Students honoured

Stratford High School's newest Dux realised the accolade was within her reach only earlier this year.

Rachel Martin (18) says that while she had always dreamed of getting the top award she realised it was achievable only this year.

"My first few assignments came back with good marks and I decided just to work as hard as I could and aim for it."

Rachel, who held the role of Student Council chairperson, is looking forward to next year when she plans to study at Victoria University in Wellington.

Proximate Accessit, Robbie Howatson, also looks forward to studying at Victoria University next year.

Recipient of the Roodbeen Trophy for Best All Round Senior Student was awarded to Noeleen Venter. Noeleen was nominated for the award for her active involvement in groups within the school including Students Against Driving Dangerously, the Ball Committee, Peer Tutoring, Peer Support and the 40-Hour Famine. Noeleen also held the position of Arts and Culture captain this year.

Sportsperson of the Year was jointly awarded to Lara Williams and Quintin Bailey for their sporting achievements. This year Lara has represented not only her school but has been selected for regional and national level teams for hockey. Quintin has represented New Zealand this year in basketball.

Past student Jeremiah Trueman was guest speaker at the prizegiving and spoke about his experience playing with the New Zealand Breakers basketball team. Jeremiah spoke about how it is important to set goals and do your best to stick to them when planning for your future.

Principal Philip Keenan says that it was a wonderful afternoon that represented a fantastic year for the senior students in the school.

Cultural Awards: Kurahaupo Trophy (achievement in oral Maori): Freedom Walker. Whakaahurangi MWW League Trophy (achievement in Maori language): Darelle Edwards Thompson. Whakaahurangi Marae Trophy (achievement in Maori art & craft): Samme Sara Harrop Marriner. Whaia te Iti Kahurangi Outstanding Leadership by a Senior Maori Student: Jason Manuel-Issacs. Me Mahi Ururoa (contributions to kapa haka): Gregory Matthews.

Rotary Club Shield Senior Public Speaking: Robbie Howatson. Habershon Memorial Scroll (contribution to Shakespearean pursuits): Jessica Graham. Stephanie Cox Memorial Trophy (dedication to the French language): Huia Brown. Roodbeen Family Trophy Best All-Round Senior Student: Noeleen Venter.

Academic awards: Hermann Family Trophy, Best Year 11 Academic Student: Bailey Gavin. Cusack Cup Academic Excellence, Year 12: Kody Simpson. Sextus Family Trophy Proxime Accessit: Robbie Howatson. Dux Medal: Rachel Martin.

Sports awards: Clifford Jones Memorial Trophy, Best All-Round Sportsman (Senior): Dayle Bailey. SHS Interact Trophy, Best All-Round Sportswoman (Senior): Katie Taylor. Sturmer Family Cup, Sportsperson of the Year: Lara Williams and Quintin Bailey.