Sacred Heart College's academic year has started well with an opening mass and the unveiling of the student leadership team.

Unlike previous years, the mass was held at the College’s outdoor amphitheatre to adhere to Covid-19 protection framework guidelines. 

Principal Maria Neville-Foster says it was a very tranquil and beautiful way to start the school year and recognise the Year 13 school leaders. 

Students new to the school, who had received a Year 9 scholarship, were also recognised. 

Alongside Head Girl Taila Reardon Crichton and Deputy Head Girls Charlotte Clayton and Rylee Fergus, 13 students have been selected to fill leadership roles across the school.

They are: Jaimee Gerbes (Barbier House Leader), Alice Thomas (Barbier House Leader), Zoe Hawkins (Holderness House Leader), Baylee Sharp (Marian House Leader), Lyrissa Fontaine (Academic Leader), Mia Anderson (Arts Leader), Neila Story (Catholic Character Leader), Aroha Tawhiri and Jacqueline Matauli (Cultural Leaders), Helena Street (Sports Leader), Leticia Windsor (Community Leader) and Ashleigh Madams and Indira Moffatt (Wellbeing Leaders). 

“Looking at their strengths and their talents, they’re just perfect for the positions,” Mrs Neville-Foster says. 

“They’re very caring and empathetic, and also very aware of wellbeing in a holistic sense, so I think they’re very well-rounded.” 

For the first time, the school has appointed two wellbeing leaders. 

Mrs Neville-Foster says it is part of their reviewed strategic plan, and particularly important in the current climate. 

“It’s an area our students need more understanding of how to manage their own wellbeing. 

“Having those leaders in place will create an opportunity for them to spread awareness on how to have a healthy wellbeing and to also support our students through navigating how to get help if they’re needing help.”

Wellbeing leaders Ashleigh Madams and Indira Moffatt say they are honoured to be chosen for the role. 

“We hope to continue to foster a safe and supportive environment for everyone at Sacred Heart College,” Ashleigh says.  

Article added: Friday 25 February 2022