Celebrating Success

Waikato Trades Academy

The Wintec Waikato Trades Academy Special Awards Evening was held on the 31st October at The Atrium. The evening celebrates the success of all the students who have participated in the various Trades Academy programmes across the wider Waikato region. Two students from HGHS were amongst the recipients receiving awards:-

Cadence Kepa - Excellence in L2 Construction and Infrastructure

Mia Vdoviak - Excellence in L2 Cookery

Both students intend to continue into the L3 courses within their disciplines.

David Johnstone Charitable Trust

Each year selected schools within the Waikato region are allowed to nominate up to three students for the prestigious David Johnstone Charitable Trust Scholarships. The students need to be going to study either at the University of Waikato or Wintec the following year. The Trustees select the recipients based on their applications which not only show how they align to the values espoused by David Johnstone, but also show evidence of a rural connection. HGHS was fortunate to have all three of its nominees offered the $6000 scholarship. The awards evening was held on the 26th November at the University of Waikato’s Performing Arts Centre.

Vanshika Kapila - Wintec  - NZ Certificate in Animal Healthcare Assisting L4 (Rural Animal Healthcare Strand)

Nathalie Stark - University of Waikato – Bachelor of Engineering (Hons)

Lizzy Hall – declined the offer as she now intends to study with the Otago Polytech.

First Foundation Scholarship

Congratulations to Hayley Jorgensen who is the recipient of a 2025 First Foundation Scholarship. These scholarships are unique in that they more than just financial assistance; they are a four-year journey committed to unleashing the potential of talented Kiwis from a range of backgrounds. This includes mentorship, exposure to the world of work, and a strong network of connections.