A Message from the Rector

By Richard Hall | Posted: Wednesday June 25, 2025

As we come to the end of another busy term, where we successfully packed 10 weeks’ worth of effort into 9 weeks of time, we can be pleased with the outcomes.

Schools like ours thrive on being busy. At all times, we make the effort to 'do more' for the boys, because we care and want them to have the best kind of education.

Part of that is the experience of interschools. We have completed three this term, with Southland, Timaru, and, on Tuesday, Christchurch. Each one of these is a massive effort: the coordination, coaching, and management on the field and back here at school is significant. Our team,all of them, do it so well, with so much passion and energy. It is our point of difference.

The connection between the 'brother' schools is what sets us apart from many. We understand that, as a boys' school, we are better when we are connected; we are better when we share best practices; and we are better when we are competitive and cooperative. Last week, several academic and pastoral leaders from CBHS travelled to Dunedin to meet with our curriculum and pastoral leaders. Together, we make things better for boys across the South Island.

I can think of no better illustration of the power of the boys' schools network than the positive email I received from CBHS Senior Sports Director Ricardo De Sousa after the interschool.

It read;

Dear Otago Boys’ High School Team – Mr Hall & Mr Brown

On behalf of our school community, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for the past two days of our shared sports exchange between our two great schools. These exchanges are always a highlight on our calendar, and this week's event was no exception.

The opportunity for our students to compete, connect, and grow alongside their peers from Otago Boys' is something we deeply value. Beyond the games themselves, these exchanges foster respect, camaraderie, and school spirit, qualities that extend well beyond the playing field. They help build lasting relationships between our schools and offer unforgettable experiences for the young people involved.

We would especially like to acknowledge and thank Steve Brown and his team for their hard work behind the scenes. The planning and coordination required to make these exchanges run smoothly is no small task, and Steve’s dedication ensured everything was executed seamlessly. His commitment to upholding the tradition and spirit of this exchange is truly appreciated. (Even when I accidentally called him Simon).

Once again, thank you for your generous hospitality and for helping to create such a positive, competitive, and memorable experience. Please would you thank all the billet families for us – The boys had such a great time. We look forward to continuing this proud tradition between our two schools in the years ahead.

Many Thanks

Ricardo De Sousa

CBHS SPORTS