Fairfield College

Fairfield College is a co-educational state secondary school in Hamilton, New Zealand. Located in the north-east suburb of Fairfield, it was founded in 1957. Built on the site of a former 36acre dairy farm which is leased from Tainui iwi, it is one of the largest school sites in the country.HistoryFirst principal was C.M. Sealey (1957–60) who was succeeded by J. Yolland (1961–1965), during which time the roll increased to 1140. Staff increased to 51 and three new blocks were opened, the administration block featuring a small armoury accommodating rifles for school cadets. A swimming pool and the first gymnasium (later named the Kelly gym) were constructed, and the two-storey Y block was named Yolland Block. The third principal was F. Forster, (1965–69).The student based school council was introduced during his tenure.John Kelly (1970–80) introduced mufti as an optional alternative to school uniform in 1974, the first Hamilton school to do so, and only the fourth in New Zealand. He banned caning and introduced the system of deans. The school grew to a maximum of 1425 in 1978. He strongly promoted rowing, rugby and drama productions. He introduced general studies which gave form 6 students opportunity to engage in a wide range of sporting programmes not available at the school, such as sail boarding, clay pigeon shooting, croquet and indoor bowls. Kelly was a keen supporter of overseas aid projects and involved students in fund raising for simple irrigation pumps which could be used in third world nations.The fifth principal was David Hood who continued the policies of John Kelly that he had helped formulate. From Newcastle in England,with a background as a merchant marine officer, Hood was recognised for his inclusive, relaxed style of management. He encouraged new initiatives, including establishment on unused ground of the large stands of radiata pine. He was succeeded by the sixth principal, B. Prestidge in the 1980s before Caroline Bennett was principal during the 90s until 2006. During her time the Māori roll in the school grew from eight percent to 35 percent. The marae complex, initiated by B Prestidge, was completed after a decade. The richly carved wharenui became the base for Ngapurapura (seeds), an alternative education programme for Māori students, who were at risk of dropping out of the educational system.