Top Award Winners of 2013
VOLUME 9.No4
T E R M 4 . 2 0 1 3 W W W. M A G S . S C H O O L . N Z
Premier Netball - National Champions
Quarterly Top Award Winners of 2013
VOLUME 9.No4
T E R M 4 . 2 0 1 3 W W W. M A G S . S C H O O L . N Z
Premier Netball - National Champions
On the cover: Top group, clockwise from top left: Boy Dux Oliver Chen and Girl Dux Anika Radojkovich, Dux Artiums Brosnan Ackerman and Matthew James, top Service winners Leanne Ho, Jamie Hucklesby and Kenaz Vergis, and Victrix and Victor Ludorums Destiny Grace and Irae Simone. Bottom photo: The Premier Netball team, National Champions and MAGS Team of the Year. Mount Albert Grammar School Alberton Avenue, Mount Albert, Auckland 1025 T (09) 846 2044 F (09) 846 2042 E headmaster@mags.school.nz
Headmaster’s Report
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ERO Report
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Staff News
4-5
Community Service
6-7
Academic News
8-11
Creative Writing
12
Visual Arts
13-14
Performing Arts
15-17
International Students
18-19
Service Lions
20
Pasifika Awards
21
Senior Prizegiving
22-23
Year 11 Prizegiving
24
Arts Dinner
25
Sports Dinner
26
Leavers’ Dinner
27
Sport
28-33
Corridors
34-38
Community Support
39
School Calendar
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Homestays required: We welcome applications from caring families within easy travel distance of the school to provide short or longer-term homestays for our international boys and girls.If you have a spare bedroom and are interested, please contact Mrs Corinne Brewer, Homestay Co-ordinator, ph 846 2044 x 8187 or email: cbrewer@mags.school.nz
For all advertising enquiries in the Quarterly please contact Tim Kay, Director of Advancement tkay@mags.school.nz Ph (09)815 4034 or Mobile 021 6366803
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THE HEADMASTER
Dear Parents, Guardians, Students, Albertians & the Wider Mount Albert Grammar School Community Welcome to the last publication of the Quarterly newsletter. In the first edition in 2006 I wrote “The Quarterly is the start of a new tradition at Mount Albert Grammar School and replaces the monthly newsletter…. It is designed to keep parents up to date with school news and be accessible for our students to enjoy”. The appointment of Estelle Sarney as Communications Manager has seen a review of our communications with the community and has resulted in the start of a new tradition that will I believe further improve what we started to do in 2006. From the start of next year we will be sending home a weekly e-newsletter, called the MAGS News, and twice a year posting home a magazine called “The Lion”, a glossy retrospective of events in the months preceding each publication. Our annual yearbook, The Albertian, will remain in its current form. We have now received the final report from The Education Review Office following its review of our school in August. It is an outstanding report and confirms all the positive aspects of our school that we have worked on during the last few years. A summary of the report is over the page; you can read it in full via a link on the school website. These days the reports are specifically written for the parents and community and are not full of the hard-tounderstand education jargon, which is complicated enough for those of us who actually work in the sector. As always we welcome your feedback on this report, and indeed any aspect of school life. This last term has been one of huge celebration, as you will see through the following pages. The outstanding performance of our Premier Netball team to go through the season unbeaten for the second year in a row is amazing – they have lost only five games in six years. They rightfully retained their crown of national champions as there was no school in New Zealand that came close to them. The Sports Dinner highlighted their achievements and those of many others in a year when we won six national titles and a number of Auckland titles. The Arts Dinner celebrated the huge amount of individual artistic talent at the school. The Leavers’ Dinner and the prizegivings for Pasifika and Maori students and our School boarders all provided a slice
The Headmaster, Dale Burden
of the flavour that is MAGS. The Service Lion assembly once gain highlighted not only the importance of service but the wholehearted manner in which our students are approaching this notion. Congratulations to Katie Budgen and Liam Ferguson, who were named at the Senior Prizegiving as Head Girl and Head Boy for next year. They will lead an initial group of Prefects that will be added to as the year progresses. For the first time this year we have moved from the two academic prizegivings to four. Due to the restricted amount of space inside the Gamble Hall and our desire not to move offsite it was the only sensible option. Each prizegiving maintains the tradition of celebration of academic excellence and now meets the needs of the increasing number of parents who wish to attend. It also reduces the duration of each occasion, which also has its benefits. We will review this arrangement for next year but so far it has been a major improvement on previous years. Mount Albert Grammar School is certainly the place to be as the increased roll is strong evidence that local people are choosing us over the other alternatives. The fantastic endorsement from ERO combined with the major building programme that will commence next year is more good news for the school in what has been an outstanding year. Looking ahead to 2014 I would like to take this opportunity to welcome all new students and their families to MAGS. You are coming to a great school. Best wishes for Christmas and the New Year.
Proudly sponsored by Anne Duncan Real Estate Ltd. MREINZ LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT (REAA 2008)
VOLUME 8.No2
TERM 2.2013
Quarterly
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Outstanding ERO Report
National award for MAGS maths teacher
The Education Review Office has given Mount Albert Grammar School an excellent report following its assessment visit in August.
MAGS maths teacher Johanna McHardy has been awarded a prestigious national award by the NZ Association of Mathematics Teachers.
The report commends the school for “outstanding” student academic achievement, our “extensive range” of extracurricular opportunities, educational success for Maori and Pasifika students, our “high quality” pastoral care of New Zealand and international students, the management of School House and how its culture “reflects the school’s positive values”, and the school’s self-review processes which are “robust and well embedded at all levels.”
Ms McHardy travelled to the Association’s annual conference in Wellington to collect the Jim Campbell Award for Teaching Excellence. The Award is made only every second year, and recognises excellence in primary or secondary classroom teaching and support given to others in enhancing their own teaching.
The report notes that student achievement in NCEA is “higher than national averages and is considerably higher than the averages for other similar schools.” It goes on to say “Students also achieve well above national levels for NCEA merit and excellence endorsements. Scholarship results in 2012 were outstanding. Students gained 92 scholarships across a range of subjects, placing the school fifth in New Zealand for scholarship success ... The high expectations for student achievement and for high quality educational opportunities noted in previous ERO reports continue to be evident.” The report recognises our “well resourced school environment (that) offers students positive learning opportunities” and that our “pastoral care systems are of high quality and deans are regarded as significant adults for students in terms of both personal and academic support.” Among our range of extra curricular opportunities it notes “high performance sport and a strong focus on visual and performing arts.” The report acknowledges that we provide our international students with “high quality pastoral care. They integrate well into the school’s education programme and are involved in all aspects of school life.” Headmaster Dale Burden says this latest ERO report, the first since 2010, “Recognises the tireless commitment of our teachers to provide the best possible educational environment for our students. It also confirms that our many self-review measures are reaping continual improvements as we plan for the future.” As stated by the report, “Student learning competencies, as well as achievement, are continually being improved.” The full report can be read on the school website: www.mags.school.nz
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Ms McHardy, who gained a degree in engineering before specialising as a maths teacher, has taught statistics and calculus at Mount Albert Grammar for 11 years. Last year her students gained 40 Scholarships. This year she taught 70 calculus students and 26 in statistics; 20 from each specialty are sitting Scholarship examinations.
Staff News
MAGS teacher granted Woolf Fisher Scholarship
Staff Farewells During the term we have farewelled the following staff: Kate Jeavons, Mark Voisin, Dave Shenton, Albert Feng, Rob Nikiel and Ben Grace. We wish them well for the next steps in their careers. Ben Conway is returning to university for further study, Helen Sutcliffe is moving to New Plymouth and Philip Kotze is moving for a promotion at Marlborough Boys College. We also farewelled some of our valued support staff - Joan Brough, Pippa Melhop, Sandra White, Jane MacFarlane, Matt Shelton, Ellen-Jane Waetford, Valda Youdale, Stephanie Goddard, Tuaine Keenan and Maree Pulevaka.
Mount Albert Grammar English teacher Mr Richard Watkinson has been granted a prestigious Woolf Fisher Lead Teacher Masters Scholarship. The scholarship will enable Mr Watkinson to research his Masters thesis on how to most effectively teach the subject of English to Pasifika students.
On leave for part or all of next year are Kayla Hicks, Kirsten Robertson, Shona Lee (all on their OE), Kathryn Malloy (our Head of Food Technology is trying her hand at running a catering business), Jennifer Jagiello (getting married in January and going overseas with her husband), Richard Roberts (taking one term off for family reasons) Richard Watkinson (taking up a Woolf Fisher study scholarship) and the following mums and mums-to-be who are remaining on or heading off on maternity leave: Amber Hinson, Olivia Markham, Sarah Mulcahy, Ainsley Leonard, Paula Smith and Shameen Hayat. We look forward to welcoming back all these staff later in 2014 or early 2015.
He will carry out his research at MAGS and hopes to also visit other Auckland schools to observe classes and interview teachers and students. “I’ll be looking to determine what is best practice among English teachers in the education of their Pasifika students. I’ll then return to MAGS to share that with the English faculty.”
Joan Brough
Ben Conway
Ben Grace
Matt Shelton
Dave Shenton
Helen Sutcliffe
Mr Watkinson hopes his findings will help English teachers across New Zealand, and predicts some findings could also be adapted to the teaching of other subjects. Funding for the scholarship comes from the Woolf Fisher Trust at the Woolf Fisher Research Centre in the Faculty of Education at the Universtiy of Auckland. The research centre is internationally recognised for the development of education and schooling success for diverse communities within New Zealand, with a particular focus on Maori and Pasifika communities. The Lead Teacher Masters Scholarships enable outstanding teachers in Auckland and Northland to be released from teaching duties to undertake school-based research aimed at improving student achievement. It includes training at the Woolf Fisher Research Centre in school-based research and development methods. Valda Youdale
Ellen-Jane Waetford
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Surf life-saving hero Year 11 student James Lee was awarded a special prize for bravery after saving four people from rip tides at Hot Water Beach on 5 October. James grew up on the Coromandel and has been a member of the Hot Water Beach Surf Lifesaving Club since he was 10. He was home at Coroglen for the holidays and visiting the beach when the swimmers got into trouble. A story about his dramatic rescues appeared in the Herald on Sunday, the Waikato Times, his local Coromandel paper and in the Central Leader. Mount Albert Grammar had a special plaque made to recognise his courage, which was presented to him at two assemblies. James says he has made five rescues before, but in those cases he had the right lifesaving equipment and back-up from other surf lifesavers. This time he was on his own with
Year 11 student James Lee saved four people at Hot Water Beach.
no equipment. But he didn’t hesitate to take on the strong rips three times – first for two young boys, a second time for a Turkish man who couldn’t swim, and a third time for another man who got into trouble. “The adrenalin charge was amazing, because I knew I was on my own and that if I didn’t succeed these people would drown. I didn’t get tired, and the adrenalin left me shaking for hours afterwards. It was exhilarating.” James says the only time he feared for his own safety was when he was struggling to keep the two young boys afloat 100m offshore. “There was no way they could make it in and I wouldn’t leave them, so I knew I had to get the public involved. That’s when I waved over a couple of surfers to help.” Since his lifesaving feat James has become a bit of a celebrity, being interviewed not only by the Herald on Sunday but also by two radio stations, a surfing magazine and the local Mercury Bay paper. His mum Katarina couldn’t be more proud. “He already was a hero to me, but he’s even more awesome now.” James came to MAGS from Mercury Bay Area School at the start of this year. He wanted to attend a school that offered a wide range of opportunities, and two of his great uncles are MAGS old boys – Nick and John Wilcox. This summer James will be back at Hot Water Beach, this time on official duty, with equipment and help at hand for the next time he’s called on to save a life.
