A Message from our Principal

This afternoon we are very pleased to hold the Formal Opening of the Pompallier Arts Block by Bishop Michael Dooley. The history of this fine old building is impressive and, whereas it spent a few years looking a little unloved and unkempt, it has now been beautifully restored with care and with a considerable nod to its history. At our opening this afternoon, I will take the opportunity to thank the architect, Matt Mitchell and McCoy Wixon Architects, and Stewart Construction who have created this marvelous space. I will also acknowledge the Diocese, for having the confidence in our college and the foresight to firstly purchase this building in 2010 and then invest in its refurbishment over the last two years. I am also very grateful to our Property Manager, Iain Davis, and Business Manager, Brendan Jarvie, who both smoothly project managed the interface between the architect team, construction team and the Diocesan Property Team, to ensure that everyone was aware of our needs and practical considerations during the process.

You may have seen the features page write up about our heritage building in the Otago Daily Times, September 13 edition. Our Pompallier Arts Block began its life as the Dunedin School of Art, and artists such as Colin McCahon, Toss Woollaston, and Doris Lusk, developed their craft within this building which opened in 1937. What a privilege to return this building to its original purpose and, in doing so, create inspiration for our young visual and performing artists.

Last week, I attended our two Polyfest performances at the Edgar Centre. It was exciting that we now have two standalone cultural groups – Te Whetū Tīrama and Tangata Moana – with strong numbers and a strong sense of identity and belonging. Thank you to Moananu Pesamino Tili, Amelia Bresanello, Storm Ma’ole, and Jane de Graaf, along with our teacher on practicum, Michael Kelemete, and to all the tutors and supporters from our Trinity whānau. The performances were polished and very moving, and were a huge credit to all involved. Tino pai! I was very proud to be part of the audience representing Trinity. Well done to Kaine Werahiko and Maka Laufiso who lived out our value of service working at Polyfest for the week.

Weeks are running out for our year 11-13 students before they begin NCEA external exams on November 5. Our seniors are back at school today after a week of practice exams, and their teachers will be giving valuable feedback and feed-forward over the coming week about their performance. The holidays are an important time to rest and recharge, ready for the final push towards exams, ceremonies and the end of the year, but the holidays are also an opportune time to study, plan and prepare for their upcoming exams and final internal assessment requirements at the start of term four. Please encourage your young people at home to use this flexible holiday time wisely – they will benefit in the long run!

Ngā mihi,

Kate Nicholson

Principal