Kia ora students, whanau and community

At the end of our year, we have two final assemblies that celebrate a number of our students. One is to celebrate diligent students and the other is our Prizegiving, which celebrates excellence. In preparing for these events and award ceremonies I thought it was important to make sure our students understand the importance of both of these values. Diligence and excellence are both admirable qualities, but they differ in their focus and application.

Diligence refers to the careful and persistent effort one puts into a task or duty. It involves being attentive, thorough, and conscientious in one's work. A diligent person is committed to completing tasks with accuracy and attention to detail, often demonstrating a strong work ethic and dedication to achieving goals. Diligence is about staying focused and not cutting corners, even when faced with challenges.

On the other hand, excellence is the quality of being outstanding or extremely good at something. It goes beyond just completing a task diligently; it involves surpassing expectations and striving for the highest standard of performance. Excellence implies a commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and a willingness to go above and beyond what is merely required. Achieving excellence requires a combination of skill, passion, and a constant pursuit of improvement.

In essence, diligence is about the consistent and careful application of effort, while excellence is the pursuit of outstanding results and continuous improvement. Diligence lays the foundation for excellence, as being diligent in your work is often a prerequisite for achieving excellence. However, achieving excellence also requires a mindset that seeks to push boundaries, innovate, and surpass ordinary expectations.

In the journey toward success, individuals often find that combining diligence with a pursuit of excellence creates a powerful formula for personal and professional growth. Diligence sets the stage by ensuring tasks are completed thoroughly and responsibly, while excellence takes it a step further by aiming for exceptional results and constant advancement. Together, these qualities can lead to a fulfilling and impactful life, both personally and professionally.

Wishing you a happy and safe weekend

Hei konā rā

Belinda Hirst

Deputy Principal, Oamaru Intermediate School