the southlandian - SBHS OLD BOYSsbhsoldboys.nz/southlandian/2000-2009/The_Southlandian... · 2020. 4. 14. · Mr C Goodwill BA, Dip Tchg Mr A Grant Dip Fine Arts, Adv Trade Cert,

the southlandian

the southlandian 2007

Not for school but for life we are learning

Front coverDavid Gare

Compiled & Typeset by Debs Wilson

Layout & Printing by Craigs Design & Print

ContentsRector’s Report .................................................. 2Head Boy Report ................................................ 3Staff 2007 ........................................................... 4SBHS Museum Report ....................................... 6Old Boys’ Association ........................................ 6Coldstream House .............................................. 7PTA Report ......................................................... 8Literature Circles in Y7/8 .................................... 8Library Report ..................................................... 9Student’s Musing .............................................. 10Field Trips ......................................................... 15Leadership & Mentoring ................................... 16Peer Tutoring .................................................... 17SELL ................................................................. 18Canteen Report ................................................ 19Careers Department ......................................... 20Kumagaya ........................................................ 22Catering & Hospitality ....................................... 25Mathematics Competition Results ................... 27Otago Southlland Grass Kart Challenge .......... 28Prefects 2007 ................................................... 29

Hip Hop ............................................................ 30Kapa Haka ........................................................ 30Drama & Music ................................................. 31Junior Production: The Sleeping Cutie ............. 32Sports Day ........................................................ 34Blues Awards .................................................... 35Sports ............................................................... 36Class Photos .................................................... 53Prizegiving 2006 ............................................... 74

Non Scholae Sed Vitae DiscimusNon Scholae Sed Vitae Discimus

The Rector’s ReportThe focus for 2007 has been on developing the unique features of our school.

The transition period following the network review is over and Southland Boys’ High School is now firmly positioned as a single sex Year 7 – 13 boys’ school. We are emphatically one school with a strong commitment to shared values and views on teaching and learning in a boys’ only environment.

During the year we have continued to pursue student achievement and professional learning for staff, based on the development ICT rich learning environments, increased student engagement and building effective relationships with students.

Two strategies to address improving achievement are the Homework Club and Achievement Checks. These have been the catalyst for ensuring that our students complete their literacy and numeracy credits, are up to date with their class work and have the opportunity to receive specialist help as and when the need arises. A deliberate, planned study campaign has also provided support to our boys as they prepare for exams and the staff have continued, as always, to provide extensive tutorial support as well. Mentoring and role modelling continue to play an important part in helping young men to assume leadership roles.

Professional learning for staff has continued to be a major focus. Staff are working towards using more student centred strategies in their teaching to encourage improved engagement in learning. Sixty staff participated in The South 3 Cluster Professional Development, which began in 2005 and was completed this year. The focus of this teacher learning was on providing effective scaffolding to support learning in an ICT rich environment. Thanks to the generosity of the ILT, we boast 38 interactive whiteboards in our school. Effective use of these enables teachers to more easily incorporate student centred strategies and interaction into their programmes. Further teacher learning has taken place, much of it in holidays and in the teachers’ own time, through ILT sponsored professional development on the variety of ways interactive whiteboards can support teaching.

In 2008, we begin a new phase of professional learning through a successful EHSAS (Extending Higher Standards Across Secondary Schools) cluster application. The three schools involved are Southland Boys’ High School, Verdon College and James Hargest College. This professional learning will focus on pedagogical development including using flexible groupings, detailed observation and feedback for teachers on their individual teaching, and developing a wide range of teaching and learning environments from explicit formal instruction to co-constructed learning.

A core element in our charter is to provide performance opportunities for our boys. While there is a long history of

exemplary performance in the arts at SBHS, expansion of this area, with out dedicated space has always been difficult. We are delighted to have such a space being built, adjacent to, and part of the music suite, in term 1 2008. We are currently advertising for a permanent drama teacher to work in this space. This will mean that performing arts at SBHS will, for the first time, have complete facilities. We continue to rationalise the use of space in our school with our current roll at 1130, with the addition of small classrooms and tutorial spaces. The next five years will not see further major development, but instead will pay more attention to detail in improving the quality of the environment. One of our first priorities in 2008 will be the addition of another hard surface area for our boys to play on during our cooler winter months. Our Year 7 & 8 staff will be fundraising for a specialist playground early in the new year.

While there has not been significant movement of staff this year, we still farewell John Dickson who is retiring after 27 years service at SBHS, Alan Munro who moves on to NZQA as national moderator for the sciences, Kate Lindsay who takes up a position as Head of English at Aparima College and Megan Seyb and Louis Moulton who are going overseas to continue their travels.

It is fair to say that the staff at SBHS has a grasp of the special character and demonstrate this in their commitment to positive relationships with boys, their deep concern about improving achievement and their commitment to co-curricular activities, all attributes that many Principals struggle to find and develop in their schools. In this we are fortunate and I thank them for their continuing efforts.

If SBHS has a single focus over the next few years it is that it will develop interconnectedness, internally, locally and globally. This will mean that we are a school that will, more than most, help young men to connect with the world they will inhabit and lead.

Non Scholae Sed Vitae Discimus

Ian M. BaldwinRector 2007



Head Boy Report‘Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get until you open it’. A bit like being head boy, some jobs were great fun and had fabulous soft centres, some, like giving this report, were like the last ones left in the box.

Five years at Southland Boys’ High School has given me a great deal of material to write about, and traditionally head boys reports talk about their thoughts and feelings and the influence the school has had upon them. They also talk about the values and experiences the school has given them and how they have been changed by attendance at this school. All of the above are important responses but I would like to focus on the Year 13 group as a whole, in particular their academic and sporting achievements and aspirations for the future.

In the sporting arena, Southland Boys’ continues to be well represented at provincial and national level. Members of the 2007 Year 13 have found success as part of the Southland Cricket Team, South Island Basketball Team, New Zealand Secondary Schools Rugby Team and the New Zealand Squash Squad to name a few. One of our members represented New Zealand at the 21st World

Scout Jamboree in England and yet another achieved success as the New Zealand Men’s Golf Long Drive Champion.

Most of the Year 13’s enjoyed taking on extra responsibilities by working with junior students in peer tutoring and peer support programs. This enabled us to build healthy relationships with our junior students and gave us as senior students a higher profile around the school. The Year 13 prefects also enjoyed the responsibility of rounding up the boys that seemed to like the air in the park a bit better than the air at school. At times this duty became a little more than just a stroll in the park. Orienteering skills, fitness and the use of fine precise vocabulary were often put to the test.

The highlight of the year for the Year 13’s was the annual school ball with Southland Girls’ High School. We had to transform ourselves into sophisticated, elegant young men in penguin suits and learn how to treat the ladies. The practice session for dancing was a test for some of our less gifted, rhythmically challenged and uncoordinated peers. Some of us rose to the momentous occasion, while others ruined their partners dancing shoes, dresses and their reputations forever. Despite choking on my own words in the thank you speech and getting lots of helpful suggestions on pronunciation from the vocal audience,

the ball was a memorable success for everybody involved.

Most of us have taken advantage of the opportunities offered to plan a wide variety of future pathways and goals. This is a reflection of the diversity of students within our school and the ability of the school to foster and encourage the development of individual strengths and differences. Some of us will probably go fishing for the next few years, while others are returning to their family farms. Employment choices reflect the mix of people in Year 13. Students have obtained apprenticeships in the building and electrician industries while others are pursuing careers in the aviation industry. Others have established gateways to successful academic careers, for example PE School, Surveying School, Commerce, Geography, Psychology, Architecture and Health Sciences at various tertiary centres across the country. Students have been very successful in obtaining scholarships such as the ILT contributions and one student has been awarded a place in an elite sports scholarship course, all expenses paid and international coaching at Lincoln University. Sporting careers are also being pursued in squash and rugby.

This has been a successful year for the members of the Year 13 team. Five years of education have helped us to determine our future pathways and given us a wealth of opportunities and experiences we will never forget.