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Community
A life-saving fundraiser Mount Albert Grammar School now has a defibrillator on site that will be available to the local community. The lifesaving device has already been registered on the website www.aedlocations.co.nz so that any family or workplace with a member suffering heart problems can quickly find the school’s address. Funds for the $3500 defibrillator were raised by MAGS’ Property Manager Frank Koenen, who asked the school’s suppliers and contractors to make donations to the cause. “We are very grateful to those companies for their generosity,” said Mr Koenen. “They have enabled the school to buy a piece of equipment that could save lives in the future.” School nurse Monica Haworth says that with nearly 3000 people on site at MAGS each day the school is the size of a small town, and every small town should have a defibrillator.
School Nurse Monica Haworth, John Takerei of St John and MAGS’ Property Manager Frank Koenen with the defibrillator.
“Cardiac arrests are more common than you might think, and the quicker a person can receive a shock from a defibrillator the better their chances of a full recovery,” said Mr Takerei.
“It’s a weight off my mind having this here,” says Ms Haworth, a former accident and emergency nurse who has been with MAGS for 12 years. “We have a cardiac event here about once every two years – it might be a staff member, a visitor to the school or a student with an anaphylactic allergic reaction. It’s been mainly luck that we’ve had no deaths so far. Having a defibrillator on hand makes the chances of that even smaller.”
Ms Haworth says to her the device is priceless, and she felt quite emotional when Mr Koenen presented it to her. “As a school nurse, a mother and a former A&E nurse who has had to deal with relatives of loved ones suffering a heart attack, I know how much good these machines can do.”
John Takerei, the St John Territory Manager for Auckland Central, says it will be hugely beneficial to the Mt Albert community to have another defibrillator so close at hand.
MAGS would like to thank the following donors for making its purchase of the defibrillator possible: Corporate Signage Ltd, Programmed Property Services, RAD Signs, Drain Surgeons, Bob’s Mowers Ltd, Armstrong Locksmiths and AK Electrical. Continued support from these companies and others will raise more valuable funds to benefit the school and community.
ANZA Challenge On 20 October a group of MAGS students took part in the inaugural ANZA Challege to raise money for the Halberg Disability Sport Foundation. The ANZA Challenge was a transTasman sports race that top athletes and celebrities competed in over
five days. The event culminated at the Domain on the 20th, with a 5km schools’ race and a 10km adults’ event. MAGS showed its support of this worthy charity by entering a team. Each participant’s $35 entry fee went to the cause, along with any sponsorship raised.
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Languages A bridge to China By Luke Butler During the last two weeks of Term 3 I was privileged to join three other students as representatives of New Zealand at the annual Chinese Bridge Proficiency Competition for Foreign Secondary School Students. It was held in Kunming, Yunnan province, China. Two of the students I travelled with were contestants in the competition, while the other student and I were part of the ‘observing group’. On arrival in Beijing our team joined hundreds of other students from 62 countries. We spent the first two days visiting some of the major tourist sites in Beijing, including the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, the Olympic Stadiums and the Summer Palace.
Not only were we introduced to some of China’s most famous landmarks and treated to numerous eye-opening performances, but were also able to develop incredible friendships with people from all over the world. It was this that truly made this trip an unforgettable experience. 我爱学汉语，我爱汉语桥！
Careers Term 4 is quieter in the Careers Centre as the vast majority of Year 10, 11 and 12 students have progressed as far as they are able with their subject choices for 2014. Students in Year 13 have also, in most cases, completed their plans for at least their first steps on their life beyond MAGS. When we do see students it is usually because they have had a last minute change of plans, which means there is likely to be a sense of urgency with their inquiries. We then flew to Kunming for the competition. It consisted of about four sections, including a talent performance and participation in Chinese cultural activities.
Luke Butler with his Chinese Teacher Ms Eva Liu.
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Though most of our time was spent inside Yunnan Normal University, the headquarters of this year’s competition, we also engaged in other activities, such as visiting a Chinese high school, going to an ancient village and spending a day in Kunming’s CBD.
Students who find they need extra information while they are on study leave, or in the week prior to the start of lessons in January, are welcome to come into the Careers Centre. One less known facet of the MAGS Careers programme is our STAR Taster courses. These are short courses run during the school holidays at the end of Terms 1, 2 and 3. In each case students are able to undertake learning for periods which vary from half a day to 3 or 4 days, with course costs being covered by the STAR (Secondary Tertiary Alignment Reports) funding. STAR courses attended by 24 students this year included Information Technology (Software and Hardware), Animation, Video Production, Sound Production and Hairdressing. We hope to send at least the same number on courses next year. Students should watch out for information about these programmes in the Careers section of the MAGS’ daily notices. We look forward to continuing our contact with students and parents so that planning the future for our students can be as effective as possible.
Academic news
Commerce Market Day a big success The Year 10 Business Market Day went ahead despite the rain on Wednesday, 23 October, and was a huge success. Stalls were set up under the sheltered N Block area, selling sushi, cupcakes, toasted sandwiches, brownie, churros, iced tea and much more. The student groups came up with the product each would sell, sourced what they needed to produce it, and did all their own marketing. Head of the Commerce Department, Ms Sarah Hayes, says the students’ enthusiasm and commitment to the assignment was impressive. “They took full responsibility for their project and gained a huge number of customers on the day. They were really pleased with their success.”
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Goethe Society Examinations MAGS German language students once again did extremely well in the annual Goethe Society Examinations. These were sat by students from schools in the northern part of the North Island. The following MAGS students gained major awards: Year 13 Prizes of Distinction: Cody Liu, Amelia Scharting, Bala Murali Shingade Diploma of Excellence: Oliver Brooks Year 12 Prize of Distinction:
Gina Holden
Diplomas of Excellence: Alexandra Chaptynova, Flynn Letford, David Peart Year 11 Prizes of Distinction: Moira Murphy, Zinzan Zhao, Andrew Battley Diplomas of Excellence: Morgan Wadley, Hamish Jelleyman, Hugo Harvey, Aakash Dalvi, Fiona Southey, Francesca Bond Year 10 First Prize
Emily Cavell, Rosa Henderson
Prizes of Distinction Elliot Paton-Simpson, Kauri May, Hannah Rahman, Maria Markovich, Henry Russell, Mina Abbaspour Mojdehi, Hideaki Murakami, Humaid Memee Diplomas of Excellence Amaya Lodge-Osborn, Isobel Douglas, Ella Campin, Max Lay, Emma Kelleway, Luke Fitzpatrick, Franzi Robinson, Benjamin Dean, Heloisa de Freitas Year 9 Prizes of Distinction
Theresa Boyd, Fraser Eade
Diplomas of Excellence
Isobel Welsford-Ackroyd,
Tom Crutzen, Kaveesha Ranmuthu, Lara Middlebrook, Joshua Bilby, Jimmy Banks
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Outdoor Education At the beginning of Term 4 the Year 13 Outdoor Education class participated in a 43-hour ‘Solo’ experience. This was to further develop their self-awareness, self-esteem, selfconfidence, personal responsibility and personal motivation. It was a test both mentally and emotionally, and hopefully helped each student further consider their own values and provide them with a time to set their own goals. Thank you to Rob Garden for allowing us to use his beautiful property near Kaipara Harbour. The Year 10 Outdoor Education classes spent time on Lake Pupuke extending their kayaking skills beyond what they learned in a pool. After practicing their forward, backward, sideways and turning strokes, they circumnavigated the lake. The year ended with the annual four-day camp on Motutapu Island for Year 10 Outdoor Education students. Here the students put into practice many of the skills they have learned through the year, and experienced some new outdoor pursuits. Activities included sea kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, high ropes, waka ama (outrigger canoeing), orienteering, a confidence course, flying fox, raft building and the survivor challenge. Darren Whitehead Head of Outdoor Education
Academic news
Public Speaking Fred Free Competition Reading aloud in a way that captures attention and elicits emotion in your listeners is a talent and a skill, recognised at Mount Albert Grammar in the form of the annual Fred Free Reading Aloud Competition. This year’s winner is Bella Ieremia, who read the poem Phenomenal Woman by Maya Angelou for her presentation.
Please visit the MAGS Outdoor Education YouTube channel to see videos of the various trips that have occurred this year: http://www.youtube.com/user/MAGSOutdoorEducation Outdoor Education thanks Auckland Canoe & Kayak for its ongoing support. Visit them at 502 Sandringham Road, Sandringham for quality advice, equipment, courses and trips. For high performance outdoor clothing and equipment made for the toughest conditions, visit a Macpac store near you and sign up to their Wilderness Club for free. Mention your connection to MAGS and receive 20% off the full retail price of all Macpac products in all stores. 10% of your purchase will return to the MAGS Outdoor Education department to be used to purchase clothing and equipment for students to use.
Fred Free winner, Bella Ieremia
The award dates back to 1924, and is named after a Year 10 boy who died tragically in a climbing accident. Fred Free was a talented young sportsman, and was also noted for his elocution, as reading aloud was called then. After his death his parents asked the school to honour his memory with this award, which has been run among Year 10 students ever since. Runner up this year was Celia Hext, who read the poem Don’t Quit (anonymous).
Year 10 Speech winner, Eva Ashmore
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At the same event the Year 10 Speech Finals were held. Students had spent time writing a persuasive speech on a subject of their choice, and practicing its oral presentation. The winner was Eva Ashmore for her speech about Romantic Films. Second place went to Alex Thompson for First Impressions, and third to David Ngauamo Jardine for a speech about Poverty.
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Creative Writing Apples
Roses
The sun was setting over the great dome that rose before her, making it glow with an orange light. It cast its shadow like a cloak over the ground around her, smothering out the light. The sound of the air ventilation units had replaced the sound of bird song many years ago and it became more prevalent with the gathering darkness. They said the air was fresh and cool in the great city. They said that no one ever went hungry. They called it paradise.
If you want to see her, wait for summer. Pick an evening when drowsy sunbeams fall gracefully against an old farmhouse. Consider the haystack of spun gold. And the ripples of rosy water which reflect the evening sky. Listen for the peals of church bells, rings of laughter, which fade away like bruises on youthful knees.
