gabe Richardson, Bryn Mair & Elysia Rollo attend the club practice, as we are a new and developing team students have been very patiently waiting for their chance to get some action.
The team is targeting their next practice for Saturday 17th of May.
If you are interested in joining or want to go for a look to see what is involved please contact Miss Knight, the aim for this year is to develop our students to start competition next year as shooting is a fine skill that needs to be taught & developed.
Upcoming events
Tuesday 6th May
Counties Secondary Schools Swimming Championships
We will be represented by,
Paikea Maihi, Annabelle Shields, Elysia Rollo, Eva Coe, Kaeleb Allison & Jacob Ennor
Auckland Secondary Schools Orienteering Relay Championships
We will be represented by,
Drew Liefting, Kees Smith, Max Ovington, Sian Balle, Clara Wielenga, Emma Wattanapradit, Azariah Stobart, Poppy Illston, Sophie Clark, Saskia Balle.
Thursday 8th May
Franklin zone school orienteering championship 2025 (Year 7 & 8)
We do require one more parent to help with transport, please contact Theresa Knight if you can assist.
Tuesday 20th May
Franklin Zone Year 7&8 Football Tournament
Trails were held at lunch times this week, teams will be announced on Google classroom
Practices will continue during weeks 2 & 3, Tuesday & Thursday lunch times.
We are looking for a minimum of 4 parents to assist with managing teams on the day, please contact Theresa Knight
School Cross Country
This will take place in week 4 this term and will be held at the school.
Students will practice during PE classes over the next few weeks.
Top 8 U14 & U16 Boys and Girls will be considered for selection for Auckland Secondary Schools Cross Country Championships to be held on Wednesday 4th June at Barry Curtis Park.
Top 8 Year 7s & 8s will be considered for representing the school at Franklin Group day.
Draws and Training
Netball
Bruce Pulman Arena
Wednesday 7th May
4.10pm
Ignite vs ACG Strathallan, Court 16
Flames vs Kauri Flats School, Court 22
Magis vs Onewhero Area School, Court 1
Loyola vs Pukekohe High, Court 14
5.10pm
Gold vs Tangaroa College, Court 9
Red vs Alfriston College, Court 10
Basketball -
Franklin Basketball
Franklin Pool & Leisure
Thursday 8th May
4.50pm
Saint vs Tuakau College, Court 3 (Badminton court)
Magis Knights & Magis Squires
CBL & College Sport
Draws TBC
Hockey - Fast 5s
Location: Rosa Birch Park, Field 1
Tuesday 6th May
4.30pm
St Ignatius mixed
Teams weekly training schedule can be view here
 Ākonga Elective
Young Vinnies
On Sunday our four Young Vinnies leaders — Arjun Bal, Ignatious Noue, Annabelle Shields, and Simone Paterson — were commissioned by Bishop Steve Lowe at the annual commissioning Mass at St Patrick's Cathedral. It was a moving liturgy, with Bishop Steve beautifully weaving together the mission of Young Vinnies and the late Pope Francis’ legacy of service to those in need. Our leaders represented our college with pride, performing a waiata alongside the other 15 secondary school leaders from across Auckland. They also took part in a haka performed in honour of Pope Francis.
 Songwriting Elective
This term in our Song Writing Elective, ākonga have started to write a song after having spent some time breaking songs apart to find out how they are created, both musically and lyrically. But focusing on these two elements, music and lyrics, students have tried working on developing a story or theme, either using the lyrics to guide them, or through the music directing them to write about how it makes them feel. We spent time hearing artists speak about their own writing styles.
As a songwriter myself, I was able to play some examples of pieces of music I had written while studying at university. This term, students are putting into practice and experimenting with what writing styles seem to work best with them. We will have an opportunity for those who have completed songs to get them recorded in our new school studio setup later this year.
- Mr Ruegg  Ākonga Acheivement
National Mission Box Art Competition
Congratulations to Jamie Barillas and Monoka Laga'aia, who have been acknowledged by Fr Michael Pui, the National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies, for their entry into the Design Mission Box Contest 2025.
Jamie won the Secondary School section, and Monoka was a notable entry. They were both awarded cash prizes, which they both chose to donate to charity. Well done, Jamie and Manoka.  Rowing
This past year has been an incredible journey for our novice rowers, Quinn Robinson and Aidan Tod, and coxswain Emily Tod. From early mornings and fun afternoons on the water after school, to intensive training camps, they have all shown dedication, discipline, and a passion for rowing. They’ve developed new skills, and built lasting friendships along the way.
Their commitment to teamwork, and pushing through challenges has laid a strong foundation for future success and is just the beginning of an exciting rowing journey.
Finally, special mention and congratulations to Emily who has been named Coxswain of the Year for the Mercer Rowing Club’s 2024/25 season! Coaches praised Emily for showing incredible maturity beyond her years, confidently leading and inspiring older crews to achieve some outstanding results on the water. What an amazing achievement, Emily!