Ben Maynard

23 Forth Street, Gen-i House, Invercargill


EXCELLENCE IN STAFFING

RectorMr I M Baldwin BA, Dip Tchg

Deputy Principal Assistant Principal Assistant Principal Mr J R McKinlay BSc, Dip Tchg Mr D J Murcott BA, Dip Tchg Ms L M Dalzell BA, Adv Dip Tchg,TTC

HEADS OF DEPARTMENTSHOD Years 7 & 8: Mr T Page Higher Dip Ed Sec Arts, Qual Tch Status (UK)Art: Mrs J Adamson Dip FA, Dip Tchg Commerce: Mrs J Cunningham B Com (Hons)Computing: Mr D Roberts BE (Hons), Dip Tchg Education Outside the Classroom: Mr S Meijer BLS Grad Dip TchgEnglish: Mr P McDowall BA, Dip Grad, Dip Tchg Guidance: Mr S Jackson B Phys Ed, PG Dip Mgmt, Dip Tchg, Mr P Downey MA (Hons), Dip Ed (Guidance), Dip TchgLanguages: Ms M Sasaki BA(Japan), Dip TchgMathematics: Mr J Moore BA, Dip TchgMusic Drama: Mrs K Grant BA, Dip Tchg (leave 2007)Physical Education and Health and Physical Wellbeing: Mr A Bailey Dip Phys Ed, Dip TchgScience: Mr A Munro BSc, PG Dip Sc (Geology) Dip Tchg (leave 2007)Acting HOD Science: Mr G Allan MSc, Dip Tchg Social Sciences: Mr J Dickson MA, Dip TchgSport: Mr T Neilson Adv Trade Cert, Dip TchgTechnical: Mr A Bisschops Adv Tr Cert, Dip Tchg

ASSISTANT TEACHERSMs C Adams B Ed, BA, Dip Tchg Mr A Adlam Dip Tchg, Tohu MataurangaMr R Bakker B Ed, Dip TchgMs J Belfour-Smith BA, Dip TchgMs C Bloxham B EdMr C Boswell B Sc, Dip TchgMr C Boyce B Sc, Dip TchgMs H Brunner Dip Tchg, BAMs A Burnett B Ed, Dip TchgMiss S Cameron BA, Dip TchgMs H Cartier B Sc, Lib Arts CertMiss C Childs Dip Tchg, B EdMs N Collins B EdMs K Crofts B EdMs P Dillon B Perf AMrs S Driver B Ed, BScMrs W Edgley B EdMr C Goodwill BA, Dip TchgMr A Grant Dip Fine Arts, Adv Trade Cert, Dip TchgMr M Hartley BA, TTCMrs L Hepburn MA Hons, Dip TchgMs K Hickman B EdMr N Hughes B EdMr S Jones B Phys Ed, Dip Tchg

Mr B Keith BSc, Dip TchgMrs V Lamont BA, Dip TchgMr R Laurenson BA, Dip TchgMr R Marshall B Ed, Dip TchgMs S Marshall Dip EdMs S Maxwell BA, Dip TchgMr A McPherson B Ed, TESOLMr G Meyer BE (Mech), Dip TchgMr S Mika B Ed, Dip SportMs V Morton-Murray B Ed, Dip TchgMr L Moulton MSc, PGCEMr M Mulholland Adv Tr Cert, Dip TchgMiss C Munro B Sc, Dip TchgMr C Neylon B Sport & Rec, Dip TchgMrs L Neylon B PhEd, Dip Tchg (leave)Mr C Norman BA, Dip TchgMiss J O’Rourke B ApSc, Dip TchgMr G Puna B Ed, Dip TchgMr S Richardson Trade Cert Restaurant Service, London City & GuildsMr W Richardson BA, Dip TchgMiss R Robertson B Ed, Dip TchgMrs H Robson Adv Dip Tchg Ms J Russell BA, Dip TchgMiss M Seyb BSc, Dip TchgMs T Skelton B Ed, Dip TchgMs N Stewart BA, Dip TchgMr R Ward BA, Dip TchgMr I Welsh B Sc, Dip Tchg

PART TIMEMr S Bond BS (Oregon)Mr J Gilkison Adv Tr Cert, Dip TchgMrs S Marshall, Dip EdMr P Skelt TTCMr J Swift B Sport & RecMrs A Bowie, Reading TutorMs L Schmidt (Careers)

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFFExecutive Officer: Mrs P JonesAccounts Assistant: Mrs K GrahamStudent Finances Officer: Mrs E BuickExecutive Assistant: Ms S ManningOffice Administrator: Mrs S RidleyAttendance Officer: Mrs N RobertsReprographic Assistant/Uniform: Mrs J KellyReception: Ms D Wilson



ASSOCIATE STAFFLibrarian: Mrs S Muir BALaboratory Assistant: Mrs D CoxGateway Co-ordinator: Mrs M AndersonSports Co-ordinator: Mr G HoukamauSports Co-ordinator/International Co-ordinator: Mrs L CroftsStudent Support: Mrs A McMinn, Mrs N Murrell, Mrs S Walker, Miss K Graham, Ms G Findlay, Mrs L Tudor,Mrs D Anderson, Mr P Dawson, Mrs B Kidd, Mrs F BurtLibrary Assistant: Mrs J MurrayArts Co-ordinator: Mrs L LudlowReading Tutors: Mrs L Neave, Mrs L WilliamsCanteen: Mrs G MeikleTea Lady: Mrs W Durling

PROPERTY AND GROUNDS Caretaker: Mr J Cournane Assistant to Caretaker: Mr B PickettAssistant Caretaker/Cleaner: Mr E KennedyGrounds: Mr B Nicoll

RTLB Mrs M Chisholm Dip Tchg Ms J Williamson TTC, Dip Tchg

ARCHIVISTMrs L Dear MA (Hons)

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Chairman – Mr Peter HeenanDeputy – Mr John RabbittRector – Mr Ian Baldwin

Parent Representatives – Mr Duncan McKenzieMr Tim BrownMrs Janice McKerchar

Staff Representative – Ms Jacque RussellStudent Representative – Ben Maynard Secretary – Mrs Pat Jones

COLDSTREAM HOSTELManager: Mrs S MillsExecutive Assistant: Mrs P BradleyHousemasters: Mr A Munro, Mrs J Munro, Mr J Dickson, Mr A Bailey, Mr C Boyce, Ms K Crofts, Mr C Neylon, Mr C Boswell, Mr D Mackie, Mr J Swift, Ms T Gordon, Mr J Moore, Miss S Cameron, Miss N StewartNight Matron: Mrs G Isherwood

Staff 2007

Back: Jamie Swift, Chris Boyce, Chris Norman, Sander Meijer, Nathan Hughes, Simon Jones, Clarke Boswell, Glenn PunaForth: Marc Mulholland, Chris Goodwill, Scott Richardson, Ryan Marshall, Louis Moulton, Ricky Bakker, Chris Neylon, Greg Houkamau, Peter

Downey, Michael Hartley, Bill Richardson, Alan GrantThird: Wendy Edgley, Megan Seyb, Darran Roberts, Jacque Russell, Jessica O’Rourke, Catherine Childs, Lara Neylon, Helen Brunner, Sandie

Manning, Jenny Kelly, Angela Burnett, Grant Meyer, Serena Driver, Simone Brown, Virginia Murray, Laurel Hepburn Second: Sharee Maxwell, Harriet Adlam, Lyn Williams, Taryn Skelton, Helen Robson, Evelyn Buick, Nicola Roberts, Cassandra Munro, Vanessa

Lamont, Kathleen Graham, Rochelle Robertson, Shirley Ridley, Clare Adams, Suzy Wells, Kimberly Hickman, Suzanne Muir, Christy Bloxham, Simone Cameron, Josie McSoriley, Linda Neave

Front: Alan Bailey, Nic Stewart, Kelly Crofts, Bob Ward, Arthur Adlam, John Dickson, Tim Page, Denis Murcott, John McKinlay, Ian Baldwin, Linda Dalzell, Pat Jones, Paul McDowall, Greg Alan, Janet Cunningham, Jenny Adamson, Ambrose Bisschops, Midori Sasaki, Alistair McPherson, Barry Keith


SBHS Museum ReportThe Southland Boys’ High School Museum has completed its first year as an integral part of the school, showcasing its 125 year history and bringing to the fore some forgotten details.

The very welcome gift of a photocopier from The Southland Copier Company came about in a surprising way through a long-forgotten Old Boy, Professor John Wilkie Hinton (at school 1907-1913). Research showed that the very first Fives Courts donated by the Old Boys’ in 1935 were dedicated to his memory and a plaque on them (present whereabouts unknown) stated that fact. John Hinton who had worked at the Cavendish Laboratory

in this post 9/11 age of supposed high security!

The visitors’ book shows that our Museum has been viewed by the organising committee of the Gore High School proposed museum, the organisers of Heritage Day, Rotary, Probus and other interest groups and visitors from as far afield as Brazil and Germany, as well as many nostalgic Old Boys.

The grandson of former Rector Malcolm Leadbetter (1947-1950) visited from Arizona and also the grandson of Sir Garfield Todd, Old Boy and former P.M of Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe).

Our Museum provided a lot of information for Rugby World Cup bus tours organised by Brian McKechnie (Old Boy and double All Black) and also significantly for the recent commemorations in France of the 90th Anniversary of Passchendaele. The names of our twenty five killed including nine on the morning of October 12, 1917 have been engraved on a brass plaque which will be placed in the battlefields Museum at Ypres. These names represent nearly a quarter of our W.W.I war dead.

The tradition started last year of Year 13 leavers being photographed informally before the Museum’s mural of the Conon Street School will no doubt be repeated after Prizegiving this year. So our S.B.H.S. Museum, even now in its early days, continues to be an important part of the life of the school.

