A message from the Rector

By Andrew King | Posted: Thursday May 19, 2022

There’s been another busy week at Otago Boys’ High School.

It was fantastic to have our first winter interschool against Southland Boys’ on Wednesday. I’d like to congratulate all the boys involved and the coaches on their performances and for overcoming lots of last minute changes and half-time team talks interrupted by large amounts of coughing.

As you might have seen in the ODT we have experienced a large number of absences this week. As we know Covid is still in our community and there is also a stomach bug doing the rounds, but the overwhelming number seem to be cases of the flu. It is important that as a school community we keep reinforcing our positive hygiene habits, and I’m pleased that the boys are being compliant wearing masks inside the classrooms. If the current trend continues, and in particular amongst the staff, I may have to make the decision to roster home year groups if we are unable to have staff in front of classes. Obviously I will communicate this with you as early as I can but I wanted you to be aware that this could be a possibility, and I know other schools are having to do this.

It was great to welcome a large contingent of hostel families to our Hostel Open Day. It’s great to see there is lots of interest in places for Year 9 and I thank all these families for giving up their time to make the journey to sunny Dunedin.

Our traditional Pink Shirt Day has been well supported again by the boys with a fantastic range of pink accessories including ties, socks, wrist bands and the hygiene appropriate pink masks being worn with pride. Although a fun day, it is important to remember the message behind Pink Shirt Day, which is we are striving to create a school environment that is safe and inclusive for all. I know our sports teams are looking forward to wearing the pink socks in our traditional interschool with King's High School this year. This is sport’s way of getting behind the anti-bullying message.

Also, I’d like to thank Mr Zani and the families and students who attended the NCEA evening on Wednesday. As always, the greater understanding people have of the system, the more they can support our young men to achieve their own personal level of excellence.

Senior parents will be receiving an email about booking for student parent/teacher interviews that are coming up. I encourage you all to try and come and meet the teachers to discuss the progress of your son and ensure we are working together so he can achieve the best results possible.

Stay warm and safe this weekend.