Crowning achievement for students

A total of 12 students were crowned and acknowledged by their peers, teachers, families and friends on Friday last week at the Titikaveka College Leaders Investiture ceremony. Trainees Daniel, Mata Mere Taneao, April Horton, Kamakani Taneao, Joseline Ioteva, Motukino Tauakume, Gisele Rea, Nataniel Kino, Rachel Poila, Crystal Tutira, Terangi Mataiti and Lotacia Taringa were all proud recipients of the title. This year, the principal and faculty of the college decided to try something new, and instead of having the traditional “prefect” selection from their senior classes, the opportunity was given to the students of each “home room” to choose who they felt could best represent their class irrespective of age and academic level. Each home room accommodates students from all age groups and all academic levels. Principal Gaylyn Lockington said this system was not new to the college as it was first introduced by a previous principal Ani Piri some years ago. During her address to the newly-appointed leaders, Lockington shared five values she expected without limitation from each of them, and what she expected them to achieve, and how to perform in their roles both in and out of the school; The five values are honesty, respect, commitment, courage and service. Lockington said that with all five elements, there should be no room for error. Adding to the new initiative was a contract-signing ceremony, which both the student leaders and their parents had to sign, binding them to the values, obligations and commitment to the new role, ensuring their positions are taken seriously and in harmony with the school’s vision and beliefs. “By bringing the parents on board and asking them to make this commitment with their child, it gives that additional reassurance that they support the values of the school and of their child.” Former Titikaveka College student Teuru Passfield also had a few words of inspiration for the school, as she shared what life was like for her when she was at school, and how she now realises that decisions you make at school are not insignificant as they tend to affect students’ future career paths. Amongst all the excitement there were a few teary-eyed individuals as they farewelled a member of the school family. It was faculty member Caleb Tuilelo’s last day with the college before embarking on his new education career with the national college, Tereora. “This year has been the worst year for the college in terms of numbers, and because of that factor, we have had to lose a teacher,” said Lockington. “And although we will be losing a fantastic teacher, we look forward to his return next year as promised by secretary of education Gayle Townsend.” The school wishes Tuilelo all the best in his new role and congratulates the new student leaders. - Sharna Matapuku

A total of 12 students were crowned and acknowledged by their peers, teachers, families and friends on Friday last week at the Titikaveka College Leaders Investiture ceremony. Trainees Daniel, Mata Mere Taneao, April Horton, Kamakani Taneao, Joseline Ioteva, Motukino Tauakume, Gisele Rea, Nataniel Kino, Rachel Poila, Crystal Tutira, Terangi Mataiti and Lotacia Taringa were all proud recipients of the title. This year, the principal and faculty of the college decided to try something new, and instead of having the traditional “prefect” selection from their senior classes, the opportunity was given to the students of each “home room” to choose who they felt could best represent their class irrespective of age and academic level. Each home room accommodates students from all age groups and all academic levels. Principal Gaylyn Lockington said this system was not new to the college as it was first introduced by a previous principal Ani Piri some years ago. During her address to the newly-appointed leaders, Lockington shared five values she expected without limitation from each of them, and what she expected them to achieve, and how to perform in their roles both in and out of the school; The five values are honesty, respect, commitment, courage and service. Lockington said that with all five elements, there should be no room for error. Adding to the new initiative was a contract-signing ceremony, which both the student leaders and their parents had to sign, binding them to the values, obligations and commitment to the new role, ensuring their positions are taken seriously and in harmony with the school’s vision and beliefs. “By bringing the parents on board and asking them to make this commitment with their child, it gives that additional reassurance that they support the values of the school and of their child.” Former Titikaveka College student Teuru Passfield also had a few words of inspiration for the school, as she shared what life was like for her when she was at school, and how she now realises that decisions you make at school are not insignificant as they tend to affect students’ future career paths. Amongst all the excitement there were a few teary-eyed individuals as they farewelled a member of the school family. It was faculty member Caleb Tuilelo’s last day with the college before embarking on his new education career with the national college, Tereora. “This year has been the worst year for the college in terms of numbers, and because of that factor, we have had to lose a teacher,” said Lockington. “And although we will be losing a fantastic teacher, we look forward to his return next year as promised by secretary of education Gayle Townsend.” The school wishes Tuilelo all the best in his new role and congratulates the new student leaders. - Sharna Matapuku