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Honouring the Sacrifice: Saint Kentigern's Shore Road Campus Hosts ANZAC Day Service

May 17, 2023 at 2:57 PM

For the first time, the Boys' School, Girls' School and Preschool gathered together on Saint Kentigern's Shore Road campus for an ANZAC Day service to commemorate the brave soldiers who lost their lives at Gallipoli during World War I. The event brought together all three schools on campus and special guests such as foundation student Mr Peter Nelson, Executive Trustee Mr Kevin Morris, and Trust Board member Hayden Wong.

As students found their places on the field behind rows of small white crosses, the stirring sound of bagpipes filled the air. The official party was then welcomed, and Reverend Reuben Hardie called all in attendance to worship. Principals Mr Peter Cassie and Mrs Juliet Small each shared a thought on the meaning of ANZAC Day, reminding the students and staff of the importance of honouring those who gave their lives for our freedom.

The history of ANZAC Day was woven throughout the service, with Head Boy Ben Roberton sharing a moving poem and Head Girl Amelia Hardie reading a scripture passage. A combined performance by the Girls' and Boys' Kapa Haka groups was also profoundly moving, as they honoured the memory of our ANZAC soldiers through a traditional Māori song.

The laying of four wreaths for each house was a particularly poignant moment. The principals, accompanied by their respective Head Boy and Girl, Mr Morris, Mr Connelly, and a representative student from the preschool, followed bagpiper Liam Jarvis in laying the wreaths at the foot of the Saint Kentigern cross. This simple act was significant, representing the school's respect and gratitude towards those who sacrificed for our country.

Reverend Isaac Williams led the schools in an ANZAC prayer, and the Deputy Head Girl, Sophia Evans, read a poem. Deputy Head boy Campbell Williams led the school in the Prayer of Saint Kentigern, followed by a combined choir performance of 'Sons of Gallipoli.' The music lilted through the crisp air, reminding us of our deep connection to this important day in our nation's history.

The service ended with Reverend Hardie's benediction and one minute of silence, during which students and staff reflected on the bravery and sacrifice of the ANZAC soldiers. Two of our younger students then recounted the well-known 'Ode of Remembrance', a reminder that the ANZAC legacy remains deeply ingrained in our national identity even generations removed from this fateful day.

To conclude the service, Austin Watson and Kara Scouller performed the Last Post, ending the ceremony. The event was a beautiful culmination of history, community, and remembrance, and we hope it will inspire future generations to continue honouring the legacy of our ANZAC soldiers.

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