The spirit of St John’s College was on full display at their Open Day for prospective students and their whānau.

The open day was held on Sunday 18 August. Current students were tasked with guiding visitors around the school and showcase the different opportunities on offer.

For Principal George Rogers, the brotherhood and inclusivity and manaakitanga is something he believes stands out at the school.

“The brotherhood is something I see daily. The relationships are genuine and respectful. Everyone can be a part of something, regardless of age or level. Everyone feels a part of a very special environment.”

He says the college is a “hidden jewel” that has evolved through the vision of the Marist Fathers and provides a “first-class education as the only Catholic boys’ school in Hawke’s Bay”.

“The opportunities available enable the young men to develop their passion, but importantly, they are another context to develop the values we hold true at St John’s College.”

Head Boy Freddie Salter, and Year 9 brothers Sean and Dean Mayer shared similar sentiments.

“One of the many things that sets our school aside is the brotherhood,” Freddie said.

“St John’s to me has been more than a high school. I’ve been able to make lasting friendships, connections and of course, the memories.”

He recalls being welcomed five years ago as a Year 9, not only by his peers but by boys of all levels.

“Wherever I was, there were people from every year group, culture and race all hanging out as one. I thought I had 429 new friends. I was saying ‘what's up’ to them between classes and was more comfortable than a Year 9 could ever be at a new school.

“I'm now lucky enough in this position to be able to give back to the juniors, especially as I was helped in my junior years.”

It has been a little over two terms since Sean and Dean first started at St John’s. “When we got to the end of the term, I had been having so much fun that I wasn’t ready for school to finish so soon,” Dean said.