Student Leaders

Rhys Bayly - Head Boy 2013

At prize giving, I was surprised, as well as proud when Mr Rennie announced my name as head boy for 2013. It took a while for it to sink in. I feel very privileged to be selected as head boy and with an exciting year ahead I look forward to working with Henry Alexander and Sekonaia Pole, who are both very talented young men. There will be plenty happening in 2013, with the introduction of the new house system as well as the school’s 150th anniversary. To celebrate the 150 years a large group of the senior school will be lucky enough to spend 3 weeks in Europe April next year.
This year I have been lucky with the opportunities provided by the school. I was lucky enough to attend the national secondary schools Football tournament with the 1st XI where we placed 17th in the country. Also later on this year I will be able to compete in the Gillette cup finals for cricket which is something I have dreamed of from the first time I walked through the archway. I have 2 main goals on the sports field for 2013. Firstly, to help Otago Boys qualify for our 13th Gillette cup appearance to maintain our strong cricket history of being the only Dunedin school to have qualified for more than one. Secondly, I wish to make the Willows tour team to Sri Lanka. Not only for the 3 weeks of cricket, but also for the opportunity to visit Sri Lanka for the first time and meet family members that I have never met before. I’m thankful to be at a school where these opportunities exist.
At prize giving this year I received 2nd equal in accounting as well as commendations in economics, mathematics, English and computer studies. I also received trophies for dedication towards cricket and the Rod Byers memorial cup for contribution towards cricket and football.
Next year I wish to continue to achieve my goal of excellence academically and make the most of all my opportunities. I also hope to be a good role model for the younger students and always approachable to help them settle in. I’m looking forward to beginning my new role, and I will do my best to do a good job.

Henry Alexander - Deputy Head Boy
I was honoured to receive the position of Deputy Head Boy this year at Otago Boys’. I look forward to an exciting year for both the school and myself with traditions being celebrated during this year’s 150th reunion and a new tradition being introduced, School Houses. I also am looking forward to our Sporting and Cultural Trip to Europe, a definite highlight in the 150th Celebrations.
My favourite OBHS experience is definitely 2012 Leadership camp with the boys. A week of fun and hard work at the lodge in the stunning Matukituki Valley was a real thrill which I enjoyed with my existing friends as well as making new mates. This should be a given on all year 12’s calendars for late November.
Here at school I’ve been involved in a variety of activities from 1st XI football and cricket and social basketball to choir, ski trips and being the proud school quarterfinalist of both chess and darts championships.
My advice to all new students at Boys’ High is to take every opportunity offered to you here at school and get amongst it. You can always try and maybe decide it’s not for you, but you will always regret it if you never try at all. I’ve been involved in many activities and have had a great four years because of it. I encourage anyone to come and talk to me at any time , maybe something that bothers you or a good positive idea for the school.

Sekonaia Jnr Pole - Deputy Head Boy
Personal Interests:  Maths, being active, religion and music
Favourite moment at OBHS:  Winning the South Island finals against Christchurch Boys’ and going to Aussie with the Choir.
Opportunities OBHS has given me: The opportunities that OBHS has given me have been endless from academic and cultural to sports.  These opportunities have taken me all over NZ and out of NZ too, from Samoa, Rotorua and Auckland with the 1st XV.  To Wellington and Australia with the Choir.  I’ve also got the chance to experience the Polyfest here in Dunedin which is quite different to the one in Auckland and was such a great night with the group.  I have also get the opportunity to experience and take part in the highly academic work that OBHS has to offer which has bumped my scores up.
Advice:  Go hard this year in all your endeavours.  Do not give up or give in when times get tough.  Wear your uniform around with pride and honour, keeping it nice and tidy, respecting those who have worn it before you and those who have passed on. Be proud of the school and represent it well.  OBz Hard!!