Inspiring the Next Generation

Atthe end of every year, our senior leadership team assess and determine candidates for next year's prefects'. They look for boys who have upheld the pillars of love, excellence, respect, integrity, and service in all areas of school life over their time at the school.

On Friday 10th February, their selections were made official as students, parents, and staff gathered at JC Chalmers Hall to commission the 2023 prefects. In addition, special guests Executive Trustee Dr Kevin Morris, College Principal Mr Damon Emtage, and College Head Boy Harvey Whyte were in attendance to honour the new leaders.

The prefects were fortunate enough to have Harvey Whyte give them some advice. As someone who has walked in their shoes, he reminded them they each have unique skills, interests, and inclinations, all of which are valuable to a team. Encouraging them to be the best versions of themselves, he said they had been selected for a reason, and as a whole unit have the full belief and support of their Boys’ School community.

Following Harvey's speech, Boys’ School Principal Mr Peter Cassie presented the Head and Deputy Head Boys with their badges in exchange for their pledge to uphold their leadership duties. The Head Prefects presented the rest of the leadership team with their badges.

Congratulations to the following students:

HEAD BOY Ben Roberton

Ben has been at Saint Kentigern Boys’ School since Year 1. Even back then, his teacher reported that he “brings a smile to school every day and shows a real zest for learning”. Not much has changed, though now he brings that enthusiasm to many other areas of school life including the ‘Oliver’ production, Kapa Haka, NIWA Science Fair, hockey, running club, and cricket. We know he desires to serve the student body and will confidently lead with energy.

DEPUTY HEAD BOY Campbell Williams

Since beginning at Saint Kentigern Boys’ School in Year 4, Campbell’s teachers have agreed that he is a determined, positive, and committed student. Over the last four years, he has immersed himself in school life, participating in cricket, rugby, basketball, running club, the ‘Oliver’ production, and Kapa Haka. He has also been a school councillor and won the NIWA Science Fair in 2021. There is complete confidence he will rise to the challenge in his leadership position this year.

Fostering Young Leaders with Core Values

Shortly after their commissioning, the Boys' School prefects participated in the GRIP Leadership Conference, joining six hundred young leaders from various Auckland schools. The conference aimed to develop leadership skills while fostering connections among like-minded individuals. It focused on the core values of GRIP: Generosity, Responsibility, Integrity, and People, which formed the basis of the learning experience.

At the conference, the prefects learned the importance of putting others first, active listening, and serving those they lead. Through interactive activities, they practised the four H's: Hearing, Helping, Happiness, and Humility. These skills enabled them to listen attentively, assist with small tasks, approach situations positively, and prioritise others' strengths.

The conference emphasised the idea that leadership involves serving others and creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. Equipped with new ideas and leadership skills, the prefects began their year eager to make a positive impact within their school community.