Ashburton College’s red house staked their claim on the house trophy for the third consecutive year. From left: Red house staff head Sarah Lassen, red house co-leaders Annalise Reilly and Will Graham. Photo Katie ToddIt may have been Ashburton College’s Winter Blues assembly, but it was red house who stole the spotlight.

Students and teachers amassed under the sunshine  to celebrate cultural and sporting successes, hear a final address from their head boy and girl and pitches from next year’s candidates, and discover the winner of the coveted house trophy.

It is the third year in a row red have taken home the trophy, after 16 years without winning.

Principal Ross Preece also stepped up to hand out 11 prestigious colours awards for national sporting and cultural success, and reflect on his first year at the helm of the college.

“I’ve been impressed by both the variety of sporting and cultural activities and the number of students that have stepped up,” he said.

He said the conduct of the students beyond the college gates had also impressed him.

Head boy Nic Thomassen and Samantha McArthur gave their final address to students, handing over to next year’s candidates.

Thomassen said 2017 had been “the best year of high school, without a doubt”.

“The end of the year brings a big ball of emotions,” McArthur said.

“I’ve been so happy with what I’ve learnt and achieved.”

Senior students have one week of classes left before study leave, and begin sitting their NCEA exams on November 9.

Year 9 and 10 students wrap up school on December 7 and 8 respectively.

By Katie Todd © The Ashburton Guardian - 27 October 2017