Westlake Girls’ High School

Celebrating 65 years of Westlake

Prefects come together for inspiration and encouragement

There was a special celebration on Thursday 12th May, as 45 foundation pupils came together for lunch to celebrate Westlake's 65th anniversary.

The former students were all at Westlake sometime between 1957 and 1961 when the school was co-ed. In 1962 - 60 years ago - the boys moved up the road, and the two Westlake schools became what we know and love today.

The foundation pupils were joined by the current Principals from both schools (Jane Stanley and David Ferguson), and enjoyed showing photos and reminiscing about their time at Westlake.

The lunch, held at the Bays Club in Brown Bays, was organised by Robin Reid, who was one of the first 117 foundation pupils who started as Third Formers in 1957. Speakers included Peter Burn, who also started in 1957, former Music HOD Stuart Manins, and Kerry Hallows (1957), who read a poem about the early days of Westlake.

This year Ella Dorward, Deputy Head Prefect and I - along with the five House Captains, Lucy Jobbins, Tallulah Salmon, Aimee Euston-Stewart, Ella Borrie and Holly Williams - were super excited to host the first Head Prefects gathering between local schools.

On Friday 6th May, the Head and Deputy Prefects from Westlake Boys High School, Carmel College, Rosmini College, Long Bay College, Takapuna Grammar School and Rangitoto College came together to discuss Prefect experiences, listen to inspiring speakers and most importantly, connect as a group!

Ice breaker activities quickly introduced everyone and it was inspiring to be surrounded by a group of eager, enthusiastic and driven young people who were all so passionate about their school. We were privileged to listen to guest speakers Jeff and Adine Wilson, former New Zealand rugby, cricket and netball representatives and leaders.

They gave insightful and inspiring advice on their experience as leaders, which was particularly empowering for our own leadership journeys. Meaningful conversation about Prefect initiatives and projects followed a very delicious afternoon tea. The opportunity to connect, share and bounce off these ideas was wonderful as we heard how the different Head Prefects were tackling and embracing their roles in their respective schools. And of course, the afternoon ended with a very competitive game of ‘snap’ between the schools. Sadly, Westlake Girls did not manage to win the snap game, and had to settle for second place after being beaten by Long Bay!

The ability to host the event in the foyer of our new Event Centre was incredible as it was lovely to be able to showcase the brand new space. Everyone left the afternoon buzzing, with the other schools saying they are keen to hold the next event! Personally, I found it super inspiring to be surrounded by a group of zealous young leaders.

We are so looking forward to the upcoming term and the Prefect gettogether added more fuel to our fire of wanting to be compassionate, fair, respectful and excellent leaders for the school community.

And lastly, a big thank you to Deputy Head Prefect Ella Dorward for organising this incredible event.

By Ivy Mitchell Head Prefect

WE’RE OPENING OUR DOORS!

Have you ever wondered what an all-girls school would be like? We know it’s awesome, and we want you to know it too! So, we’re opening our doors to show you around our school. Meet the Principal, Teachers and Sports staff, tour the school, take home a goodie bag and see how Westlake Girls High School can equip you for global success. Tuesday 5 July • 4pm or 6pm (identical sessions) • Event Centre, WGHS, 2 Wairau Road For more information visit Westlakegirls.school.nz/open-night