By Morag Ross, Year 13
The girl sighed and turned away, her daydreams fading with the setting sun. As she walked away she disturbed the parched red soil, causing puffs of dust to rise from the ground around her feet. Even the acidic rain that stung when it hit her skin was better than the drought that they were struggling through. Porcupine grass was the only thing that could grow at times like this and its barely edible roots were the only things staving off starvation. She knelt next to a clump and pulled it out of the ground, shaking off the clumps of earth that clung to the tuber like roots. As she stood, she could still feel the imprint of the cracked ground on her knees, another painful reminder of the life taking drought. She felt her stomach hard up against her back and wondered if there was ever a time when she had not felt hungry. Her brothers got most of the food; they needed all the energy they could get to survive the mines. She knew, as a girl, she was a disappointment. If she were a boy she could work alongside her brothers, contributing more to her family’s income of food credits. If she were pretty she might be taken into the city and work for a family. As it was, all she could do was roam the red waste, scavenging for what little food there was out there. It had been a lot harder since her father had died. Even before he was conscripted, it was a lot easier with the extra credits he brought in from the mine. After he had to leave it became even easier, the Army would send his pay to them and there was one less mouth to feed, even though it still wasn’t enough. She could never forget that day. He had come running up to her and pressed something round and hard into her hands then, with a sad smile, he left. When she looked down she was in awe of the redness. Its brightness was such a stark contrast to the dull red of the soil. She hid it until she could get away and then savoured every mouthful, careful not to let any juice run away down her chin and arms. What she wouldn’t do for a taste of that sweet, pale flesh just one more time. The orchard wasn’t hard to find, it was the most well kept structure outside of the dome. The girl ran through the trees, alarms blaring and bright lights sweeping the ground, searching. She smiled as she fingered the lump in her pocket. She didn’t make it home that night, the porcupine grass lay where she picked it, forgotten. As the pale light of dawn slowly crept over the land, she stood facing the dome. She felt the coarseness of the rope around her neck tighten as she licked the last of the juice off her chin. 12
By Eilish Buckley, Year 12
In the distance, the hills are alight. She is like that. If you want to see her, go to a river Hear the constant hum of rushing water. Watch the fish circling. But don’t come too close, or they will dart away, just out of reach. A shadow slipping through clasped fingers. Peeking out from a veil of water. She is like that. If you want to see her, visit a city. Find a calm spot under a tree. Look for the good in people hidden behind masks of anxiety and of maturity. Wait for the split seconds of pleasure. A pure butterfly flitting across their features. A beam of sunlight touching on their souls. It should be brief. She is like that. If you want to see her, watch the stars. Let your eyes adjust, So that you can see with beautiful clarity. Stare until their twinkling makes your eyes water. But don’t look away. Wait until the sky turns purple, then pink, then orange. Do not mourn the loss of the fading stars. They will return tonight. The morning is glorious. She is like that.
Creative writing and Visual Arts
Artistic talent on display Students in Years 11-13 spent the early weeks of Term 4 completing their boards for submission to NCEA examiners. Here we display a selection of the best, chosen by MAGS’ Head of Visual Art, Ms Daniella Aleh.
Design for Print - James Rutledge
Paint - Alexandra Spencer
Design for Print - Isaac Ah Khoi
Design - Quint’n Reev’s Ah Ken
Paint - Lavinia Lousi
Photography - Chloe Childs
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Creative writing
Photography award for MAGS student Year 12 Photography student Taylor Marston was judged joint winner of the Peter and Sylvia Siddell Memorial Award in this year’s Eden Arts Young Artists Awards. Taylor’s photograph, titled Expectations, explores the relationship between expectations and reality. “I used reflections and a cracked gradient on one half of the photo to show that sometimes things are not always as they appear,” said Taylor. “Reality is sometimes hidden, darker and unexpected.”
Photography - Emma Pearce
Taylor won $500 as joint winner of the $1000 prize. He is a student of Ms Vanita Curin, and this is the first year he has taken Photography as a subject. He also studies Design. The Young Artists Awards are open to artists aged 16-25 who live in or attend school in the wider Mt Eden area. Judged this year by well known artist Jeff Thomson, the awards aim to provide a platform for young artists to exhibit their work, place it in a professional gallery environment and to encourage experimentation and creativity. The Peter and Sylvia Siddell Memorial Award honours the late Sir Peter and Lady Sylvia Siddell, who were both Mt Eden residents and loyal supporters of the Eden Arts Trust.
Design - Matthew James
Design - Jade Robertson
Photography - Leanne Ho
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Taylor Marston’s winning photograph, “Expectations”
Creative writing and Visual Arts
Dance
Drama
MAGS students star in Tempo festival
The Year 9 Drama Academy begins its second year in 2014 with more than 40 applications from boys and girls. The first year of the Drama Academy has been successful with students performing Shakespeare, devised scenes, improvisation and scripted work, with opportunities to perform at the Junior Bytes evening and the Sheilah Winn Shakespeare National Competition.
Albertian Andrew Cesan was the poster boy for the Tempo Dance Festival in which he and a number of MAGS current and past students performed. Andrew, 22, is the son of MAGS’ Head of Dance, Jacqui Cesan and has a career as a professional dancer. He performed in Ychromozone, an all-male showcase of dance, at Q Theatre. Ychromozone also featured Identity, which includes Andrew’s brother Josh, fellow Albertian Cameron Cranston and MAGS Arts Assistant Nathan Kara. Identity this year won the silver medal at the world hip-hop championships in America. Ms Cesan produced another of the festival’s shows called Out of the Box, described as “Hip Hop with attitude.” It was also staged at Q Theatre. Nathan Kara and Year 12 student Riley Bourne were choreographers and dancers in the show, which also featured Year 10 students Jackson Tuarae and Gabriel Sutton and Year 13 student Michael James as dancers, and Albertian Paul Wilson as a choreographer.
Junior students MAGS Year 10 students performed in mask for Year 1 and 2 Balmoral Primary School students. The little ones were mesmerised and thoroughly enjoyed visiting MAGS for fairy tales told in mask. The Year 10’s final unit of work takes them into the world of battery hens as they rehearse scenes from Chook Chook by NZ playwright Fiona Farrell. The script provides opportunities for students to develop drama techniques of body, voice, movement and space in preparation for NCEA Level 1 in 2014. Year 10 students studied well for their end of year examination and gained excellent marks. Year 9 students are busy rehearsing the play The Owl and the Pussycat based on the poem by Edward Lear. This nonsense text provides them with opportunities to use their imaginations to bring a fantastical world to life on stage.
The show Secondary Colours included a piece choreographed by Year 13 student Eikura William. Among her dancers were fellow MAGS students Brosnan Ackerman, Michael James, Riley Bourne and Brooke Moody.
Senior Students
MAGS dancer runner-up, NZ competition
Scholarship students sat their examination on 8 November performing three scenes to camera. Scholarship Drama is demanding; students perform within a 4x4 metre box and are timed with a stopwatch to the second. Once the camera begins to roll it does not stop until they have completed the three scenes, with introductions and justifications for each.
Year 11 student Lisa McLaughlan came second out of 60 entrants in the Modern Dance category at the PACANZ National Young Performer Awards (NYPA) in Invercargill on October 12-13. Lisa was one of only two contestants who danced their own choreography, the 21-year-old winner was the other. At 15 she was also one of the youngest in the competition, which is open to 15-21 year olds. “This is an incredible feat for a very talented young dancer,” says MAGS Head of Dance, Ms Jacqui Cesan. “Lisa has a bright future ahead of her.” The PACANZ (Performing Arts Competitions Association NZ) is one of the most prestigious national dance competitions, Lisa McLaughlan and features the best talent from around the country every two years. Contestants have to gain nomination at major local competitions, making it an honour to even take the stage in the final. For placing second, Lisa won a $3000 tuition grant. Her proud father John says she is looking to putting the prize towards attending a dance school in the US or Europe during next year’s school holidays.
Senior Students completed all internal achievement standards and sat two NCEA external examinations.
Two Year 13 students have applied to Drama schools to train as professional actors, one to Unitec in Auckland and the other to Monash University in Melbourne.
School Production 2014 A Midsummer Night’s Dream More than 50 students from all years have auditioned for the cast of A Midsummer Night’s Dream bringing their talents as composers, singers, dancers, cultural performers and actors to the production team. With such a committed team the outcome will be exciting.
MAGS Theatre Lab MAGS Theatre Lab was initiated in term four with 25 students joining. The Theatre Lab will offer intensive vocal and physical actor training to committed students as well as opportunities to perform in plays as an extra-curricular activity.
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Music Year 13 student Sane-Va Ginnen competed in the prestigious Ronisch Piano Competition at the Raye Freeman Arts Centre from 19-21 October. Only 15 students were accepted from nominations by high schools across Auckland. Each competitor played a 20 minute set of classical pieces, with six chosen to go through to the final. Although Sane-Va did not progress to the final, Head of Music Ms Milica Zjajic-Moon says he performed well and was a credit to MAGS. Sane-Va has been learning piano since he was 6, and practiced two hours a day in preparation for the competition. He played pieces by Bach, Mozart, Chopin and Debussy. “Sane-Va is not only an accomplished player, but also a really good composer in the Baroque style,” says Ms Moon. Sane-Va plans to start an engineering degree at Auckland University next year, but would like to study music as well eventually.
Sane-Va Ginnen
Year 10 Drama, “Chook Chook”
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Performing Arts
Year 10 Drama for Balmoral School
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International news This term we have 117 International Students, from China, Mongolia, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, India, Malaysia, Russia, New Caledonia, Iran, Chile and Switzerland. We have 17 boys living in School House. In Term 4 we welcomed five new students, from China, Japan and Thailand. Headmaster’s visit to our Chinese Sister-School In November MAGS Headmaster Mr Dale Burden flew to China to visit our Chinese sister-school, the Yinzhou Experimental Middle School. Arriving in Shanghai, he met MAGS International Director Mr Evan Gray who had been marketing MAGS in Japan, and together they visited the Shanghai World Financial Centre (the tallest building in Asia), and a famous Taoist temple (Cheng Huang Miao), before driving to Ningbo, a bustling coastal city south of Shanghai. Mr Burden and Mr Gray visited an agent office in the morning before spending the afternoon at the school meeting the Headmaster Mr Youzhi Li (pictured) and touring the interesting campus. Gifts were exchanged and in the evening a superb meal at a local hotel was enjoyed with Mr Li and his senior staff, with many toasts made. Mr Burden and Mr Gray discussed further co-operation between MAGS and our sister school before travelling back to Shanghai in the world’s fastest train (305km per hour), and flying home. It was a whirlwind trip but very enjoyable and important for the continuing relationship between our schools.
