Kia ora CHS Whaanau,
One of the most compelling lessons from this year's Rugby's Greatest Rivalry Tour has been how quickly momentum can shift.
The All Blacks stormed through the opening matches, defeating the Stormers, the Sharks, and the Bulls by big margins before winning the first Test against South Africa 33-16 at Ellis Park. At that point, some observers felt the series was all but decided. An ageing Springbok side against the new-found dynamism of the Dave Rennie inspired ABs. However, sport has a way of reminding us that every contest matters. South Africa responded by winning the second Test 33-26 and the third Test 29-24, turning a 0-1 deficit into a 2-1 series lead heading into the final match this coming Sunday (09:00 NZT).
Imagine if either side had decided that one of those matches was "just practice" or wasn't worth their full effort. The position they find themselves in now could be very different.
There is an important parallel for our senior students as they approach their Derived Grade Examinations.
Some students understandably view these exams as a rehearsal for the "real thing" in November. Yet Derived Grade Examinations are more like a crucial Test match than a training run. Most students will sit their final examinations as planned and may never need to use their derived grade. However, just as a rugby team cannot predict injuries, illness, or unexpected setbacks, students cannot know what challenges might arise during the examination period.
If illness, injury, bereavement, or another approved circumstance affects a student's performance in the end-of-year examinations, their derived grade may become the result that NZQA relies upon. In that moment, the exam they viewed as a practice run, or as optional to attend, suddenly becomes one of the most important assessments of the year. And if we're honest, in reality, most of those who don't give these exams 100 % are just making excuses.
The RGR Tour has shown us that success is built on taking every opportunity seriously. Whether it's a Test match in Cape Town, Johannesburg or Baltimore, or a three-hour exam in the school hall, the lesson is the same: you may not need to rely on today's performance, but if circumstances change tomorrow, you'll be grateful you gave it your best.
A number of people have asked me who I actually support in international rugby, given I have lived in NZ for a good chunk of time and spent many years in SA. Believe it or not, it's neither of those! IYKYK.
I have genuinely appreciated the good wishes sent my way since my permanent appointment as Principal. It's humbling to have the opportunity to lead this fine school, and while I'm sure not everyone will agree with everything all of the time at CHS, know that you have my absolute commitment to make it the best place it can be for your children. Thank you for your trust and support.
Ngaa Mihi,
PL McAvoy
Principal / Tumuaki
