Our Mission Statement: At Saint Kentigern, we strive for excellence in all areas of life for the glory of God and in the service of others.
For the Glory of God…
Chapel Life
Chapel services are a weekly highlight where we celebrate student birthdays, recognize acts of service, and incorporate waiata and karakia. The Chaplaincy team delivers engaging messages that connect Biblical stories with life, reinforcing our values and character development. Special events like House Family Chapels, Founders Day, Anzac Day, Matariki, Easter, and Christmas are also celebrated.
Christian Education
Our Christian Education program aims to help each student achieve their potential and prepare for life’s challenges through engaging, relevant, and inquiry-based learning. This approach fosters personal reflection, critical thinking, and practical application of Biblical principles.
Te Pou o te Rīpeka
Te Pou o te Rīpeka is a contemplative space honouring individuals who embody Saint Kentigern’s values of respect, integrity, service, excellence, and love. Central to this space is a marble Celtic cross, symbolizing our Presbyterian heritage.
Nurturing Student Wellbeing
We prioritize a secure and positive environment for every child, facilitated by meaningful interactions with class teachers, tutor teachers, and the House system. These educators are primary contacts for students needing guidance or support.
Tutor System: In Years 7 and 8, each boy has a dedicated tutor teacher who oversees their wellbeing.
House System: Encourages interaction within a close-knit community, fostering camaraderie
and support among students.
In the Service of Others…
Service and Leadership
Service is integral to Saint Kentigern’s identity. We encourage students to pursue service areas they are passionate about, embodying the belief that “Anyone can be great because anyone can serve” (Martin Luther King Jr.). Opportunities for service include:
The Sharing Shed: Partnership with Te Waipuna Puawai Trust where donated goods support families in need.
The Extra Miler: Annual campaign where students raise funds for charities through physical or service challenges.
Service Initiatives by Year Group
Service in the Home (Y1-2): Young boys engage in home-based service activities, fostering early empathy.
Service Attitude W.O.F. (Y3-4): Middle school boys complete service tasks in school, home, and broader initiatives.
Ready to Serve Passport (Y5-6): Recognizes acts of service with stamps in a specially designed passport.
Saint Kentigern Service Award (Y7-8): Honors exemplary service with Bronze, Silver, and Gold tiers, documented in a service portfolio.
School Council
The School Council, comprising students from Years 3 to 8, leads many service initiatives, encouraging small acts of kindness and laying a foundation for moral reasoning.
Additional Service Initiatives
Whanau Kai: Provides meals to families in need, prepared by Year 7 students, parents, and staff.
Hangi for the Homeless: Monthly meal preparation and distribution to those facing housing insecurity.
Middle School Garden to Table Warriors: Students cultivate fresh produce for the Hangi program and local food banks.
Year 8 Service Trips
Over the past decade, we’ve completed 25 service trips to schools in New Zealand, Fiji, and Vanuatu, focusing on projects like community playgrounds and garden-to-table initiatives, fostering friendships with host schools.
The Shed (The Saint Kentigern Food Bank)
Our food bank delivers substantial food parcels to high-need families through various networks including the Social Workers in Schools Networks.
Presbyterian Support Northern
We partner with Presbyterian Support Northern, supporting programs like Shine (Safer Homes in New Zealand Every Day) and a community food hub.
Embracing Leadership – the Miromiro Badge
The Miromiro Badge, inspired by the miromiro bird, is awarded to Year 8 students in a special assembly, symbolizing leadership and the protection of younger peers. This ceremony includes a haka performance by our Kapa Haka group, challenging leaders to embrace their responsibilities.
Saint Kentigern’s educational journey is underpinned by our core values of respect, integrity, service, excellence, and love, ensuring student wellbeing and service remain at the forefront of our mission.
