Principal's Message

The term is back in full swing and students and staff who I have talked to seemed to have had a good break. 

Once again Term 2 promises to be full with a number of activities on the horizon as well as making sure we are well prepared for winters challenges. 

On ANZAC day Kavanagh was well represented by our Head Students at the dawn ceremony. It is always a moving and solemn occasion and it was a pleasure to attend with our fine young people. 

The other highly notable event was the ordination of Bishop Michael which was a tremendous occasion. My thanks also to Kavanagh students who played key roles throughout the episcopal ordination service as well as assisting as ushers and general organising duties. 

The College also played host on Friday after the Cathedral investiture as a large number of people mixed and mingled in the Christian Brothers Gym hall for morning tea. It was great to see so many people from across Otago and Southland as well as dignitaries and clergy from all over the country. Many were very interested in Kavanagh and the general heart, health, and well-being of the College.

Currently, the focus is on settling students back to school routines. We continue to make a major push with uniform and I remind parents that for winter dress codes either blazers or the official Kavanagh dark blue jacket must now be worn. If the uniform requirement is unable to be met, please ensure your child has a note. Coloured jackets are not permissible. The Bursar's office also has Kavanagh beanies available at $20 each. Now that winter is approaching I also remind the community to keep extra safe around the school and out on the roads.

This year's production, Beauty and the Beast, is in full swing and promises to be a great performance. 

Winter sports are also underway. Thanks to staff, students and parents for their efforts in coaching and preparing teams. On that note, in terms of rugby, an article in the ODT recently made a comment that in co-ed school's rugby is virtually non-existent. As we were mentioned by name, along with other local schools, I have responded in kind to the author of said article. Whilst he was making a wider point about the general state of rugby here and nationally it was clearly a false statement. Currently, our First XV are ready for their season after putting in a ton of early season work and take on Kings High 2nd XV on Saturday. We also have an Under 15 team, Year 8/Intermediate team along with two girls teams who are going from strength to strength. We are fighting hard to maintain our rugby presence and will continue to do so. Anyway probably enough said here but I felt compelled to set the record straight. Good luck to all of our winter codes-GO Kav!

Best wishes to all for a fantastic term ahead. Ngā mihi nui.