College Newsletter - Friday 28 March
Formal Uniform - Monday 31 March and Friday 4 April
Summer Team and Group Photos - Monday 31 March
Fiafia Night - Monday 31 March
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Headmaster's Message
Kia ora e te whanau
PTA Fair
I would like to express my deep appreciation to the PTA Fair Committee and all the parents who contributed to making the Fair a great success. While it was a wonderful fundraiser, for me, its greatest success is the way it brings the wider Sacred Heart community together. On a beautiful Sunday morning, it was a delight to hear our Jazz Band, see locals finding bargains, enjoy delicious treats in the cafe, applaud the generosity of donations in the silent auction, and witness Old Boys reconnecting and current students serving on stalls. This is the true essence of a successful Fair.
Year 13 Ball
Last Friday night, the Year 13 Ball was a great occasion, with the boys smartly dressed, introducing their partners, and enjoying the night. They were a credit to their parents and the College. My thanks to the Ball Committee, Mr Henderson, and his team for a very pleasant evening.
Patrick Walsh
Headmaster/Tumuaki
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Congratulations this week to:
- Sacred Heart Academic Awards
- Thomas Appleton and Pupi Muller (Year 11), for being motivated and working ahead of their Accounting class. They are focused and doing very well, asking questions when they are unsure.
- Spencer Burgess-Ioane (Year 11), for demonstrating a high level of commitment and determination to excel in class
- Orson Fowler (Year 11), for consistently working at a very high level, being interactive in class with positive contributions to the lessons
- Ben Anderson (Year 10), for his consistent effort in Science and always trying his best to produce high quality work
- Lachlan Tighe-Umbers (Year 8), for high standards of work and a conscientious work ethic. Lachlan follows instructions carefully and goes over and above to produce admirable efforts.
- Sacred Heart Marist Man Awards
- Pinati Ah Leong (Year 13), Leo Chaisiri and Nikau Gloyn (Year 11), Daniel Cao, Jack Carroll, Nigel Cheng and Eddie Wang (Year 9), for their diligence and hard work in supporting others
- Austin Anitelea (Year 13), for sharing his gifts and talents with others
- Luke McLaughlin (Year 9), for honesty and integrity
Please visit our website gallery for photos of students who have been presented with their awards (these are usually one week after the notification in the Newsletter).
Photolife - Team & Group Photos on Monday
Photolife will be at the College on Monday to take photos of some teams and groups. Please ensure your son wears the correct Formal Uniform on this day. If the schedule specifies a Sports Uniform, he must bring and wear the correct attire as required. Students wearing the incorrect uniform will not be included in the photo.
This is also a good time to ensure your son's haircut meets College expectations.
Students scheduled for photos on Monday have been emailed a copy of the schedule which can be found here.
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Week 10 - Term 1
MONDAY 31 MARCH
Formal Uniform
Summer Team and Group Photos
Fiafia Night, 6pm, Auditorium
TUESDAY 1 APRIL
School Board Meeting, 6pm
WEDNESDAY 2 APRIL
Polyfest
THURSDAY 3 APRIL
Lenten Lunchtime Mass
Year 8 Vaccination #1, Catch up
FRIDAY 4 APRIL
Formal Uniform
Polyfest
SATURDAY 5 APRIL
SUNDAY 6 APRIL
Daylight Saving Finishes
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Week 11 - Term 1
MONDAY 7 APRIL
Formal Uniform
House Haka, Period 4
House Cross Country, Period 5&6
TUESDAY 8 APRIL
Year 13 Retreat
WEDNESDAY 9 APRIL
Year 13 Retreat
THURSDAY 10 APRIL
Lenten Lunchtime Mass
Year 13 Retreat
FRIDAY 11 APRIL
Formal Uniform
Last day of Term 1, classes finish at 1pm
SATURDAY 12 APRIL
SUNDAY 13 APRIL
Palm Sunday
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Special Character
Midway point of Lent
We are now at the midway point of the Church season of Lent, which began on Ash Wednesday, will incorporate Holy Week, and will culminate in the highest point of the Church calendar, the Resurrection of Jesus on Easter Sunday. Over the 40-day period in preparation for this, we are asked to concentrate on the areas of almsgiving, prayer and fasting, all providing the opportunity of turning us back to God or in Jesus' word, 'repenting'.