Lynley Dear – Archivist

in Cambridge with Ernest Rutherford, was Professor of Physics at Colombo University in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) at the time of his premature death in 1933. My invitation to members of his family to visit the Museum and see the display relating to him, resulted in the gift, through Mr Geoff Hinton, of the photocopier which is already a great asset to those researching material.

Another astonishing presentation was of mortar bombs ‘borrowed’ in 1964 from the Armoury and returned during the Coldstream reunion by Old Boy, ‘Squirt’ Roberts, now Dr Brian Roberts who is an internationally renowned facial reconstruction surgeon. He managed to fly with the mortar bombs as cabin baggage – astonishing



Old Boys’ AssociationTo those young men who are leaving Southland Boys’ High School this year, good wishes for your respective futures. You will have learned the rewards accruing from hard work and will have developed positive attitudes toward achieving successful outcomes which hopefully you will carry with you into further study or the working world.

It is hoped that you will maintain some contact with the school and consider joining the Old Boys’ Association which endeavours to support the schools activities. At present the Association is involved in a programme to upgrade the facilities at the Boyd Creek Lodge. You should be aware that as an Old Boy you may continue to use the facilities there at a very moderate cost.

The OBA funds two Clive Williams Scholarships each

Coldstream House We have grown together as a ‘family’ and a very big one at that! Our family has grown over the past few years and we started the year with 102 boarders ranging from Y7 to Y13. We have been very fortunate to have the support of 11 hostel supervisors, most of these staff are teachers at Southland Boys’ High School who bring with them expertise from various subjects.

We have enjoyed our new reception and office area which has been received favourably by our many hostel families and visitors. We will be carrying on the interior theme in our prep rooms and ablution area over the holiday break.

Our boys have enjoyed success on school sports day and cultural assembly. They work together as a family and encourage each other in these events. We have experienced interaction with Enwood House with socials and Splash Palace outings.

year. These are awarded to promising new entrants, to the value of $500 each.

The OBA, in partnership with the school, has funded the establishment of the Southland Boys’ High School Museum which you are welcome to visit. The Museum chronicles some very interesting aspects of the school’s history and its pupils’ achievements.

It is hoped that you will look back positively at your experiences at SBHS and remember that it is; Not for school but for life we are learning.

Ma te Atua Koutou hei manaaki(May God Bless you all)

Russell Read – President

Our 50th Jubilee was held in April and money raised from this weekend will be used to upgrade our hostel photos and renovate our family room.

We had one Gap Tutor from England for 8 months and in February a new Gap Tutor from Canada will arrive.

We wish our Y13 boarders, who will be leaving at the end of the year, all the best and look forward to watching their progress in the future.

We look forward to 2008 and being part of a fresh intake of young boarders who will be starting a new chapter in their lives.

We wish everyone a Happy Christmas and a safe and happy holiday.

Sue Mills – Manager


PTA ReportWell! Where do I start, what a busy and interesting year this one has been for all of us on the PTA.

Our first undertaking was to plan, organise and hold an extremely successful “Gala Auction” to raise funds for the new performance suite being built next year.

This event was a huge undertaking by our small but enthusiastic team of PTA members. We had a very short period of time to pull this event together. With a lot of hard work by the core group, fantastic assistance from the school and the wider parent community, the evening was a huge success. Amid all the laughter and entertainment we raised approx. $31,000 for the performance suite. All the feedback from those attending was fantastic. They had a great night and were encouraged to open their wallets even wider for our worthy cause. Dave Kennedy soon had them all up dancing for the rest of the night.

The many schoolboys who helped out on the night were a credit to the school, including: the students who provided artwork for the auction, the students who performed on the night, Scott’s catering boys who were involved in providing all the delicious food, the wine waiters and the boys who helped with setting up and tidying up. I hope you all enjoyed your involvement. We were very proud of you all. We are very grateful to everyone who was able to help or support us with this event in any way. You are all safe for next year, as a slightly tired committee has decided this will not be an annual event but will be saved for special causes.

Because the annual Blokes Tour event was so soon after the Auction it was decided to drop the Debate for this year. Luckily the Tour almost runs itself, with Ken Bowie doing all the background work finding the weird and wonderful sheds. We ladies are amazed every year when large groups of blokes (and blokes in training) troop out to poke around in other men’s sheds and garages!! This definitely seems to be what the guys enjoy. (Give us a kitchen or garden to look around any day.) From all the comments and conversation when they stopped for the barbecue and beer, this tour managed to intrigue and interest all the busloads of true Southern Blokes that went on it. All of them are already asking about what Ken Bowie will come up with for next year. Watch out for next year’s one.

Due to the success of these events the PTA is pleased to have contributed over $17,900 in financial support towards: Library books and furniture for the Library, books for the Junior School Literacy Circle, the Culinary team going for their World Culinary Championship trip, the Gifted Learning group, sports equipment, the school Prize Giving, the school leaver’s function and the four PTA Scholarships for new students. We also helped at the open nights and the parent interview evenings.

We would like to thank the school community for their support. The PTA is a vital link between home and school. We would like to encourage any parents who want to get involved to come along to our meetings, they are open to anyone in the school community to attend your ideas and input would be very welcome.

Lynn McKenzie – President PTA

Literature Circles in Y7/8Thanks to the generosity of the PTA, books were purchased for a trial Literature Circle in a Year 8 class, in Term 4. The purpose of a Literature Circle is to get students reading more and discussing the texts they read. The Literature Circle fits into the “Reading By” part of the classroom reading programme, where the Teacher acts as a Facilitator.

Students have a choice of six to seven texts. After browsing through the selection, they complete a ‘ballot’ form stating their first, second and third choice of book. Books are then allocated according to the ballot and thus groups are formed for that round of the Literature Circle.

The students in each group then agree on how much of the book is to be read by the next day. They read the book independently and have a supply of post-it notes on their bookmark. In these post-it notes, they note down anything they want to discuss with the group. This may be the meaning of a word or phrase, a question about the actions of a character, where a place is, a comment about the ‘mental image’ the text gives them, or anything else they want to discuss about the book.

The next day they get into their groups and discuss all the

items on their post-it notes, then place them on a group chart for future reference. The group then agrees on how much is to be read by the next session and then the process repeats the next day.

When the books are finished, the students re-ballot for another book, and the Circle begins again, with students in different groups – decided by the ballot. The students wait with anticipation to see if they have got their first choice of book!

The trial has been a success. It has proved to be motivating for the boys in terms of the quantity and quality of the books they are reading, and the discussions they are having about the books and authors (All books in the trial were written by NZ authors). Boys are saying things like “Can we get the next one in the series?”, “What other books has Des Hunt written?”, “Are we having Literature Circles today?” and “Can I please have some more post-it notes?!”

Following this trial, the PTA has very kindly given funding for another three class sets of books to be purchased. This will mean that a wider variety of books will be available for the boys AND that four Literature Circles can be operating at any one time in Y7/8.

Suzy Wells – Specialist Reading Teacher



Library ReportAnother year is almost complete and so too is the upgrade of the library space.

After a great deal of discussion and planning, the builders arrived towards the end of term 2, and the demolition began that heralded the start of the alterations. Books had to be shifted; computers and tables moved, and then the builders were left to get on with it.

A classroom, the corridor between, and a remodeled office space have been added to the library giving more space for students. A new Issues Desk, shelving, repainted walls, and place for school-bags completed the first stage of the upgrade and the library was reopened for use at the start of the third week of Term 3.

The next stage involved laying new carpet right throughout the remodeled library. This happened during the Term 3 holidays when again, books were shifted, and computers and tables were moved to leave room for the work to be done.

The beginning of Term 4 meant shifting everything back in again.

The computers have been relocated within the library to create a separate research area; the non-fiction and reference collections have new shelving, designed for larger books; and the original rimu shelving has been retained for the fiction collection; creating three distinct areas within the library space. The addition of new freestanding shelving for the magazines and picture books has added an additional dimension as well.

The recent arrival of new low tables and chairs, courtesy of the PTA, has completed the look and the library now has a modern, open, and inviting atmosphere ready to take on the challenge of providing reading and information resources for our students now and in the future.

Library Staff: Suzanne Muir, Joy Murray and Laurel Hepburn(TLR)


Student’s MusingHikamiI sat my legs crossed in a formal way for the ceremony on the threshold of Battle. My master and long time father figure approached slowly towards me wearing his battle worn samurai armour. He bore the proud crest of the noble crane set high in his helmet the talisman of good fortune and a crest which represents the Okami tribe. His heavy set features were some what lightened and his tight lips were tweaked at the corners in what seemed a smile. I bowed gracefully my head set to the ground. I raised my hands to accept the object of my desire. My own samurai sword earned in battle. It is named Hikami made for a great soldier; a sign of great honour and respect throughout the land. It also means I have climbed the ranks to Samurai General. I am well equipped to lead the greatest army in the land Mizuyama.

