It has been an incredible few weeks at St John’s College as we have celebrated the many successes of our young men and farewelled those preparing to venture into new and uncharted waters.

Our recent Leavers’ Mass was a powerful and deeply moving occasion that truly captured who we are as a community. Our Leavers were challenged to sing with passion as a legacy for those returning next year, while the rest of the College sang as a gift of gratitude and encouragement for them. The unity and emotion expressed through that moment was something extraordinary -an experience that spoke directly to the heart of what it means to be part of the St John’s community. The ceremony concluded with the traditional haka performed by our Year 12 students in honour of the Year 13s, a symbol of respect, brotherhood, and continuity.

The Leavers’ Dinner the evening before was equally special. Mr Troy Briggs, speaking as a parent, reminded us of the strength of the St John’s brotherhood and the importance of staying connected beyond the gates of the College. That message resonated strongly - our brotherhood is real, lived, and deeply felt throughout our community.

We also celebrated excellence in sport at our Sports Prizegiving, where it was clear that many of our young men continue to excel. Jyde Low received the College’s supreme award for the second consecutive year, the Russell Brothers Trophy for Outstanding Contribution to Sport – Sportsman of the Year and was also named the All-Round Male Athlete at the Hawke’s Bay Secondary Schools Sports Awards. Other outstanding achievements were recognised, including:

Fairplay Sports Person of the Year                                             Noah Hyde

Nightingale Trophy for Effort in Sport                                         George Stent

Official of the Year                                                                      Jake Smith

Team of the Year                                                                         1^st XI Cricket Team

Steve Cottrell Memorial Trophy - Contribution to SJC Sport   Michelle Fey

The following evening, we gathered for Pō Tuku Taonga, an event that celebrates success in Te Ao Māori. This was warmly supported by our whānau and old boys, culminating in a shared hāngi that embodied our values of community and gratitude. Our special awards recipients were:

Y13 Manaakitanga Taonga                                                       Michael Pollard

Pat & Ivan Emia Memorial Taonga - Y13 1^st in Class               Jet Hapuku

Our final full school assembly celebrated academic diligence and house achievements, showcasing the depth of talent and commitment across the College. Performances from the winners of St John’s Got Talent added energy and pride to the celebration.

Last week, we held the Senior Prizegiving to celebrate the academic achievements of our senior students. It was a very special evening, featuring a memorable final drum-off between Mikko Capio and Lucas Patrick, and an emotional yet humorous valedictory address delivered by our Head Boy, Jayden Mathers. It is with great pride that we acknowledge the outstanding academic achievements of two exceptional students.

The Proxime Accessit for 2025 was awarded to Flynn Grimstone, in recognition of his remarkable dedication, perseverance, and consistently high academic performance.

Our top academic scholar and 2025 Dux is Archie Stevens, whose outstanding results and commitment to excellence have set an exemplary standard for our school community.

We congratulate both Flynn and Archie on their achievements and commend them for their hard work and outstanding results.

We now look ahead to the upcoming junior events in the coming weeks, including the Awa Run and our final Junior Prizegiving which will be held on Wednesday 10 December.

It has been an outstanding term - one filled with celebration, connection, and pride. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all who have made these moments possible, and to our families for their unwavering support in allowing our young men to experience all that St John’s College has to offer.

Until next time, take care and God bless.

George Rogers

TUMUAKI / PRINCIPAL