On the concluding day of the academic calendar, families and esteemed guests convened at the Sports Centre alongside our Year 7–10 students for the Middle School Prizegiving, an occasion acknowledging their accomplishments in academics, sports, and the performing arts. The official assembly of Trust Board members, College leaders, and teaching staff commenced with a karanga, then, accompanied by the College Symphonic Band and soloist Lincoln Jones, all sang God Defend New Zealand.

Before the distribution of awards, College Principal Mr Damon Emtage delivered an address recognising the pivotal role the school plays in providing students with a platform for personal growth and leadership. He emphasised, “Our College fosters an environment where students can explore diverse roles, from scholars and artists to leaders and compassionate citizens. Nurturing these aspirations is vital for the betterment of our world. Our students’ aspirations to mend, create, and change underscore the privilege we have in shaping future leaders.”

In acknowledgment of excellence, effort, diligence, and achievement, the foremost students from each year group stepped forward to receive their accolades from Mr Emtage, Director of Campus Life and Special Character Mr Duncan McQueen, Deputy Principal of Middle College Mr Carl Lidstone, and Head of Year 7 Mr Kevin Taylor.

Following this, Special Awards and Top Academic Awards were presented by Executive Trustee Dr Kevin Morris. Noteworthy among these were the ‘All Round’ honours awarded to Violet Taylor as the outstanding girl and Leofe Usufono as the exemplary boy for exemplifying dedication and commitment to excellence across all facets of College life. 

Ending the formal proceedings, the College Pipes and Drums marked the conclusion of the year with the traditional Beating the Retreat from the bridge as the official party departed.

Our deepest congratulations to all our deserving award recipients. Here are some highlights among the top awardees:

Special Awards 

Menzies Cup for Citizenship (Years 7 & 8)                                          Liam Hurley

Cameron Prize for Citizenship (Year 9)                                               Hannah Lucas

Cameron Prize for Citizenship (Year 10)                                             Isobel Jacobs

Middle School Prose (Years 9 & 10)                                                    Sarah Zhao

Middle School Poetry (Years 9 & 10)                                                  George McGuinness

Birch Cup for Year 10 Girl All Round Ability                                        Violet Taylor

J. E. H Kururangi Cup for Year 10 Boy All Round Ability                      Leofe Usufono

Junior Speech Award                                                                          Millicent MacLeod

Top Academic Awards

Top Academic Student in Year 7                                                         Xiaochao Dai

Top Academic Student in Year 8                                                         Hao Tian Hu

Top Academic Student in Year 9                                                         Hannah Lucas

Top Academic Student in Year 10                                                       Benjamin Lin

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