Ashburton College head boy Nic Thomassen was among school and community leaders welcoming newcomers yesterday. Photos Susan SandysAshburton College principal Ross Preece was among newcomers welcomed to the growing school at a powhiri yesterday.

Held on the first full day of the school year, the ceremony saw the school’s Te Whare O Tawhaki matua Tiipene Philip speak in Te Reo to welcome Preece, as well as new students and teachers.

The school’s roll is about 1220, and expected to climb to 1600 within the next 10 years.

Undertaking the kaikaranga, or calling on, was Michelle Brett and student Sonia-Leigh Stephens-Tahuri, while bringing on the group was Bernadene Stephens-Tahuri.

Preece spoke to the school’s assembled students and teachers, as well as special guests from the community.

He said he was satisfied with his first judgement call as principal, as it had not rained.

He said schools spent a lot of time marketing, however, students themselves were the best marketing agents, and he asked those at Ashburton College to be mindful of three simple things, which were all free.

They were maintaining a tidy school uniform, being friendly and helpful, and regularly picking up just one item of rubbish in order to keep the grounds clean and tidy.

At the end of the ceremony, college and community leaders welcomed newcomers with a hongi.

By Susan Sandys © The Ashburton Guardian - 8 February 2017