De La Salle College Newsletter

“A Catholic School for Boys in the Lasallian Tradition”

in this issue

TERM 2 WEEK 8- COLLEGE NEWSLETTER

College Principal - “Just Talk to Me"

Associate Principal - "One Boy"

Special Character - Ministry & Mission

Deputy of Curriculum - Curriculum

Deputy of Pastoral - Pastoral

Academic Year 7/8

Literacy Centre

Philippine Independence Day

Oceana Gold Education Centre - ECO301 trip to Waihi

Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa - Samoa Language Week

South Auckland Secondary Interschool Chess Championship

Mathex Competition - De La Salle Students Excel at South Auckland Mathex Competition

Careers

Notices

Enrol Now

Contact Us

“just talk to me”

Mr Myles Hogarty

College Principal

Greetings, This generation of school students are known as “Digital Natives”. They have been born into and conduct much of their lives using many forms of electronic technology. Like it or love it, many of our young men use a range of Social Media to communicate with their peers, friends, family and of course thousands of others on these shared sites, most of whom they have no connection to at all. The ease of communicating via a key pad or touch screen can also have its disadvantages, as we have all witnessed in cases highlighted in the media. Sadly social media destroys privacy and the chance of correcting your mistake as your actions are broadcast instantly on a world-wide basis, the damage of your behaviour recorded forever. Another concern due to the increased use of digital communication is the decline in the “art of conversation”. One of the things we ask of our young men is to look you in the eye when talking to you. Added to this is the expectation that they can speak in a clear, fluent style and express themselves. Speaking in person teaches our young men how to contextualise what they are saying by the way the other person is reacting to their words, they can then identify anger, embarrassment, hurt or pleasure in the recipient’s eyes, reactions lost in the use of keyboard conversations. Young men need to know how to start a conversation and also how to end one. This skill takes not only verbal knowledge but social knowledge as well. The young men of De La Salle must be well connected to all technology in our digital world. They must also be able to hold a decent conversation with their families, teachers, friends and those they meet for the first time. Our students will be judged on their ability to talk with confidence and clarity, particularly as they move into Tertiary education and employment. We must continue to place high expectations on their ability to communicate face-to-face. The rise and popularity of Debating and Spoken Word in the College has certainly given many of our young men the opportunities to speak coherently and fluently within a range of situations. Many Pacific nations have a rich oral tradition for the passing on of traditions, rituals and culture, our young men need to preserve this wonderful tradition. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Over the last two weeks many of our young men have been completing the Common Assessment Activities that are required as pre-requisites for their NCEA qualifications. The College is also providing our young men with extra tutorials and mentoring through the Pacifica Academy, Talanoa Ako and MATES programmes, all designed to support them as they prepare for assessments during the year. We have had great engagement and large numbers of our young men at these programmes.

These wonderful opportunities offered to our young men reflect the words of the Disciple John when he stated, “I have come that they may have life– and life to the full.” (John 10:10)

On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of this week, we hosted an evaluation team from the Education Review Office. The ERO team have examined our Achievement data, spoken with staff, students and the BOT Chair to assess how successful our teaching and learning programmes are at the College. Once we receive a confirmed ERO Report I will share this with the College community. Similarly, two weeks ago we hosted an evaluation team from the Catholic Diocese of Auckland. They too assessed the success of the College in providing our young men and wider community with an authentic encounter with Christ through their life at the College. Their report will also be shared with our College community. The College is a very busy, vibrant place.

God Bless

associate principal

Mr Dermot English

One Boy

Some time ago when my mother-in-law passed away a visitor to our house told the story of her family’s connection to my wife’s family in Samoa. In order to attend the catholic primary school in Apia you had to have a palagi surname. My mother-in-law’s father lent the family name to our visitor’s father as a young boy, so he was able to go to school. He had a lifelong love of education and so did many of his children. One of his grandchildren attended De La Salle College where he made an academic effort and did well. He then went on to further study and a Masters Degree. On the way he set up a programme to mentor young Pasifika students who wanted to go on to tertiary study. He then completed a PhD, lectured at university and successfully started his own business. Even within a society that may not always seem supportive one boy with an effective education can positively affect aiga and whanau for generations, so for all of us its worth the effort.

special character

Assistant Principal Mission- Mrs Teuila Vaotuua

Today, as we celebrate the Feast of the Sacred Heart, I am pleased to share a beautiful message from Br Mark at Bethlehem University. This feast reminds us of Christ's boundless love, compassion, and care for all people. May the reflection shared by Br Mark inspire us to continue living with faith, hope, and a heart of service towards one another. On this feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus you may have time to reflect on the words of one our brief Lasallian prayers,

Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.