Prizegiving
Nayuta Hori, Mr Ian Cole, Lan Huong and Xin Yuan (Iris) Li 18
The Evan Gray Cup for the Best All-Round International Boy: Nayuta Hori Nayuta joined us in February 2012. He has an excellent record of service to the Nayuta Hori and Xin Yuan (Iris) Li with international student Mr Burden group, particularly the Japanese students and visiting Japanese families. He is an outstanding soccer player and member of the 1st XI. A cheerful and personable young man with a strong sense of loyalty to the school and outstanding leadership qualities, Nayuta was an obvious choice as a prefect this year. He was also co-chair of the international committee, a member of the international choir, an international student leader and a performer at the Food and Culture evening. Nayuta was selected this year by Education New Zealand to star in their video showcasing our country’s education to the world. Nayuta has done very well academically and already gained a place at the University in Japan next year. The Evan Gray Cup for the Best All-Round International Girl: Xin Yuan (Iris) Li Iris joined the school in May 2011. She is a fine academic with a bright personality, and excellent social skills. In 2012 she was a student leader, providing valuable support to other Chinese students. This year, in recognition of her leadership qualities, she was appointed as a prefect and has shown outstanding involvement in helping other students to adapt to the MAGS environment. Iris was also co-chair of the international committee, a member of the Chinese cultural group, an international student mentor and a performer at the Food and Culture evening. She was also selected to star in the Education New Zealand video production. Iris has done very well academically and is on track to enter Auckland University in 2014 where she plans to study Engineering. Other awards The Makan Cup for Commerce was awarded to Lan Huong (Hannah) Lai. Hannah is an outstanding business student, achieving first in Year 13 Accounting and Economics, and winning a certificate in Year 13 Calculus. Senior Prizegiving Awards Year 11
We had 22 students awarded prizes at our end of year prizegiving ceremonies. Among the awards were 13 firsts in subjects, 14 certificates and 3 cups.
Zhiliang Michael Ma -1st Year 11 Chinese. Nguyen Kha Phan Certificate Year 11 English - International Kusapong Pitaksvorrarat - 1st Year 11 Food and Catering Sijie Zhuo 1st Year 12 Calculus - International
International
Mr Cole announced the members of next year’s International Committee. They are Shuliang (William) Cui, Thu Hien (Helen) Nguyen, Seong Jae Khun Park, Anmol Singh, Hirohisa Takasugi, Chirasin (Boom), and Mengyan (Monica) Xia.
Sporting Success
Year 12 Xinyi (Bonnie) Bai - 1st Year 12 Food and Hospitality Pengbiao (Tony) Chen - Certificate in Year 12 English Hathairod (Lily) Dejpiratanamongkol - Certificate in Year 12 Tourism and Travel Quang Toan Le - Certificate in Year 12 Calculus Jiaqi (Jacky) Qin - Certificate in Year 12 ESOL Zhenjian Ruan - Certificate in Year 12 English - International Guanqiao (Jack) Wang - Certificate in Year 12 Calculus Danlei (Serena) Wu - 1st in Year 12 Japanese, 1st in Year 12 statistics, Certificate in Year 13 ESOL. Xinxin (Stella) Wu - Certificate in Year 12 Design and Visual Communication Xi (Sherry) Xiao - Certificate in Year 12 Physics Chen (Catherine) Zhang - 1st in Year 13 Chinese Jia Cheng (John) Zhao - Certificate in Year 12 ESOL Year 13 Seon Hyun (Erin) Jeon - 1st in Year 13 Visual Art, Certificate in Year 13 Japanese Lan Huong (Hannah) Lai - Makan Cup for Commerce, 1st in Year 13 Accounting, 1st in Year 13 Economics, Certificate in Year 13 Calculus Xin Yuan (Iris) Li - 1st in Year 13 Technology - Mixed Materials, Recipient of the Evan Gray Cup for the Best AllRound International Girl Jiehui (James) Liang - 1st in Year 13 Chinese Jingwen (Jessica) Zhao - 1st in Year 13 Chinese, Certificate in Year 13 ESOL Nayuta Hori - Recipient of the Evan Gray Cup for the Best All-Round International Boy
Leavers’ Dinner A wonderful evening was enjoyed by six graduating internationals - Chris Hoang, Hannah Lai, Asish Pamula, Andy Tran, Iris Li and Nayuta Hori. Nayuta had his mother present and Iris had her parents and aunt with her. Other caregivers also attended.
Pizza Lunch
Congratulations to Year 10 student Lucy Lu, who won the Under 21 Women’s Singles and the Under 21 Mixed Doubles titles at the NZ Table Tennis Championships in Christchurch. Lucy was also Runner-up in the Open Women’s Singles. Lucy’s outstanding success was highlighted on the home page of the school web site recently. We congratulate Lucy on her superb results, particularly as she is only 14 years old.
Prefects for 2014 At Senior Prizegiving two international students were announced by the Headmaster as prefects for 2014: We congratulate Chae Yun (Christine) Park and Yuchen (Aaron) Wang on their appointment. Christine (pictured) started with us this year, having returned to New Zealand where she had previously attended primary school on the North Shore. She is a superb girl in every respect who has thrown herself into everything possible - joint compere of the Food & Culture evening, Auckland Schools Speech Contest (honourable mention) and a member of the group of seven senior internationals interviewed by ERO (school inspectors) when they visited last term. Aaron started with us in 2012. He is also an excellent student; kind, thoughtful, highly motivated to succeed, a great supporter of all international students and activities in the school and completely reliable. This year he was an International Student Leader and Mentor and Joint compere of the Food & Culture evening.
Arts Lions In Term 4 Christine Park won an Arts Lion for her outstanding efforts for the Arts. Seong Rok Oh also won an Arts Lion for musical prowess and performances, including the barbershop quartet.
Homestays required
We welcome applications from caring Kiwi families living on travel routes reasonably close to the school to provide short-term or longer-term homestays for our international boys and girls. If you have a spare bedroom and are interested, please contact Ms Andrea Koenen, International Office Administrator, ph 846 2044 extension 8187, email international@mags.school.nz
Students enjoyed a pizza lunch in the hall where Ms Hutchins presented 2013 mentors with certificates to recognise their service to the International community. VOLUME 9.No4
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Service Lions On 25 October Service Lions were presented at a special assembly to students from all years who have gone in the extra mile in helping their fellow students and the wider community. Among the good deeds recognised were running the annual school Art Auction, organising concerts, charity fundraising, leadership of music and cultural groups, taking part in peer support and mediation, and working on committees. The guest speaker was Jonathan Dove, Lead Pastor at the Mt Albert Baptist Church, who spoke about the value of helping others. The recipients of the top service awards received their prizes at the Senior Prizegiving on 4 November: The Girls’ Foundation Cup for Service to the School: Leanne Ho The Isaac Gray Cup for Service to the School: Jamie Hucklesby and Kenaz Vergis Our thanks to Anne Duncan of Anne Duncan Real Estate for her support of the top awards. Anne Duncan of Anne Duncan Real Estate supports MAGS top Service Awards, this year won by Leanne Ho, Kenaz Vergis and Jamie Hucklesby.
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Prizegiving
Pasifika Awards The Pasifika Awards Evening was held on the 30 October and was an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the successes of MAGS Pasifika students. Awards were given for sporting achievement, academic excellence in the senior school and contributions made to our Pasifika Committee and Pasifika initiatives at MAGS. Fa’anana Efeso Collins was an inspiring speaker, telling our students that teachers and parents can only nuture them in their quest for success; eventually they must make decisions for themselves and take responsibility for their independence. Lapi Mariner, a MAGS parent, also spoke to great appreciation. Last but not least, congratulations went to Malcolm Richardson, MAGS Head Boy of 2007, for completing his medical degree, for supporting his school in our Options and Careers evenings, and above all for encouraging our Pasifika students in their quest for excellence.
MAGS Head Boy 2007 and recent medical graduate Malcolm Richardson, with winners of MAGS Pasifika Academic Awards, from left, Luseane Lousi, Demi Meiklejohn, Israel Wong See, Lavinia Lousi and Isaac Ah Kuoi-Atmore.
Malo le taumafai. The key awards presented were: Pasifika Sportsman 2013: Irae Simone Pasifika Sportswoman 2013: Shekynah Clarke MAGS Pasifika Academic Awards First in Year 11: Isaac Ah Kuoi-Atmore, Lavinia Lousi First in Year 12: Israel Wong See First in Year 13: Luseane Lousi, Demi Meiklejohn, Sane Va Ginnen PPC Award for Leadership and Participation: Shekynah Clarke, Mattais Heimuli, Natahlya Va’ai PPC Award for Inspirational Leadership: Mikaela Napa’a University of Auckland Chancellor’s Scholarship Award for Top Pasifika stuent: Luseane Lousi
Guest speaker Fa’anana Efeso Collins
Guest speaker Fa’anana Efeso Collins with top Pasifika student Luseane Lousi, and Leadership Award winners Natahlya Vaai, Mikaela Napa’a and Shekynah Clarke.
Pasifika supporter Lapi Mariner with four of the school’s NZ Black Cap sporting representatives, from left, Henry Tetini, Paul Roache, Caitlin Pritchard, Nathaniel Roache. VOLUME 9.No4
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Senior Prizegiving Oliver Chen and Anika Radojkovich are the Boy Dux and Girl Dux of Mount Albert Grammar School for 2013. Their awards were announced at the Senior Prizegiving on Monday, 4 November, attended by parents, the National MP for Mt Albert Melissa Lee, Dr Hillary Liddell, sister of Albertian and benefactor Mr Chris Liddell, university representatives and members of the Board of Trustees. The Best All Round Boy and Girl in Year 13 were named as Ruth Lever and Daniel Nisbet. The school's top service awards went to Leanne Ho, Jamie Hucklesby and Kenaz Vergis. Our thanks to Anne Duncan of Anne Duncan Real Estate for her support of this award. Top sports students were Destiny Grace, awarded the Victrix Ludorum, and Irae Simone, the Victor Ludorum.
Oliver Chen, Boy Dux and Anika Radojkovich, Girl Dux.
The top arts prize, or Dux Artium, went to Brosnan Ackerman for the girls, and Matthew James for the boys. The top teaching award, the Albertians' Travel Award, went to the Head of the Social Sciences Department Ms Christine Cato. CP Liddell Awards for excellence in teaching were given to Head of Outdoor Education Mr Darren Whitehead, Academic Dean Mr Warwick Gibbs, maths teacher Ms Johanna McHardy and Head of Commerce Ms Sarah Hayes. The Support Staff prize was awarded jointly to teacher aide Jo Priddey and administration assistant Dimity Payne.
Dux Atriums Brosnan Ackerman and Matthew James
Albertians Travel Prize Winner, Mrs Christine Cato
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Ruby Gibbons with the Benevolence Cup
Boys Proxime Accessit, Kuldeep Dalvi
Prizegiving
Liddell Scholarship winners, Amelia Scharting and Kuldeep Dalvi Pasifika All Rounders, Luseane Lousi and Sane-Va Ginnen
Girls Proxime Accessit and top Girls’ Service winner, Leanne Ho
MAGS Spirit winners, Jessica Munro and Don Wu
Liddell Teaching Award winners from left, Johanna McHardy, Warwick Gibbs, Sarah Hayes and Darren Whitehead
Victor and Victrix, Irae Simone and Destiny Grace
Year 12 Effort Award winner Elizabeth Lyon
Te Puna All Rounder Paurehuia MacKay
Year 12 All Rounders Alexandra Chaptynova and Eric Liu
Year 13 All Rounders, Ruth Lever and Daniel Nisbet
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Prefects of 2014 At Senior Prizegiving the following students were named as prefects for 2014, to be led by Head Boy Liam Ferguson and Head Girl Katie Budgen. Oliver Barnett, Aaron Booth, Jed Bradley, Eilish Buckley, Katie Budgen, Luke Butler, Alexandra Chaptynova, Sarah Crowhurst, Ben Dekker, Felix Drissner-Devine, Liam Ferguson, Milly Hawkins, Mattais Heimuli, Gina Holden, Louisa Howse, Ashlee Ridgway-Keehn, Flynn Letford, Eric Liu, Elizabeth Lyon, Alice Mallon, Harshil Magan, Emily Mills, Eric Munro, Rohith Nagulan, Marshall Norbitt, Chae Yun ( Christine) Park, Michael Parry, Emma Pearce, Charlotte Pritchard, Farhan Rahman, Phoebe Ross, Liam Rudd, Kathryn Sherlock, Alexshana Sivarajah, Yuchen ( Aaron) Wang, Irene Wu.
