Susan Landels - Matron, 25 June 2026
Hostel Happenings
On Tuesday, June 23, many hostel boys had an early start, travelling by bus to Timaru for the annual interschool challenge against Timaru Boys' High School.
After yet another "game of two halves" and a very closely contested second half, the 1st XV drew 26–26. A great result for Under 15 Blues Rugby, who enjoyed a 27–17 win. Congratulations to the 1st XI Football team for a commanding 4–1 victory, while the 10 Blues Football team settled for a 2–2 draw. The 1st XI Hockey team suffered a close loss. Although the scoreboard remained at 2–2 for most of the game, a couple of fast goals to the opposition in the second half resulted in a 4–2 win for TBHS. The U15 Blues Hockey team battled hard and drew 1–1.
TBHS won the Senior Basketball match, 90–83. Junior A Basketball also saw a win to TBHS, 101–57.
On Wednesday evening, we were all treated to a mouth-watering feast for our Formal Dinner. A very special thank you to Donna and her team in the kitchen for all the hard work that goes into food preparation, cooking, and table settings for such an occasion to come together with relative ease.
We were entertained by a heartfelt and passionate speech from a well-known and admired guest speaker, Mr Pratley, who currently teaches at the school and is, of course, himself a School House old boy. His takeaway message to the boys was to appreciate that the small things they do today will one day become the big things of tomorrow when they leave the hostel and move into the real world. He encouraged the boys to make their beds in the morning, be mindful of others, support fellow boarders, and always be respectful to staff. He spoke of the lifelong friendships that are formed within the hostel and the lessons in personal growth that are forged within School House, and how these have impacted him.
The Rector asked all the boys who had fathers or family members who had previously attended the hostel to stand. A multitude stood up. He emphasised that our School House culture is built on an ongoing sense of legacy, connection, and community.
The Director of Boarding, Lance Taylor, addressed all the boys, thanking them for their effort through a testing Winter Term. He took pleasure in awarding boys from each year group who have been acknowledged for consistently high effort grades at school and their positive contributions within the hostel.
Hats off to:
Year 9: Junha Park
Year 10: George Dowling
Year 11: Lachlan Gill
Year 12: Charlie Nichol
Year 13: Robbie Nichol
On Monday, June 29, we will have our hostel photo shoot at 10.00am.
All boys will need to have their muddy shoes or boots washed and polished with nugget, please.
Men of the Week
Junior: Jae McAuley has impressed us with his great attitude and wonderful manners. He is always cheerful, smiling, and helpful.
Senior: Jonty Graham, for being reliable, considerate, and cooperative. A wonderful role model.
With winter viruses among us, it is highly recommended that boys have their own supply of Vitamin C or multivitamins. Nasal sprays and tissues are sensible additions as well.
Parents, please make sure you have leave organised, preferably by Wednesday evening or Thursday morning at the latest. This is appreciated for organisational and catering purposes. Thank you.
If you have any feedback or questions, please do not hesitate to contact us:
Lance Taylor
Director of Boarding
022 495 6303
Atu Katoa
020 408 99606
Susan Landels
027 232 8017