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

in this issue

TERM 4 WEEK 8- COLLEGE NEWSLETTER

College Principal - “Excellence – “The daily habit of doing our best"

Associate Principal - "Liminal Space"

Special Character - Ministry & Mission

Deputy of Curriculum - Curriculum

Deputy of Pastoral - "Get Your Son's Involved: The Power of Extracurricular Engagement"

Academic Year 7/8

Technology Trip to Unitec

Year 10 Religious Education

History Trip to Paihia

Tama Sāmoa- Annual Sāmoa Speech Competition, ASB Polyfest 2024

Race Unity Speech Competition

Young Kings

Gateway & Careers

Notices

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Contact Us

*cover page 2024 waka ama nationals team

“Excellence – “The daily habit of doing our best”

Mr Myles Hogarty

College Principal

The Gospel reading from our recent College Mass from Luke 6 : 27-38 was a very good message for our young men.

“ Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who treat you badly. Love your enemies and do good to them, and lend without any hope of return. You will have a great reward. 'Be compassionate just as your Father is compassionate. Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven.”

This message must form the basis of our relationships and interaction with those in and outside our College if we are to call ourselves Lasallian. It is refered to with our young men and is a source of great self reflection for our staff and students. We are preparing to enter Holy Week and reflect on a very sad period in our Catholic calendar, yet it is also a time that fills us with hope through the resurrection on Easter Sunday. We will celebrate Holy Week through our classroom prayer next week and whole College Liturgy on Thursday.

There have been a great number of events which have occurred over the term which have all contributed to “Our daily learning habit”, for our young men which I would like to highlight

Term One Highlights

Daily student attendance rate of 93%, our goal is always 100%
96% Parent attendance at our Academic Counselling Day, goal 100%.
Settled, orderly classrooms taught by dedicated, committed staff.
Informative, engaging Parent Partnership meetings.
Well attended subject Tuition classes and Workshops for all students.
Well coached, disciplined sports teams in all codes
Outstanding Debating opportunities and achievements
Strong Pastoral Care and support for boys who are facing issues in their social and academic life.
Daily prayer as a College, Catholic celebrations of Feast Days and weekly College Masses to witness our Catholic, Lasallian tradition.
Learning systems focused on raising academic achievement on a “personalised” level for each boy. • Selfless Service activities being performed for others in our community by boys at every year level.

The new College Building is rising high into the skyline as the second floor is put in place. This wonderful addition to the College will provide outstanding learning spaces and is a strong statement that our Lasallian education is based on achieving excellence.

I would like to give my personal thanks to the many parents and Old Boys of the College who have devoted their time and efforts into the College co-curricular activities, giving our young men richer and wider experiences leading to their holistic education ready to continue “Our Daily Learning Habits”.

associate principal

Mr Dermot English

Liminal Space

Liminal comes from the Latin word Limen, which means threshold. It is the place of uncertainty where you have moved on from where you were but are not quite in your new place or state of mind. This is what can happen after a bereavement. We have had a number of staff bereavements in the last year. Many families experience something similar, and they seem to happen in twos or threes.

It is a trial to go through these events, but there is a treasure here, a taonga. That is why many cultures have a set bereavement time, for wearing black, or before an unveiling. This is liminal space, where the person is gone, but we are not yet in our new way of living without them.

This time of possible desperation can also be a time of blessing. It is a time to take things a little slower, be a bit easier on ourselves and have a way of reflecting, so that we don’t skim over the top of what treasure is there and so we can accept the new reality of our loved ones not being there.

As we strip away the unnecessary things in our life during Lent, this liminal space can help preserve the sense of wonder and awe for the life that we have, help us be grateful for the people in our lives and for being alive. It is where God can get through to us.

special character

Assistant Principal Mission- Mrs Teuila Vaotuua

E te Atua o te Tūmanako, God of Hope, as we draw near to Palm Sunday and the Passion of Christ, we are reminded to welcome Jesus into our hearts and choose to follow You. We thank you for your promises. Our hope is in You and You will renew our strength. We will soar on wings like eagles. We will run and not grow weary. We will walk and not be faint. Help us to fix our sight on you and the hope of the resurrection.

Āmene.

