Southland Boys’ High School Rector Resigns

• Coe’s leadership enhanced academic and sports achievements.
• Southland Boys’ High School praises Coe’s impactful tenure.

After nearly eight years of dedicated service, Simon Coe, the Rector of Southland Boys’ High School, has announced his resignation. He will take up the position of Headmaster at Napier Boys’ High School in Hawke’s Bay, starting early in term three. Currently on sabbatical, Coe will return to Southland Boys’ for two weeks before transitioning to his new role.

Coe joined Southland Boys’ High School in 2017 with a vision to build a school of mana, strong kotahitanga, collective success, and a student-centric environment. Under his leadership, the school achieved remarkable academic success, with NCEA results in 2023 surpassing the national average and outperforming all boys in Southland. This success was bolstered by the establishment of the Southland Boys’ High School Club in 2018, which requires students to attain all NCEA credits at Excellence.

Sports also flourished during Coe’s tenure, with significant achievements in cycling, running, and rugby. The First XV rugby team’s national championship win in 2023 and numerous students representing New Zealand on the national stage were among the highlights.

Coe oversaw substantial improvements to the school’s infrastructure, including new heating systems in the hostel and classrooms, upgrades to classroom blocks, the installation of a hockey turf, and a heritage-approved roof.

School Board co-chair Chami Abeysinghe praised Coe’s contributions, stating, “Simon leaves a great legacy. Successful, well-rounded young men graduate from Southland Boys’ High School with the skills they need to succeed in life. We thank Simon for his commitment and leadership and wish him all the best with his new role at Napier Boys’ High School.”

Reflecting on his time at Southland Boys’ High School, Coe expressed pride in the school’s accomplishments and its strong community identity. “Seeing the boys succeed where they thought they couldn’t, pushing their own boundaries, and taking advantage of opportunities presented to them is something I am very proud of,” Coe said. He wishes the school the best for the future and is confident in its continued success.