Kilts, Bagpipes, and Haggis! Celtic Day 2023

The crisp morning air was filled with excitement and anticipation on April 28 as boys arrived at school donning their finest Scottish attire to celebrate their annual Celtic Day. From plaid kilts to tartan waistcoats, the boys wore their heritage with pride and enthusiasm.

The day was packed with a plethora of Scottish-themed activities and competitions, creating a buzz of energy throughout the school. Boys were sorted into clans and paired with their House buddies, their companions for the day. The day began with a welcome from the Kapa Haka group before the air was filled with the melody of bagpipes as the College and Boys’ School Pipe Bands led a procession through the school. They were followed closely by distinguished guests and the Houses proudly waving their flags.

Following the procession, the welcome ceremony brought all students and parents back together with a heartfelt rendition of ‘Ode to the Haggis’ by Head Boy Ben Roberton and a passionate Scottish-accented prayer from Chaplain Rev. Reuben Hardie. The boys then set off to their first activity with a taste of haggis and ample shortbread courtesy of the Parents and Friends famous morning tea.

Throughout the day, the boys tackled challenges and enjoyed exciting activities such as tug-o-war, Highland dancing, inflatable zorbs in the pool, and the famous castle siege on Roselle Lawn. With gourmet sausages for lunch and Loch Ness Monster eggs in the Food Tech room, the boys were well-fed and fully immersed in Scottish culture. Earning points in various activities for success and behaviour, Wishart was victorious this year, with the winning clan Kakere coming from Chalmers.

Beyond the fun and games, Celtic Day provided an opportunity for our boys to bond with one another within their Houses and clans. Older boys showed their nurturing sides throughout the day by looking after their buddies with such dedicated care.

As the day drew to a close, tired but elated boys made their way home, their hearts full of memories and experiences they would cherish forever. Saint Kentigern Boys' School Celtic Day 2023 was undoubtedly a huge success – a celebration of Scottish culture and a testament to the sense of community and camaraderie fostered at the school.