The specific devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus commenced in France during the lifetime of De La Salle. The following prayer is drawn from the Explanation of Interior Prayer. Trinity of love whom I adore, may your Holy presence dwelling in me always occupy my thoughts, helping me to forget myself entirely. Enlighten me with your Divine light so I will recognise and reverence your presence in all people and in all places. Penetrate me and fill me with all that is lovable and loving in you, inflaming my heart with an ardent love for You and a selfless love for others, so that my life is a canticle to Love.

Year 12 LOGOS Retreat

Last week, our Year 12 students spent two meaningful days at Whānau Maria participating in the LOGOS Retreat. The retreat provided an opportunity for our young people to step away from their usual routines, deepen their faith, strengthen relationships, and reflect on their personal journey with Christ. We are grateful to the LOGOS Retreat Team for their guidance and ministry during this special experience. Also, to our year 12 Dean and homeroom teachers who accompanied and cared for their students. Below is a reflection from Year 12 student TL Iosua, who attended the retreat and shares some insights from his time at Whānau Maria. Talofa lava and warm greetings to you all, my name is TL Iosua. I am one of the year 12 students who attended the Logos Retreat last week Friday. It was truly an honour to be a part of this experience. Not only being able to connect with the boys, but to connect with myself and strengthening my relationship with God. We spent most of our time reflecting on our goals, values and past experiences and using those experiences to help us grow stronger. We done different workshops that helped us connect with ourselves, as well as doing different skits that helped us bond with one another and make us more courageous, confident and connected. One highlight I had was seeing the boys you do not normally see talking, beginning to speak up. It was truly amazing to see our boys grow in confidence and I truly give all thanks to God for giving us the strength and confidence to speak, as well as giving us the opportunity to unite as one. I want to give thanks to our year 12 teachers who took care of our cohort during both days. I want to give a massive shoutout to the Logos project for having us and for leading our retreat, I also want to extend my gratitude to the special character team for opening this opportunity up for us. As we settle into the colder winter season, we extend our warm wishes to all our families. May these winter days bring good health, warmth, and many opportunities to spend quality time together. We thank you for your continued support and partnership as we journey through another busy and rewarding term.

Live Jesus in our Hearts forever

curriculum

Deputy Principal Curriculum- Mr Phil Doyle

Senior [Years 11 - 13] Reports

You should have received an email with your son’s report in the last couple of days. You can also access a copy on the KAMAR portal. Your son will be coming home with a copy as well. Junior [Years 7 - 10] reports will be sent home in Week 11 - 1 July

Ministry of Education

The Ministry of Education are gathering feedback on the draft Years | Tau 11–13 subject curriculum during Term 2, 2026. Consultation is open now, from 15 May to 15 June 2026, on the first 26 subjects for Years 11-13. Your insights — as educators, students, parents, whānau, academics and education associations —are vital. The Ministry of Education want to ensure the curriculum is clear, coherent, and well sequenced, and will develop subject knowledge, practices and capabilities. Feedback will inform final revisions, with the updated curriculum to be released later in 2026 and implemented progressively from 2028 to 2030. This survey link https://education.surveymonkey.com/r/Phase5SubjectsConsultation collects your feedback on the draft content for each subject. The survey has space for you to give feedback on each section of the subject and gives you an opportunity for you to provide overall feedback at the end. You can provide feedback on more than one subject. At the end of your responses to a subject, click "Yes" to the question: "Would you like to provide feedback on another subject?" We recommend you have a look at the draft content available for reference as you progress through the form. The content can be found here: NZC – Phase 5 (Years 11-13) | TMOA - Tūārere 5 For more information about the draft subject, including what you will recognise and what is new, the presentation, available supports, timelines, the survey questions, and what’s next please refer to the information sheet on Tāhūrangi and attached here.

Welcome to this weeks 2-Minute Tuesdays - Parenting Tips and Tricks! I Give My Kids Lines for Swearing!

