One particular memory involves a “light-bulb” moment while watching the rugby. “I have to say I have never been a rugby man,’’ he says. “However I was standing on the side-line of a College versus CBHS game when I saw Damian McKenzie, now one of the up and coming stars of the Chiefs, make a break. Watching his move, I suddenly understood what rugby was all about!’’ Deputy Principal Rob Donaldson says Robin Sutton had an enormous personal commitment to improving academic standards for all boys, and was tireless in his work to ensure College adopted NCEA assessment framework to its best effect. He was also instrumental in encouraging achievement with the introduction of incentives such as the Gold Badge and Gold Tie for academic achievement. “His encouragement to boys to aspire to higher achievement was instrumental in improving our Scholarship grades. He focused on what each department could offer
for Scholarship extension study and was certainly known for his pep talks to boys and staff about making things happen. “He had a keen interest in educational innovation, but did not subscribe to educational fads. He made decisions based on evidence and data, rather than going with a fashionable trend.’’ Rob Donaldson says Robin played a vital role in the implementation of the introduction of all boys using a laptop, working with a committee and IT Director Paul Rodley to ensure implementation of the scheme was thoroughly planned. “His personal style was very affable and he had a great sense of humour. He had a great rapport with the staff but was not afraid to speak frankly when things needed to improve. His tenure at College was characterised by optimism, cheerfulness and resourcefulness.’’ Robin had a wide range of interests outside school, including writing historical fiction and rock and roll dancing with his wife Lorraine.
Farewell to Pam Hallams
College has said farewell to Mrs Pam Hallams from the Bursar’s Office who was was in charge of Accounts Payable for 32 years. We wish her well in her retirement.
“The staff have a level of caring and knowledge of the boys that is way beyondwhat you find inmost secondary schools, probably based on the House systemwe have.The ethos of College is the sense of being part of a caring, supportive family’’ Robin Sutton
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College Issue 31 2016
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