What did Tawa College, Jerry Collins, and barbershop quartets have in common? They all found a home here, in the heart of Tawa, at Tawa College. This vibrant school first opened its doors in 1961 and quickly established itself as a pillar of the community. It has consistently nurtured young minds, fostered talents, and produced notable figures who have made their mark on the world.
You might recognize the name Jerry Collins. This legendary All Blacks captain, known for his ferocious tackles and unwavering dedication, walked these very halls. And if you’re a fan of music, you might be interested to know that Tawa College boasts a remarkable legacy in the arts, particularly singing. The school has produced several national and international barbershop quartet and chorus champions, including the phenomenal Musical Island Boys. These young men, once students here, went on to achieve national barbershop champion status in 2004 and in 2014, they were crowned Barbershop Harmony Society International Quartet Champions!
Now, about those buildings. Tawa College currently has ten classroom blocks, each with a unique purpose and history. You’ll see A Block for the creatives, B Block for the social studies enthusiasts, C Block with its English and science classrooms, and D Block humming with the energy of mathematics. And nestled among them is F Block, the drama block, home to a miniature theater that was recently renovated.
But my story wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the distinctive Tawa College uniform – a symbol of the school’s identity. Have you ever seen a kilt with the Duncan tartan? That’s right, the girls’ uniform boasts a kilt, and the school has special permission from the Scottish clan to use this tartan! The school’s colors – blue, red, and yellow – are woven into the very fabric of the uniform, a proud display of Tawa College spirit.
As you stand here, imagine the halls bustling with students, the echoes of laughter, the energy of learning, and the pursuit of excellence that have become synonymous with Tawa College.