"I will only use beautiful uplifting words" If you’ve been to one of my talks, you’ll know I swear, but I don't want my kids to swear while they’re young. It’s just a personal thing. Maybe you don't mind your kids swearing and that's totally cool too. Your house, your rules. Washing a kid’s mouth out with soap is not a great approach — it’s mean, it's a battle, and honestly, it’s over way too quickly. Lines, though? Lines take ages to write out, and that’s the whole point — it works. Our kids still don’t swear at home because they know they’ll be writing for a good long while if they do! "I will only use beautiful uplifting words" Watch here

pastoral

Deputy Principal- Mr Elton Charles

Creating a Culture of Inclusion at De La Salle

At De La Salle College, we are committed to ensuring that every young man feels welcomed, valued, respected, and supported. Inclusion is not simply about accepting differences—it is about actively creating a school culture where all students have a sense of belonging and know they are an important part of our community. Our Lasallian values of Faith, Service, Community, and Excellence remind us that every person is created with dignity and deserves to be treated with respect. This means embracing the diverse cultures, backgrounds, abilities, experiences, and perspectives that make our college such a rich and vibrant place to learn. Inclusion is reflected in the way we support students pastorally, celebrate cultural identity, provide opportunities for student leadership, and encourage every student to participate fully in school life. Whether through our homeroom programme, student voice initiatives, cultural events, sports teams, academic support, or pastoral care systems, we strive to ensure that all students have opportunities to succeed and feel connected. Our recent student voice surveys have shown that the majority of students feel safe at school, know who they can talk to when they need support, and feel a strong sense of belonging within our community. While these results are encouraging, we recognise that inclusion is an ongoing journey. We continue to listen carefully to student feedback and work together to create an environment where every student feels heard and respected.

Being inclusive is the responsibility of us all.

It means showing kindness, standing up against bullying, welcoming others, and recognising the value that each person brings to our college community. Small actions—greeting someone, including others in activities, or offering support when it is needed—can make a significant difference. As we continue through the year, let us challenge ourselves to live out our Lasallian mission by ensuring that every student experiences what it truly means to belong at De La Salle College. Together, we can continue building a school where everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered to achieve their potential.

ICT Academy

Term 2 Holiday Computer Courses

Senior students have the opportunity to participate in additional Computing and Technology courses during Term 2 school holidays through the Techtorium Institute of Technology in Newmarket. These courses provide exciting and practical learning experiences for students who are passionate about Technology and Digital innovation. Students will study a range of Level 3 Computing courses, gaining valuable insight into what it is like to undertake Computer Engineering and Information Technology studies at a Tertiary level. All course fees will be fully funded by the College, making this an excellent opportunity for students to extend their knowledge and explore future pathways in the Technology sector. To enrol, email singhj@delasalle.school.nz to request for a Registration Form.

Academic Year 7/8

Assistant Principal- Mr Herbert Tanuvasa

We had the Education Review Office visiting us this week, assessing our school, and though I cannot disclose their findings there was one comment they made where I got a bit emotional.

“…the boys are fiercely proud of their school…”

Wow…what an adverb to use. To hear ERO sum up our boys perspective as being “fiercely” proud as opposed to “very” proud (or any other adverb). It implies that our students are so proud of being in this school they would actively protect its reputation. I have to say, that level of school pride is something definitely unique to De La Salle. As a Mangere resident for over 50 years I did not experienced the type of mana I feel being a De La Salle staff member when I was at other South Auckland schools (sorry this is not a slight on other schools). The way I am viewed as a De La Salle teacher when I am about in the community is why almost all my casual clothes are De La Salle labelled gear! Yes, I too have become “fiercely” proud to wear the crest of this school in public. So this is my fifth year being a staff member of De La Salle College and if I had to pinpoint what it is that makes myself, staff, and students proud about being in this school, well, hmmmm…I realise I cannot definitively think of one specific thing. My son went to Kelston Boys and he would say they take great pride in their sports teams; most notably the rugby team (they have good reason to do so having had so much success). My daughters (they went to AGGs) think very highly of De La Salle and have helped out here with performances and camps, yet they are unsure to say what is De La Salle’s main strength. Even my recent student teacher could not say there what was the one thing that De La Salle had as it’s main strength, We have reached the top of rugby union, rugby league, polyfest, etc to name a few (most recently debating) and have many scholarship and high achieving academic results, but we would never take one area of international recognition and claim we are to be known as a “Debating” school for instance. No no no…we won’t be put into a box and be labelled. This is because our mission statement is: “De La Salle College educates boys in a Catholic environment of Love and Service.”

