Houston says Dion was pragmatic about the cost of his training and can’t understand why more boys do not undertake tertiary and career qualifications through the Defence Forces. Ross says all the way through College Chris Sellars kept them informed about progress and changes. “He made sure the basics were well covered for Dion, who was guided strongly by Chris’s advice.”
meeting with the boys he gets in touch by phone and will provide as much information, or as little, as you want.” While every student is different, Ann says Chris provides a great sounding board for their subject choices and for other opportunities. “What I’ve seen in the five years we’ve been connected with College is the great number of opportunities on offer in all areas. This comes through in things like In Black & White . “It’s clear to us, and to the students, that university is not the only pathway.” Ann says the House mentor system is also a source of encouragement for boys, whatever their interests. “What we like is that College is about educating the whole person. My hope is that careers information keeps getting wider in terms of the options being presented to the boys, because we all know they may have up to a dozen careers in their lifetimes.”
months and he was interviewed and tested at three different Naval and Air Force bases around the country. “There were a large number of applicants for the two helicopter pilot roles and he was one of those chosen,” says Ross. His College subjects stood him in great stead, art, mathematics and sciences all combining favourably for him. Dion went on to complete his officer training in six months and is now doing practical work experience on a naval vessel while awaiting his wings training. Ross “ Today the choices are innumerable, and the prospect of having three or four careers within a working life is increasingly seen as the norm. ” Chris Sellars
Younger son Kyle, Head of Sport this year, and a keen
hockey enthusiast who plays for Canterbury, is also benefiting from careers advice. “At this stage he’s giving hockey his best efforts. Since coming to College he’s had achievement after achievement in many different areas. It’s been very gratifying,” says Ross. Another parent who is satisfied with Chris’s advice is Ann Skelton, mother of Year 13 student Tim Ward and Year 11 student Benji Ward. “What I really appreciate is Chris’s feedback loop. After every
College Issue 38 2020
55
Made with FlippingBook Annual report