Principals Comments 8.7.22

Kia ora e te whanau

Following in the footsteps of St Peter after whom our college is named, we are encouraged to be humble. The Feast of St Peter was celebrated on Wednesday 29 June, and it is essential that we take time to reflect on his life and honour his martyrdom. St Peter was leader of the Apostles and first Bishop of Rome (Pope). According to the Gospel, a fisherman known as Simon was called to follow Jesus, who gave him the name Peter and declared him "The rock upon which I will found my Church." Though Peter was his closest disciple, Christ prophesized his betrayal. Following the Resurrection, Peter preached extensively and became the first leader of the Church in Rome. He was martyred by Emperor Nero, reportedly asking to be crucified upside-down, for he was not worthy to die in the manner of his Saviour. We are called to follow in St Peter’s footsteps by never giving up on our faith despite all the many mistakes we may make along our journey. Coming together as a whole school for Mass this week to celebrate this feast day after many months of restrictions was a very special way to move forward.

On this last day of term two, we need to take the time to think about all that we have achieved despite the waves of COVID and winter illnesses. Our school, though it needed to roster at times, stayed open through many staffing challenges. I have witnessed many parents and teachers focus on reengaging students and supporting wellbeing. Teachers have been assessing where learning is at and just picking up from whatever place students are up to despite their absences. We have endeavoured to maintain school trips, assemblies, sports events and community events. The way so many of our schools recently celebrated the Matariki festival with students and families was truly inspirational. As we wind down for the holidays it is a timely reminder for all of our students to relax and rejuvenate themselves as we take on the second half of the academic year. There are innumerable events and occasions ahead of us and we look forward to our young people continuing to engage and enjoy what the school year has to offer.

We take this opportunity to thank all our parents and the wider community for their continued support and involvement in the life of our students at the college. Your support on the side-lines of sporting codes has not gone unnoticed, and on behalf of our young people, we sincerely thank each of you for all you do. We also thank all academic and sporting volunteers who give so much of their time and energy and make a huge difference in the lives of all of us.

Tara Quinney,
Principal