My master raised me to my feet he said in his soft spoken voice, “My son,” although he was not my father. My father had lived by the sword and fallen by the sword and his close friend Shijoji had taken me under his wing. These two words made me beam with happiness. This man had truly won my respect, admiration and love. “You have done me proud.” He embraced me, but a sad look crept across his face. “Battle fast approaches. I am too old to fight. You will command the Mizuyama.” “The Mizuyama!” I gasped. I knew this day would come; but so soon, I thought to myself. I was a little anxious to fight among my men again and battle with my Hikami, but this could also mean the end which I hoped would not come. My master made to walk off and said over his shoulder, “Come back alive, my son, and see to it that you say your goodbyes to your family.” He left me to my thoughts as I raced back home.

I returned to my home to see my beautiful wife mending my armour. A wave of affection flushed over me. I sat in front of her as she dressed me in my dark armour, burdening my limbs. She raised my helmet high and placed it on my head until it slid down to my eyes. She kissed me, a tearful look in her eyes. She did not speak but I knew what she was thinking. I looked over my shoulder to see her again. She had her hands to her stomach, our child growing inside. I vowed to heaven I would return.

I arrived on the battlefield - I was in awe at the sight of the tremendous army in front of me - at least 10,000 I thought to myself. Although I said nothing, we were horribly outnumbered and I knew if we lost this battle my tribe would fall into nothingness, so I screamed with my sword held high, “Charge!”

I stood combat ready, my head dripping with perspiration, blurring my vision. I clanged my sword against another, shattering it, which was followed by a sickening thud as another victim fell to my blade. My sword and I were one against the enemy - cutting them down and singing

a mournful song as foe after foe fell in the field of death - casting them down into the dirt. I darted through the field with no one opposing me. I cut an arrow in midflight as it hurtled towards me; I ducked behind a lifeless body for protection; I heard the dull thud of the arrows as they hit. I leapt out - surprising a soldier with a bone shattering punch to the face - he fell screaming in pain. I was oblivious to the death, I just charged and I hoped I wouldn’t come off second best. But eventually, the time came when seven soldiers surrounded me. I called for aid but my comrades were still waging fights of their own.

On the outskirts of the battle, their leader smirked as he sat on his mount. I vowed I would wipe that grin off his face. I fought hordes of soldiers, but a solid thud followed by two more mortally wounded me. I fell. The pain was excruciating. I saw their leader holding a great bow - he was already lining up another shot. I gasped and with my final strength and breath I threw my sword screaming as I fell into darkness; “Fight hard!”

I spluttered. A thick red liquid spilled from my lips. I tasted the bitter taste of blood mixed with wine and I thought this was the afterlife. I rose, but was overwhelmed by the sight I saw - I was high atop a pavilion on a balcony overlooking my tribe as they bowed in praise for me. My wife clasped my shoulder and she said so sweetly. “It’s a boy!” Tears sprang to my eyes as me emotions swelled I jumped to my feet, ignoring the pain.

I picked up my sword and raised it to the air. My tribe screamed in compassion and admiration and out of the corner of my eye I could see my father with overwhelming happiness on his face as he blended back into the shadows. I truly had come to command a great empire and I promised myself that peace and long life would prosper in this wonderful place.

Toby Welford – Year 11

Democracy vs DictatorshipPol Pot transformed Cambodia into a radical communist Dictatorship, ruling from 1975 until 1979 and killing over a million people. In his quest to become the largest rice producing country in the world, he eliminated all education, voting rights and foreign languages and people. To enforce his rule he introduced harsh punishments, committing countless human rights abuses. These examples show what a dictatorship can be like and we can see how it differs from a democracy like New Zealand.

Under dictatorship, education is often abolished completely or removed from certain people. When Pol Pot was in power in Cambodia, he wiped out not only all education, but all educated people as well. Children were sent to work in the paddy fields with no available education, not even from their parents, as families were separated. Pol Pot wanted to rid Cambodia of all education so there were no educated people to start a revolution and overthrow him. It was also removed because then there would only be rice growing



peasants left. In New Zealand, a democracy, free education is compulsory for people aged 5-16 years and is available at nearly any age (pre-school education, university courses), this ensures that there are always people suitable to run the country, unlike in Cambodia, where if the system had held up, would have noting but peasants in 20 years and no-one to be doctors, dentists or anyone to run the country.

In a dictatorship, the people no longer have a choice who rules the country. In New Zealand, as in other democracies, it is the people who choose their leader. They do this by voting in Government Elections that are held every 3 years. Pol Pot was a Dictator, meaning he came into power and enforced his rule by military power, doing what he wanted and removing these voting rights along with many others. At first the people loved him because they thought he was bringing back the royal family, but soon they realised his intentions weren’t as good as they seemed. By this time it was too late and they had no way of removing him. New Zealand has always had this right to elect their government and many other countries do as well, for it is considered one of the most successful government systems.

Pol Pot removed all foreign language and people under his dictatorship/communism scheme. In Cambodia, embassies were closed down and foreigners were either removed or killed. Even anyone who was found to be able to speak another language was killed. Pol Pot did this because he wanted to rid Cambodia of all outsiders and ‘purify’ his country. No other countries would interfere with his master plan, and that way he could stay in power without fear of being overrun. In New Zealand foreigners are invited because they not only contribute money to our tourist industry, but they go back to their country and give our country a good name. We teach foreign languages in our schools and think highly of people who speak multiple

languages, unlike Pol Pot and his Government.

Often dictators use harsh punishments to enforce their rule over their country. Pol Pot had many killed to help use fear to get what he wanted. Millions were killed for little things like smooth hands and rice plants not being straight, so people were always scared and willing to do anything. Dictators do this so people will take them seriously and do what they want. In a democracy, parties have to find other ways to make people choose them with extensive ad campaigns promoting extra pay and better things for their country.

A democracy is fair and people live in peace while there is fear and death in Dictatorship. Because of these differences, I feel democracy is the better government type.

Graydon Hayes – 9C

Summer Days and Summer NightsGoing to the beach on a warm summer’s day is one of the greatest experiences a human can ever have. Upon stepping onto the beach, the smell of salt instantly assaults your nostrils. Then there is the taste on your tongue. Salt, sand, water and seaweed all fuse to form a delectable taste, which reminds one and all about the fun to be had. Upon looking out towards the vast, blue ocean an array of umbrellas and towels grazes the eyes, reminding the onlooker of a candy store window with all its tantalising treats. Between the havens of shade are children running around like ants, building castles of sand and shell, while dogs dart around looking for frisbees, sticks or balls thrown by owners trying to juggle their children and dogs need for attention. Beyond this the ocean glistens like a pot of

gold, while waves break the surface, stretching to their full height before crashing to their death erupting in white foam as more rise to take the place of the fallen. The water is dotted with people who are all enjoying the refreshing coolness with their friends and families, their surf boards and beach balls. All these sights are complimented by the sound of children, parents, yelling in pleasure or anger, dogs barking and yelping with delight, while the clamour of waves rises above all this as they roar into the sky before crashing back down in a vain attempt to throw the intruders off their backs. All these noises mix together in a melting pot of sound, allowing beachgoers to take in the entire beach, even with their eyes closed.

The warmth of the sun beats down

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on the back of one and all, warming them with its immense heat which in turn is countered by the cool breeze whipping in from the sea making the beach a pleasant, inviting temperature. When stepping barefoot onto the beach the sand seems to burn the skin off of your feet making you jump around looking for someplace, anyplace, to put your foot that doesn’t feel like a hotplate.

If you stay at the beach until darkness, when a bonfire is roaring and reaching for the sky you will go through another of life’s great events. The smell of salt still lingers, being brought to ones nose by the strong stinging sea squall gusting inland, but is overridden by the great feast of smells from the bonfire. The aroma of smoke is the main ingredient, but is complimented by the fragrance of burning sausages and marshmallows, all combining to make ones mouth water in anticipation of the night’s banquet; in fact the smell is so tantalising you can almost taste the food on the wind. The bonfire is the heart of the beach, pumping out the heat and light that is the lifeblood of the beach. It’s an enchanting source of life, seemingly a spell cast by the gods to allow life on the beach, dancing and prancing without a care as it sends its light as protection from the ever mounting shadow which hides the great roaring beast which is the sea somewhere within its great, black, looming darkness. Another part of its great magic is the invisible vines which wriggle out and entwine all those within reach, granting them heat that could not be found elsewhere in the cold damp beach. The only thing that penetrates this

Waituna RoadWaituna Road - Long, dusty in the summer, stretching from one farm to the next. Here, the rare sight of a car following its path with a cloud of dust behind absorbing everything form the rows of trees stretching also its side, to the naked farmland with the sheep and cows grazing on the warm grass. From paddock to paddock, different

paradise is the sound of the sea, a great roaring beast which hides in the darkness waiting for unwary beach goers to enter its cold, roaring pit.

