Our main speaker was Patrick Drumm, the Headmaster of Mt Albert Grammar School.

 

 

Prior to his address, we had a presentation from Vivienne Wong, a former MAGS scholarships pupil and the recipient of the 2022 June Grey Trust Scholarship.  In acknowledging her award, and thanking the Trustees, Vivienne spoke of the difference the Scholarship was making with her studies at the University of Auckland.

With a background in Chemistry,  Patrick commented on the previous schools in which he had held leadership roles, and updated us on MAGS in 2024.

He then turned to the Curriculum Review being undertaken by the Ministry of Education, and current responses of Schools and teachers.

Patrick gave us a wide ranging and hard hitting analysis of our present secondary school system, warts and all, stressing the importance of a knowledge-rich eduational experience for each and every student.

 

Our Speaker a couple of weeks ago was Kathryn Jackson, Senior Palliative Care Clinical Nurse from the Eastern Bays [“Dove”] Hospice Trust. Kathryn was introduced by the Chair of the Trust, Peter Ross.                                                                                                        

Established in 1992, the Trust has 60 staff and has just opened its 8^th retail shop. With a $6m annual turnover, Dove [unlike other hospices] receives no government funding.

Dove aims to support and enhance wellness for those affected by life-threatening illness. Kathryn enlarged on the holistic wellness support provided: mental and physical wellbeing is paramount. Patients are reassured to find that they are not alone on their journey.   In support of people who have a terminal diagnosis, Dove ‘bridges the gap’ between diagnosis and end of life.   Respite care is also provided.

Kathryn spoke of the importance of collaboration with other hospices and agencies [such as the Cancer Society] and the adjacent St Andrews Village. A thoughtful and moving presentation.

 

Past President Dave Birch gave his report for the year 2022/3, highlighting our major activities. He presented the annual accounts, previously circulated to all members. The report was received with acclamation and the relevant motions on the annual accounts passed by the meeting.