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These are exciting times

From the Principal - Confortare April 2010

Greetings to Marist Brothers, Parents, Students, Old Boys and Friends of Sacred Heart College. Once again, I am proud to report continued improvement and achievement at our College. You are most probably aware that these are exciting times for our community.

• The school roll is on the rise due to continual demand for places.
• A new eight-classroom extension has been built onto the Pompallier Wing and the upper floor of Kalaugher Block has been totally upgraded – 19 classrooms in total.
• Academic achievement is at an all time high in NCEA Levels 1-3 with a record number of Excellence and Merit endorsements.
• Nationally SHC is achieving at more than 30% better than all boys across New Zealand and 25% above all other boys’ schools (state, private or integrated). The scholars of 2009 were certainly true to last year’s ‘Focus Pillar’ of “Commitment to Diligence”.

Mediocrity has no place at our College.

Our academic goals for 2010 are set on continued improvement. To that end the Academic Institute, under the direction of Mr Jason Cornford, is leading the way with the introduction of the new New Zealand Curriculum, which focuses on the ‘key competencies’. Thinking skills, critical thinking and communication skills are all being taught and emphasised daily in classes through ‘Habits of Mind’. Success with such initiatives will certainly create further improvements for our students and staff.

The most vital part of our holistic education at SHC is our Special Character. This is the glue that binds all parts together. It develops young boys into caring, confident Marist Men.

Our 2010 Focus Pillar, ‘Support for Individuals and Families in Need’, has been put to the test in the past months. There are indeed special people and families in the SHC Community who have lost loved ones or face up to the challenge of terminal illness. Be assured you are not alone. Our support is with you always. Most importantly, our prayers are with you.

Recently Mr Kelvin Mephan addressed the Senior Assembly to acknowledge the students’ support and to explain to them the importance of ‘The Power of Prayer’. Kelvin received a standing ovation from the assembled audience of students and staff.

The future of the College looks very bright indeed. Be assured that we will not rest on our laurels. We will continue to plan for, and to seek improvements, in all aspects of school life. As ever, I ask that you continue to support the College in all the best ways you can this year, and in the years ahead.

Confortare Eso Vir
Onwards and Upwards
Mr Jim Dale, Principal