The service programme currently operational at all levels of the College, is one means of almsgiving or giving to others, not necessarily in financial terms but in thought, word and practical action.
Yesterday at lunchtime, approximately 400 students with staff and Brothers voluntarily participated in the greatest prayer of the Church, the Mass. This morning in the Chapel, about the same number of fathers and sons, or significant men in their lives, joined in prayer in another Mass, giving thanks to God for all that has been given to us, particularly the gift of His Son, Jesus.
We thank those who have taken up the call or challenge of the Church over this season and encourage them to continue to do so. We also remind others that the midway point of Lent still allows us time to 'take something on' additionally, and so prepare for that feast, reminding us and celebrating Christ's eternal presence in our world and whose Sacred Heart is at the core of our community.
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Year 7&8 Father & Son Mass and Breakfast
This morning we held our first Father and Son Mass for 2025. It was a heartfelt and meaningful event that celebrated the bond between fathers and their sons, while also strengthening their shared faith. The Mass provided a space to come together, reflect, and renew their commitment to one another and to God.
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Pou Plaques to Year 7&8 Homerooms
Tuesday’s assembly focused on the theme of service and supporting those in need to highlight the importance of living out our Catholic values, especially during Lent, through concrete actions rather than mere words. It was a call to each member of our school community to embrace service as a central part of faith. This aligns perfectly with our pou (pillar) for the year on Supporting Individuals and Families in Need - Arohaina Tētahi ki Tētahi.
The assembly included a special moment where the team leaders of Years 7 and 8, Lachie Henwood and Opeti Sitani presented representatives of each class with their homeroom prefects, a plaque with the pou for 2025. This is a tangible reminder of the importance of a commitment to service this year, which lies at the heart of the Gospel.
The recipients of the plaques were:
Levi Nathan (7AGT), Malachai Chan Mow (7AMR), Jack Hunter (7CKN), Daniel Lee (7JHN), Hashen Goonetilleke (7LCR), Lachlan Beecroft (7STA), Pio Te'o (7TGY), Kaisyn Dang (8BRY), Josh Lamond (8JTR), Oisin Boyle (8JVE), Corbin Holden (8KME), Cortez Onehi (8MVH), and Harry Cornford (8PPL)
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Academic
Exam Assistance - Volunteers Needed
We are seeking volunteers to assist students who require support with reading and/or writing during their mid-year exams for Years 8-13, taking place in the last week of May. We are fortunate to have dedicated parents and grandparents who have previously volunteered as reader/writers and found it to be a rewarding experience, however, we need more volunteers to ensure we are not relying too heavily on them.
Your support can make a significant difference in helping our students perform to the best of their abilities. No specialist subject knowledge is required, just a willingness to help. Please note that all volunteers must undergo a police vetting process as part of our school policy. Even if you’re available for just one exam session, your help would be greatly appreciated!
For more information or to volunteer, please contact Dorota Bade
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SHC Students Shine in Chinese Language Exchange at Baradene
Last Thursday, 27 senior Chinese language students from Sacred Heart College embarked on an exciting journey to Baradene College for a dynamic Chinese language exchange programme. The event brought together students from both schools, uniting them in their shared enthusiasm for Mandarin and offering a vibrant platform to sharpen their speaking skills ahead of upcoming internal assessments.
The day buzzed with energy as students immersed themselves in conversation, practicing their oral Mandarin and building confidence with every exchange. Beyond language practice, the programme wove in lively cultural activities to spark excitement. Highlights included a spirited game of Chinese shuttlecock (jianzi) and a chopstick challenge where students raced to pick up M&Ms, adding a playful twist to the learning experience.
