ADVERTORIAL
Thames High School has kicked off 2025 with warm welcomes for new students, staff, and an invitation for past students to reconnect.
This year’s pōwhiri provided the perfect setting to introduce the incoming Year 9 rōpū, new students across year levels, and 17 international students from Japan, Cambodia, and Germany.
The school also welcomes four new teachers: Anukar Kumar in biology, and Rinal Prasad in mathematics from Fiji, Ravenesh Nand in mathematics from Morrinsville, and Michael Kim in outdoor education from Hauraki Plains College, who will also serve as Kaiawhina/Dean for Year 9 and 10 students.
We were fortunate to have our mana whenua, Ngāti Maru, represented by Johnson (Reha) Watene and Matua Wati Ngamane, who led karakia (blessings) and whaikōrero (speeches) to formally welcome our newcomers. Many thanks also to Matua Wayne Whitney, who spoke on behalf of the manuhiri (visitors), who are now tangata whenua following this welcome and to board chairperson Reverend Brendon for blessing the additional kākahu (cloaks) for newly appointed Deputy Student Leaders and Manukura Māori Leaders.
In the spirit of reconnection, Thames High School is launching an alumni network to unite past and present students.
This initiative aims to foster mentorship, share experiences, and provide opportunities for former students to give back.
To mark this initiative, an alumni barbecue will be held on April 6, 2025, featuring a school tour and talks from current student leaders.
Former students are encouraged to attend, share memories, and see the school’s latest developments. With Thames High School’s 150th anniversary approaching in 2030, gathering alumni contacts now will ensure an engaged community for this significant milestone.
Thames High looks forward to strengthening connections across generations, building a lasting sense of belonging.
If you are interested in attending or being part of the committee please email christinesutton@thameshighschool.nz for a registration form, or visit our website where you can register online. There will be a small cost to cover the lunch.
– Supplied by Thames High School