I am part of the team that is designing the new school website. Speaking to my two colleague Mr Singh and Ms Teiotaata-Iobu we have been thinking; “Why not go all in? Why don’t we say loudly on the landing page that our first focus, our most foremost focus as a school…is God! Why don’t we lead with this when people click on our website before they get to any other information on the page?” There are a lot of special character schools in NZ, not just within the Catholic faith, but also the protestant schools such as the Anglicans, Presbyterians, Methodists, Evangelicals etc, as well as Muslim and other religious schools. If De La Salle are going to be know as one thing for their main strength…why don’t we be the school that puts our faith in God as the front of our website landing page for the public to see before they get to education? Let the world first see - God, our faith, our brotherhood bond. I am pleased to inform you that my two website colleagues, the 50+ years service to the school Mr Singh, and our media facilitator Ms Iobu, also see things the same way. This is because they too are “fiercely” proud of the school, and their faith. Whenever ERO visits our school may they always walk out with the lasting impression that we are first and foremost educating young men in a Catholic environment of love and service. Before I end my write up, I want to thank everyone for the mahi they are doing for our young men 😊

In Christ

literacy centre

philippine independence day

Maligayang Araw ng Kasarinlan! Happy Philippines Independence Day!

Feeling blessed to have the angelus recited in tagalog today, thank you to Mr Owen Rosario, year 11 students Lebirato Cruz, Omier Ylanan, Job Saberon and Mrs Joy Marcelo

Today, we celebrate Philippine Independence Day and honour the rich culture, history, and resilience of the Filipino community. A heartfelt thank you to our students and staff who came together to recite the Angelus today — your reverence, participation, and spirit made this a meaningful moment of reflection and unity. Maligayang Araw ng Kalayaan!

oceana gold education centre

ECO301 Trip to Waihi Goldmine

On the 27th of May, our Economics class travelled to Waihi to visit the Waihi Gold Discovery Centre and Mine Tours. It was about a 2-hour drive to Waihi, but it was definitely worth it. We gained valuable real-world insight into key economic concepts studied in class. The trip provided an opportunity to see how theory applies in practice, especially in relation to market failure and externalities. During our trip, we explored the full gold mining process, from how gold and silver are discovered and extracted, through to how they are processed and refined. We also learned about the significant financial investment required to operate such a large-scale mining business, including the billions of dollars spent on development, equipment, and ongoing operations. A major focus of the trip was the impact of government intervention. Strict regulations are in place to limit noise, dust, and vibrations, ensuring the mining company minimises disruption to the surrounding community. These measures also help reduce the need for compensation and highlight the balance between economic activity and social responsibility. This experience gave us a deeper understanding of both the positive and negative externalities associated with mining and while the industry contributes to economic growth and employment, it also creates challenges such as environmental impacts, visual pollution, and disturbances to local residents and wildlife. Overall, the trip was highly engaging and informative, giving us a clearer understanding of the complex factors that influence businesses and the real-world effects of economic decisions, and I would just like to give a huge thanks to the Social Studies Faculty, but especially Mr. Jeremic for setting up this trip.

Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa - Samoa Language Week

Mālō le soifua maua ma le lagi e mamā. From the 31st of May to the 6th of June, our school proudly celebrated Samoan Language Week. Throughout Samoan Language Week, we embraced our culture through many activities such as the Opening Mass, the ‘ava feiloa'i, the Flag-raising ceremony, the Siva Samoa and other activities which best reflected this year’s theme: “E afua mai mauga tetele, manuia o le nu’u”, which translates to: “From the high mountains are the blessings of the village”.

On Sunday, our school hosted The Opening Mass for Samoan Language Week, which brought our communities together, recognising the blessings passed down to us by God, our ancestors, and our culture.
Although Monday was a public holiday, the SAM301 class gathered at school to transform the staffroom into a sample of our homeland.
On Tuesday, the SAM301 class hosted an Ava ceremony, honouring the staff members at our school, giving them an insight into how a traditional cultural practice is carried out in our culture.
The Flag Raising Ceremony on Wednesday celebrated the pride within our identity, as both the American Samoan and Samoan flags were raised, highlighting the key idea that although we are divided by seas, we are united by culture.

Across the week, the SAM301 class performed a series of Samoan sivas, allowing us to channel our ancestors within every movement to honour their stories, traditions, and heritage passed down onto us. Together, these events remind us of how the blessings of our community are derived from the values and cultural foundations that continue to guide and bless us today. Big thanks to Mr Endemann and both Ngan-Woo brothers, as none of this would be possible without them, the Arts & Culture Prefects, and the SAM301 class for upholding the events that occurred during Samoan Language Week, making this week truly memorable and one for the books. Faafetai Tele Lava, Soifua ma ia manuia.

