Page 17 - Principal's Newsletter Term 2 2018

Boarding House News

CRANLEIGH HOUSE

Term 2 continues with its manic frenzy of activities. I am sure it is the same for the other
boarding houses and for many of the day boys too. Winter sports keep everyone occupied
despite the grounds taking a hammering from the wet weather and some practice sessions
having to be abandoned. It has been interesting to see some of the first teams moving to
other sites to keep the boys working. Boys returning to the boarding houses after 10pm from
production rehearsals has become something of the norm. Massive congratulations to all
those involved with Viva who just when they thought things were tailing off are now expected
to learn more songs for the national finale. It is great to see our Kapa Haka also getting a trip
away to extend their learning.

In the house things have remained reasonably steady. I have enjoyed listening to some of the
prefects give talks at roll call about the values that appear on our posters. Cooper spoke
about Empathy; Wynter, Humour; and Alex, Integrity.

REPTON HOUSE

Great news from the BOP that they are moving on an upgrade of Repton. Discussions have
been positive and will continue, but I am sure that whatever the outcome is it will be good for
the boys. For all concerned, I hope the renovations occur sooner rather than later!

My thanks go to Mason Summerfield, who has acted as duty master on Thursday nights this
term. Unfortunately, he has other commitments which will take him away from duties next
term.

We have welcomed George Hight-Darling from Niue as a permanent boarder in year 10
meaning the numbers in Repton are currently sitting at 57.

Pleasingly, the empty bed in the year 11 dorm has been filled with casual boarders for the
past two weeks.

After discussions with the Donald family, it has been decided that a rock edging will not be
placed around the garden. Head of House, Harry McKay will hopefully come up with another
plan which will enable current boys to “leave their mark” on Repton.

Sausages and bread being provided on a Thursday after sports practices have proven to be a
big hit with the boys. Not too many volunteering to help cook as yet, but plenty volunteering
to consume!

The wet weather has proven a challenge for many, especially the rugby and football players.
To their credit, they have trained and played willingly in trying conditions. All will be looking
forward to a break over the holidays.

RUGBY HOUSE
We were delighted with the positive responses that were received around the presentation of
Rugby House during Open Day and the tours since. Certainly, the boys know how to
demonstrate the pride they have in the house and I am sure Corinna Wilson, our new day
matron, has a lot to do with it as well. We are certainly aware that Rugby House is often one
of the first impressions that prospective families have of Rathkeale boarding.

We wish tutor Callan Elliot all the best while he spends the next three weeks trialing for the
Phoenix football team and attempts to gain a professional football contract. We also wish
tutor Liam Heard all the best as he heads off to the USA for three weeks to trial for several