Commissioning of New College Principal Damon Emtage

Saint Kentigern College officially welcomed its new principal, Mr Damon Emtage, at a commissioning ceremony held on 20 March at the College Chapel. Mr Emtage, a highly experienced educator with over twentytwo years in leading independent schools in Australia, brings knowledge and innovative ideas to continue the College’s academic excellence and character development legacy.

Before joining the College, Mr Damon Emtage was Deputy Headmaster at Brisbane Boys’ College, which is affiliated with the Presbyterian and Methodist denominations. He acted as headmaster during a period of transition in 2021. Throughout his career, Mr Emtage has spearheaded various innovative initiatives for students and staff, reflecting his unwavering commitment to education and his earnest desire to improve the lives of those entrusted to his care.

The evening was attended by guests not only from the College but also from the Boys’ School, Girls’ School, and Preschool, including prefects and principals as well as Trust Board members and distinguished Old Collegians. Mr Emtage’s family including his wife Kathryn, their children Jonty and Holly, and his mother-in-law, also attended.

The ceremony commenced with a welcome by the College Pipes and Drums outside the Chapel, followed by a pōwhiri.

Head Boy Harvey Whyte and Head Girl Kaia Ashmore delivered welcoming speeches, expressing their excitement to work alongside Mr Emtage and their anticipation of the positive changes he would bring to the College.

Performances by the College Premier Choir and Chapel Prefect Catalina Addis, who delivered a moving rendition of ’Amazing Grace’, underscored Rev. Smith’s message and prayer for Mr Emtage – that God would grace him for all his responsibilities at Saint Kentigern College. To make his appointment official, Mr Emtage pledged his commitment to the College. He was subsequently presented with regalia by students of different year groups for his supporting duties at upcoming sports matches. The ceremony concluded with light refreshments in the Goodfellow Centre, where guests mingled and celebrated the new era of leadership at Saint Kentigern College.

The commissioning of Mr Damon Emtage as principal marks an exciting milestone for the College. With his extensive experience and innovative ideas, Mr Emtage is poised to lead the College to new heights of academic excellence and character development, further cementing its position as one of the top independent schools in New Zealand.