This year we were well prepared! After the overwhelming response to last year’s invitation to attend Grandparents’ Morning, we learnt that the final guest list was likely to be far in excess of those who had initially responded – and we’d need plenty more chairs! This year the gym was filled from wall to wall with extra chairs – and every single seat was taken!

A group of junior boys stood proudly to attention at the entrance, handing out 500 single yellow tulips to the delight of the Grannies, Grandmas and Nanas as they arrived to take their seats. When all were settled, Head Boy, Michael Hiddleston, welcomed one and all, telling the Grandparents about their special place in the lives of the boys, particularly the fond memories created as they ‘grow up and grow old’ together.

Louie Whata led the boys in a dynamic haka, adopting the All Black’s new ‘arrowhead’ formation and then went on to confidently welcome our guests, firstly in Maori then English.  The Performer’s Choir were next to entertain; well-polished after their recent musical tour to New Caledonia. They were followed by the winning Hamilton House choir singing ‘Sons of Gallipoli.’.  

Principal, Mr Peter Cassie came forward in welcome reminding those that had returned that he set them some ‘homework’ last year – to ‘Make a Memory;’ a lasting story of their lives, knowing that these life stories grow in value to grandchildren as they grow older. He had encouraged them to do this for their families – and for those that had forgotten, he said that today was as good as any to start!

He acknowledged the distances that our visitors have travelled from as far south as Dunedin to Kerikeri in the north and everywhere in between – with special thanks to those who made the trip from Australia, the USA and England! He also took a moment to acknowledge all the grandparents who weren’t able to be with us, knowing full well that they were with us in spirit.

Mr Cassie said, ‘We are proud of your grandsons and are honoured to have them at our school. Their contribution in all aspects of school life is appreciated. All we ask in return is for them to strive for excellence and not settle for anything less than their best, which is achievable with the right attitude and focus. We want the boys to be proud of themselves, their families and their school.’

There was then much excitement as the boys waited expectantly on the top field to collect and escort their own special guests to visit their classrooms and tour the school before taking time out for morning tea. The Parents and Friends are to be applauded for the incredible spread laid out in JC Chalmers Hall, fully catered by the parents themselves. We give our thanks to them; we know our guests certainly enjoyed it!

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• Boys' School

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