“E leai se gaumata’u na’o le gaualofa”

"What we do out of love, will live forever”

With great sadness and love we farewelled Mr Fuimaono Tuiasau in week seven.

As Mr English mentioned in the last newsletter, Mr Tuiasau had humility and hardly mentioned the epic exploits of his past. Mr English gave an extensive run down of this, check our last newsletter on the website for a good read.

Fuimaono was a Gentlemen to his colleagues. A passionate educator towards the students who expected discipline, respect, and for our young men to speak well, read and write well. He loved to explore the scriptures and in particular with his legal background in the roots of justice from scripture.

In his last weeks, when he was frail yet still gathering the strength to come to school, he continued to give us gold. In true servanthood spirit he served the Religious Education faculty by preparing resources for our new teachers.

Fuimaono Fa’afetai tele lava lau afioga,

“E leai se gaumata’u na’o le gaualofa”

"What we do out of love, will live forever”

Live Jesus in our Hearts forever

curriculum

Deputy Principal Curriculum- Mr Phil Doyle

Reporting to Students and Families

YEAR 7 – 10 STUDENTS

Weekly Note summaries will be sent to families in Week 11 at the end of this term for all Year 7 – 10 students. Year 7 – 10 students will also be given an update of progress towards the De La Salle Certificate. Remember students gain points for each assessment achieved and for being fully involved in the life of the college – extra-curriculuar activities and service. Students on track for success should hope to have achieved at least 20 points towards a total of 80 for Achieved and more for Merit and Excellence.. It is hoped that this is another way for families to see if your son is on track for success and/or areas or subjects of concern. Please make contact with your son’s homeroom teacher early in Term 2 if you have any questions.

YEAR 11 – 13 STUDENTS

Year 11 – 13 students will receive a report in the second Week of Term 2. We have bought these reports forward from the end of Term 2 in response to parent and teacher feedback about the need to inform students and their families about their progress earlier in the year.

Scholars in the Spotlight

Jeremiah, Noah & Thomas

TECHNOLOGY

Jeremiah Gasu, Noah Tulafono, and Thomas Enoka for excellence in Technology. Jeremiah, Noah, and Thomas are in 9TURON. Their teacher is Mr Brebner. They have been designing and making racing cars. Definitely some future designers and engineers here.

VISUAL ARTS

7TNV have been completing portraits as part of their Term 1 Art Module

For excellence in Visual Arts - portraiture

Michael Veukiso, Sefalu Gaugau, Emosi Tabudravu and Fatui Finau.

pastoral

Deputy Principal- Mr Elton Charles

Get Your Sons Involved: The Power of Extracurricular Engagement

As we navigate the journey of parenthood, we are often met with the question: how do we ensure our sons receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for the challenges of tomorrow? The answer lies not only in academic excellence but also in fostering holistic development through extracurricular activities. From sports teams to clubs and community service, there exists many opportunities for your sons to thrive beyond the classroom.

Sports: Building Character on and Off the Field

Sports offer a myriad of benefits beyond physical fitness. Whether it's rugby union, league, soccer, basketball, or chess, each sport instils valuable lessons that extend far beyond the confines of the game.

Teamwork, discipline, resilience, and time management are just a few of the essential skills honed through sports participation. Moreover, athletics cultivate a strong sense of camaraderie and belonging, fostering friendships that can last a lifetime. By engaging in sports, your sons not only improve their physical health but also develop crucial life skills that will serve them well in their academic and professional pursuits.

Extracurricular Clubs: Nurturing Talent and Passion

Beyond sports, extracurricular clubs provide a platform for your sons to explore their interests and passions. Whether it's joining the debate team, or chess club, these activities offer a space for self-expression, creativity, and personal growth.

Participation allows students to develop leadership skills, critical thinking abilities, and cultural awareness. It fosters a sense of belonging and encourages students to embrace their unique talents and perspectives. By engaging in extracurricular opportunities, your sons not only broaden their horizons but also develop a well-rounded skill set that prepares them for the challenges of an ever-evolving world.

Service Opportunities: Making a Difference, One Act at a Time

Service involvement is another vital component of a comprehensive education. Engaging in community service not only benefits others but also cultivates empathy, compassion, and a sense of social responsibility in your sons.

