St Kevin's College News and Reminders Term 1 Week 8
Kia ora whānau and friends of St Kevin's College,
This week, our students participated in the Year 13 Biology trip, Year 9 Retreat, Ako Hub Enabler Day, our first Pacific group gathering after school and an Otago Polytechnic visit. Despite Monday being a public holiday, next week is shaping up to be busy with Summer Tournament Week!
School Notices
- This is a friendly reminder that parents and caregivers must let the office know beforehand if students have appointments during the day: 03 437 1665 or 021 437 176.
- All students in Years 9-12 are not permitted to leave the school grounds during intervals and lunch breaks.
All Year 9-11 students must get caregiver consent to sign out during school hours. Caregivers can email or call the office to provide consent and reason for the absence. Students cannot sign out until the caregiver is reached.
ATLs
Up to date ATLs have been published!
Parents can now view and check their child’s learning habits and progress through the Parent Portal
Student stationery for 2025 is now available at the office!
Cash or Eftpos only, no account charges.
Prices include:
- Math Book: $2.70
- Exercise Book: $1.70
- Highlighter: $2.50
- Compass: $4.00
- Colouring Pencils (12-pack): $4.50
All profits go to Te Ngākau Nui, supporting our school community.
Attendance Matters
As we venture into Term 1, it is an excellent time to check in on your school attendance.
Every day matters!
SKC uniform shop
SKC desperately needs donations of any and all second-hand clothing for the SKC uniform shop. We especially need pants, shorts, white and blue shirts, and socks. Depending on their condition, we are able to buy back kilts, blazers, jumpers, soft shell jackets, and new PE tops.
Drop off at the shop on Thursdays (1-2 p.m) or the main school office.
For all inquiries, call Jane at 0211996525.
SKC Moke Jackets
The uniform shop is now selling wind and semi-waterproof SKC Moké student jackets.
These lightweight jackets have 90% Duck down lining, so you know they'll be toasty warm.
Available now from the uniform shop for $90.
Comes with its own bag and packs down for minimal space.
Love Teaching but Need Flexibility? Join Our Relief Team!
Are you a qualified primary or secondary teacher taking a break from full-time work?
Maybe you're at home with young children but miss the classroom. SKC is seeking relief teachers to join our supportive and welcoming school community!
✨ Stay connected to education without full-time commitment
✨ Be part of a great team and make a difference
Interested? We'd love to hear from you!
Send your expressions of interest to Jo Walshe at jwalshe@stkevins.school.nz to learn more.
Te Ngakau Nui’s Karaoke Night
Get ready to sing your heart out!
📅 Sat, 12th April 2025
🕡 Doors open at 6.30 PM
📍 St Kevin’s College Auditorium
Tickets: $20 (includes light supper)
Cash bar available
18+ event
All funds raised will support the Edmund Rice Fund.
Secure your spot now: https://www.trybooking.com/nz/15012
Let’s make it a night to remember!
2025 Term Dates and Holidays
- Term 1 Monday 27th January to Friday 11th April
- Term 2 Monday 28th April to Friday 27th June
- Term 3 Monday 14th July to Friday 19th September
- Term 4 Monday 6th October to Friday 5th December
2025 Public Holidays
- Otago Anniversary Day: Monday, 24th March
(The hostel will be closed from 5 pm Friday, 21st March until 2 pm, Monday 24th March) - Good Friday: Friday, 18th April
- Easter Monday: Monday, 21st April
- Anzac Day: Friday, 25th April
- King's Birthday: Monday, 2nd June
(The hostel will be closed from 5 pm Friday, 30th May until 2 pm, Monday 2nd June) - Matariki: Friday, 20th June
- Labour Day: Monday, 27th October
(The hostel will be closed from 5 pm Friday, 24th October until 2 pm, Monday 24th October)
Faith Facts
Week 8
| Sunday 16th | Monday 17th | Tuesday 18th | Wednesday 19th | Thursday 20th | Friday 121st | Saturday 22nd |
Second Sunday of Lent | ST Patrick, Bishop | St Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary |
“Jesus, let there be more of you and less of me
St. Patrick of Ireland is one of the world's most popular saints. Patrick preached and converted all of Ireland for 40 years. After years of living in poverty, traveling and enduring much suffering he died March 17, 461. He died at Saul, where he had built the first church. Patrick used the shamrock to explain the Trinity and has been associated with him and the Irish since that time.
March 19, Joseph the Husband of Mary. Everything we know about the husband of Mary and the foster father of Jesus comes from Scripture. Despite his humble work and means, Joseph came from a royal lineage. The angel who first tells Joseph about Jesus greets him as "son of David," a royal title used also for Jesus.
St Kevin’s Feast Day – 3rd June 2025
Join us for a Mass of Initiation as we celebrate this special day! Any student wishing to be baptised, confirmed, or receive their first communion is welcome.