The event concluded on a high note with musical performances that showcased the talents of both schools. The Baradene students captivated the audience with a heartfelt rendition of "Tian Mi Mi," a beloved Mandarin song. Not to be outdone, our Sacred Heart students responded with a lively performance of "Super Idol," a hit popularised on social media.
The grand finale featured a stirring instrumental of the classic "The Moon Represents My Heart", performed by our gifted musicians: Harry Shand on piano, Mark Guevarra on violin, and Zhen Ng on oboe. Their soulful rendition left a lasting impression on everyone present.
Looking ahead, Sacred Heart College is eager to host a similar event next year, continuing to enrich our students’ language skills and cultural awareness. Programmes like this are invaluable, blending language development with personal growth and cross-cultural understanding. Watch this space for more opportunities to celebrate our students’ passion for Chinese!
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Pastoral Care
Social Media Presentation
This week Constable Gordon spoke to both Year 9 and 10 on cyber bulling; being a bystander and not engaging in negative online behaviour. He then spoke to our Year 13 students on drugs, alcohol, parties, and cars. Stay safe everyone! More information here.
Parent Resource Netsafe - Helping New Zealand Stay Safe Online
For over 25 years, Netsafe has supported people across New Zealand to have safe and positive online experiences, by providing free support, advice and education to all ages. For excellent advice and relevant articles on most teenage topics go to the Netsafe website.
The Parenting Place
The parenting place is another excellent resource and source of information relating to parenting. There are coaches available for every age group, together with podcasts, parenting articles, coaches, resources and lots more! Check out the Parenting place @ Parenting Place | Parent Coaching.
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Uniform Shop
Winter Uniform
A reminder that from Term 2 we move into Winter Uniform. Parents are reminded to purchase the long sleeve blue shirt which is compulsory for Terms 2 and 3. The Uniform shop has a full stock of jerseys and jackets for those colder mornings which you either buy online or in store.
Saturday Opening
The Uniform Shop will be open on Saturday 5 April from 8.30am to 12noon for anyone needing to pop in and purchase Winter Uniform.
New Items
We are pleased to introduce a few new Sacred Heart College branded items to the Uniform Shop:
- Water Bottle $40
- Takeaway Coffee Cup $20
- Glass Double-Walled Coffee Cup $18
Please call into the Uniform Shop if you would like to view these items, or order them online.
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Arts and Culture
Kapa Haka Practice Times
Junior Kapa Haka
Friday 28 March - Whaiora Catholic Marae, after school departure. The noho marae visit will conclude at 12noon on Saturday 29 March.
Senior Kapa Haka
Saturday 29 March - Whaiora Catholic Marae, start time is at 1pm and will end on Sunday at 12 noon.
Fiafia Night - Monday 31 March, performances for both groups
ASB Polyfest Performance times
Wednesday 2 April: 2.30pm - Junior Kapa Haka
Friday 4 April: 9.30am - Senior Kapa Haka
If you are unable to attend, you can visit the ASB Polyfest website for a live streaming link.
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Fiafia Night
We are looking forward to celebrating our Fiafia Night on Monday, 31 March from 6pm (doors open at 5.30pm). Entry is free, but a koha basket will be available to give donations to each group to help cover costs. Please no food or drink is to be brought into the Auditorium.
We will have plenty of free parking available at the bottom of Gate 4 (West Tamaki Road).
If you are parking on surrounding streets, please respect our neighbours and driveways.
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Kapa Haka Reunion and Matariki "Save the Date"
We regret to advise we have had to cancel our Kapa Haka 50th anniversary event due to low ticket sales. However we can now advise that we will incorporate this event into part of our Matariki Celebrations. Our annual Matariki Dinner is being held on Saturday 14 June. Please 'Save the Date'! Further information will be sent out about this early in Term 2.
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Sport
Sports Captains
Last week at assembly we celebrated the first of our Sports Captains. The role of a Sports Captain is to show leadership, responsibility, and good communication. These leaders are learning to motivate and support their team members on and off the field.
