- Saint Kentigern Home
- About Us
- Building Saint Kentigern
- Our Future
- Open Days
- Careers
- College
- Boys' School
- Girls School
- Preschool
- International
- Boarding
- Alumni
- News
News
Each year, Founders’ Day serves as a reminder of where Saint Kentigern Boys’ School began, how far it has come, and the role every student plays in its future. This year, the school marked 66 years of excellence in boys' education with a short but meaningful service, held outdoors in the presence of students, staff, and special guests from the wider Saint Kentigern community.
Executive Trustee Dr Kevin Morris, Trust Board member Dr Catherine Harri, and Head of Chaplaincy Rev. Reuben Hardie were in attendance, with Rev. Hardie introducing a new member of the Chaplaincy team, Ken Diekema. The service concluded with Mr Diekema leading the school in a closing prayer and blessing.
The occasion also marked the first official address by new Deputy Principal Richard Kirk, himself an Old Boy of the school. Reflecting on his time as a student four decades ago, he painted a vivid picture of a campus without a Junior School building, a far less forgiving unheated swimming pool, and classrooms filled with blackboards and chalk instead of today’s modern resources. Yet, amid the many changes, he reminded the students that some things have remained steadfast: the school’s commitment to personalised education, fostering boys to be the best they can be, and helping them discover their passions. “As the current custodians of this place, we play an important role in developing it, as it will remain for others long after we have gone,” he said. “We are afforded a short time to contribute positively and build upon the great work done years prior.”
Head Boy Austin Watson made his debut address in his head prefect role, as he confidently tackled the ‘History of our patron Saint Kentigern in 60 seconds’ challenge, confidently outlining the life and miracles of the school’s namesake, Saint Kentigern. Austin nailed it with 0.02 seconds to spare, a great start to his tenure as Head Boy.
Music wove a memorable thread through the celebrations, with students and teachers delivering a moving acoustic rendition of Six60’s Pepeha. Continuing a beloved tradition, the school sang Happy Birthday to Saint Kentigern before cutting the five Founders Day cakes. And, in true Saint Kentigern style, the official party was piped in and out by Piper Thomas Bottomley, a fitting tribute to the traditions that remain at the heart of the Boys’ School. With the formalities over the boys and staff all enjoyed a piece of birthday cake iced in House colours thanks to Food Technology teacher, Patsy Hindson, who spent hours adding the much-needed Saint Kentigern flavour.
As another year begins, Founders’ Day serves as both a reflection on the past and an encouragement for students to consider the legacy they will leave behind.
Back to News List