Our History
This page complements Who We Are by sharing the history and traditions that have shaped Te Kura Tuarua o Te Kauaeranga | Thames High School, and that continue to inform who we are today.
Thames High School, established in 1880, is the second oldest secondary school in the Auckland Province. For more than a century, our kura has played an important role in the education and life of the Thames and wider Coromandel and Hauraki Plains community.
Our traditional school motto, “Ut prosim patriae” — That I may be of service to the nation — reflects a long-standing commitment to service, contribution and responsibility beyond oneself.
In keeping with our mission to acknowledge our past, inspire our present and transform our future
(Kia mahara o neherā; Kia aratakina āianei; Hei waihanga ā mua), we express this commitment today through the translation:
“Kia manaaki ahau i te iwi” — That I may care for the people.
This interpretation reflects our values and our belief that education is about serving people, strengthening communities, and preparing young people to contribute positively to the world around them.
A Tradition of Learning and Service
Thames High School has long held high aspirations for its students, supporting them to reach their potential across academic, cultural, sporting and leadership opportunities.
While academic pathways, including preparation for university and other tertiary options, have traditionally been a strong focus, our kura has also evolved to recognise and value diverse pathways. Alongside academic learning, students have opportunities to engage in vocational learning, work experience and community-connected programmes that support transitions into employment, training or further study.
Guidance, encouragement and personalised support have always been central to helping students make informed choices about their learning and futures.
Bicultural Foundations and Cultural Learning
Our commitment to equity and bicultural understanding has strengthened over time and remains a core part of who we are.
Māori language courses are offered at all year levels, with a strong emphasis on developing confidence in te reo Māori and an appreciation of tikanga, culture and values. This reflects our responsibilities in Aotearoa New Zealand and our commitment to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Students also have opportunities to learn additional languages, supporting global awareness and cultural connection.
Looking Forward
While grounded in a proud history, Thames High School continues to evolve. Our traditions of service, care and community remain central, while our approaches to learning, pathways and partnership respond to the changing needs of our students and community.
Our history shapes who we are — but it is our commitment to learners, whānau and community that continues to shape who we are becoming.