Up in the sky the moon floats lazily across the sky, often encaged in clouds or smoke until it breaks free from their swirling prison. Beneath the clouds, at ground level groups of people sit around the fire, adults talking of the last season of rugby or netball, children speaking of school and the latest TV shows, young children and dogs dozily lie around, tired but not wanting sleep. Occasionally one of these people pulls out their own six string orchestra and plays one of the old, well known songs while the choir of angels dispersed near the flame sing beautifully out of tune. And through all this the fire crackles away.

All in all, going to the beach in summer is one of the supreme joys of living.

Year 11 Student



Groper’s BushSummer - The traffic drones around the corner past the sign reading “Groper’s Bush”. The crickets chirp in the beating midday sun as the cars disappear from sight past the small library where a school once stood; a beautiful picture with sheep grazing, the paddocks lush with green grass rolling into hills that meet the ridge line of the mighty Longwoods, abundant with native bush.

Slowly, as day follows day, the trees drop their autumn leaves and on cold frosty mornings you can look out to the tops of the hills and see a light dusting of snow and know that it won’t be long before it creeps right down to the ground you’re standing on.

When the snow starts to thaw, the daffodils lining the driveway poke through the ground to show that spring is on its way and soon the lambs will be coming. Spring brings sun, but also the danger of storms that come without warning to threaten the lives of the lambs.

Gradually the days lengthen and the weather calms to meld into a fresh summer and a new year.

Cameron Black – Year 10

Quad bike shooting down the road shatters it, destroying the beauty of the place. Just as suddenly as the sound arrives, it leaves, with only the soft “whoosh” of the waves lapping at the beach to be heard.

If I squint through the glare off the water, I can see the other headland of the harbour. This is tāpu land, sacred land. Its tāpu because the Māori fought a major battle there and many were killed. The land is barren, nothing grows there. If I look furthur along the harbour I can see the the bar that makes it so hazardous to enter the harbour from the sea. The Māori did it once with one of their wakas, named “Aotea”, the same as the harbour. It is believed to be where they first landed in New Zealand.

I walk over to the barbecue and fire it up to the hiss of the burner. I let it warm up and put some fresh snapper on the sizzling hotplate. After a “hard” day flying round the harbour on the boat, nothing beats freshly cooked hot fish and a cold drink.

Just as we sit down to eat, some city dweller in a four wheel drive gets stuck. The 2.8 litre diesel engine squeals like a stuck pig as he guns it, trying to get free by pushing the accelerator through the firewall and driving out, which only succeds in getting him more stuck. “Almost worth helping him to get some peace,” I comment. “Nah, let him learn that doesn’t work. Probably only ever driven on tarseal before coming here, probably thinks off-road is when he has to drive on gravel,” replies Dad. I glance at Dad’s truck. I can vaguely remember it being a mint green when it was new, but now it is the color of gravel - indistinguishable from the road. Finally, the city man gets out with the help of five people pushing and one person on a quad bike towing it.

By now night has fallen, blanketing the land in darkness. Dad and I go in and do the dishes, then go back out on the deck where Cait and Annette are talking. After Cait goes to bed, the three of us sit around on the deck, talking until the small hours of the morning.

Paradise does exist. It is a small Waikato community of fourteen people called Aotea.

Paradise – and I’m in it.

Nick McEvoy – Year 12

InvercargillInvercargill is a city full of surprises, known for its warmth, friendliness and hospitality.

The locals are accustomed to its southerly winds that blow all day long. The city’s heritage is proudly maintained. Even during the night as you pass down the wide streets, symmetrically designed, you are treated to the small majesty of the city’s historical buildings, lights beaming from beneath to display their pillars and parapets.

The Troopers Memorial stands at the crossroads of the busy

shades of green to brown glow with the reflection of the sun and the wind nips from the grass roots to the tops of trees, whistling as it moves along its north westerly path.

With the end of summer and an autumn that seems to disappear too quickly, winter comes to Waituna Road with a mighty chill that throws a cloud of steam from every breath as the warm air escapes into the cold. In the mornings, the windows fog as a frost freezes the outside world, leaving no sign of life. Step out the door and wait to hear the struggle of the school bus engine as pulls up to the stop. Warm hands wipe at half frozen windows to clear the ice and discover the frozen paddocks that stretch as far as the eye can see. Water, frozen to ice on each fence, glistens. Stock stay hugged together keeping warm in corners lit with watery sun. The road is a light grey with each and every gravel stone frozen in its rock hard position, making the ride unusually smooth. It’s like the world has hit pause every winter morning on Waituna Road.

Ryan Botting – Year 10

AoteaI gaze out over the harbour, blinded by the sunset and the light reflected off the waves. The hot sun beats down on my back as the cool breeze envelops me.

The shrill whine of the outboard destroys the silence as I flush the salt out of the motor with cool, clear, fresh water. Reaching into the cockpit of the boat, I kill the engine to let the silence return. Suddenly the roar of a Honda


city centre, a reminder of lives proudly lost in the days of war. Surrounding the lone soldier captured on his plinth, are the six historic banks, dating back to the prosperity of the late 1800’s. Invercargill - a city with a solid past and a bright future leans with the wind into the coming years.

People take refreshing walks through the flower adorned parks and reserves that run like patchwork the length of the city. Bars and restaurants tempt the palette with Bluff oysters the crowning glory.

Southland farmers, in town for Friday shopping, with faces as weather beaten as the fields they crop.

Windswept trees, distorted, bend away from the southern winds. Colourful cyclists, local and international, battle the elements and the landscape in the Tour of Southland.

See the Blade of Grass in Strength – a symbol of the dependence on the pastoral wealth of the rural surroundings. The pyramid shaped museum looks slightly at odds, slightly out of place, its entrance guarded by its oversized bronze tuatara. Celtic History is heard echoing through the park as tartan kilts and bagpipes swirl through the Feldwick Gates and around the band Rotunda of Queens Park

And out at Oreti, there’s a beach that’s long enough and flat enough for dreams to come true on. This is Invercargill as I know it.

Cameron Matheson – Year 10

My TownAs I walk down Dee Street, I see the freshly painted buildings of yesteryear standing as tall as they did those years ago. They are painted a myriad of colours – some natural, nostalgic shades of brown and cream, some – the ‘in’ reds, blues and greens. I notice that only one is taller than three stories – The Grand Hotel. Once it was a splendid place to stay.

I reach an intersection. On the far side of the road I see a memorial, which, on closer inspection, I find is to commemorate the fallen from two world wars. To the west of the cenotaph, I notice a checkerboard pattern on the ground, created with grass and concrete squares. The rumble of bogan car engines disturbs my mood as they cruise past.

I wander eastwards and happen across a magnificent fountain near the gates to a large park. My eye is drawn to a pyramid, white and stark. On investigation, I find that it is a museum. I walk on behind it and discover, complete with sundial, a large rose garden filled with the sweet, musk scent of roses. I hear a faint quacking sound and follow my ears to find a duck pond. The sound of children laughing draws me across a small stone bridge and I find myself in the middle of a frantic game of tag in a vast playground.

Through the playground and along the track I come upon a great medieval castle: Southland Boys’ High School. In its expansive fields I lie down in the sun and reflect on my day of exploration.

Tim Wells – Year 10



Biology CampLeaving from Southland Boys’ High School on the bus at 9 am on Sunday 4 March, we arrived in Fiordland around 12 noon. First on the agenda was the stream study in the Edlington River, which proved to be an amusing and yet bone chilling experience. Once finished, we made our way to Boyd Creek to set up camp. Although the odd pole was broken, we managed to erect the tents and settled in for the night.

Deep CoveDuring our camp to Deep Cove we got to see lots of wildlife. We saw Possums, Weka, Kea and Dolphins – some even saw a stoat.

On our last day at Deep Cove my class went to Helena Falls. The journey to the Falls had great sights and views. You could see all down the valley. When we got there we got absolutely soaked trying to walk to the bottom of the waterfall. It was too rough for us to get underneath it.

By the time we got back to the hostel we were all cold and very tired. So we hung out in the hostel and played games. Later on that night we did our skits. This was very funny. After the skits we swapped our five dollar presents that we had each brought to camp. We really enjoyed what we got. It was just like Christmas over again.

During camp we enjoyed heaps of different activities, yummy good food and the animals.

William Scobie

Deep Cove – Our ExperienceIt all started when we got onto the bus. Everyone was pumped with excitement. (We were assured it wouldn’t be like this on the way home!) We arrived at Manapouri; our nerves still tingling with excitement. We cruised over to West Arm on the catamaran, and then we headed down into the Manapouri Power Station. It was amazing - one of the highlights for us. We arrived at Deep Cove and there was a hostel and a wharf and some sheds, and well, that’s it really. We wondered what we had got ourselves into, but we did some totally awesome things, like our huge climb up the Hanging Valley (which was another highlight), and a beautiful cruise around the Sound including standing, (pretty much) under the Helena Falls. Other activities were catching my first fish off the wharf, Glow Worm watching, swimming, lots of cards and of course, cooking, cleaning and doing the annoying dishes. We had some funny times, as in skits and much more. Overall, we will never forget the amazing experience. Jake Henderson and Taryn Lockley – Year 8

Agriculture Field Trip: Telford Rural Polytechnic The field trip to Telford was just one of the field trips the agriculture classes went on this year. This gave the students the opportunity to take the education outside of the classroom while still linking the trips to the curriculum. The agriculture field trips also build links to outside agencies which lead into various career pathways.