Whether it's volunteering at a local shelter, organizing charity events, or participating in environmental initiatives, service opportunities provide invaluable lessons in selflessness and citizenship. Moreover, service involvement sets the stage for leadership opportunities within the college and beyond, empowering your sons to become agents of positive change in their communities. Please contact Chad Tuli, our school service coordinator (TuliC@delasalle.school.nz) for more information.

Investing in the Future

In conclusion, encouraging your sons to get involved in extracurricular activities is an investment in their future success and well-being. Whether through sports teams, clubs, or service initiatives, these experiences shape character, instil values, and prepare them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

So, let's not just focus on academic achievement alone. Let's nurture the holistic development of our sons by encouraging them to explore their passions, engage with their communities, and embrace opportunities for growth beyond the classroom. Together, let's empower the leaders of tomorrow to make a difference today.

Academic Year 7/8

Assistant Principal- Mr Herbert Tanuvasa

Last week we attended the family service and funeral of staff member Fuimaono Tuisau. A great servant not only to De La Salle College recently, but also to the wider community over the decades. As a seasoned human rights campaigner, lawyer, and community leader, Fuimaono could have retired 4 years ago. He chose however to take up a new career of teaching religious education to young men, a dedication no more explicit than in the last weeks of his illness (choosing to be at school working with his students). We express our deepest condolences to Philippa and whanau during this time of loss, also reflecting and celebrating the amazing contribution his life was to many.

We also want to acknowledge Kane Raukura as he mourns the loss of his father, Robin John Raukura this week. Our love and condolences to you Kane and your whanau.

Loss naturally leads to a time of reflection. In the busyness of our lives, it can be difficult to be introspective and we can easily lose sight of that which is important. This is no more different for our students who are inundated with messages of what is “important” for them each day. It can be a little overwhelming as our boys try to navigate what they believe is important, and what others tell them is important. Who would want to be a teenager again?

Speaking of being a teenager; Mr English led a session on Wednesday with staff members where they had to write a letter to their 16-year-old self. At first it seemed like a pretty straightforward task. However, as we wrote our letters and delved into introspection, the task quickly turned into an enlightenment session, albeit not a comfortable one. The discovery for staff was that the letters we were writing to ourselves, sounded very similar to the messages we give to our students…we were no different than our students! In the busy-ness of our lives and in the evolution of our person over the decades it is easy to acquire rose tinted glasses when looking back at our past. To reflect on the true nature of where we came from, is a step in the right direction towards humility. Humility being the crucial element when relating to students.

Fuimaono was an unassuming man until the end. Meeting him as a stranger it is hard to perceive his great achievements. Fuimaono knew that humility is the key factor that is needed for service to be genuine. When we know we are no better than those we serve, our service can finally begin.

In Christ

Technology Trip to Unitec

Design & Visual Communication

On Friday 15th March, the Year 12 Design and Visual Communication students undertook a trip to the UNITEC School of Design. The trip’s purpose was twofold, firstly to let students engage in a tertiary University experience in the area of design so they are more informed on the career choices that are fast coming up for them, and secondly to explore the latest techniques and design strategies with tutors from the University courses.

The boys left early in the morning, and we were greeted by Blair Sorenson the UNITEC Secondary Schools Liaison officer. Our first experience to learn was at the School of Architecture where the head of the school took the boys through a lesson in how to use modelling and a theme to explore design opportunities. This led to the boys discussing their models and explaining how they fulfilled the design criteria. The boys were fully into the exercise and enjoyed indepth critiques of their work.

This was followed by a visit to classes working on their projects, where the boys were able to see several De La Salle old boys enjoying their work. A final session on what was expected from those wishing to go into Architecture and the sort of attitude that was needed for tertiary study – a very valuable Q&A session for the boys who asked quite a few questions.

Onwards for a short visit to the Pasifika support office on Campus and lunch was then followed by a session at the Product Design School. Here the boys visited several of the design rooms where students were working and then engaged with the Head of the Product Design School in sketching exercises and how to use quick fast sketches to explore your design options, followed by how to present them. Another critique session of their designs completed the days course.

Before we left the boys again had a chat on what tertiary student life was like and received good advice on the expectations placed on students. Another Q&A session left the boys well informed.