📩 Contact Mrs. Herbst for details: jherbst@stkevins.school.nz
Laudato Si’ group reflection for Sunday 23rd March - This is Holy Ground
A walk can be prayer. 40 Days 40 Ways A Guide to a Green Lent
(https://franciscanaction.org/40-days-40-ways-a-guide-to-a-green-lent/) suggests we simply
spend time in nature to feel God’s healing, and so become part of that healing for all. Or, as
Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury wrote, “Receive the world God has given. Go
for a walk. Get wet. Dig the earth.”
Catholic Diocese of Dunedin Newsletter
Stay updated with the latest news from the Diocese! Click the link below to read the March edition.
Principals Post
Kia Ora Kevinians and Supporters of the College,
It is not the usual thing for me to do in this post to recommend television programmes to the community, but I would like to recommend that any of you who have Netflix take the time to watch the four part British series 'Adolescence'.
This series tackles some very relevant major issues around sexting, the Andrew Tate version of masculinity (if you don't know who he is, you need to know), and how social media use can warp a young person's perception of themselves and the world around them.
It is a harrowing series and definitely not one for young teens, but as parents and caregivers, it is a very real insight into the often secretive and dark world our young people engage with through social media.
It deals with murder and sexuality. There is swearing and some pretty confronting language however, it is a reflection of the real issues our young men and women face and the messaging is very clear: learn as much as you can about social media and its capabilities, check on what your students are doing, keep the lines of communication open.
It also calls attention to the struggles young men can have in the world today in terms of understanding what healthy masculine role models look like. In NZ, 31.5% of young men live in a home without a father and, so there can be an attraction to social media personalities who offer advice and guidance on 'being a man' and that can be an incredibly warped view designed to get clicks and provoke controversy.
In the world of influencers, the more times your name is mentioned the more traffic is driven to your site so it doesn't matter if people love you or hate you, you make money. It's easier to make more money by being controversial, which is where we get the likes of Andrew Tate and his like.
Unfortunately, teenagers don't always have the critical thinking skills to sort the rot from the reality. They are often inexperienced, vulnerable, unsure of themselves and easily influenced. This series explores the worst results of this.
Our aim at St Kevin's is to build confident young men who have respect for women and for themselves. Young men who are proud to be young men, who will be good and loving husbands and kind and patient fathers. We want them to enjoy their physical strength, engage in the traditional masculine activities of hunting, fishing and rugby if they wish to or not if they don't. We want them to be self confident enough to know themselves, love themselves and be respectful and supportive to the people around them.
In a co educational community, we are lucky to be able to allow our young people to develop among members of the opposite sex and learn life lessons from each other. But this does not guarantee that our young people are not harmed by the wider world and its nastiness. We just do the best we can as do our amazing parents, step parents and caregivers.
Thank you for everything you do to support us.
Have a great long weekend.
God Bless
Jo
Lately at SKC
Drama Trip
On Friday the Senior Theatre Studies class attended Modern God at the Oamaru Opera House. Choreographed by Jeremy Beck with Footnote New Zealand Dance, this powerful contemporary dance and physical theatre performance explores our relationship with the internet and social media.
The students were captivated by the show, which was both thought-provoking and visually stunning.
Thanks to Miss Philps and Mrs Plunket for taking our students
International Marine Science – Moeraki Adventure
Last Friday our International Marine Science students embarked on an unforgettable trip to Moeraki! Kicking off the day with Afghan biscuits, we explored the iconic Moeraki Boulders, delving into their fascinating geology and the traditional Māori stories behind them.
After enjoying a classic fish 'n chips lunch at the picturesque Moeraki Harbour, we headed to Kātiki (Lighthouse) Point.
The visit was a highlight, with students discovering the historical Pā site, observing seals in their natural habitat, and marvelling at the stunning coastal views. A special moment was witnessing a nursery of baby seals in a rock pool—an experience that captivated everyone.
A huge thank you to Danica for capturing these incredible moments!
SKC Pacific Group Gathering
Thu, 20th March marked our first Pacific group gathering after school! It was a fantastic session of getting to know each other, our tutors, and the wider team. A big highlight was brainstorming and creating our group’s name, which we can’t wait to share with you soon!
Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this journey together.
School Events
Coming up this term
Tuesday 1st April - Year 11 Retreat
Thursday 3rd April - Yr 12/13 Transition Day
Thursday 10th April - House Haka/Waiata competition
Sports
Coming up this term
Monday 24th -30th March - Summer Tournament Week
Friday 4th - 6th April - SISS Athletics
Tuesday 8th April - Senior Quads
2025 Aoraki Athletics Championships
Last Wednesday several of our athletes travelled to Timaru to compete in the Aoraki Athletics Championships.
As usual they delivered some fantastic results!
Congratulations to all our athletes for their dedication and incredible performances.
