From the Acting Principal
Kia ora e te whānau,
It would be no understatement to say that our kura has been deeply challenged over the past two weeks as we faced the loss of our much-loved English Leader of Learning, Kathleen Wilson.
Having been both a student and a staff member for over 25 years, Kathleen was far more than a teacher and colleague to many. She was a friend, a supporter, a mentor, a listener — and so much more to so many in our SHGC whānau. A loss such as this sends ripples that will continue to be felt across our kura.
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Kia ora e te whānau,
It would be no understatement to say that our kura has been deeply challenged over the past two weeks as we faced the loss of our much-loved English Leader of Learning, Kathleen Wilson.
Having been both a student and a staff member for over 25 years, Kathleen was far more than a teacher and colleague to many. She was a friend, a supporter, a mentor, a listener — and so much more to so many in our SHGC whānau. A loss such as this sends ripples that will continue to be felt across our kura.
It is that ripple effect that both amazed and inspired me last week. Our students carried themselves with such dignity, respect, and care for one another and for staff. Rituals and gatherings arose spontaneously and authentically, with many students naturally guiding others in a tuakana/teina spirit. This was a profound demonstration of the special charism and foundational principles that make Sacred Heart Girls’ College such a wonderful place.
Thank you to all our whānau for walking alongside us through this time.
Arohanui,
Dean Rogers
Catholic Character
2026 Scholarship Applications now open!
Applications are now open for the 2026 Catholic Character Scholarship – and if you’re wondering whether to apply, read on.
Last year’s recipient, Jessica Sylvester, used her scholarship to attend two transformative events during the school holidays: LifeTeen Summer Camp and the Set Free Festival. Here’s what she had to say.
"I was honoured to be a recipient of the 2025 Catholic Character Scholarship and am truly grateful to the Board of Trustees for giving me the opportunity to deepen my personal faith while giving back to Sacred Heart.
Both experiences were incredibly meaningful and life-changing, including Masses, sessions, and fun activities to connect with other youth. I had the opportunity to attend Mass every day, go to confession, and spend time in Adoration — experiencing God’s Real Presence, especially during Benediction.
Attending these events helped me deepen my faith, find a community of like-minded people my age in the same religion, albeit at different stages of their faith journeys, and learn more about God and His purpose for me.
If you’re thinking about applying for the 2026 scholarship – just do it! Trust that God has good plans for you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Jessica Sylvester, 2025 Catholic Character Scholarship recipient
2026 Application Form
Academic Achievements
2026 Academic Awards Night
On 29 April, three Sacred Heart students were recognised at the 2026 Academic Awards Night, held at The Pā, University of Waikato.
Hosted in partnership with the Refugee Orientation Centre Trust (ROC), the University of Waikato, and the Ministry of Education Community Partnerships Team, the evening celebrated high-achieving secondary students from diverse ethnic backgrounds across Hamilton and the surrounding region — honouring both their academic success and the connections built through the Learning Community Hubs between families, communities, schools, and agencies.
We are proud to congratulate our recipients:
Chunwa Ogechi-Okoro, Roxie Dandan, and Ishika Mehta
A wonderful recognition of your hard work and the communities that support you.
2026 Production
Oliver! – A Farewell to Remember
By Charlie Steenson
Oliver! was a memorable experience for everyone involved – and for me, one I’ll never forget.
From the very first rehearsals at St John’s College, we spent months building this show from the ground up, watching it grow into something truly special. With a cast of around 70 people, it was incredible to see everyone find their character — from Oliver and the Artful Dodger to Fagin, Nancy, and Bill.
Our production brought a fresh twist to the classic story, setting it in the 1990s and giving it a new energy that audiences loved. Performing at Clarence St Theatre in March made everything feel real; that big stage had a way of making all those months of hard work suddenly, completely worth it. For me, playing Widow Corney was a chance to grow in confidence and stage presence, bringing a bold, comedic character to life.
As my final high school production, Oliver! holds a very special place in my heart – and I know I’m not alone in that. It was a production full of energy, talent, and collaboration, and one that will be remembered fondly by everyone who was part of it.
Music News
New Zealand Jazz Festival
On 1st April, six talented musicians from our SHGC Jazz Combo travelled to Tauranga to perform at the Annual NZ Jazz Festival – a showcase of some of the finest jazz talent from across the country.
Anna Turigan (piano), Clare Stevens (alto saxophone), Abby Lawn (drums), Lizzie Barr (trumpet), Chloe Hilaro (bass guitar), and Sandrine Riady (electric guitar) represented Sacred Heart with distinction, performing alongside high-calibre players from around New Zealand. The experience gave our girls a wonderful opportunity to hear exceptional musicianship up close, inspiring them to reflect critically on their own practice and ensemble awareness.
A huge thank you to Jazz Director Mr Paul Norman, whose tireless dedication to jazz at SHGC, including those early 7:15am Wednesday morning rehearsals, makes opportunities like this possible.
Summer Sports Awards
Congratulations to all of our Sports Awards recipients – every certificate, colour badge, and trophy represents dedication, heart, and mahi well done.
Award recipients
Knitting for good!
We’re supporting Premmie Knitting Club by making Peggy Square blankets for babies in Waikato Hospital NICU. Our goal is 5 blankets (100 squares) by 30 June.
Parents and whānau are welcome to contribute by donating completed squares.
These can be knitted or crocheted.
Details:
- 100% wool, 8ply yarn, 4mm needles
- Squares must be 15cm x 15cm
- Drop off at the Notre Dame Centre
We would also love donations of 4mm knitting needles and 8ply 100% wool yarn for our students to use. These can also be dropped off at the Notre Dame Centre.
Thank you for your support!
More info and pattern
International Students
Term 2 is well underway, and our international students are making their mark — enriching our school culture and embracing everything Sacred Heart has to offer. It’s wonderful to see them thrive.
We’re welcoming more international students in Term 3, and we’d love to grow our homestay family. If you’re interested in hosting, take a look at the details below.
We are searching for caring host couples and families in Waikato to welcome our international students into their homes in 2025. Hosting an international student can be such a rewarding experience!
- You and your family will get to know a different culture, traditions and perspectives first-hand.
- You’ll get to rediscover our region, taking a student to your favourite places
- As a host family, you will earn extra income.
For more information, contact Lisa Cowen: lcowen@shgcham.school.nz
Our Vision
Ignite the Passion: inspiring young women to change the world – me aro ki te hā o Hineahuone!