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Reminder: Year 7 & 8 Immunisations Tuesday May 6
A reminder to whānau that Year 7 and 8 immunisations are scheduled for next week. Please take a moment to talk with your child/ren to help them feel prepared and ease any anxieties they may have.
If you haven’t yet returned the consent form, please do so as soon as possible via Student Reception.
Thank you for your support. Book Character Week is Back – Bigger and Better!
Following the huge success of last year’s Book Character Parade, St Ignatius is excited to announce that it’s back and better than ever for 2025! This year we’ve added exciting new categories alongside Best Dressed Individual (for Years 7, 8, 9 and 10) and Best Dressed Teacher – there’s now also Best Dressed Duo and Best Dressed Group (up to 4 people). Plus, with house points and epic prizes up for grabs, the stakes are even higher, including the hotly contested Best Dressed House – so don’t let your house down! While we encourage everyone to get involved, remember: your costume must be a book character to be eligible to win. Book Week will take place in Week 6 of this term, so start planning your outfits now! Further details coming soon. Welcome to our new School Counsellor - Jo Mcgrath  | | I love being with young people as I used to be a youth worker. While I was doing that, I felt God calling me to train as a counsellor. I love helping students and adults. I used to offer counselling and student support at Manukau Institute of Technology with students who were struggling with their studies because of something personal happening in their life. I am really looking forward to continuing to do this here at St Ignatius of Loyola. |
As a Counsellor I like to help students who might be struggling. Maybe they have a big change in their life, they are unhappy about something, struggling with anxiety, stress or their mood, or maybe just need someone to talk to. I will be available Tuesday to Thursday.
One of the things I am looking forward to at St Ignatius is getting to know everyone, and finding out what makes our school so special. Already I have noticed the kindness of everyone, and seen the amazing art work in the house areas.
One of the things I look forward to learning in my first year is how St Ignatius has given us a way of living and following Jesus. I am also looking forward to seeing the school grow and flourish.
I have been asked to provide a hidden talent. I love to bake large quantities of biscuits like afghans, ginger crunch, shortbread and other yummy things, and then surprise my friends with a package. It usually makes their day, and it's a fun reason to catch
Making an appointment with the Counsellor
Ākonga/students can reach out to the counsellor to make an appointment by emailing [email protected].
Manutaki/Year Level Deans may also make referrals to the counsellor.
Parents/caregivers are also able to use the above email address if they would like to make a referral for their child or ask any questions about counselling.
 Magis Pathways | Careers for Year 10
At St Ignatius of Loyola Catholic College, we believe in nurturing not only academic excellence but also in supporting each ākonga’s unique vocational journey. This term, our Year 10 ākonga have taken their first formal steps into future planning through the Magis Pathways | Careers programme.
The journey began with an introduction to our dedicated Careers Google Classroom, where students were guided to join the national careers platform https://tahatu.govt.nz/ using their school email accounts. This powerful online tool supports students to explore their strengths, interests, and aspirations as they begin building their own personalised Careers Kete. This kete will be an evolving record of their ideas, reflections, and pathways as they progress through the senior school.
Over the coming weeks, ākonga will continue working on their Career Kete during allocated sessions, guided by their teachers and supported by resources designed to inspire and inform. This process is grounded in our commitment to forming young people of conscience, competence, compassion, and commitment, who are prepared to make thoughtful and informed decisions about their futures.
We would especially like to highlight an important upcoming event:
Combined Parent & NCEA Information Evening | Career Sessions for Ākonga
Venue: La Storta
Time: 5:15pm — NZQA | NCEA | University Talk
Date: Tuesday 27 May 2025
This evening will offer valuable insight for families about the NCEA qualification system, university pathways, and how to best support our young people through these next steps.
In addition, our ākonga will have the opportunity to book into short, informative career sessions using the College’s School Interview Booking system. These sessions, hosted by parent volunteers from a range of industries, will give students a first-hand look into different jobs, careers, and vocations — helping them to see the many possibilities that lie ahead. Initial subject selection for 2026 will occur shortly after.
Careers Sessions will be bookable from next week.
We warmly encourage families to attend the Information Evening and to support their child in making the most of the opportunities offered through Magis Pathways | Careers. The journey has just begun — and it promises to be inspiring.
Literacy and Numeracy Co-requisites Update
As part of the NCEA qualification requirements, all Year 10 ākonga at St Ignatius of Loyola Catholic College will be sitting their Literacy and Numeracy Co-requisite Assessments in Week 4 of this term.
These assessments are a vital step in supporting our ākonga toward their future NCEA success. They assess key foundational skills in Reading, Writing, and Numeracy that are essential for all pathways.
Assessment Schedule – Week 4 (Morning Sessions Only):
Reading: Wednesday 21st May
(This day includes an NZQA monitoring visit to review our procedures)
Writing: Thursday 22nd May
Numeracy: Friday 23rd May
Each assessment is conducted online and will take place in the morning.