Under 14 GirlsBailey Douglas – 100m 2nd, 400m 3rd Relay Team – 3rd Under 14 BoysJordan Wheeler – 100m 3rd, Shot Put 1st Marconi Hausia – Shot Put 3rd, Discus 2nd Relay Team – 3rd Troy Smith – High Jump 2nd Under 15 GirlsZoe Johnston – 200m 4th, 400m 3rd, 3000m 1st Ruby Williams – 80m Hurdles 1st Mele Fangupo – Javelin 2nd Tessa Laughton – Shot Put 3rd Chelsea Laughton – Discus 3rd Under 15 BoysDaniel Woodhouse – Long Jump 2nd Under 16 GirlsZara Wilson – 400m 4th, 800m 2nd, 3000m 2nd Relay Team – 4th | Under 16 BoysOrlando Narruhn – Shot Put 2nd, Javelin 1st Jack O'Neill – 100m 2nd, 200m 2nd, Long Jump 4th James Miers – Javelin 1st Under 19 GirlsHunter McLay – 400m 3rd Ferj Gonzales – Long Jump 4th Toe Halalele – Shot Put 3rd Allie Laughton – Discus 4th Under 19 Boys1st Relay Team (Louie Hose, Kobe Narruhn, Michael Woodhouse and Tommy McGeown) Kobe Narruhn – 100m 3rd, 400m 2nd Tommy McGeown – 200m 2nd Relay Team – 1st Siu Fisipuna – High Jump 2nd Michael Woodhouse – Long Jump 1st |
St Kevin’s Footballers Triumph at Christchurch Tournament!
On Sunday three of our St Kevin’s footballers, Mikayla Criddle, Emily Chen, and Krizza Barrientos, represented Timaru United in a high-level tournament in Christchurch. They faced strong club teams from Halswell, Selwyn, and FC Twenty, emerging victorious in all three matches and bringing home the trophy!
Emily stood out in attack, scoring a brilliant solo goal against Halswell after beating three defenders and finishing with her left foot from the edge of the box. Mikayla anchored the defence with composure, making key interceptions and setting up the match-winning goal with a precise long pass. Krizza impressed on the wing, showcasing great skill, ball control, and creativity in a new position.
Following the tournament, representative coach Ivan Hill attended a St Kevin’s training session and was highly impressed. This opened up exciting opportunities for more girls to join representative teams for upcoming tournaments. This was a fantastic achievement—well done, girls! 💙⚽
Goalie Skills Session
Wed, 26th March
3.30 pm
St Kevin’s College
With Emma Baird from Football South
An excellent opportunity to sharpen your goalkeeping skills with expert coaching! Bring your own gloves.
Register now: sclapperton@stkevins.school.nz
Support the SKC Senior Boys' Rugby Team on their Fiji Tour!
Support the SKC Senior Boys' Rugby Team on Their Fiji Tour!
Help the team by purchasing firewood:
- Pine: $105 per cube
- Poplar: $90 per cube
To place your order, please contact: jfowler@stkevins.school.nz
Enjoy free delivery within the Oamaru town boundary!
Deliveries are expected in late March.
St Kevin's College Golf Day
Join us for a fantastic day on the green while supporting the SKC Senior Boys Rugby tour to Fiji!
Venue: Lower Waitaki Golf Club
Date: Sunday, 6th April
Start Time: 11:00 AM
Format: Ambrose teams of 4
Prizes: Longest Drive & Closest to the Pin
Entry Fee: $200 per team
Food & Refreshments:
A BBQ will be available throughout the day, along with refreshments.
Post-Golf Activities:
Enjoy a cash bar, food, raffles, and an auction!
All proceeds will support the SKC Senior Boys Rugby tour to Fiji in July.
To enter your team email: csmith@stkevins.school.nz
School TV
SPECIAL REPORT: Social Media & Comparison Culture
Young people today are growing up in a world where exposure to other people's lives is constant. Through social media and other platforms, they are regularly presented with curated highlights - from flawless holiday photos and academic milestones to the latest fashion trends and fitness achievements. This continuous stream of idealised content fuels what is known as comparison culture, where self-worth is often measured by how someone stacks up against others.
For children and teenagers, who are still figuring out who they are, this culture can be particularly damaging. Constantly comparing their appearance, achievements, or social standing to friends, influencers, and even strangers can lead to unrealistic expectations and a skewed sense of self-worth. This relentless need to measure up can contribute to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and anxiety - undermining both confidence and emotional wellbeing.
It's vital that parents and caregivers understand how deeply comparison culture can influence a young person's self-perception and sense of value. Left unchecked, it can foster perfectionism and a dependence on external validation, where a 'like' or comment becomes the measure of their worth.
The good news is, families have a powerful role to play in helping young people navigate these challenges. This Special Report will help you empower your young person to build the resilience and confidence needed to navigate today's comparison-driven world and embrace their own unique path.
