If you had never visited Auckland’s Russian school, Sails, it wasn’t hard to find your way to the school in early December last year. The streets around the school were lined with parked cars as groups of children and adults made their way to the building, carrying trays of food and boxes filled with treats. Everyone was dressed smartly, exuding an air of excitement and anticipation. Girls in elegant, long, predominantly white dresses added a festive touch to the occasion. After all, Sails had a milestone to celebrate – it was turning 10!
Do you remember the words from Captain Vrungel’s song in the old Soviet cartoon? ‘As you name the yacht, so shall it sail.’ A decade ago, when Elena Orlova and her closest friends and colleagues founded the school, they named it Sails. True to its name, it has stayed the course, navigating the vast and sometimes challenging ocean of education with confidence and purpose.
I still remember 31 January 2015, when I was fortunate enough to attend the school’s very first Open Day when Elena was welcoming prospective students and their parents at the start of the school’s journey. Ten years later, at the anniversary celebration, she fondly recalled how, on that very day, she was so nervous that she forgot her shoes at home. As it turned out, going barefoot became her lucky charm – one that has brought a decade of success.
Fast forward ten years, and Elena Orlova – the founder, leader, and, without exaggeration, the heart of the school – once again greeted guests at the door. She knew everyone by name, exchanged smiles, took photos with guests, and answered dozens of questions on the go. The school had quickly filled with students, parents, teachers, and friends, all eager to celebrate.
Inside, the festive atmosphere reflected the school’s name. Blue-and-white waves decorated the ceiling, nautical symbols adorned the walls, and vibrant energy filled the room. Captain Vrungel himself would have approved: ‘You don’t name a ship for nothing!’ The school’s emblem – a proud and fearless ship – reminded everyone of its mission: to help students catch the wind of knowledge and, at times, bravely sail against the current.
The anniversary event was packed with activities. It was astonishing how much guests experienced in just a few hours. Everything seemed effortless and fun, yet behind the scenes, meticulous planning by Elena and her dedicated team ensured a smooth and engaging programme. The systematic approach has been the foundation of the school’s operation from the very beginning, allowing it to function as a single, cohesive entity.
A highlight of the celebration was the school’s 10-year retrospective, creatively presented as a quiz. Attendees guessed fun statistics – how many students had enrolled, how many subjects had been taught, how many notebooks had been used, and even how many photos had been taken over the years.
Next came interactive lessons where children, along with their parents and guests, solved puzzles, identified song melodies, and drew pictures – an enthusiastic showcase of the knowledge they had gained in the classroom.
The school’s growth over the past decade was evident, with many new subjects introduced in recent years. Outstanding students were awarded medals, and among those recognised were winners of chess championships and martial arts tournaments.
Lessons alternated with dance performances and even a fashion show, where young designers proudly modelled outfits they had sewn themselves. When it was time for refreshments, the tables transformed into a culinary feast – pies, salads, sandwiches, and, of course, spectacular cakes. No one left empty-handed – there were prizes, medals, laughter, and, of course, a delicious slice of cake.
This unforgettable day was proof that Sails is more than just a school. It is a place that educates, unites, and inspires, reminding students of the importance of culture, heritage, and community.
Special thanks go to Elena Orlova for turning her vision into reality and for carrying the enormous responsibility of leading the school, ensuring its growth and preserving its traditions. Deep gratitude also goes to the dedicated teachers and staff who have created this extraordinary world of knowledge, culture, and friendship.
Onward, Sails! To new horizons!
Marina Pechorina, Auckland
(translated by Elena Naumova)