We would like to thank Mrs Moganaygee Nayagar and Miss Jaimee Marie in the Careers Department for their help in organising the trip for our boys. These experiences widen their scope of possibilities for future choices.

Year 10 religious education

Kilei Ikenasio 10D

Viliami Taufa 10D

Noah Mati 10D

Leroy Lauvao 10P

Jordan Chan-Kau 10P

Alex Ugapo 10P

Packing for the Journey

Whenever we go on a trip, for a weekend or a longer period of time, we always pack the things we will need when we get there, such as a toothbrush or extra pair of socks.

The same is true of our journey through life. There are certain gifts, talents and abilities that we need to take with us to get along with people and get the job done. These gifts and talents are not physical objects - they are things like skills, attitudes and values that we need to identify and make better use of.

Unpacking for the Journey

Just as there are some things that we need to take on our journey, there are also others that we need to unpack and leave behind. There are some things that weight us down, that cause us to hurt other people and ourselves and strain our relationship with Te Atua. It is important that we become aware of these things so that we can avoid or overcome them.

Jehrancis Ioane 10S

Jerome Malu-Pilato 10S

History Trip to Paihia

by Jodeci Poua and Elijah Tuaimalo

Our Year 13 History class, alongside Ms. Gutschlag and Mr. Jeremic had been given the opportunity to attend the overnight trip to Paihia, which is located a 4-hour drive up north. On this trip we were able to witness and learn about Māori history, particularly aspects such as the treaty of Waitangi, the missionaries and their stories, important landmarks, and important people during that era. Seeing pictures, clothing items, and buildings these figures once lived in more than 150 years ago. We were able to enter these historic landmarks such as James Busby’s house. We also got to admire New Zealand's longest surviving church on the hell hole of the pacific, the nickname for historical township of Russell. We also got to see the longest/largest waka that had been built. Finally, we learned about firsthand weapons used during the wars and other accessories as part of the tour of the museum of Waitangi. This was after we were welcomed into the ground's marae with a powhiri, witnessing their great singing and other traditional skills the Māori acted upon back then and still to this day.

On our last day at Paihia, we also had a great opportunity to visit the Kemp House which is located in Kerikeri where the missionaries lived. Our class learnt what happened during that important historical period and the trading system between Māori's and the British at the time. We also learned about increasing tensions between them culminating in the Northland land war. At the end of the trip, we visited one of the war sites at Ruapekapeka. We did 700 meters hike to see highest point at the location where the Māori Pa was located and its surrounding defense.

This trip was full of mana and different from any trip I've been on, learning tons of information but still having loads of fun afterwards. But besides being able to see history in front of our eyes, another highlight was the experience with my brothers, staying in a hostel overnight, we got to bond, chat, and cease the time we have left together. For some of us it may be our last trip during our time at the De La Salle college.

I would like to thank Mrs. Gutschlag and Mr. Jeremic for looking after us, I know it wasn't easy at times, but we really enjoyed this trip and appreciate you for making this possible, Thank you!

TAMA SĀMOA

Annual Sāmoa Speech Competition, ASB Polyfest 2024

by Mr Tupuola S. Endemann- Teacher Gagana Sāmoa

L-RSonny Epati, Malu Aiga, Sio Feagaiga and Desmond Ene-Vanilau

E mua pea ia mea i Matāutu Sā e pei o le upu e fai ia moa'ula, auā se viiga i le Tapa'au Sili i le lagi ona o lona alofa ma lona agalelei ua taunu'u ai ma le manuia le faamoemoe sa alo atu ai alo ma fanau o le Kolisi o De La Salle i le Tauvaga Tautalaga o le Polyfest 2024.

On Wednesday 20th and Thursday 21st March, De La Salle students from the SAM101, SAM201, and SAM301 Gagana Sāmoa classes, competed in the annual Sāmoa Speech Competition at Polyfest 2024. The four young men who represented the school were Desmond Ene-Vanilau (11PHI), Malu Aiga (12KUM), Sio Feagaiga (13FAR), and Sonny Epati (13FAR). They each competed in their year level categories and one in the impromptu division. The boys displayed the true essence of 'TAMA SĀMOA' in their actions on and off the stage during the competition. They placed well in their categories and should be immensely proud of themselves! The placings are as follows:

Desmond Ene-Vanilau: 5th out of 15 for Year 11
Malu Aiga: 4th out of 13 for Year 12
Sio Feagaiga: 4th out of 16 for Year 13
Sonny Epati: 6th out of 11 for Impromptu Speeches

Mālō finau, mālō le tauivi ia te outou le fanau! Faamanuia le Atua ia te outou ma ō outou taumafaiga i lenei tausaga.