Important Information: All ākonga must have:
Created and verified their own NZQA login
Confirmed that their login details are working
Followed the guidance provided here at College for accessing the NZQA platform
These steps are crucial to ensure there are no delays or technical issues on the day of the assessments.
Our teaching staff have been preparing students through in-class practice, familiarisation with the digital platform, and targeted skill-building. We are proud of the focus and effort ākonga have already shown.
We encourage families to:
Ensure your child arrives on time and well-rested each morning
Talk with them about the importance of these assessments
Reach out to us if there are any concerns or issues with NZQA access
We thank you for your continued support as we guide each student on their NCEA journey.
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Host Families Needed – Welcome Our Japanese Visitors!
We are thrilled to announce that St Ignatius will be welcoming 40 Japanese students from Tokyo City Boys this August! We are seeking caring and welcoming families to provide homestays for thest students during their two week visit. Hosting is a wonderful and rewarding opportunity to share your family's hospitality, learn about Japanese culture, and build international friendships. The visiting students are polite, sociable, and eager to experience Kiwi life. If you are interested in opening your home, or would like more information, please contact Mrs Bridget Hartland at [email protected] |
Samoan Language Week family meeting
This year Samoan Language week will be celebrated during Week 5 Term 2 (May 26 - June 1). We are looking forward to celebrating and promoting Samoan language and culture in our community during this week. The 2025 theme for Samoa Language Week is ‘Ia malu lou sā. Folau i lagimā – A well-grounded self, is a successful self’.
To help us in our planning for this celebration we would like to invite our Samoan families to attend a meeting on Wednesday May 30 at 5:30 - 6:30pm in the Magis Centre. To confirm your attendance please complete the following form: Samoan Language Week Family Meeting
Winter Uniform Term 2 and 3
Please note our Junior Winter Uniform requirements for Term 2 and 3:
- All ākonga/students will wear St Ignatius long sleeved white shirt or St
Ignatius short sleeved white shirt
- All ākonga/students will wear the school tie
- All ākonga/students will wear the school blazer
- All ākonga/students may wear a school jumper
- Female ākonga/students wear a skirt or trouser options and black tights
- Male ākonga/students wear shorts and knee high school socks.  |
Ugly Shakespeare Show La Storta - Monday May 5th
Loving for Life Year 10 - Tuesday to Friday May 6th to 9th
Sign Language Week - Tuesday to Sunday May 6th to 12th
Auckland Orienteering Champs - Tuesday 6th May
Year 7 and 8 Immunisations - Tuesday 6th May
FOSI Quiz Night 7pm - Friday 9th May
Mother's Day Mass and Breakfast - Monday 12th May (see below)
Marian House Mass - Wednesday 14th May at 2:10pm
Reading Co-req: Wednesday 21st May
Writing Co-req: Thursday 22nd May
Numeracy Co-req: Friday 23rd May
Combined Parent & NCEA Information Evening | Career Sessions for Ākonga - Tuesday 27 May 2025 5:15pm in La Storta
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Mother's Day Mass and Breakfast
On Monday, May 12th, we invite all mothers and mother figures to accompany their child or children for a Mother's Day Mass in the Companions of Jesus Chapel at 7:30 a.m., this will be followed by breakfast. Tickets are $10 per person and are available on the college website (https://www.ignatius.school.nz/etickets). Spaces are limited and are on a first-come, first-served basis.
 Marian House Mass
The college warmly invites all parents and caregivers of ākonga in Marian House to attend the Marian House Mass on Wednesday, 14th May at 2:10 pm in the Companions of Jesus Chapel. |
Quiz Night – Almost Sold Out!
Our Quiz Night on Friday 9 May is shaping up to be an incredible evening, with just a few tables still available! If you haven’t registered yet, hit the link – you won’t want to miss it: https://forms.gle/e4setWfoPQq6ZGJ86
Friday 2 May is the last day to register!
A huge shoutout to our amazing sponsors who help make nights like this possible:
- Totalspan Counties – proud sponsor of Clue HQ Quiz Master Tim Gregory for the evening.  - Tanja Dumper and Sun Lim from Harcourts Karaka – sponsors of our
exclusive VIP Table – a very special opportunity for one lucky team up for
grabs on the night!!  Felicity Blackmore from Bayleys and Punchbowl and Growers
Community Fund – sponsoring our delicious Food Stations.   On the night you can expect a licensed bar, a fantastic dinner, spot prizes and a heap of raffles – including a “Work-shout” Morning tea/Lunch generously donated by Rawsome Foods and a “Beginners Package” from Franklin County Archers.
Please support these incredible businesses in our school community:  More of our great sponsors and prizes to be listed in the newsletter next week!
Gather your team, bring your best brainpower and come support this awesome
community event! |
Mass for the Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis
On Monday we gathered together for a full school Mass for the Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis. | |  |
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