South Otago High School (SOHS) held its centenary celebrations during the holiday weekend, pulling in more than 450 former students, staff and family members from across the world to mark the occasion.
Guest of honour was former head girl and teacher Kereyn Smith, CNZM, who was born in Clinton and went on to an illustrious career in sports governance.
Mrs Smith, who was chief executive and secretary-general of the New Zealand Olympic Committee between 2011 and 2021, praised the school as one that ‘‘[gave] you chances’’.
She said coming from a small rural school did not restrict you from achieving big goals, and thanked the teachers who gave her the opportunity to make mistakes.
‘‘They taught me leadership is not about perfection, but about growth.’’
She said the school was the ‘‘heartbeat’’ of a diverse and ever-changing community, sentiments echoed by SOHS teacher of 49 years John Douglas.
Mr Douglas was standing in for principal Mike Wright, who was unable to attend due to illness.
‘‘Community schools like this tend to have multiple generations come through. I know we have some fourth-generation students right now.
‘‘That places a school right at the very heart of its community, as everyone has a familial connection.’’
Alongside earnest sentiment, several former students also indulged in humorous reflection about past uniforms and rules.
Viewing a display of uniforms, including one from their schooldays in the 1960s, were former students Stan Briggs and Trevor Sutherland.
Mr Sutherland said he remembered a different day-to-day uniform, observing the dummy was wearing a special sporting ‘‘blues’’ jacket.
‘‘I remember wearing a jersey and the shorts you can see here. I can’t say I remember this chap though,’’ he joked.
Centenary committee chairman Ken Blair said the committee was pleased with registrations and turnout.
‘‘Your schooldays are your roots, and the formative years of your life. It’s been great to see everyone catching up with old mates and reminiscing.’’