Next year the students will be looking forward to a field trip to Lincoln University looking at the experimental farms, the DNA lab and getting a feel for the lifestyle of a student by staying in the Lincoln accommodation blocks.

The next day we travelled to Milford where we observed the magnificent scenery and the impact that tourism has had there. On our journey back to school, we stopped to look at the Mirror Lakes, the Chasm and did some climbing.

The weather in Fiordland was fantastic, allowing us to enjoy every moment.

Tim Marshall


Leadership and MentoringLeadership and Mentoring are important aspects of learning at SBHS. We believe it is important not just to give students leadership opportunities, but to actively train them for specific leadership roles. In this way, everyone benefits: the younger students who the mentors work with and the mentors themselves by gaining valuable skills which are transferable into life beyond the school years. This is an important part of modelling the school motto and mission statement: Not for School But For Life We Are Learning.

At SBHS, being a Prefect is not a right gained by simple success in a particular endeavour, although many of our prefects demonstrate excellence in a variety of fields: it is an opportunity gained by a willingness to demonstrate service to others. In this way, the leadership role is widened to provide a number of different kinds of leaders who all show commitment to helping others. All of our Prefects are trained in Peer Mediation, and all coach or mentor in at least two other areas – reading, maths, sport, music to name but a few.

Boys other than prefects are also coaches and mentors in a variety of subjects and codes. Each year, the leadership and mentoring opportunities grow and through the work of these students our school family builds strong bonds for learning and life.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all students who have mentored or coached in 2007. Your valuable work is greatly appreciated.

Bob Ward – Leadership and Mentoring Dean

Peer Support

At the end of 2006, 30 Year 12 students trained in Peer Support – programme to facilitate the transition of Year 7 new entrants into the school. The programme continues to work successfully with Peer Supporter Leaders working with Year 7 students in small groups throughout term one to ensure that they are making new friends and adapting to a new situation. In late November, 43 Year 12 students undertook Peer Support training for 2008

2007 Peer Support Leaders

Sam Beck, Wesley Bradley, Callum Chalmers, Brett Clark, Hamish Cruse, Greg Dawson, Ryan Dodunski, George Duffy, Ben Finn, Joshua Fitzgibbon, Matthew Foggo, Albie Ford, David Gare, Campbell Hills, Thomas Joyce, Alistair Levett, Taane Lucas, Ben Maynard, Andrew McGill Brown, Ryan McKinlay, William Mills, Bayden Neutroski, Scott Ramsay, Tai Raumati-Mackie, Robbie Robinson, Justin Sinclair, Cameron Stevens, Cohen Stewart, Dane Walker, Izaac Williams



Peer Tutoring – A Student PerspectiveWhen we first heard about Peer tutoring it sounded like a daunting task. We thought it would just be helping “little kids” with their reading, but it is much more than that.

Two weeks ago we went underwent a rigorous training regime with Miss Williamson and Mrs Robson. During our training we learned different tutoring techniques, the most useful being the “Three Ps”: Pause, Prompt and Praise.

We were then buddied up with a year seven student who needed a helping hand with their reading. The Reading Tutors all found it easy to get on with their buddies and many found that they had common interests. We all found that helping the boys out was a fun and satisfying task, and we can all see the boys making big improvements. Peer tutoring is a good way to give something back to the school and we are all having an enjoyable time doing it.By Tom Heenan and James Mulvey

Peer Tutoring

Peer Tutoring is now in its third year of operation and

has become an integral part of the leadership and mentoring programme at Southland Boys’ High School. In 2007 we have had wonderful support and enthusiasm from the students, both tutors and readers. Tutoring provides a great opportunity for older to help younger, and for students to get to know boys they wouldn’t usually have a connection with. This year we have extended the tutoring opportunity to Year 10 students, so we now have tutors at Year 10, 12 and 13. We look forward to the programme continuing in 2008.

Bob Ward – Leadership and Mentoring Dean

Peer Tutors in 2007:

Year 13Sam Beck, Wesley Bradley, Callum Chalmers, Brett Clark, Greg Dawson, Ryan Dodunski, George Duffy, Brogan Emms, Ben Finn, Josh Fitzgibbon, Ethan Flack, Matthew Foggo, Albie Ford, David Gare, Campbell Hills, Alistair Levett, Ben Maynard, Ryan McKinlay, Andrew McGill-Brown, Ben McLeod, William Mills, Justin Sinclair, Cameron Stevens, Cohen Stewart, Dane Walker

Year 12Sam Baker, Josh Bakker, Jacob Boyle, Oliver Broughton, Ben Cannon, Michael Carroll, Harrison Clark, Euan Cox, Richard Ford, Tipene Galiki, Jamie Harvey, Tom Heenan, Adam Marshall-White, Tim Marshall, Sam Maynard, Sam McMahon, James Mulvey, David Neynens, Cody Tohill, Curtis White

Year 10Scott Barnsdale, Cameron Black, Edward Heenan, Hamish Lambeth, Andrew Lee, Matthew Mason, George Mulvey, Jonathan Miller, William Rabbit, Ben Russell, Fayez Shabbaz, Mathias Simonka, Taylor Swain, Gregory Titchmarsh, Oliver Todd, Mitchell van Schaik.

Prefects 2008Back: Cody Tohill, Tipene Galiki, Tom Heenan

Front: Michael Carroll, David Neynens

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SELLThis was a new programme offered to SBHS by Enterprise New Zealand Trust this year. The promotional material stated: ‘The primary objective of the Student Enterprise Learning Link is to provide a world-class learning experience that excites and informs young New Zealanders about business and its potential as a life choice’.

In late June, forty Year 11 Southland Boys’ High School

students and 40 Year 11 Southland Girls’ High School students were provided with the opportunity to work in teams to form ‘notional’ companies, research and decide on a product or service, write a business plan and then market it in an oral presentation to a ‘Dragon’s Den’ group of local business leaders. Three days of school time were required for this programme but the feedback from staff, students and parents was particularly positive.

Staff agreed it was a great student-centred learning opportunity that fostered a range of skills such as cooperation, communication and decision-making. Most students ‘grew’ as people by being put in a situation where they had to rely on their ability, their sales skills, and their leadership. They learned that teamwork is the most important factor in success and took up the challenge of being put outside their comfort zone.

The range of products and services that came about was

quite extensive including a safety chair, microwavable gel gloves, windscreen defroster in a can, a vehicle maintenance course, and socks.

One obvious highlight for the boys was working in groups with girls. There were, however, other highlights as well. Some of those noted by the boys were:

• working in a group that knew what they were doing;

• working with different people and making new friends;



Canteen ReportIt’s been another year and what a year! It has speed past so quickly.

We are in our new canteen and what a cracker it is. Twice the size with three new serving areas out the front and a back slide for our Year 7 & 8’s; glass show cases, new ovens, I could go on and on. It’s all fantastic.

We have seen some changes with our menu, getting rid of the pies and sausage rolls and there doesn’t seem to have been a problem with the new healthier menu. Our new hot items have taken off, like Hot Turkish Bread stuffed with chicken and also our mince and potato dishes. If you don’t order it early, you might just miss out! Who needs pies anyway?

Judy, Rebecca and I have had a fantastic year with you all. Thank you all.

Gayle Meikle

• making the final presentation to respected people in the community;

• winning the competition;• listening to the presenter’s quotes, for example, “soar

like an eagle, not like a duck”.

And what did the boys think they learned from the experience? Some examples - I learned:

• how to better lead a small group;• how to manage finances (using Excel on the

computer);• how hard it is to come up with a product and what an

involved process it is;• how sponsors can be used in funding a business

venture;• that being a successful entrepreneur is not impossible.

The team rapidly became involved in this activity and were provided with a great example of ‘learning can be fun’.

Thanks must go to Mr Murcott and SGHS for their organisation of this very worthwhile programme.

We are looking forward to doing it again in 2008!

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Careers DepartmentKia Ora Fakaalofa lahi atu, Kia Orana, Malo e lelei, Ni sa bula, Taloha ni, Talofa Lava and warm greeting from the Careers Department …

Once again it has been another successful year for Careers. As part of the Creating Pathways and Building lives project (CPaBL) we have developed a Career profile database that will track the various Career choices our students make over the coming years. This will help us identify various Career trends and influences, and put in place the subject support that is needed for successful transition from school into the workforce, or further study. We have embarked on a school wide approach to Careers that will help students understand how subjects are relevant to the real world, with an emphasis on obtaining transferable skills.

