Page 7 - Southwell School Year Book 2020

PRIZE GIVING ADDRESS - HEAD BOY
Head Boy - Roy Zhu
2020 has been quite the year. There has been so much going on, with so little time, due to Covid-19. Fortunately, we are able to gather here at Southwell today, as a whole, to celebrate the successes of our students. It has been a hectic year, but every student has done a fantastic job in maintaining all six of the Southwell values: excellence, care, creativity, resilience, integrity and respect. We have adapted well to this pandemic and that is the only reason we have gotten through it; together.
During my time at Southwell, I feel like I have had the opportunity to have experienced all aspects of Southwell life. Embracing the Southwell School spirit has been something special - something you can’t experience anywhere else.
The rst time I set foot into Southwell, I was unsure. Unsure of what Southwell would bring me, and what people were like. These worries soon disappeared as I interacted with my classmates. They were very welcoming and respectful. Everyone offered to show me around and explained everything with care and patience. All the staff made sure every individual student felt comfortable in their new classrooms.
It’s hard to choose what you want to do with all the available opportunities. Whether you’re a sports' fanatic or a passionate musician, there is a place for you at Southwell. I have been playing football for as long as I can remember. Last year, when I found out I had been selected for the football 1st XI, I was excited, though nervous. The mixture of Mr McKay, and older Year 8s, was nerve- wracking. I soon found that everyone in the team was supportive and helpful. Many sports teams had the opportunity to not only play weekend games, but also to visit other private schools around the North Island and play against their top sports teams. The icing on the cake was being billeted into the homes of the opposition teams overnight, even with the Covid-19 pandemic. All these opportunities wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated Southwell sports
Department. Thank you to all the committed sports coaches for giving up your weekend mornings to guide and support every child with their sporting passions.
Sport is only part of Southwell life. The cultural opportunities on offer are endless. The musical programme ensures that every child has the chance to learn a musical instrument and can be a part of a Southwell School band. Being part of a school band is not just about making fabulous music together, but also about the bonds you make with people with similar interests. Those who have never picked up an instrument are still able to learn some in our class music sessions with our experienced music teachers.
Even in a year with a pandemic, Mrs Trenwith and Mrs McIntyre have gone through the long and tiring process to make sure every child and every band has had the opportunity to perform. The Southwell Jazz Band has been especially lucky to have been on a multi-day tour throughout Hamilton, from schools to public venues like Te Awa, the Base. Not only were we able to perform, but we also got to spend time with our fellow band-mates. Of course, all these events would not have been possible without the dedication of our music faculty. The input of them is the only reason why a large percentage of Southwell students are musically inclined.
The annual Southwell Opera is a chance to improve and showcase our acting and vocal abilities with live-action performances. Although all the kids on stage seem magnicent, it's the work behind the scenes that really makes the performance. Opera season is always one of the busiest times of the year, not only for the kids, but more for the teachers. Mrs Walker has been at every rehearsal, no matter how late, to make sure every slight detail in every scene was polished to perfection. Thank you, Mrs Walker, Opera has been the opportunity of a lifetime - an opportunity not many children get.
The extensive academic subjects and facilities along with the supportive and knowledgeable teachers make sure every child gets the most out of every class lesson. From a pottery classroom to a science lab, the facilities at Southwell are beyond compare. Not only are the teachers there to teach and guide our academic path, but also to make sure that every child’s well-being is also a priority. I would personally like to thank Mr Cameron and Mrs McLean for your guidance, wisdom
and kindness as classroom teachers over the past two years.
Though my time at Southwell is coming to an end, I know for sure that I can look back, and only think of good memories that I will never forget. The friends I have made and the experiences I have had have been priceless. I can now rest assured, knowing that Southwell has prepared me for the future. I wouldn’t have wanted my Southwell experience any other way. A big thank you to Mr Speedy, all staff members and every student for making Southwell a place where every child can learn and grow safely and happily. Good luck to all the Year 8 graduates. No matter what path you take, remember the Southwell School values. Use them as a guide, no matter what you pursue. My advice to all other students - make the most of everything you can do at Southwell, because you might never get the same opportunities.
Per Aspera Ad Astrum.
Roy Zhu
Southwell School Yearbook 2020
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