2014 Head Boy Liam Ferguson and Head Girl Katie Budgen.
Year 11 Prizegiving For the first time a dedicated prizegiving was held for Year 11 students on Friday, 1 November. Parents were invited to see students receive their awards from Headmaster Mr Dale Burden and the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Mr Greg Moyle. The Special Prize recipients were as follows: The Jo Williams Cup for Diligence: Caitlyn Jelleyman Robert Wilmott Cup for Quality of Effort: Mana Carr The Brian Murphy Cup for Best All Round Girl: Grace Drummond The Warwick Gibbs Cup for Best All Round Boy: Frankie Patten-Elliott Caitlyn Jelleyman
Grace Drummond
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Mana Carr
Frankie Patten-Elliott
Prizegiving
Arts Dinner The annual Arts Dinner was held at Sorrento in the Park in One Tree Hill Domain on 29 October. Students, their families and Arts faculty teachers arrived to a performance by the MAGS Jazz quartet. Arts prefects Olivia Cochrane and Daniel Nisbet, whose first duty was to introduce Headmaster Mr Dale Burden to formally open the event, superbly hosted the evening. During his opening remarks Mr Burden emphasised the importance of arts education and involvement in the arts for MAGS students and quoted business and education leaders, all of whom amplified the need to embrace skills attained through artistic endeavour. Mr Burden’s opening address was followed by the various HODs presenting their department awards, interspersed by stellar performances from The Lionesses - the Girls Barbershop quartet and winners of the Treseder-Hallet cup for Choral Excellence - Rita Feng (awarded Best Actress 2013) and finally a music video called “Paradise” that was devised, filmed and edited by year 12 student Christopher Empiso, who was also named most promising filmmaker during the media presentations.
Arts Co-ordinator Jacqui Cesan with Brosnan Ackerman, Matthew James, Daniel Nisbet and Olivia Cochrane.
Throughout the evening the audience were able to watch slide shows of photos of our many talented students and their work. The evening was a great showcase of the talent we have at MAGS and with many students returning for 2014 we are well set up for another fantastic year in the arts.
Boys’ Dux Artium – Matthew James Matthew is a student achieving at Excellence level in painting, design, media studies and dance. He is an arts prefect, visual arts leader, has been involved in running performing arts events, and is a member of the MAGS Mega School Dance team. Girls’ Dux Artium – Brosnan Ackerman Brosnan is an outstanding student of design, photography, media studies and dance. She is also an arts prefect, performed in the Arts Alive and Never Ending Stories productions, and was a leader of the MAGS Mega School Hip Hop team. She has had key involvement in all arts events during the year.
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Sports Dinner Irae Simone and Destiny Grace were awarded MAGS top sports prizes at the Sports Dinner on Tuesday, 22 October. Victor Ludorum Irae Simone attained his award for achievements in athletics, rugby, rugby league, rugby sevens and volleyball. Victrix Ludorum Destiny Grace was awarded for her success in athletics, touch rugby and netball. The Team of the Year was the Premier Netball team, who defended their National title at the end of an unbeaten season in which they won every major competition. A moving haka was performed for them by some of their male relatives. The award for Outstanding Achievement in Girls’ Sport was shared by New Zealand representative lacrosse players Amelia Scharting and Briar Tippett.
Holly Fowler and Chiara Semple kiss the Headmaster’s Cup after their Premier Netball team won Team of the Year.
Outstanding Achievement in Boys’ Sport went to First XI footballer Monty Patterson, who was selected for the New Zealand A team to play Jordan at North Harbour Stadium, and for the NZ Under 17 World Cup team which competed in the United Arab Emirates. The formal dinner, held at Alexandra Park Raceway, included an appearance by All Black and Albertian Steven Luatua. He presented 45 Black Caps to students who had represented New Zealand in their chosen sport. Earlier, 143 Blue Caps were handed out to students who had gained selection for regional teams. In his keynote speech, MAGS Director of Rugby Geoff Moon challenged students to consider their time competing for MAGS as just the start of their sporting career.
Monty Patterson
Briar Tippett and Amelia Scharting
“You can develop the skills that will get you selected for representative teams, but it’s mental toughness that will get you all the way,” said Mr Moon, citing Steven Luatua’s selection for the All Blacks as an example. Mr Moon also talked about other players he had taught and coached at other schools during his long career, including boxer David Tua, and All Blacks Isaia Toeava and Keven Mealamu. Mr Moon said the pleasure of coaching was helping teenagers to love their training, love their sport, “and then stand back and watch them fly.” In the end, success was up to the individual. “You need to pack your own parachute - take responsibility for yourself, and discipline yourself to always behave like a champion.”
Black Caps were awarded to athletes selected for National teams.
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Albertian and All Black Steven Luatua with Director of Rugby and keynote speaker Geoff Moon, Victrix Ludorum Destiny Grace, Victor Ludorum Irae Simone and Dale Burden.
Team of the Year - Premier Netball
Sport
Leavers’ Dinner The advantages of an all-round secondary school experience were impressed upon Year 13 students by Albertian Caleb Hamilton at the annual Leavers’ Dinner on 4 November. Mr Hamilton is working on a PhD in Egyptology at Monash University in Melbourne, and spends as much time as possible at archeological sites in Egypt. He attended the Leavers’ function at the Ellerslie Event Centre to speak to students about the strong academic foundation Mount Albert Grammar had given him for his ongoing studies. He also referred to the benefits of the school’s emphasis on attaining an all-round education through involvement in sport and other pursuits. He got involved in rugby and now, when he’s not travelling for study, visits a variety of countries to work as a rugby referee. He urged the students to continue to enjoy the balanced lifestyle that MAGS encourages. The dinner was attended by 400 people, including staff, parents, Albertians and members of the Board of Trustees. Students were presented with their leavers’ certificates and enjoyed their last formal occasion together before dispersing for final exams, and on to life beyond the school.
Guest Speaker Mr Caleb Hamilton
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Sports Report
Cricket For the first time in 35 years MAGS First XI cricket team secured the Auckland Two Day Championship. This trophy will be added to the One Day Championship and the Knock Out Cup won earlier in the year.
Term four is traditionally the term where junior sport takes the limelight and this year is no exception. Along with the junior sport focus we have six premier teams training towards the pinnacle of their season when they contest the following events: Premier Boys’ and Girls’ Sevens Rugby teams - NZSS Condor Sevens Tournament, Kelston Boys’ HS, 30 Nov – 1 December Premier Girls’ and Mixed Touch teams - NZSS Touch Championships, Papakura, 6 - 8 December Premier Athletics and Road Race teams - NZSS Athletics & Road Race Championships, Hamilton, 7 - 8 December 1st XI Boys’ Cricket team - NZSS Gillette Cup Cricket Championships, Lincoln, 9-13 December Baseball: The boys have made a good start to the season. Cricket: The year 9s won their game against Liston College in the NZCT Junior Knockout Cup and qualified for the NZCT Junior Cricket Regional competition. Softball Boys and Girls: Have started their season strongly and have won all their games to date. Touch Jnr Boys and Girls: The Junior A boys and girls are top of the Central Boys A and Central Girls A Grades and the Junior B boys are in 2nd place in the B grade. The Junior A boys and girls teams remain unbeaten and have qualified for the AKSS Junior Championships and the Central Girls A Grade. Volleyball Girls: Junior A girls finished in 2nd place in the Central Girls Division 1 just missing out in the top spot against Auckland Girls’ Grammar School – they are competing in the AKSS Junior Champs in mid November. The Junior B girls finished in the middle of their grade and had a solid season. Volleyball Boys: The boys had a mixed season and are competing at the AKSS Junior Champs in mid November. Water Polo Jnr Boys: The Junior A Boys are currently in 2nd place after beating top of the table Auckland Grammar School, which was a fantastic result. The Junior B team are in 4th place. The Junior A Boys team is going to the NISS Championships in late November. Water Polo Jnr Girls: Are currently at the top of their grade.
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The Two Day Championship ended on a points victory for MAGS after a tense play-off in two matches on 23 November, one of which went down to the last ball. Year 13 batsman Amit Dhadwal finished his stellar career with MAGS with a score a 114 not out. Year 9 student Katene Clarke appeared on TV One Sport news after scoring 219 runs in a one-day game against Liston College. Katene’s incredible innings took place at MAGS on 11 November. The 14-year-old’s performance, which included 22 fours and 6 sixes, helped MAGS to a final score of 348/6 in the 40-over match. Liston College was all out for 92; two of their wickets fell to Katene’s bowling. Katene has been playing cricket for about 10 years and is in MAGS’ Second XI. His previous personal best was 106, and he has since scored another century against Kristin School’s First XI.
National Tournaments Netball The NZSS Netball tournament was held at AMI Auckland Netball Center from 8-11 October, with the top 16 teams in the country taking part. An injury late in the season to senior player Shekynah Clarke meant the team needed to step up to accommodate her absence. The girls were focused from the moment they went into camp and this was a constant theme throughout the week. From the first whistle the Premier team dominated any opposition they met on their way to the final, winning games by up to 60 goals. It was great to see all the hours of conditioning and training pay off as they were able to apply and sustain strategies practiced both on attack and defence.
Sport
Captain Jamie-Lee Price led her team from the front, playing exceptionally well. She and vice- Captain Holly Fowler denied teams opportunities to score. The length of passing and transitional play was a feature of their game. The tournament was an amazing opportunity to showcase the depth of talent at MAGS as all 12 players played nearly every game. Year 10 students Elle Temu and France Bloomfield showed a lot of promise and are exciting players for future seasons. Scores: MAGS vs. Christchurch Girls 70-10, vs. Auckland Girls 51-17, vs. New Plymouth Girls 35-14, vs. John Paul College 55-20, vs. Baradene College 41-33, vs. Westlake Girls 43-19. After 6 convincing victories, the team went into the NZSS final vs. Wellington’s St Marys’ College. Both teams started strongly, forcing errors from both sides. With only 2 shots separating the two finalists, MAGS stepped up their intensity and pushed ahead to lead by 14 at half time. The third and fourth quarters followed a similar pattern as the second with MAGS continuing their outstanding defensive pressure, quick transitions from defense to attack and pinpoint accuracy in the shooting circle. St Mary’s did well to stay in touch in the second half but struggled to narrow the gap. The MAGS team achieved their season’s goal and successfully defended their New Zealand Secondary Schools Netball Championships title with a comprehensive 41-23 win. It was an incredible way to end the season and the tenure of the Year 13 students - captain Jamie-Lee Price, Meretini Fuimaono, Ashi Ponini, Destiny Grace, Shekynah Clarke and Oceane Maihi. The leadership and passion shown by these players throughout their time at MAGS and in this team has played a huge part in the team’s success. Congratulations also to Jamie-Lee Price, Holly Fowler, Meretini Fuimaono, Chiara Semple and Maia Wilson for their selection in the NZSS tournament team. Bring on 2014, when we hope to be the first school in history to win three national titles back to back.
