Angus Gifford – Year 12, Jacobs House Love of Learning, Creativity
Angus enjoys a very busy life at College, with his academic subjects only part of his programme. While he thrives on objective goals – he gained a Gold Badge and Tie for Excellence in Year 11 – Angus’ time is carefully split between schoolwork, three different choirs – including the Chapel Choir and Schola Cantorum – work for his Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, serving on the Youth Advisory Council to the Canterbury District Health Board, and tutoring primary-age children for a College student initiative. He says to succeed at College you need to be willing to adapt, but also not be entirely accepting of the status quo. The House system brings its challenges, but he is finding it increasingly appealing. Angus hopes to study medicine. Aaron Kwak – Year 10, Rolleston House Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence, Leadership, Love of Learning Aaron is thriving at College and, as a goal setter, he has his targets clearly identified. First up are his Diploma studies, which he has “all planned out” with the intention of ultimately achieving a Gold Diploma with Academic Honours. Aaron says the House system is brilliant at breaking down barriers, and he has embraced everything on offer. “I’ve had so many opportunities already and they’ve allowed me to grow as a person.” Learning to get on with people and make friends have been important growth paths. Aaron finds sport, Football especially, a good way to meet new people. He is in the debating club, and part of the Junior Round Square Committee and the Student Senate.
Zinzan Bondarenko-Leatua – Year 11, Julius House Zest, Love, Gratitude
With Russian and Samoan parentage, Zinzan started at College in 2022. Six months on, he is fully immersed in the school, its systems and culture. “The size of the school was a surprise and after coming from a co-ed environment it was a bit confronting to have all these other guys around you.” The brotherhood and the camaraderie meant he was quickly accepted. He has played Volleyball, is in the U15A Rugby team, and on the Bicultural Committee. He has also had various roles in Light at the End of the Tunnel , is an Eco-Action warrior and a member of the Chess Club. Zinzan says there is so much on offer at College, with opportunities for everyone. He would love to take the lead in a future production and being in the 1st XV would be a massive achievement. He loves Accounting and English.
COLLEGE 2022
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