Tena Koutou Katoa Term three has started in a very positive manner and there is a very focused and positive vibe amongst the students particularly the seniors as they begin to focus on their final preparation for examinations. It is an important term for senior students and the work that they achieve in this term will solidify the foundation of their knowledge and ensure their success in external examinations. It continues to be extremely important that all senior students are focused on achieving to the highest level in every standard that they are assessed for so that they are achieving success in NCEA and so that they meet the prerequisite for subjects in the following year. Senior students travelled to Gore for the Catholic Secondary Schools Tournament on Wednesday 3 August. This was a fabulous event and to see around 500 students from the four secondary schools of the Diocese together was a great sight. The camaraderie of this event truly displayed the special character and nature of the schools. While there is a competitive edge to the competition the family bond between the schools comes to the fore at this event. I was also struck by the high level of competition. While we did not repeat the level of success that we achieved in the junior tournament our teams competed very well in all sporting areas. I would like to acknowledge and welcome back Jessica van Rossum who has returned to us after her time away at the World Junior Rowing Championships. Jessica has represented New Zealand and Verdon so very well We congratulate her on her success. Our recent Open Day was very successful with a large turnout of interested parents and families. I was extremely proud of the large number of students that volunteered to assist on the day conducting tours, delivering demonstrations and also cooking sausages. Thank you also to all parents that assisted with the Open Day. Your efforts are very much appreciated and a very clear demonstration of the community spirit of the College. God Bless Jarlath Kelly
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