Girls’ Basketball The Premier Girls’ Basketball team travelled to Palmerston North in the first week of the October school holidays. They made an excellent start to the tournament winning their first three pool games against Napier Girls’ HS (60-54), Fraser HS (69-67) and Rangi Ruru School for Girls’ (71-63). However, they lost the final two games in the pool against Wellington Girls’ College (46-60) and New Plymouth Girls’ HS (45-53), which resulted in missing out on a quarterfinal spot. Scores from the final games at the v Tauranga Girls’ College v St Peter’s School, Cambridge v Hastings Girls’ High School The team finished in 11th place.
tournament were: won 67-37 lost 43-50 won 53-45
Thanks to JK Poto and Hori Poto for coaching and managing the team.
Underwater Hockey This is the first time we had four teams involved in the National Tournament. All teams performed with skill and effort. The Premier Boys finished fifth and didn’t play as well as expected. Many of the games the boys played were hindered by inconsistent refereeing, which was frustrating. The Premier Girls finished seventh and had some close round robin games and only missed making the semi finals on a goal count. The Junior Boys finished a commendable third in New Zealand. Jamie Rutledge and Angus Scahill were named in the Junior Tournament team. The Junior Girls finished a well deserved fourth and only lost their semi final against Wellington 2-1. Olivia Houston was named in the Junior Girls’ Tournament team. Our Premier Boys’ and Girls’ Coaches Logan and Danyon Kemp were nominated for NZ Coach of the Year. Our Junior Boys’ Coach Liam Robertson won NZ Novice Coach of the Year with Hannah McKee-Body Runner Up for that title. Without the dedication of these young coaches (three are Albertians), we would not have enjoyed such a
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successful season and enjoyed being the top Underwater Hockey School in Auckland by a clear nine points.
secondary schools national title, seven will continue at school next year and six of them are among the Development Camp group. Attending camp will be players and umpires from across New Zealand as Netball NZ looks to provide a “best on best” environment with its Performance coaches, High Performance Sport NZ and Netball NZ staff working alongside, guiding and supporting the athletes’ development through the week.
Football
Congratulations Netball Premier netball team members Jamie-Lee Price and Meretini Fuimaono have been selected for the Netball New Zealand Under 21 Development Squad.
At the recent U19 Football National Youth Tournament held in Napier the following Albertians and current players represented their respective football club teams: Three King’s United (which won the tournament 7-6 on penalties): Dylan Bracey, Josh Moody and Kieran Woods Bay Olympic: Jonathan Cantle, Bradley Sauvarin and Leonard Phillips East Coast Bays: Edward Fazekas
Meretini Fuimaono
The Year 13 students are among 11 elite players selected, only five of whom are still at secondary school. MAGS’ Premier netball co-coach Ms TeAroha Keenan says their selection Jamie-Lee Price is an amazing achievement for such young players, and a credit also to Mount Albert Grammar’s netball programme. Netball New Zealand has also invited six MAGS players to attend its 2013 National Development Camp being held from 13-17 December at St Peter’s School in Cambridge. They are Year 12 student Chiara Semple, Year 11 students Holly Fowler, Maia Wilson and Alanis Toia, and Year 10 students France Bloomfield and Elle Temu. Ms Keenan says this is the biggest number of students invited from one school. Of the 13 girls who won this year’s
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The MAGS Boys’ Football Academy continues to produce players who make a contribution to the sport at both representative national age-group and All White level. Recently five Albertians were selected in the New Zealand squad to take on the might of Mexico in the first leg of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifier, played in Mexico. They were Jeremy Christie, Rory Fallon, Chris James, Tony Lochhead and Storm Roux.
Eastern Suburbs: Cameron Hogg, Joe Nottage, Josh Harris, Fox Slotemaker, Jonathan Quinn, Cameron Emerson, Liam Jordan, Scott Doney, Connor Stoton, Joseph Dan-Tyrell and Dean Styles Metro: Sean Lawrence, James Phillips, Michael Parry and Jesse Stuart Western Springs: Ian and Scott Stellar and Nick Upton Western Suburbs: Robbie Baxter FC Whangarei: Harry Streamer
National Sporting Honours Three names have recently been added to the National Sporting Honours board. They are: Ianeta Hutchinson (2007-2009)
Water Polo
Amelia Scharting (2009-2013)
Lacrosse
Briar Tippett (2009-2013)
Lacrosse
Other notable achievements Breanha Ward was selected to play in the Tamaki Wahine Hockey team who participated in the 2013 Maori National Hockey tournament held in Whanganui over Labour weekend. Her team won the tournament, beating Waiariki 3-2.
Sport
Black Caps The following 44 students were presented with a Black Cap at the 2013 Sports Dinner by Albertian and All Black, Steven Luatua (2005-2009). The presentation of a Black Cap recognises their selection and participation in a New Zealand representative team during the last 12 months. Jordan Dashfield Logan Crook Shannon Filimoehala Tariel Lamb Leah Mettam Jessica Nicholson Maia Wilson David Hutchinson Aaron Booth Callum Elson Sophie Cooper Kate Nicholson Amelia Scharting Briar Tippett Katie Budgen Don Wu Thomas Holmes Fraser Roberts Felix Kibblewhite Cameron Sinclair Cameron Hogg Oliver Sail Monty Patterson Jade Parris Bella Kingi Deven Jackson Amelia Hawkins Jamie-Lee Price Holly Fowler Chiara Semple Joshua Goodhue Nathaniel Roache Reuben Porter Destiny Grace Sade Rihari Jacqueline Hand Victoria Pone Caitlin Pritchard Paul Roache Henry Tetini Lexi Kiriwi Thomas Willoughby Oscar Harre Matthew Downes
NZ 16 & Under Indoor Cricket 2012 NZ Karate 2012 NZSS Under 16 TAG 2012 NZ 16 & Under Indoor Cricket 2012 NZSS Under 16 TAG 2012 NZSS Under 16 TAG 2012 NZ Under 17 Basketball & NZSS Netball NZ Under 17 & Under 18 Baseball NZ Under 18 Athletics NZ Under 18 Baseball NZ Gymnastics NZ Junior Women’s Trampolining NZ Women’s Lacrosse NZ Women’s Lacrosse NZ Under 18 Women’s Lacrosse NZ Under 18 Men’s Lacrosse NZ Under 18 Men’s Lacrosse NZ Under 18 Men’s Lacrosse NZ Under 18 Men’s Lacrosse NZSS Boys’ Football NZSS Boys’ Football NZ Under 17 Boys’ Football NZ Under 17 Boys’ Football NZ Under 17 Girls’ Football NZ Under 17 Girls’ Football NZ Under 17 Girls’ Football NZ Under 17 Girls’ Football NZSS Netball NZSS Netball NZSS Netball NZSS Rugby NZ Resident 18s Rugby League NZ Under 17 Rugby League NZ Under 19 Girls’ Touch NZ Under 17 Girls’ Touch NZ Under 15 Girls’ Touch NZ Under 15 Girls’ Touch NZ Under 15 Girls’ Touch NZ Under 15 Boys’ Touch NZ Under 15 Boys’ Touch NZ Senior Mixed TAG NZ Under 17 Men’s TAG NZ Under 15 Boys’ Water Polo NZ Wrestling
ASB Young Sportsperson of the Year Finalists Congratulations to Destiny Grace (Touch), Jamie-Lee Price (Netball) and Amelia Scharting (Lacrosse) who were all named the top girls in their respective sports in Auckland at the ASB College Sport Young Sportsperson of the Year awards on November 28. MAGS’ other finalists were: Cricket - Boys
Aditya Dhadwal and Amit Dhadwal
Football - Boys
Monty Patterson
Football - Girls
Jade Parris
Lacrosse - Girls
Briar Tippett
Netball
Holly Fowler
Rugby League
Nathaniel Roache
Softball
Callum Elson and David Hutchinson
All Rounder
Destiny Grace
Himalayan Trophy Winners The Seventh Grade rugby team, commonly known as the Seventh Grade Soldiers, are this year’s recipients of The Himalayan Trophy. The trophy is awarded to the team that shows Best Spirit in Practice and Games. The rugby ball with which the trophy is made was played with by Sir Edmund Hillary at 20,000 feet during his expedition to the summit of Mt Everest in 1953. It was later gifted to the school by an Albertian who had acquired it from Sir Edmund.
The Seventh Grade rugby team with the Himalayan Trophy. Back row from left: Oliver Holst, Solomon Dowd, Jake Strang, Mare Kisiogo, Alec Shackleton, Blake Wardrope. Middle row: Cameron Sutton, Kahukura Royal, Nikau Illingworth, Zavea Kamuhemu, Zach Helm, Carlton Lees-Thomas (Coach). Front row: Bradley White, Logan Barnett, Sharn Ashford (captain), Kanoa Santos (holding trophy), Aengus Bradley, Karl Pearn.
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Sport
Sports Round up Canoe Polo Canoe Polo teams top in Auckland MAGS’ Senior and Junior Canoe Polo teams both won their Auckland Secondary School Championships, both defeating Long Bay College in their finals. The Junior team won 6-3 and the Seniors won 4-2 in finals played at Northcote College in October. This is the fourth year in a row MAGS has won the Senior competition; it is the first time a Junior league has been run. Canoe polo is a mixed-team sport, with five players on the water at any one time. Our Junior team of seven is made up of four girls and three boys, and the Senior team of eight has one girl member. The Senior team also plays for the Auckland Canoe Polo Club, and this year won the New Zealand C Grade Championship.
Cheerleading Cheer N Dance Rave International The Mt Albert Grammar School Cheerleading team came away from their final competition of the year with a bronze medal. At the North Shore Events Centre on 3 November they competed in the School Division Level 1-2 small against Orewa College, Marist College, St Mary’s College and Howick College. The girls fought hard and hit the stage determined to be in the running for a medal, and they did just that, coming in at third place. It was lovely to see the girls finish the season on a high, looking strong and ready to take on 2014. Thank you to our All Star Cheerleaders coach Michelle Williams for all the hard work she puts into the team and thank you to all the parents for their enthusiasm and support.
