Looking Back, Stepping Forward – Year 8 Graduation Dinner

On 28 November, the Boys’ School gathered students, parents, faculty, Trust Board members, and guests at the Ellerslie Event Centre to celebrate the Year 8 cohort as they prepared to move on to their next chapter. The evening was a celebration of accomplishments, camaraderie, and growth.

Year 8 Dean Steve Aucamp opened the evening with remarks lauding the boys for their focus of the ‘5 P’s’: pride, passion, purpose, personal best, and punctuality. He implored, “From the first day of Year 8 you have shown resilience, teamwork, and a spirit that makes us all proud.” 

The keynote speaker, Luka Patumaka Makata, the incoming Head Boy of the College and a former Boys’ School student, shared his leadership journey. Luka reflected on his time at the Boys’ School and beyond, candidly admitting he hadn’t been a Student Leader until Year 13. Instead, he found early opportunities to lead on the rugby field. 

“Reflecting on those missed opportunities, it reminded me of something my mum said about the plaques in JC Chalmers Hall – there can only be one Dux or Head Boy, but there’s no limit to those who can achieve the Gold Service Award,” Luka shared, inspiring the boys to embrace diverse paths to leadership.

As the evening drew to a close, parents, teachers, and boys reflected on the special memories of their Boys’ School journeys. Surrounded by their peers, this milestone was a fitting farewell to their time at the school and a launchpad for what lies ahead. To the Class of 2024, we look forward to hearing of your achievements in the years to come.