A Message from our Principal

It is just over one month until Christmas! I want to take a moment here to reflect on the season of Advent, the season of the Church that will begin next Sunday.

Advent is a time of waiting. It is a time of reflection. It is a time of preparation.

In our fast-paced, ‘instant’ world, these practices can feel unfamiliar. Advent invites us to slow down. As the busyness of the season builds and our to-do lists grow, Advent reminds us of what truly matters. The four candles of the Advent wreath—Hope, Love, Joy, and Peace—offer a powerful focus. If waiting for the celebration of Christ’s birth helps us live out these values more intentionally, then it is time well spent.

I want to acknowledge our hardworking staff. There is a real sense of momentum as we look ahead to 2026 and, of course, we are all aware of the curriculum changes that will need to be considered within programme planning for next year and beyond. We know that what is still important in the classroom is strong teacher practice and strong relationships – both are the how of our everyday work. The what may change (meaning the curriculum and assessment expectations from the government) but our why remains steadfast “ … to promote excellence in learning and teaching in a climate of faith and pastoral care”.

A big thank you to the staff who are currently supporting our Year 8 students on camp this week. Next week, our Year 10 students will head off to their own camps, with groups heading to different venues across the South Island. These experiences are always a highlight of the year, and we’re grateful to everyone involved in making them possible.

As we move into the final two weeks of term, we hold in our hearts those in our community who have experienced loss or illness recently. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Loving God,
Help us to be instruments of your light and love
by showing kindness
and being your special instrument
of reconciliation this Advent.

May the Candles of Advent symbolize
our desire to bring light and hope into a world of darkness.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.