Many students have successfully completed STAR courses at SIT in Media, Hospitality, Engineering Welding, Carpentry, Automotive, Hairdressing and Audio Production, just to name a few, and a Diving Course through Adventure Education based in Bluff.

Scholarships

Congratulations to all those students who have successfully gained a scholarship this year. In particular, Greg Dawson, who gained a full sports scholarship from Lincoln University and also our ILT recipients, Sam Beck, Josh Fitzgibbon, Campbell Hills, Ryan McKinlay, Benjamin Maynard, and Cohen Stewart. All the best to those still awaiting selection.

Navy Visit

We were lucky enough to host the Navy Sea Sprite visit to Invercargill back in August and as a perk, Ben Maynard and Catlin Booth had an adventure I’m sure they won’t forget. The weather was shocking! We had wind! We had rain … and more wind with sub zero temperatures, but both students braved the semi-storm to be winched up into the helicopter from the number two field and then be whisked off in a very impressive aerial display.

It was a great time for all of the students to see a Sea Sprite helicopter up close and have a talk with both the Navy and Air Force crew that supported the visit. As a result of that visit two students have already left for Devonport to do their basic training and at least one more may enlist in January.

On top of being chosen to host the Sea Sprite we also had a chance to send one student on the Te Mana, that traveled up the east coast from Dunedin to Devonport in September. Taane Lucas had a very eventful trip and got to see the Navy up close and personal, during which he as privileged to be able to dine with the officers on board.

Marcus Hirner also took part in the Navy Adventure Challenge 07, which included doing drills in their sinking ship simulator, jumping overboard and physically being pushed to the limit.

Pictured left to right:LT Sam Greenhalgh (Observer), CPOHCM Ati Wynyard (Helicopter

Crewman), Catlin Booth (SGHS head girl), LTCDR James Tayler (FLT CDR and Pilot), Ben Maynard (SBHS Head Boy)

Airforce Visit

In August we were also blessed with an inspirational visit from ex-student Adam Tavave, Royal New Zealand Air Force Engineer. When asked how he found the Air Force, his simple reply was, “living the dream”, something I hope all of our students strive for!

Gateway 2007

Overall this year has again been a huge success, with 20 students being placed across a wide cross section of industries, including Agriculture, Engineering, Building/Construction, Automotive, Electrical and Aircraft Engineering.

Gateway offers students structured workplace learning, with students having to complete relevant industry unit standards, covering both practical and theory aspects.

To date, six of the students on this years programme have been offered apprenticeships through their work placement, well done to you all.

Ex-student Adam Tavave and Assitant Principal Ms Linda Dalzell



KumagayaKumagaya Boys High TripKumagaya Boys’ High SchoolI arrived at Kumagaya Boys’ High School at about 8am and opened my eyes to a great looking school. We were introduced to Takano Sensei who did an awesome job of looking after us for the few days we were at Kuma ko. Our first two days at Kuma ko was the amazing school festival which every one of the students helped out with. I enjoyed playing the activities and won many interesting things. The students were all very friendly and it was good that they would stop and say “hello”, because I was a little nervous being in a new environment. Another interesting thing was the fact that we had to change into tiny slippers to kick around in while on the school grounds. I immersed myself in the Japanese culture doing such things as calligraphy, sushi making, and playing a little bit of baseball and basketball with the students. I also tried tug of war and the huge group skipping the boys did. We were also welcomed in an assembly just for us, which was a great privilege. We watched the cheerleaders while the boys sang along to the Kuma Ko school song, it was a grand occasion which I felt humbled to be part of. Home Stay FamilyMy host for my time in Kumagaya was Hikaru, he was very nice and spoke good English which made it a lot easier for me. I was welcomed with open arms into their beautiful house in Yorii. I ate some interesting meals, but they still tasted good apart from the daifuku. My host family took me to two restaurants, a sushi bar with the rotating food and a restaurant where you had to kneel on the floor, where we celebrated Hikaru’s birthday. I had an awesome time with my host family they spent a lot of time on me which I really appreciate and I am greatly thankful for.

Sight SeeingWhile in Kumagaya we went and saw many things such as the Kumagaya Town Hall where we were introduced to the inspirational Mayor of Kumagaya - he is a good man and I was lucky enough to get a photograph with him. Another of the sights was the Lollie Factory where we watched and helped a little to make Okabo, the Japanese sweet. We ate our Okabo in luxury at a beautiful hotel just opposite the lollie factory, and also drunk orange juice. The staff were very friendly and also all the ladies from the Kumagaya Friendship Association that accompanied us from the Town Hall. I would thoroughly like to thank them, it was a pleasure to spend the trip with them. We then were allowed to walk around the garden which was amazing with their huge carp and stone shrines. They were all very beautiful. We then saw the massive Kumagaya stadium, an amazing structure that covered 100 hectares. We then traveled to the long awaited Rugby Stadium where we looked at all the team jerseys from countries such as New Zealand, Canada and Tonga, and of course the National

Japanese Team jerseys. We then looked at the rugby ground, it was well cared for and looked like a good place to have a game but it’s a shame they had no rugby ball and we were running out of time.

Tokyo DisneylandThe massive amusement park just outside of Tokyo was an amazing place where I had a blast on the rides and arcade. It was good to see pizza, burgers and fries, which I hadn’t seen in a while. Rhys and I tried many things and being a country boy, it was an awesome experience to be in the air and shot through the darkened inside of space mountain. It was a 2hour and 30min wait but was well worth the adrenaline pumping joy ride. It was a big day for me and there were so many people but I still had an amazing time and would like to experience it again.

ConclusionAll and all I have had an amazing experience in Kumagaya, I have done so many things and words can’t describe how great a time I have had in the school, city and country. I would like to thank all the people that have made my time in Kumagaya so wonderful and would love to return some day in the near future to experience it all once again.

Thanks so very much I am hugely humbled by my experience in Kumagaya.

Toby Welford

Kumagaya Cultural Exchange - NotesAfter the long plane flight we arrived in Tokyo followed by a three hour bus ride to Kumagaya. We were kindly greeted by Takano sensei. Without Takano sensei’s help it would have been difficult to communicate and socialize with our fellow Kumagaya friends. With a further three weeks of stay in Kumagaya, I am really looking forward to experiencing the Japanese culture. I have found the Japanese people to be very kind and caring, making our home stay enjoyable and welcoming. I have enjoyed the ways of the different culture, from the food they eat to taking their shoes off and wearing slippers through school.

The food is very different but I have enjoyed the unique tastes. Sushi would be my favorite food in Japan. Tofu has a very strange texture but tastes quite nice. I have found that the Japanese people all make you feel welcome and create a safe surrounding for us foreigners. When I get on the train every morning no one looks at me strangely like I am different from every one else. Kumagaya High School is very interesting and I am pleased I have had the opportunity to come to this friendly school.

My host family is lovely and I really appreciate all that they have done for me. I sit down every night and try my hardest to chat to the whole family. This has been amazing for my Japanese skills. The Kumagaya International Friendship Association has been amazing giving us a bus to


tour Kumagaya. We got shown all round the city including visiting the candy factory, the very flash motel next to the candy factory, the one hundred hectare park with the rugby stadium and track & field stadium. This was all after visiting the Mayor of Kumagaya. He is a wonderful man and is doing the city proud.

The day we went to Tokyo Disneyland was amazing, with a lot of laughing to enjoy the day. The day wasn’t too hot which made all of the group very happy. My favorite ride was the Pirates of the Caribbean. Our home stay students helped us enjoy our day. Tokyo is amazing and it is so much bigger than any other city I have ever visited before. Compared to New Zealand Japan is a lot more efficient making it easy to travel around Japan. In Japan the main source of travel is train compared to New Zealand where most people still travel by car.

Kumagaya is a very traditional city which is very different from Invercargill. While I was driving around the different towns with my host family I found that you go from town to town with no huge paddocks separating the towns. This just shows the huge amount of people living in Japan. The Kumagaya High School Festival was a great start to our visit to Japan. I could not believe how involved the school students get with the school. Thank you all very much for everything and I am looking forward to the next three weeks in Japan.

Cameron Stevens

My Impressions of KumagayaThe very first thing I would like to say about Kumagaya is that the people there are extremely friendly, and the hospitality shown to myself personally and the other members of the tour group, was much appreciated.

During my stay in Kumaguya I experienced the annual Kumako festival. I was so amazed to see the whole student body join together and celebrate their school in such an enthusiastic manner. I thoroughly enjoyed attending this and participating in the various games and other events put on by the students. All members of the tour had a great time and had much pleasure mingling with the Kumagaya Boys’ High students and other people that visited the school during these two days.

