My journey at Saint Kentigern Girls’ School started in 2014. I was five. I remember my first day, walking into the school crying because honestly, I was petrified. I would cry endlessly but the moment I walked into my classroom I felt a sense of belonging. I felt safe and secure and slowly the tears floated away.
When I found out that I was selected as the 2021 Head Girl, I was overjoyed. At the same time, I didn’t know what to think. It is such an important role. How was I going to fill the shoes of previous Head Girls? This image of a perfect girl who never made any mistakes stuck in my head. However, throughout the year I have realised that I just have to be myself. Just like other student leaders before me, I have to create my own legacy and do what I do best. Use my strengths to my advantage and be the best version of myself to benefit others.
For the past eight years, Saint Kentigern Girls’ School has been my second home. Part of why I love this school so much is the big sister little sister bond we share. I remember being a junior and realising that the senior Year 8 girls knew who I was, made me feel so special. Another reason why I love this school is because of the world of opportunities it provides. We have such talented students like Sophie McIndoe who represented New Zealand and came in the top 10 in the world Hip Hop competition or Ava Van Rij and Harper Buchanan who both received first place awards at the Auckland NIWA Science Fair. Girls, I truly encourage you to explore the endless opportunities that this school offers and discover what you love because the doors of opportunity will unlock. You will never know unless you try to open them first.
What a year 2021 has been! Whether it was our late night sing along at camp or watching teachers attempting the ice bucket challenge, it has been a memorable year. I think we can all agree that the biggest challenge was the lockdown in Term 3 and 4. Covid threw so many curveballs at us, but we didn’t let it stop us from being true daughters of Saint Kentigern. I am so proud of the way each one of us adapted and persevered during the tough times. I believe the experience as made us stronger. Despite it all, I still saw smiles all around when we connected for distance learning which really made my day.
One of the most memorable and humbling experiences this year has been the Year 8 service trip to Taneatua School. Despite challenging situations, they were always smiling and they cherished every moment. I wish you could all have seen the looks on their faces when they saw their new playground come together! This was such an eye-opening experience, and I am so grateful that I was a part of it. Another highlight of my year was swimming sports. I loved seeing the girls fired up with competitive spirit, supporting their respective houses and cheering each other on to make sure no one was left behind.
I would like to say a huge thank you to my deputy, Catie Fowler and the Prefect Team of 2021. Your ongoing support has meant the world to me, and all of you continue to inspire me daily. To the Year 8 girls of 2021, I would like to thank you for being yourselves, for showcasing your incredible personalities and for making this year one to remember. These friendships will last a lifetime and I am so lucky to have met such an amazing group of girls. A special mention to my mum, dad, and sister Audrey for being my biggest supporters.
To Ms Small, Mrs Wahlstrom and all the teachers at the Girls’ School, thank you from the bottom of my heart for believing in me and pushing me to be better. Lastly to Miss Cassie, thank you for guiding me throughout the years. When things were tough, you were always there with open arms, and I cannot thank you enough.
2021 has been such a wild ride but we made it! To the Prefect Team of 2022, good luck and stay positive. My advice to you is to remember that life is full of ups and downs, but without the downs, the ups would mean nothing. This year has most definitely been one to remember!
Fides Servanda Est
Charlotte Lee
Girls’ School Head Girl
