De La Salle College Newsletter “A Catholic School for Boys in the Lasallian Tradition”

special character

Assistant Principal Mission- Mrs Teuila Vaotuua

Ni Sa Bula Vinaka Families,

During Week One, we celebrated Fiji Language Week, which is close to my heart because of my Fijian heritage through my father. There is a Fijian proverb, “Dui seva ga na bua ko a tea,” meaning “you can only harvest what you planted.” It reminds us that the seeds we sow through faith and service will one day bear fruit in the lives of our students, families, and community. Through our words, actions, and daily interactions, we are constantly planting — shaping hearts and nurturing a culture rooted in love and hope.

As we enter our final term, we move into a time of harvest. Our Year 12 students have eloquently described Deus Caritas Est — “God is Love” — in their final internals, recognising God’s love as free, faithful, fruitful, and total. As a Religious Educator, it is a joy to read their work and witness their growth in understanding and articulating God’s Word and teachings.

May we all continue to embody God’s love in our school and families so that, as a community, we remain true witnesses of faith.

Below is a collection of staff reflections from some of our most recent events.

Partners Gathering, Waitomo – Mrs T Emani

In September, our Lasallian partner schools — JPC, FDMC, and De La Salle Māngere — met in Waitomo for our annual gathering. This event included Brothers, staff, Board members, and Year 12 students.

It was a wonderful opportunity to share valuable insights and strengthen collaboration among our student leaders and the wider Lasallian community.

Our De La Salle mission of Faith, Service, Community, and Excellence reminds and encourages us to embrace inclusive teaching with open hearts, open minds, and open arms — to understand who we are, appreciate one another, and share peace in our everyday blessings.

Camp La Salle – Mr A Ngan Woo

21–24 September | Camp Waiotapu, Rotorua - hosted by John Paul College

Seven of our Year 7 students, along with our Campus Minister Mr. Ngan-Woo and Service Co-ordinator Mr. Tuli, had an amazing time at Camp La Salle, held at Camp Waiotapu in beautiful Rotorua.

The camp was a fantastic opportunity to experience activities such as rock climbing, hip-hop dancing, swimming in warm thermal pools, and watching the incredible geysers erupt. Students also explored the Rotorua Geothermal Park, learning about the unique volcanic landscape and natural wonders of the area.

Beyond the fun and adventure, Camp La Salle provided a supportive environment where students were encouraged to overcome personal and school-related challenges. Through teamwork, new friendships, and positive encouragement, they gained confidence, developed resilience, and learned the value of supporting one another.

Overall, it was a memorable experience that fostered personal growth, faith, and fellowship — all while enjoying the stunning natural surroundings of Rotorua.

Brothers’ Retreat – Br Lewis

During the second week of the school holidays, the Brothers community hosted a three-day retreat focused on understanding spirituality in an age of AI technology. Sister Jane O'Carroll (a Marist Sister) facilitated the retreat, leading a series of reflections on the ethical and moral implications of embracing digital learning and religious ministry in the 21st century.

A key highlight was affirming the importance of maintaining our Catholic and Lasallian identity, and ensuring vigilance in teaching Catholic Social Principles that protect human dignity and promote the common good within society.

The Brothers agreed that the Lasallian charism is well equipped to meet the opportunities and challenges of supporting young people today in developing healthy digital discipleship and fostering ongoing formation in human and Christian values.

Baptism and Reconciliation

This week, we joyfully welcomed Poasa Deo, Emprah Leavasa-Auli, and Palei Veamatahau into our Catholic faith through the Sacrament of Baptism.

This was followed by the Sacrament of First Reconciliation for those preparing to receive the Sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.

A special thank you to Fr Michael and Fr Soane for celebrating such a beautiful service. We are deeply grateful for your generous ministry, which enriches the faith lives of our students and families in our De La Salle community.

Thank you also to Mr Anthony Ngan Woo (Campus Minister) for preparing the boys and Mr Siosaia Williams - Folau for leading the music. Your combined efforts made the celebration truly special.

Live Jesus in our Hearts forever

pastoral

Deputy Principal- Mr Elton Charles

Finishing Well

Encouraging Our Senior Students to Attend Right to the End

As we move toward the final weeks of the school year, it is important that our senior students finish well — attending right through to their last day. Every lesson, every assessment, and every shared moment in class contributes to their preparation for life beyond De La Salle College.

At this time of year, some students may feel that their work is done. However, true Lasallian education is about perseverance and commitment — finishing what we begin with a spirit of gratitude and discipline. St John Baptist de La Salle reminded his teachers that “To touch the hearts of your students is the greatest miracle you can perform.” One of the ways we do this is by encouraging our young men to remain faithful to their responsibilities — to their learning, their teachers, and themselves.

Regular attendance is a reflection of character. It shows respect for the opportunity to learn and for the teachers who dedicate themselves daily to our students’ success. When students are absent, they miss vital teaching moments, fall behind in their learning, and often lose the rhythm and routine that help them stay focused and confident.

We also remind parents that attendance is a shared responsibility. St John Baptist de La Salle believed that education is a partnership between home and school — that parents and teachers work together for the formation of the child. Ensuring that your son attends school every day, right up to the end of the term, is one of the most powerful ways to support his growth and success.

Please continue to encourage your son to stay committed, arrive on time, and make the most of these last few weeks. Let us together honour the Lasallian values of faith, service, and community by ensuring our young men finish strong — in presence, in effort, and in spirit.