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Rowing A first place, a clutch of seconds and thirds and a slice of history made for a fantastic start to the season for Mount Albert Grammar’s Rowing squad on Saturday, 26 October, in the Waitemata-TGS Regatta on Lake Pupuke. Year 11 rowers Marnina Hyland and Victoria Peri came first in their U17 Double race after leading for most of the race. Over the rest of the day we also enjoyed four second placings and five thirds. Among them was the Senior Eight’s close second to Auckland Grammar in a thrilling race that gave a glimpse of their potential as we build toward the Maadi Cup national final in March. This was the first time MAGS had boated a Senior Eight since 1986. Another step in history was the boating of our first ever Novice Girls’ Eight. The boat of Year 9 girls came a close fourth in their first U15 race, showing a good foundation on which to build. Our Novice Boys’ Eight came third in their first U15 race, an impressive effort. Other placings came from U17 single sculler Charlotte Pearce (second), U18 single sculler Dallas Marshall (second), the U18 A Boys Four (second), while the girls claimed the other four third placings - U16 Girls Doubles Maria Markovich/Abigail Marshall and Kate Wislang/Victoria Peri, Marnina in the U17 single, and Maria and Kate in the Under 17 Double.
Sport
Rugby First XV tour of Cook Islands The First XV finished their season with a week-long tour of the Cook Islands during the October holidays.
Table Tennis gold and silver at national championships Congratulations to Year 10 student Lucy Lu, who won the Under 21 Women’s Singles and the Under 21 Mixed Doubles titles at the NZ Table Tennis Championships in Christchurch. Lucy’s Mixed Doubles partner was Roger Wang, who attends another school. Lucy was also Runner-up in the Open Women’s Singles. Lucy has been playing table tennis for five years, and trains for two hours three times a week. MAGS congratulates Lucy on her outstanding results, particularly as she is only 14 years old.
They won all three games they played - 63-0, 28-0 and 27-5 - but coach Geoff Moon says the trip was less about scorelines than sharing cultural, school and sporting ties. Three players in the team have Cook Islands family lineage - O’Neal Rongo, Ethan Thompson and Michael Kelly. The team were treated like celebrities, with media reports on their arrival and their games, and 500-stong crowds gathering to watch them play. Of particular significance was the inaugural match for the William Kati Heather Memorial Trophy, created by the Cook Islands Rugby Union to honour the sportsman and chief, and to strengthen ties with MAGS on the rugby field and in education. Mr Heather’s great grandson, O’Neal Rongo, is in the MAGS First XV, and his grandson Benjamin Heather is in the Cook Islands’ Resident Under-19 team which played MAGS for the trophy. MAGS won 27-5. A group of MAGS old boys on the island hosted the team at the RSA one evening. Mr Moon said the team fundraised all year to pay for their trip, and were also able to enjoy snorkeling, fishing and other tourist activities.
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THE NEWSLETTER OF THE MOUNT ALBERT GRAMMAR SCHOOL ALBERTIANS ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED
No 6 December 2013
Congratulations John Massy Stacpoole inducted into Hall of Distinction John Massy Stacpoole was inducted into the Mount Albert Grammar School Hall of Distinction on 14 October. Mr Stacpoole, a noted heritage architect, historian, author and philanthropist, was made made an OBE (Officer of the British Empire) for his work in the conservation of historic buildings. The Hall of Distinction honours Albertians for their community achievements. Members include artist Sir Peter Siddell, gold medal runner Sir Peter Snell and judge Mick Brown. Mr Stacpoole, pictured with Board of Trustees Chairman Mr Greg Moyle, attended MAGS from 1932-1935, excelling academically and representing the school in middle-distance running and in the Hockey First XI, before heading to the University of Auckland to gain a degree in architecture. Mr Stacpoole went on to supervise the restoration of many of New Zealand’s historic buildings, including the Waimate Mission House, Government House in Auckland and Alberton. In receiving his induction from Mr Moyle, Mr Stacpoole said he greatly valued the distinction. “One can receive awards and commendations as one goes through life, but one’s old school is very special indeed. I only have to look at the other people who have been inducted into this Hall to know what an honour this is.” Mr Stacpoole also had a message for the students witnessing his induction.
“You are at the beginnings of your lives and I am very near to the end of mine, but I will just tell you this. Let your talents work for you, work for them, have good friends and a little bit of ambition, and you’ll come right.”
2013 Albertian of the Year Fa’alava’au Pito Malulu Ah Ken was named Albertian of the Year by the Albertians’ Association at an assembly on 20 October attended by his family and members of the Board of Trustees. The award recognized Mr Ah Ken’s quiet, determined and consistent contribution to Mount Albert Grammar School, the “MAGS family” and the wider community. Mr Ah Ken attended MAGS from 1983-1988, becoming a member of the First XV, the school choir and the Samoan cultural group. He later gave back in all these areas, coaching school rugby teams, taking a place on Boys’ Choir committee, sitting on the Board of Trustees for eight years, and helping to re-establish the Pasifika Parents’ Committee. In accepting the award, Mr Ah Ken had a message for the students seated before him. “We can walk out the gates and become part of history, or build on the history you began here and make a difference. Share your love of knowledge. Everyone has something to offer. Find your purpose and you will find the meaning of your life.”
The Bryan Williams Rugby Scholarship Rugby great and Mount Albert Grammar old boy Bryan Williams has lent his name to a rugby scholarship to assist talented players from outside Auckland. The Bryan Williams Rugby Scholarship will help fund a boy to board at School House and benefit from the rugby coaching and academic opportunities offered by the school. This is the first time a rugby scholarship has been offered by Mount Albert Grammar. Mr Williams will help fundraise for it in 2014, with the aim of awarding it to its first recipient for the 2015 school year. “I’ve always felt the need for a scholarship of this sort,” says Mr Williams, who is also a former Director of Rugby at the school. “It’s a wonderful opportunity, and will also be a
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CORRIDORS two-way street. The boy awarded it will bring his talent to the school, and in return will benefit from the school’s sporting and academic culture.” The scholarship will be open to students from anywhere in New Zealand, and cover at least part of their boarding expenses for up to five years. The Mount Albert Grammar Foundation aims to raise a capital sum of $300,000, income from which will fund the scholarship. This year’s First XV captain, Joshua Goodhue, comes from Kawakawa in Northland and has boarded at MAGS’ School House for the past four years. He agrees that the scholarship will enable another talented athlete like himself to attend the school who might not otherwise have been able to. “I came to MAGS for its level of rugby, and also for its education,” says Joshua. “I’ve really gained from the culture of the school – everyone gets behind you, not only in sport, but in everything you’re interested in.” A number of fundraising events, such as a golf day and a dinner, will be held through 2014, and Mr Williams is looking forward to taking part in them. “I’ll be working on getting some other famous old boys back to help out,” he says. Headmaster Mr Dale Burden is pleased to be able to offer this opportunity to a student from outside Auckland. “The support of Albertian and All Black legend Bryan (Beegee) Williams is a fantastic gesture by a proud MAGS Old Boy and a great New Zealander.” For more information about the scholarship please contact MAGS’ Director of Advancement, Tim Kay, at tkay@mags. school.nz or phone 09 864 2042.
Old Boys’ Quarterly Lunch 40th anniversary On 26 September a number of distinguished old boys gathered at School House for the 40th anniversary Quarterly Lunch. Graham Burgess, who attended the first lunch at the Newmarket Club, was among them, as was former Headmaster Greg Taylor. Football coach Kevin Fallon gave a speech about the success of MAGS football academy programme, and the number of national and international players who have sprung from it. First XI From left: Stan Walker, Prof Russell Stone, player Liam Jordan Dale Griffiths, Alan Thom
Glen Bernard and Prof Warwick Elley
Graham Burgess
also spoke well about the past season, and life at School House as a boarder. Administrators Chris Long and Maree Pulevaka were thanked for their work in organising the lunches over the years.
Herb Towers Travel Scholarship The 2012 recipient of the Herb Towers Staff Award was health teacher Jess Lythe. The travel prize recognises outstanding service to the school, and is funded by the Mount Albert Grammar School Foundation. Ms Lythe used her prize to travel to Scandinavia and New York. Here she reports on the benefits of her trip. I would like to thank the Albertians Association for this opportunity to travel. For the first part of my trip I headed to the Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Norway, Sweden. Having looked at determinants of health extensively with my Level Two and Three students it was interesting to see and discuss why these Scandinavian countries are ranked at the top of the scale for personal well-being. Sweden is one of the top nations for child health, while New Zealand is near the bottom. In Copenhagen I had the pleasure of discussing health issues with locals. There had been a lot of recent media attention on gaming and youth and the time spent on gaming, especially by males. This was not dissimilar to New Zealand. Denmark is beautiful. Rosenborg Castle Gardens seemed to be a favourite for locals and tourists and was certainly one of mine. Young and old parked their bikes and enjoyed a picnic while listening to live bands at the summer jazz festival. I loved how bikes ruled the roads and I thoroughly enjoyed my four hour bike tour of the city. I then headed up to Oslo via an overnight cruise. I visited the famous Vigelandsparken Sculpture Park and the Nobel Peace Prize Centre (as well as the Nobel Peace Prize exhibition in Stockholm, Sweden). I enjoyed listening to the history of the prize and reading about many important figures who have
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MOUNT ALBERT GRAMMAR SCHOOL
GOLF DAY
Titirangi Golf Club - Tuesday 8 April 2014
ENTRY FORM The Golf Day is being held to raise funds for the Bryan Williams Rugby Endowment Scholarship Fund. The fundraising Golf day will take place at the prestigious Titirangi Golf Course so you can be certain the course conditions will be absolutely superb! FORMAT: Stableford Competition This year’s format will appeal to all levels of golfers. Teams of four players will choose their best three Stableford scores for each hole and then total them together, to give their team total Stableford points score. REGISTRATION: 11.30am for a 12.30pm shotgun start. PRIZEGIVING and AFTERMATCH FUNCTION: Prizes include team with the highest number of Stableford points, highest individual player, team and individual prizes and lucky draws and raffles. COST: $600 (incl GST) per team of four, which includes: Green fees, on course refreshments, prizes and post golf function. (A cash bar will operate). Only $150 per player! SPONSORSHIP: Sponsorship is available for golf holes/drinks cart/putting green and aftermatch function. Each sponsorship includes green fees for your playing four as well as signage and promotional opportunities. Please contact Tim Kay, Director of Advancement, Mount Albert Grammar School Foundation, phone (09) 815 4034; mobile 021 636 803; email tkay@mags.school.nz. Registration and payment details: To register please complete the form below and return by Friday 28th March to: Tim Kay, Mount Albert Grammar School Foundation, Alberton Avenue, Mt Albert 1025 or email tkay@mags.school.nz. CONTACT ADDRESS:
TEAM NAME: Names of Players
NZ Golf Club Membership
Membership Numbers
1. 2. 3. 4. Total payable $ Cheque payable to MAGS Foundation Name on card Card number
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Credit card
Visa Expiry date
Mastercard / /
Contact Numbers
CORRIDORS done amazing work to effect change in areas of health, peace, social justice and humanity. It was inspiring. Next stop was Bergen via the famous Oslo to Bergen train ride, called ‘the most exciting and beautiful train ride in the world’. I then cruised through the Norwegian fjords. The scenery was truly stunning. Off to Stockholm, where I cruised the canals and archipelagos, visited castles, the Vasamuseet, Sweden’s National Sports Museum, walked the old and new city streets, and visited the stunning Fotografiska exhibition. I loved Stockholm’s focus on keeping everything clean and green. Sweden prides itself on its recycling, even turning a rubbish dump not far from Stockholm city into a ski slope for families to use during winter. The green parks in the middle of the cities, the people, the cleanliness, the focus on families and children through strong social policies, the lack of fast food outlets, the focus on health and well-being, the history and cultural richness, the beautiful designs - I can see why these Scandinavian countries are rated so highly for well-being. Then it was off to New York via London. I happened to be in London, just around the corner from Kensington Palace, when Prince George was born. I visited Buckingham Palace to see the all-important sign on the easel announcing his birth. New York is a crazy, amazing city. Bright lights, traffic, horns, people everywhere. I enjoyed the tourist sites and the bus tour of the city with historical and cultural information. My favourite place however was Central Park. I was lucky enough to catch a local baseball tournament that gave me a good insight into this popular pastime. I visited the New York Historical Society Museum that had an exhibition on HIV/AIDS (a topic in Senior Health) and a short film on the history of New York City, which was extremely interesting. This was another highlight of my trip along with the Tolerance Centre. Rosenborg Castle, Denmark The Tolerance Centre exhibits included ‘power of words’ and ‘hall of memory’. It was great to see a school programme set up for students to visit this museum and discuss world and local issues. New York was a contrast to Scandinavia in terms of wellbeing. I am not sure whether New York has or ever will make it into the top 10 healthiest cities, but it must surely make the list for most entertaining. I absolutely loved it for completely different reasons to Scandinavia. Both I would visit again. Once again many thanks to Mount Albert Grammar School and the Albertians Association for the recognition of my work, and the opportunity to travel and enhance my understanding of determinants of health in various nations.
