The final week of school is always a bittersweet time for Year 13 students, and the Class of 2024 made the most of their last days on campus. The week was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a series of activities that embodied the Saint Kentigern spirit. From pyjama day to the creativity of ‘anything but a bag’ day, the Year 13s embraced the fun, capping it off with a lively BBQ breakfast in the carpark and a water fight complete with a slide. These moments  highlight just a snippet of the joy and unity of a cohort ready to take their next steps.

On their last full day, 25 October, the Year 13s were honoured with a Guard of Honour, the first ever done at the College. With the College Pipe Band leading the way, they walked through a procession of cheering peers, starting with the youngest Year 7s outside the Chapel and ending with the Year 12s at the doors of the Sports Centre.. This moving moment offered students a visual journey of their time at Saint Kentigern, from their early beginnings to their final days as senior leaders.

In their final assembly, Head Girl Katelyn Quay Chin delivered her Last Word, a heartfelt address that captured the essence of their shared journey. Her words were met with a stirring haka from her classmates, a powerful and emotional conclusion to their time as students.

Damon Emtage also encouraged students to reflect on the value of their experiences, saying, “Your journey at Saint Kentigern has been about more than just academic achievement. It’s been about growth – embracing setbacks, celebrating triumphs, and discovering your purpose. Remember, true excellence lies in striving to be your personal best, not in perfection.”

After completing their exams the Year 13s reunited for the Graduation Dinner on 8 December at the Due Drop Events Centre in Manukau. Led into the arena by the Pipe Band, the students joined their families at their tables for an evening of celebration and reflection. During the evening, they all crossed the stage, together with their Tutor, symbolising for the students their transition from College students to alumni, and marking the start of their journey beyond the College as lifelong members of the Saint Kentigern community.

Head Boy Ricky Shen and Head Girl Katelyn Quay Chin reflected on their shared journey with humour and gratitude. Ricky shared, “We’re always racing to the next thing in life, but sometimes it’s important to pause and reflect on how far we’ve come." Katelyn added, “Who we want to be will always matter more than what we want to do. The legacy we leave behind will be shaped by the character we build.”

Henry Lang, who was honoured as the 2024 valedictorian by his peers, likened the graduates’ experiences to a hero’s journey. “Give it all you have,” he encouraged. “Leave it all out there on the pitch, the stage, or the paper, and you will gain skills and knowledge that open doors to worlds previously unimaginable.”

As the Class of 2024 transitions to alumni, they leave a legacy of kindness, perseverance, and connection, carrying the values of respect, integrity, service, excellence, and love into their futures. We also acknowledge Deputy Principal Senior School, Eric Wall, for his efforts in making their last days at school so memorable.

Year 12 Graduates Depart in Final Ceremony 

Each year, we hold a graduation ceremony to celebrate any graduating Year 12 students as they leave the College to pursue their chosen careers. We are incredibly proud of each graduate and wish them all the best as they follow their passions beyond our campus.

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