Comments from the Principal T2 WK 9

​Kia ora tatou

Eisteddfod 2019 will be a great memory for many. The quality of performances was exciting and the talents on display by so many of our young people were quite special. Well done to all who put themselves out of their comfort zone to perform in front of large audiences. I also must acknowledge the student audiences in every venue, for their respectful participation and encouragement of others, which allowed students to feel safe in performing in front of their peers.

At Mass on Friday, we welcomed in the korowai gifted to our Kapahaka group by the people of the Whanganui River and Hiruharama (Jerusalem). This cloak has a double woven band that signifies the connection made between the Whiritaunoka Marae of the Te Atihaunui iwi, and Hato Petera (St Peter’s College), reflecting the similarity between the two rivers that flow through both towns. It is certainly a very special taonga (treasure) for our college.

We were pleased to be able to present Mr Tony Hanning with a gift today on behalf of the St Peter’s College community. Tony has been the Director of the Dunedin Diocesan Catholic Education Office for many years and has contributed to Catholic education for the past 60 years. Although one of Tony’s last duties will be officiating at the Bishop’s Shield Competition at Verdon College in August, we took this opportunity as a whole school community to farewell him today. Thank you, Tony, for all the support you have given St Peter’s over many years.

I wish to take this opportunity to thank the group of staff, able led by Mrs Anne Perniskie, who organised the meal and house decorations in the Rosmini House Dining Room for our student and staff lunch today, to celebrate our first 50 years as a college.  We were fortunate to have Jude Taylor helping with the food preparation – thanks Jude.  Watch out for the photos next week in the newsletter.

Make sure you are coming along to the Art Expo this Saturday night at the Town and Country Club. There will be something for everyone, from some significant pieces of art from well known artists, through to student photography and celebrity auction pieces. We feel very excited by the quality of art that will be on display for sale.
Have a great weekend and see you tomorrow night!

Kate Nicholson 
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