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Calling for Sponsors
We have a number of opportunities for families and businesses to sponsor some of our sports teams - across many codes and grades. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please contact our Sports Administrator, Mrs Kelly Jennings for more information. We will be assigning sponsorship very soon, so please get in touch!
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Basketball
3 x 3 Basketball Competition
The boys faced Westlake in the grand final of the competition but were narrowly defeated 16-11. However, they have made history by qualifying for Nationals for the first time in school history - a fantastic achievement! Well done, boys!
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SHC Basketball Supporters & Players Gear 2025
This year we are selling Hoodies, Sweatshirts, Long sleeve and Short sleeve tees for our loyal SHC Basketball supporters and players!
The designs are available in high-quality navy blue AS Colour with the option to have your name printed on the back for an additional cost.
You can purchase any of these by clicking here. Orders strictly close on Thursday 10 April, and we will notify you when the gear is ready to pick up from the school.
**IMPORTANT**- Please provide the name to be printed on the back of the garment in the comments section (if you choose this option).
Please note purchases are Non Refundable.
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Cricket
Match Report: Sacred Heart 1st XI vs St Peter’s 1st XI
For the fourth consecutive week, George Fraser won the toss and chose to bowl on an unpredictable Orakei Domain wicket. He struck in the first over, setting the tone for a disciplined Sacred Heart bowling effort. Wickets fell regularly as St Peter’s fought to 166 all out in 48 overs.
Bowling Figures
Hans Jayamanne: 2/25, Finnbar Cavanagh-Briggs: 2/30, Tom Lees: 2/27, George Fraser: 2/43
SHC chase began positively but faltered early, slipping to 24/3. Ben Brugh, stepping up due to injuries, anchored the innings with a composed 43 (87), supported by Cohen Faitaua’s 22 (31). A 40-run stand revived hopes, but after Brugh’s dismissal at 116, the tail collapsed, leaving Sacred Heart 118 all out, falling 48 runs short.
Key Performances
Ben Brugh: 43 (87), and Cohen Faitaua: 22 (31)
Despite the loss, the team showed improvement and growing confidence as they approach the final three games of the season.
To read the full match report from 22 March please click here.
Match Report 15 March 2025
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Football
The training schedules for the remainder of the term are as follows:
• 1st XI (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday) - before school
• Development XI (Monday, Wednesday) - before school
• 15A (Wednesday) - after school
13th Grade, 14th Grade and Senior football schedules will be confirmed at the start of next term.
Warm-up Fixtures
1st XI v St Peters @ St Peters (Friday 4 April) – KO TBC.
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Hockey
1st XI Hockey Trial
Hockey Trials for the 1st XI will take place on Wednesday 2 April from 4pm to 5.30pm at Lloyd Elsmore Park. Please register your details here if you intend to trial. There will be a school van leaving SHC at 3.20pm. Please indicate on the registration sheet if you intend to go in the van or if you will make your own way to the park. All trialists must bring shoes, shin pads, mouthguard, and hockey stick.
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Orienteering
Sacred Heart College recently participated in an orienteering competition at Epsom Girls Grammar. Congratulations to Finley Connor (Year 9) for taking first place.
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Rowing - Maadi
This week the SHC Rowing squad have been competing at the Maadi Regatta at Lake Karapiro. This sees the best rowers from all over the country competing at what is the largest secondary schools event in the Southern Hemisphere, so the competition is fierce.
The week involves a series or qualifying heats and repechages to earn the right to compete in the finals. Finals are being raced today, Friday 28 March and Saturday 29 March, with thousands of spectators from all over the country cheering on their school.
We would like to extend an invite to any Sacred supporters who are in the area to come and support the team and add your voice to the Sacred cheer - we have a site at 10A.
