2013 School Magazine Dec, 2013 | Page 3

It is a pleasure to write the introduction to this 2013 Yearbook. May I begin by acknowledging all those involved in its production, for the research, the planning and the presentation of a document which provides a snapshot of the events of a very enjoyable and successful year. The many and varied experiences captured in this publication will provide memories for years to come. Starting with very positive exam results, 2013 has seen a string of highlights in all areas of school life. The commissioning of the new school van, the cricket trip to Brisbane, the trip to Japan, a wonderful Anzac Day Service, Future Prospect’s trip to Dunedin and the multitude of scholarships won by Year 13 students in November have all created a very positive vibe around the school. Artistically Les Miserable, the Big Sing, the Music Festival and Sleeping Giant Showcase have maintained the high standards in these fields that the school is renowned for. In sport, three national titles and several regional titles meant that this has also been an excellent sporting year. Several new words have also been introduced to the lexicon of HNHS during the course of the year, with teachers having to cope with the idea of Novopay, the school being SNUPed and Netsafe introducing us to the perils of Ask.fm. A new Board of Governors has taken office, our senior prize giving, the leavers’ dinner, the school ball and the sleeping giant showcase have all used the Hawke’s Bay Opera House as a venue, and thousands of dollars have been raised for charity through mufti days and the charity nature of the school ball. We reflect back on visits to the school by Rhodes Scholar Louis Chambers and Business Hall of Fame member Hannah McQueen; our initial International Students’ week; along with a moving Anzac Day Service and the many celebrations of achievement we have shared. These are some of the many events that have been part of our experience in 2013 and shaped our perspective of the year. Around all of this is the idea of community, and an understanding that education in its many guises is a partnership between student, parent and the school. To everyone who has made a positive contribution to this partnership, thank you for your support in whatever capacity. Enjoy the read. I hope that you can reflect back in a fond way on the memories recorded in this publication. G J Fenton PRINCIPAL