Race Unity Speech Competition

Our debating team competed for the first time in the Race Unity Speech Competition at MIT. The theme for this year was the 'Ropes of Unity'.

Representing our school this year was year 12 Christian Fa'avae 12LIN/HEN. Christian delivered a powerful speech which he used Christian and cultural teachings to discuss how forgiveness is the pathway to unity.

Christian made beautiful homage to his mothers teachings and the teachings of our late Mr Fuimaono Tuiasau. In order for their to be unity, their must be forgiveness, using the example of Christ and Fuimaono's history in the Polynesian Panthers as an example.

Christian represented our school with mana, tonight and made his school, family, community proud! He is not one for the limelight but he definitely deserves to be celebrated for his success, tonight. His speech will be moderated to English Assessment 2.5. The judges were from the Police and the Human Rights Commision which he received great feedback from.

Massive congratulations to Christian Fa'avae for his efforts tonight! An orator through and through.

Christian Fa'avae

young kings

Brown Pride Mentoring

Class of 2013 old-boys Johnnie Timu and Reginald McFarland, Brown Pride NZ

We are pleased to announce Class of 2013 old-boys Johnnie Timu and Reginald McFarland, come back to La Salle to help support the welfare of our current students. Brown Pride mentors focuses on students who have below attendance and low -self esteem. Attendance is a growing concern in our community and since the impact of Covid, it has had a negative effect on students who lack motivation to attend school. We have seen statistics that indicate students who do not attend school, are more likely to be at a disadvantage. The flow on effects their confidence, impacts on their subjects, friendships and their exam results.

With the support of parents, this program helps our young men make the connection to attend school and help improve their school life. The Young King's program Brown Pride offers- mentoring in life skills, achieving short and long-term goals, self awareness and alternative education. In term one the focus has been with the year 12 students. We will later see Johnnie and Reginald targeting other year levels.

gateway & careers

The Careers Department have been holding a Defensive Driving course. Nine students were successful and gained certification. It also means that these students will be able to sit their licence in 12 months rather than 18 months.

Outward bound came in did interviews with 20 students. Hopefully some of our young men will be successful.

Techtorium courses for year 9 for digital literacy are beginning. Every student does this on one day.

The Trades men are doing really well at NZMA. Feedback from NZMA has been excellent.

The students are also doing assessments for Trades as well.

There is a Gateway programme working at Waitino Caves coming up. Hopefully we will have some of our students doing this. It is a camp as well as work experience.

Warehouse and Countdown is completed this week. They now have to do their assessments on Thursday and Friday.

There is a work experience programme coming up for year 13 students. They will have a choice of their workplace and be assessed by Service IQ.

DIGITAL PROGRAM

Techtorium Institute for Technology studies, conducted digital literacy workshops with our Year nine cohort of students (170 students) on Wednesday 20 January from 9.00am to 3.00pm.

Students engaged in hands-on activities and theoretical concepts to better interact with devices and safely engage with digital applications, platforms and programs.

Lumina students from 2023 Year 13 Cohort who are currently studying at TECHTORIUM participated in facilitating the programs delivered to year 9’s. In true La Sallian spirit the ex-students contributed to the learning of their younger brothers.

Old-boys Johnas, Oteta, Simon Junior and Ethan all studying at Techtorium

defensive driving course

Thanks to Amal from Right First and Martin Hautus Foundation Trust, 10 students successfully completed their Defensive Driving Course. The defensive driving course was held in three sessions. By completing this course, the students will not only reduce their wait time to Full license, but also be better, safer drivers on our roads.

notices

We are still looking for rugby coaches in the following grades: U12, U15B and 2C. Please email Mr Hakeagatoa if you can volunteer to coach these teams hakeagatoau@delasalle.school.nz

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