Congratulations to all the boys and to the following who have qualified for the finals at this National Rowing event:
A Finals
Novice 8
Novice 4
17 Pair
18 Quad
18 Four
18 Pair
18 Eight – The Main Maadi Cup Event
B Finals
Novice 4
17 Pair x (2)
Racing times can be found on the rowit website
Thank you to the College, coaches and parents for their support throughout the season, in allowing us to provide these opportunities to our young men.
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Rugby
Musters and Trial Dates - 5th, 6th and U15R Grades
Thursday 3 April - 3.30pm (Muster)
Tuesday 8 April - 3.30pm (Trial 1)
Wednesday 9 April - 3.30pm (Trial 2)
Thursday 10 April - 3.30pm (Trial 3 if required)
Please assemble behind the Gymnasium. All players need to bring suitable playing gear, boots, mouth guard, playing jersey, and a water bottle.
Coaches and Managers Meeting
There will be a meeting for those who intend to coach or manage a team this season on Tuesday 1 April at 5.30pm in classroom C13 (next to the Staffroom). We will be covering important information regarding the upcoming season, inlcuding some key messages relating to the Rugby Smart Safety Programme.
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Swimming - Year 7&8 Eastern Zone
On Monday 24 March, a team of Year 7&8 Swimmers competed at the Eastern Zone Swimming competition held at our own Aquatic Centre.
Congratulations to the following boys who made the finals:
Ethan Sihamu (Year 7) - Breaststroke, Backstroke,
Ollie Campbell (Year 7) - Freestyle
Aidan de Leon (Year 7) - Breaststroke
Zac Hammond (Year 8) - Backstroke and Butterfly
Kees Carter (Year 8) - Backstroke and Butterfly
James Monro (Year 8) - 100m Freestyle
Our Year 7 Freestyle relay team also came 3rd, team members were Ethan Sihamu, Ollie Campbell, Aidan de Leon and Hamish McLean. Congratulations on your effort boys and thank you to Mrs Tai for taking the group and to the supporters that came to cheer the team on.
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Water Polo
Performance Aquatics
Registration is now open for Term 2 performance aquatics which is swim conditioning training under the direction of performance coach Sam Caradus. For more information and to register click here.
Trials for Year 7s
Don’t forget - Year 7 trials will be held next week - 31 March, 7.15am to 8.30am and 2 April, 3.15pm to 4.30pm. Please register here.
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Winter Wave - Term 2
Winter Wave is a 60-minute session with Water Polo specific skill development for 30 minutes, followed by a 30-minute game (4 x 5-minute running clock quarters). Round Robin games and finals are played over a 6 week period.
Games will be played width-ways so there will be more Water Polo action in front of each goal. If you are interested in signing up for Winter Wave - please click here to register.
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Senior College Sport League - Results from last weekend
The Prems defeated Rangitoto College (17-11) in the semi-final of the Auckland League.
North Island Secondary Schools Division 2
Congratulations to the A3 team who placed 8th in the Div 2 NISS last weekend. SHC were the only team to enter their third team in this division and the boys had some hard-fought matches against other schools Prem teams.
North Island Secondary Schools Division 1
This weekend the A2s and Prems are playing in the North Island Div 1 tournament. Please check the New Zealand Water Polo website for the draw if you want to come along and support the boys.
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Application for Enrolment
Year 7 & Year 9, 2026 is now open
Enrolment applications for Year 7 and Year 9 2026 are now open. See our website for more information. Enrolments close Friday 4 April 2025.
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Community
College Fair - Sunday 23 March
Thank you to the SHC PTA, volunteers, parents, students and to our wonderful community for a highly successful Fair Day. It was a wonderful sunny day and heartwarming to see so many families out and about enjoying themselves. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
To view all of the Fair photos, please visit our website.
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Careers
International Work Experience
On 31 March at 5pm, the Consulate General of Canada will be hosting a webinar on job opportunities in the tourism, hospitality, hotel, culinary and related sectors in Canada. Attendees will be able to hear from human resource specialists from Tourism HR Associations representing thousands of employers across Canada. Register here to attend this free webinar
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