Here is the link to your Special Report https://stkevins.nz.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-social-media-comparison-culture-nz
Guidelines for Attitude to Learning
General philosophy.
The purpose of ATL feedback is so that parents and students can have real time information about how students are engaging in each subject.
The overarching objective should be to have ‘no surprises’ for caregivers.
ATL numbers should cover how students are working generally in relation to:
How they are developing the habits of an independent life long learner.
This means:
Teachers will be providing opportunities within classes for independent, differentiated learning opportunities.
ATLs will be used with the Junior reports. This will require additional weight to be given to ATL, meaning that periodically, a curriculum statement will be added to the ATL report. At the end of Term 1, the focus will be on setting goals and identifying learning challenges for the students so that we head things off before they become a problem.
Comments.
These should be specific and address immediate concerns or celebrate recent, specific achievements.
These should provide caregivers the opportunity to be able to participate in supporting their student.
These should be brief and accurate.
Only be provided for immediate and relevant issues.
What ATL’s are NOT.
They are not a method for punishing a student.
They are not a forum for diagnosing medical or learning issues e.g. suggesting a student is dyslexic
They are not a place for long term guidance such as large general statements about learning.
They are not a report which you must feel compelled to write every fortnight.
They are not a replacement for Dean involvement, discussions with HoF’s, phone calls to parents etc.
They are not a ‘restorative chat’.
Community Events/Notices
Have-a-Go Day
Curious about trying a new sport? Come along to our Have-a-Go Day—a fantastic opportunity for students and parents to get involved!
Sun, 6th April 2025
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Waitaki Rod and Gun Club, 32 Hayes Road, near Kurow
BBQ lunch provided
Experience a fun-filled day of outdoor activities and learn more about this exciting sport. All welcome!
For more details, contact Stephanie Moore – 021 564 016.
Weston School Rogaine
Mark your calendars for a fun and adventurous day on Saturday, April 5, 2025! The Weston School Rogaine is a family-friendly team event similar to orienteering, where you design your own course based on your ambitions and abilities.
Event Details:
- Map Handout: 9:00 AM
- Rogaine Starts: 10:00 AM
- Rogaine Finishes: 1:00 PM
- Location: A farm near Windsor, North Otago (20 minutes from Weston School)
- Postponement Date: April 6 (in case of bad weather)
Categories:
- Year 7/8
- Year 9/10
- Year 11-13
- Family/Open
Registration Fees:
- $10 per student
- $15 per adult (plus booking fee)
- Teams of 3-4
How It Works:
Collect as many checkpoints as possible within the timeframe while traveling on foot with a map. It's a great way to challenge yourself, enjoy the outdoors, and support Weston School!
Register Now!
Online registrations close on March 30. Scan the QR code or sign up at [rogaine@weston.school.nz](mailto:rogaine@weston.school.nz).
Don’t miss out on this exciting fundraising event for Weston School. Gather your team and get ready for a day of adventure!
2025 Jazz & Blues Talent Quest
Get ready to showcase your talent at the Harbour Street Jazz & Blues Talent Quest! Whether you are a musician, performer, or just love to have fun, this is your chance to shine.
Date: 22nd March 2025
Location: Main Stage, Harbour Street, Oamaru, New Zealand
Categories:
- Musical Talent: Compete for a chance to win a recording session at Sublime Studios!
- Other Talent: Amaze the crowd with your unique skills.
- Fun Categories:
- Best Jazz Hands Interpretation
- Best Air Instrument Impression
Over $1500 in Prizes!
Open to All Ages
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to celebrate jazz, blues, and talent!
For more details, visit: www.harbourstreetfestival.com
🏍️ Danseys Pass Trail Ride 2025 🏍️
📅 Sat, 22nd March 2025
📍 Danseys Pass
Get ready to take on 165km+ of epic tracks with 6 tracks for all abilities at this legendary event! Whether you're a seasoned rider or starting out, there's something for everyone.
👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly atmosphere
🚵 Join 20,000+ riders who've tackled this iconic ride
Visit www.danseyspasstrailride.org for more info.
Proudly powered by our Track Sponsors.
🔥 Don't miss out—mark your calendars!
Edge portal and app guide
We have an updated guide on how to use the Edge caregiver portal/app that allows you to view school information about your child(ren), and to pay school bills online if your school supports this. The portal & app gives you quick and easy access to the information for the children in your care and can receive announcements and notifications from the school. Please view the guide here
News to Share?
We love celebrating our students' success. Photos are always a bonus; please email these as Facebook Messenger compresses the quality!
Please let me know via email any relevant news we could share - srees@stkevins.school.nz
You can follow St Kevin's College on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube
Have a great weekend!
Ngā mihi
Shane Rees
Communications and Events