Health & PE staff celebrating samoa language week

South Auckland Secondary Interschool Chess Championship

students pictured with Br Lewis before leaving for the tournament

The South Auckland Secondary Interschool Chess Championship was held at Papatoetoe High School on Wednesday the 10th of June - bringing together seven schools for a challenging six-round competition. The event forms part of the wider South Auckland interschool chess programme and provides students with an opportunity to test their strategic thinking, concentration and skills against strong opposition. De La Salle College delivered an outstanding team performance, finishing 3rd overall out of 7 participating schools. Across the six rounds, all 20 De La Salle College students won at least one game, highlighting the incredible talent, resilience, and determination shown by the entire squad. The students represented the College with great integrity, demonstrating excellent teamwork, respect for their opponents and an overall positive attitude throughout the day. Achieving a top-three finish while ensuring every team member experienced success on the chessboard was a significant accomplishment which reflects the growth of the College's chess club – run every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at lunchtime in classroom D4 – all are welcome! Thank you to Mr Phil Doyle our Assistant Principal, Ms Henrietta Crichton, Mr Max Tetlow and our Sports Coordinator Patrick Isa'ako for all the support and encouragement to the students and the families who assisted on the day as well – Mr Ricky Lakisa (old boy) and Mrs Maria Barber. Congratulations to the following students below who participated and contributed to a memorable and successful tournament for De La Salle College:

mathex competition

De La Salle Students Excel at South Auckland Mathex Competition

This week, 16 of our talented young mathematicians, eight Year 9 students and eight Year 10 students – represented De La Salle College at the South Auckland Mathex Competition held at Otahuhu College. Although only five schools participated in this term’s event, the competition provided an excellent opportunity for our boys to challenge themselves, work collaboratively, and apply their mathematical knowledge in a competitive environment. We are proud to announce that De La Salle achieved outstanding results, placing second in both the Year 9 and Year 10 categories. A special congratulations goes to our Year 9 team, Xander Toailoa, Penetiketo Tupou, Jordan Vagavao, and Sione Tamoua. Year 10 team, Joesiah Emanuela, Connor Wilson, Aldric Quilantang and Hein Sun Shwe who worked exceptionally well together to secure second place in their division. These results are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our students, as well as the support and guidance provided by our Mathematics teachers. We would like to sincerely thank Mr Pal and Mr Kumar, for coaching and preparing the boys for this competition and Mr Futialo for accompanying the boys on the day. The South Auckland Mathex Competition serves as an important stepping stone towards the main Auckland Mathex Competition in Term 3, which attracts more than 100 schools from across the region. We look forward to continuing our preparation and wish our teams all the best as they strive for further success later in the year. Well done to all the boys who represented De La Salle College with pride and excellence.

rugby

1st XV Rugby Team

Our heartfelt prayers and condolences to the Masoe and Purcell families with the passing of their Papa Fainu’ulelei Filisi Fritz Purcell (Coaches Ben and Pat Masoe, VC Kohen Masoe and Prynce Masoe). Thank you to Mr Hogarty, Mr English and Mr Pasene-Rex for accompanying the team and Co-Managers Senio Brown and Jayme to the home, family and funeral sevices. Round 6 vs Sacred Heart College this week come through and support the team if you’re free at 2:30pm on Saturday. Then we are back home next week against Liston College 20 June. Ongoing thanks and appreciation to our Families, Sponsors and Rugby Community for all your support. We appreciate each and every one of you that shares messages of encouragement on our FB supporters page and showing up each Saturday. Thank you! #FTGF

2nd XV Rugby Team

Our 2nd XV team is made up of students from Year 11, 12 and 13, although our campaign for this year hasn’t started as well as we hoped, there to have been some close scores including the game we played on Saturday the 6th of June where we had a historic win over Kings College, 16-15. Going forward we look to continue with the wins and keep building our skills, all the best to the rest of our De La Salle teams for the season.

careers

The Careers Expo at De La Salle College was a highly successful and well-attended event, attracting a large number of students and their families. The expo brought together a diverse range of exhibitors, including universities, tertiary education providers, industry representatives, training organisations, and community groups. Attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with experts, ask questions, and explore a wide variety of educational and career pathways. The event provided valuable insights into future study options, scholarship opportunities, apprenticeships, employment prospects, and emerging industry trends. Students were able to make meaningful connections with providers and gain a clearer understanding of the qualifications and skills required for their chosen careers. Parents and caregivers also benefited from the information available, enabling them to support their children in making informed decisions about their future. The Careers Expo highlighted the importance of planning ahead and empowered students to confidently explore pathways that align with their interests, strengths, and aspirations.