The energy and the essence of opportunity within our school are laid out
over the pages of this magazine. In addition to these experiences, the
magazine also records events which are significant in the history of our
institution. It is therefore a pleasure to write the introduction to the 2014
Yearbook.
I want to start this introduction by saying a big thank you to Miss White
who has overseen the entire project. Such a production is only possible
through the efforts of a number of people, and in addition to Miss White,
may I acknowledge those people who have written articles, contributed
photographs and artwork, and been involved in the layout and design of
the Yearbook.
Our year began with the introduction of a new uniform to our community.
The change from maroon to blue came about following months of
consultation, discussion and design meetings. The new uniform was
welcomed as a fresh new look for our students and progressively
throughout the year, the school day-wear, formal uniform and sports
garments have been rolled out. Sales of the uniform have been through
a school shop and the convenience and accessibility to stock has been
greatly appreciated by our school community.
The year has also seen a number of long serving staff retire or head into
retirement. Much loved Deputy Principal Mrs Mairi Fitzsimons retired at the
end of term two, following twenty five years in the school; and as the year
drew to a close, foundation staff member Mr Ron Barrett, along with Mr
Pat McEntee and Mr John Coombes made the decision to retire. Each
of these people in their own way has made major contributions to the
culture of our school and it is fitting that they are also acknowledged in this
publication.
Along with a new uniform, we have made significant advances in utilising technology to
enhance the teaching and learning process this year. Following a comprehensive School Network
Upgrade, students were afforded the opportunity to bring their own devices to the classroom and the concept of
blended learning experiences embracing both keyboard and handwritten lessons have become the norm. Despite
the excitement that access to software programmes such as Schoology and Write that Essay provided, a lot of
hard work also took place in traditional forms. Many of the most significant memories of the year will relate to the
effort provided by a teacher, who helped a student better understand a concept or idea, shaped a student’s view
on an issue, or took a student’s learning to a higher level through an out of class tutorial.
Outside of the classroom the extensive array of activities available for students has provided a weekly theatre of
enriching experience. From community focused happenings such as Relay for Life, through to cultural activities of
both a dramatic and musical nature, through to the many sporting and outdoor pursuits that students have been
involved in, the daily life of our students has been dynamic and diverse.
To those students who are concluding their education at Havelock North High School in 2014, I hope that you have
enjoyed your experience at our school and have made the most of the many opportunities that have been available to you. This document captures a record of some of those experiences, archival information about your peers
and your teachers, and memories which we hope in the main are positive. For everyone else it is another step in
your progress through your secondary education. Enjoy the read.
G J Fenton
PRINCIPAL