Alumni Return to Mark Graduation

The Boys’ School Year 8 Graduation Dinner brought students, parents, and staff together at the Ellerslie Event Centre for an evening of equal parts reflection and celebration. Earlier that morning, the boys received their leavers’ ties in a special assembly led by their Year 4 peers. This rite of passage that made their arrival at the venue all the more meaningful, each wearing the tie to symbolise their imminent alumni status.

Year 8 Dean Mr Steve Aucamp opened the evening before the programme shifted to a Q&A with guest speakers and alumni, Luka Patumaka Makata and Nico Stanley. Both had been selected to represent New Zealand in the Secondary Schools rugby team this year. Luka completing his final year as Head Boy of Saint Kentigern College, and Nico preparing to enter Year 13 at Auckland Grammar School. Hosted by Principal Peter Cassie and Deputy Head Boy Charlie Henderson, the conversation offered insight into the years to come.

Luka and Nico spoke openly about managing schoolwork alongside rugby commitments, making good decisions, and staying balanced socially. They shared how setbacks, including injuries that sidelined them from pivotal games, had shaped their resilience. Both stressed the importance of being well-rounded, not defining yourself solely by sport, and choosing to be “a good person first.”

They also reflected fondly on their time at the Boys’ School, crediting their parents as their biggest inspiration, a poignant moment as the graduating boys sat with their families around the tables.

As the evening closed, there was an unmistakable sense that this group of Year 8s is ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead.