A New Tradition is Born
When Principal Miss Farquharson first proposed a house system at Rangi Ruru in 1947, the idea was initially met with resistance. The school had recently been acquired by the Presbyterian Church, the Gibson sisters had departed, and many students were weary of further change. Prefects rejected the idea–until a compromise was offered. Instead of houses, the term ‘clans’ would be used, a nod to the Presbyterian Church’s Scottish heritage. With that agreement, the Rangi Ruru clan system was established, based on Miss Farquharson’s vision to foster spirit and pride, and to encourage students to take more care in their work, games, tidiness, and uniform. Today, that vision remains central to the Rangi Ruru experience. Clan colours are proudly worn, the rivalry during challenges is strong, and the sense of belonging that clans create continues to be a vital part of school life.
This term marked the next evolution of that tradition with the introduction of Clan Whānau, an initiative designed to strengthen cross-year connections and further embed wellbeing and leadership opportunities within the clan structure. Clan Whānau was developed in response to feedback gathered in the 2024 School Culture and Ask Your Team surveys. In both, students and families expressed a strong desire for more opportunities to connect across year levels. The initiative was launched at the start of Term 2 and is intended to build on the strengths of the existing clan model by creating even deeper, more meaningful relationships within the school community.
At its heart, Clan Whānau is about connection. This has been established through the creation of smaller groups within a clan, made up of students from Years 7 to 13. These groups are led by Year 13 students–Clan Seniors–who are supported by a Clan Whānau Tutor, a teacher from the same clan. Tutors attend weekly sessions, mark attendance, and mentor student leaders, while allowing seniors the space to lead and develop their skills.
The whānau group remains consistent throughout a student’s time at Rangi Ruru. Long-term relationships and a strong sense of belonging will be fostered because of this. New students in Years 7 and 9 are welcomed into their whānau at the beginning of each year, helping them settle quickly into school life. Whānau sessions are held weekly during Hui Time on Wednesdays, providing a regular time to connect and grow together.
Clans have always played a critical role in supporting student wellbeing. They provide a sense of identity, promote inclusion, and create links between past, present and future generations of ākonga. As Head of Clan Leaders Marisa Reeg explained, “At Rangi Ruru, we are privileged to be part of something truly special–our clans. They are not just a tradition; they are a core part of our identity. This year, our theme, ‘Nest together, soar forever’, speaks to the heart of what clans stand for: coming together as a community, lifting each other up, and taking flight with confidence.”
Clan Whānau represents the next chapter in a legacy that began nearly 80 years ago. Rooted in the vision of Miss Farquharson and shaped by the voices of today’s students and families, it reflects the school’s commitment to nurturing a connected and supportive culture that will continue to grow with each generation.