Two Artistic Albertians In the 1955 edition of The Albertians under the heading “News of Old Boys” there was brief mention of Desmond Digby and Tom Kneebone as being involved with theatre. Many Albertians have been involved with the arts including three Members of the School’s Hall of Distinction: the opera singer Sir Donald McIntyre, the potter Len Castle and the painter Sir Peter Siddell. Digby and Kneebone have also had stellar careers. Desmond Digby (1946-1950) On leaving school Desmond Digby went to the Elam School of Fine Art and on graduating joined the New Zealand Players. In 1955 he received a New Zealand Government Scholarship to study theatre at the Slade School of Art, London. In 1959 he settled in Australia and, among other things, worked at the Australian Opera Company. He produced richly detailed costume and stage designs and perfected scale-model stages so that he could study lighting and other stage-crafts to enhance his ideas. There was breadth to his work, from world premieres of plays to making head-dresses for Marilyn Munroe in The Prince and the Showgirl. He has become one of Australia’s most talented and diverse artists. As well as his work in theatre design he is a sought-after illustrator of children’s books. In 1971 he won the Children’s Picture Book of the Year Award for his illustrations of an edition of AB Peterson’s Waltzing Matilda. The paintings for it were bought by Patrick White and presented to the NSW Art Gallery. There’s more. He is a painter whose works hang in almost all major Australian galleries and many private collections. Tom Kneebone (1946-1950) Tom Kneebone left for England to study at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. He moved to Canada in 1963 and performed in various revues in Toronto and across Canada. He performed in radio and television and at the Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario and at the Stratford Festival in Stratford Ontario. Each of these is a major event and brings thousands of people from all over North America. The cabaret performer became involved with a wonderful non-profit troupe that still brings joy to many. Just before his death in late 2003 he was awarded both the Order of Ontario and the Order of Canada. His Citation for the Order of Canada read, in part, “He brings the magic of live theatre to those who can no longer enjoy it in traditional venues. He is artistic director of the Smile Theatre Company, a nonprofit organization that brings musicals to senior citizens and retirement homes throughout Ontario. In addition he writes and directs the majority of the company’s productions that often explore Canada’s heritage. A multi-talented performer who has a long and electric career _ _ _.” Desmond Ward Digby and Thomas Selwyn Oscar Kneebone were exact contempories at School. Both were in the Dramatic Club and Choir. Both had two years in the Fifth Form (Year 11)
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and both returned for a year in the Lower Sixth Form (Year 12). Digby played hockey and Kneebone, soccer. Both developed their crafts in England and each made a name for himself in another Commonwealth country. Digby is known not just in his home state of New South Wales but throughout Australia. Kneebone is known not just in his home province of Ontario but throughout Canada. Neither is well known here.
Brian Murphy, Archivist
Obituary Professor Michael John Morwood BA, MA (Auck), PhD (ANU) At Mount Albert Grammar School 1964-1968
Mike Morewood started in 3A in 1964 with the likes of Peter Thorp, Alan Bollard and Greg Cave. He then was in 4A, Spec 5A, 6 Spec and 6A and was an ASB Scholar. In his earlier days he played rugby and was later in the chess team. He lived in Third Avenue, Kingsland. After finishing an MA at Auckland he completed a PhD at the Australian National University in archaeology. Dr Morwood undertook regional projects in the archaeology of art, and work in the Kimberley investigating trepan (sea cucumber) sites, a study that led to new knowledge about the relationships among indigenous Australian and Asian peoples. Since 1997 his research was in Indonesia on large-scale, interdisciplinary, international work that covered the whole span of human occupation. By far the most significant find was the skeleton of the type specimen of the hominin Homo floresiensis (dubbed “the Hobbit” because of her short stature, large feet and underground discovery) at Liang Bua on the island of Flores. He reported: “As a result there has been intense public interest in LB1 – as evident in popular books, refereed journals, magazines, radio and television programmes, documentary films, internet websites, museum displays and public lectures”. A former PhD student recalled him saying, “I’m going to need a drink to think about this.” Morwood also said that further work had “opened up a Pandora’s box of possibilities.” In 2010 he, and others, began a new project: “Change and continuity: chronology, archaeology and art in the North Kimberley, Northwest Australia”. He was the author of numerous scientific papers, co-wrote three books and was the author of Visions from the past: the archaeology of Australian Aboriginal art (2002. Allen and Unwin, Sydney, 347pp). Professor Mike Morwood died of cancer on 23 July 2013. He was 62. Tributes included that of colleague Professor Bert Roberts who said, “The fact that he discovered a brand new species of human, I mean, how many archaeologists and anthropologists can ever do that?”
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Professor Peter Bellwood said “He was a great ambassador for Australian archaeology overseas and was held in very high esteem. He had many friends and colleagues who will miss his leadership”. Colleague Fiona Hook said “Professor Mike Morwood was a tireless researcher with a huge breadth of research interest ---“. Professor Alister Paterson referred to him as “a game-changer”. There are many other tributes on weblogs, in the science media and on newspaper and university sites. The Telegraph (London) spoke of the finding of Homo floresiensis as “--- an event hailed as one of the most sensational findings of modern times”. And The Australian called him “The Gandalf of science”. From humble beginnings in the steep, narrow streets of workingclass Kingsland to globally acclaimed science wizard. Vale, Michael John Morwood, Albertian. Brian Murphy, Archivist
Foundation Trustees “The Foundation Board is fully committed to ensuring that all members of the school community and its affiliate groups work together for the common good of strengthening the vision, values and aims of MAGS in a very real and purposeful manner.” Tim Goulding Tim Goulding Greg Moyle Greg Taylor Grant Wilson Dale Burden
tim@doglaw.co.nz greg@akld.nzfp.co.nz gregt@iconz.co.nz g.watson@xtra.co.nz headmaster@mags.school.nz
Association Executive List PRESIDENT Ben Stallworthy Ben.Stallworthy@aucklandtransport.govt.nz IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Maelen Tagelagi tagmed@vodafone.co.nz MINUTES SECRETARY Tim Kay tkay@mags.school.nz TREASURER Kent Routen kent@kiwisemarketing.co.nz COMMITTEE Danica Atkins danica.atkins@gmail.com David Griffin david@cglord.co.nz Dale Griffiths dale@wvp.co.nz Brett Kingstone b.kingstone@kbhs.school.nz Aftab Moosa supermoosa@gmail.com Greg Moyle greg@akld.nzfp.co.nz Brian Murphy bmurphy@mags.school.nz Michael Riley Michael.Riley@aucklandtransport.govt.nz Greg Taylor gregt@iconz.co.nz Dale Burden headmaster@mags.school.nz
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TERM 1 CALENDAR
January
February
March
April
20
Monday
SMT Meeting
21
Tuesday
New Staff Induction . Peer Support Training
22
Wednesday
Staff Administration Day. Senior re-enrolment (PM) . Peer Support Training
23
Thursday
Staff Administration Day. Senior Re-enrolment
24
Friday
Staff Administration Day / Timetabling Day
27
Monday
Auckland Anniversary Day
28
Tuesday
Year 9 Students only commence school
29
Wednesday
Full School Attendance
30
Thursday
Junior Graduation Diploma Ceremony – F.W. Gamble Hall at 2.00pm
31-2
Friday-Sunday
Prefects Camp
4
Tuesday
Year 9 Parent Evening – F.W. Gamble Hall at 6.15pm
6
Thursday
Waitangi Day
11
Tuesday
School Swimming Sports Day at Mt Albert Aquatic Centre
13
Thursday
Pasifika Parents Evening – Murray Nairn Library at 6pm
14
Friday
Senior Leadership Assembly – F.W. Gamble Hall at 2.00pm
18
Tuesday
School Athletics Day at Waitakere Trusts Stadium
19
Wednesday
NCEA Information Evening – F.W. Gamble Hall at 7.30pm
5
Wednesday
AKSS Western Zone Athletics Day
20
Thursday
Greater Auckland Athletics Championships
24
Monday
NZSS Summer Tournament Week
3
Thursday
Albertian Annual Reunion Dinner - Northern Club
7
Monday
Scholars Assembly – F.W. Gamble Hall at 2.00pm
8
Tuesday
Albertian Golf Day – Titirangi Golf Course
15
Tuesday
Dance Concert at the Centenial Theatre, 7pm
16
Wednesday
Dance Concert at the Centenial Theatre, 7pm
17
Thursday
Anzac Day Service – F.W. Gamble Hall at 11.20am
Albertian Old Boys Luncheon – School House
End of Term 1
18
Friday
Good Friday
21
Monday
Easter Monday
A detailed weekly calendar will be sent with our new e-newsletter from Week 1 of 2014
2014 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS Auckland Anniversary Day
Monday 27 January
Easter Tuesday
Tuesday 22 April
Waitangi Day
Thursday 6 February
Anzac Day
Friday 25 April
Good Friday
Friday 18 April
Queen’s Birthday
Monday 2 June
Easter Monday
Monday 21 April
Labour Day
Monday 27 October
2014 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Tuesday 28 January Year 9 only Wednesday 29 January Full school in Monday 5 May Monday 21 July Monday 13 October
to to to to to
Thursday 17 April Thursday 17 April Friday 4 July Friday 26 September Tuesday 9 December
Please refer to our website www.mags.school.nz for the full calendar.
Alberton Avenue, Mt Albert, Auckland 1025 Tel: 64 9 846 2044 Fax: 64 9 846 2042 Email: headmaster@mags.school.nz w w w. m a g s . s c h o o l . n z
BR-j7933
TERM 1 TERM 2 TERM 3 TERM 4