My host brother was called Hedehero Okutomi. I was

invited into his home with much warmth and had a wonderful time living with his family experiencing a different culture and lifestyle to the one I am most use to. During my stay with my host family I tried many new things like sukiyaki and a traditional Japanese house. These were all very exciting and will be memories that I will have for the rest of my life. His parents spoke some English which helped me a lot to understand our days’ schedule. I will be forever grateful to his parents for their hospitality and the consideration that they showed me throughout the duration of my exchange.

On the first Tuesday of our trip we all visited Tokyo Disney Resort which was a fantastic experience and was enjoyed by everyone. I was astonished by the number of people that were there. We went on some great rides, took heaps of photos and brought many souvenirs for my friends back home in Invercargill.

We attended a range of new and interesting classes including Judo, Oral Communication, Calligraphy and Cooking, where we made a range of sushi. I really liked Judo and Calligraphy and had a good time helping the Kumagaya Boys’ High students with their English.

I went sight seeing around the Saitama and Kumagaya City, and saw many memorable sights such the Okabo Sweet Factory and Kumagaya Rugby Stadium. My host family and I went rafting, which was a particular highlight of my trip. I am very thankful to my hosts and the Kumagaya International Friendship Association for supplying me with these memories that I am looking forward to sharing with my friends and relatives when I return home.

I would really like to thank all the people that made this trip possible.

Brendan



Kumagaya Boys’ High School TripThe first time I saw Kumagaya Boys’ High School I thought it was an amazing sight. the first day we went to classes was very different to the way we have classes at southland boys. The ways are a lot different. But the teacher Takano sensei told us how to do everything. I was surprised that you have to change your shoes when you go inside the school and my host student Takeru Watanabe also made me feel at home with his family as my home stay hosts.

Home stay family.My home stay family was very nice and a great family to stay with. The Watanabe family were great including me in there activities and taking me out to dinner with their other family members and I really liked staying at there house.

Kumagaya Boys’ High School Festival.The Kumagaya Boys’ High School Festival was a great 2 days and I would like to see it again. It was very hot over the 2 days that festival was on reaching over 33 degrees.

There were many games, acts and activities that could be enjoyed during the day. I enjoyed the festival very much and would like to re-visit it in the future.Tokyo Disneyland.

The day we went to Tokyo Disneyland was good me and Toby decided to go on the mini car racing waiting maybe 30minutes. The best ride of the day was by far Space Mountain waiting up to nearly 3 hours but was well worth it.

It’s Wonderful WorldMaybe I can’t forget about New Zealand travel. I think there is more to home-stay than just studying.

I enjoyed staying in New Zealand. I was a bit worried about my English. But my host family was kind and welcoming. I was really glad. Haka was very exciting and impressive for me. I was surprised by Haka. I thought Southland Boys’ High School was a nice school. It was different from Kumagaya High School. For example, it had special subjects. When I was watching class, I was very surprised with the students studying Japanese. They also had traditional classes. They practiced Haka in the class and I learned about students’ school lives too. Japanese people usually eat rice and fish, but they usually eat bread and fruits for lunch.

New Zealand has kind people, good nature, a strong rugby team, and many kinds of animals. New Zealand is a very nice country.

Japan is quite separate from New Zealand. I don’t know when I will be able to go to New Zealand next time. But my heart will stay with my New Zealand friends. I think what’s important isn’t we see each other, but how often we think about each other. Right?

Jun Mishima – Kumagaya Boys’ High School

Sight Seeing In Kumagaya.Today we went sight seeing around Kumagaya city by bus paid for by the Kumagaya Friendship Association, thank you very much. It was very hot today and the bus made the heat worse but it was a good day. The places we went were okabo factory which was followed by a sampling session and a look around a very flash hotel. The hotel also had a very beautiful garden which had huge carp and a Japanese-style bridge and a couple of concrete Japanese ornaments and also the Kumagaya rugby stadium and dome which was huge stretching 2km also 100 hectares.

Overall this has been a once in a life time opportunity and I hope the next week will be as good as the first has been.This first week has been a very special week and was very well enjoyed.


My Second Country, New ZealandThe reason why I decided to go to New Zealand was because I wanted to speak to many foreigners in English. When I got to New Zealand, I felt sick because I felt very nervous then. I thought New Zealand was very clean. The air was so clear. When I met my host brother, Chris Wilson, I thought he is very tall. He was very kind to me. He was interested in Japanese cars. We talked about them many times. Mr. Wilson owns an electrical appliances company. His office room was very nice. Mrs Wilson was also kind and always took care of me. His older sister, Kylie, studied Japanese a little. So I taught her some Japanese.

Southland Boys’ High School is a very good school. It was very fun for me to study at SBHS, but sometimes I couldn’t understand English a little. Haka is very exiting. It looked very powerful. We did bungee jumping. I want to try it again.

I didn’t want to say “goodbye” to my host family, I said, “See you soon,” to them.

My New Zealand trip was very wonderful. It changed my view of the world.

I will never forget about that. New Zealand is very beautiful country. It’s my second country. I want to thank my host family, SBHS students, and teachers. And of course, I want to thank my parents too. I thought this trip was a success. I hope I will go to New Zealand again in the future.

Naruyuki Motoki

Southland Boys’ High School Year 11 German students Aziz Askin, John McLeod and Max Reeves enjoying the icebreaker activities at the German Talkfest. This particular activity involved gathering as

many pairs of “Unterhosen” as possible by getting others to say “ja” or “nein” – all in German of course!!!

Deutsches Talkfest 2007On the afternoon of Thursday 15th March, three Year 11 German students joined students from Southland Girls’ High School and James Hargest College for a German Talkfest held at Edenview Camp in Edendale. This overnight stay saw the students immersed almost exclusively in the German language.

Several activities designed to break the ice and get the students speaking German were followed by a German style dinner – complete with sausages of course! More activities were followed by a great German film (Das Wunder von Bern) about Germany’s first win in the Football World Cup in 1954.

On Friday the day started with a typical German breakfast

which included bread, cheese, cold meats, eggs and quark!

Students spent much of Friday involved in a variety of “drama” activities – from impromptu sketches based around available props and costumes or a set phrase which had to be included, to a very amusing take on Sleeping Beauty.

An overnight experience like this which immerses students in the target language for a range of activities and for everyday routines are extremely beneficial. It allows them to experiment with using the language in a variety of situations amongst other learners of the language.

There were also several German speaking exchange students included in the group. This added a further dimension as it allowed our students to hear and interact with native speakers of the target language and to find out about the culture and social conventions of German speaking countries from the perspective of someone there own age.

Well done to the three boys who attended the camp. They were willing to step outside their comfort zones and participate in all the activities and I am sure their German has benefited from this experience.

International Languages WeekAugust 19 – 25 2007 was International Languages Week. The key messages of this week were:

2 everybody masters one language (their first or mother tongue) so they are able to learn a second (or third!) language.

2 English is like vanilla icecream – it’s everywhere, it’s nice, it’s basic. But there are so many other flavours and tastes out there. Why not try them?

Southland Boys’ High School celebrated International Languages Week with a variety of activities. Monday lunchtime saw staff and students treated to a range of



culinary delights at our international food festival. Thanks must go to Mr Richardson and his team of helpers for the scrumptious variety of food on offer which ranged from Chinese fried rice to mini Black Forest cakes.

The area where the food festival was held was decorated by dozens of flags from all around the world which had been created by the Year 7 and 8 classes as part of a competition. They certainly helped to add to the international atmosphere. The winners of the flag competition were Room 12.

At Thursday’s assembly we heard from two exchange students – Tom Heenan, a Southland Boys’ High School student who has recently returned from time in France – and Tom Tahon – a French student currently attending Southland Boys’ High School.

Each day of the week was assigned to a different language

(French, German, Japanese, Maori, Korean). Staff and students were encouraged to use greetings in the relevant language each day. There was also a daily quiz with a cultural question about the appropriate country. Daily winners of a canteen voucher were: Finlay Cox, George Mulvey, Sheldon (from Room 16), Keanu Kahukura and Kevin Kim. At the end of the week all the entries received were put back in to the hat for a final draw. The lucky winner of a movie pass was Billy Soper.

Thank you to all the staff and students who participated in the activities and supported International Languages Week 2007. We look forward to bringing you more opportunities to experience different languages and cultures next year!

Catering and HospitalitySouthland Boys’ High School Catering and Hospitality has had another productive year with all the boys who took catering as an option gaining valuable life skills and a sound knowledge of food and its place in young men’s lives both socially and as a professional career path.

We achieved success at all levels - local, national and international. These achievements have come about by the dedication and long hours of the students and the commitment of Mr Richardson who engages his students to strive for excellence.

Here is an overview of the 2007 year from the

Documents

the southlandian - SBHS OLD BOYSsbhsoldboys.nz/southlandian/2000-2009/The_Southlandian... · 2020. 4. 14. · Mr C Goodwill BA, Dip Tchg Mr A Grant Dip Fine Arts, Adv Trade Cert,