It is with great pride and pleasure that we announce Rosie Joyce as the recipient of the prestigious Otago Girls’ High School Highgate Fellowship for 2026.

The announcement was made this week by Sharon Knowles, Presiding Member of the School Board, who highlighted Rosie’s extraordinary dedication to the teaching profession and her unwavering commitment to the students of OGHS.

The Highgate Fellowship Citation

Below is the citation read by Sharon Knowles during the presentation:

"I would like to announce that the recipient of the Otago Girls’ High School Highgate Fellowship for 2026 is Rosie Joyce. This is an achievement that reflects her dedication to education and her commitment to the students.

Rosie joined us in 2014 and has since become a cornerstone of our staff. Over the last twelve years, Rosie has worn almost every 'hat' imaginable, including:

• Academic Leadership: Serving as Assistant HOD of Social Studies and Teacher in Charge of Media Studies. Rosie has taught Geography, English, Media Studies, Tourism and Social Studies in her time with us.

• Pastoral Care: As an Assistant Head of House from 2016 moving into her dedicated Year Level Dean position in 2020-2021.

• Logistics & Student Voice: Managing the complex puzzle of relief and leading the Student Council, making many innovations to make both tick over effectively.

• Co-curricular activities: Rosie has been involved in Touch and Aerobics. She has assisted in the organisation of the Year 12 Formal and many other activities.

Beyond the classroom, Rosie has led students on camps and field trips and used her expertise as a defensive driving educator to keep our seniors safe on the road. Rosie has also expanded her School Council role to branch into the PTSA, and her experience in fundraising and organisation shows clearly here. She also leads the Media and Textiles trip to Wellington each year.

Rosie displays high levels of professionalism and the school values in all that she does, going the extra mile to help others and being a valued and positive colleague. Congratulations Rosie."

A Cornerstone of the OGHS Community

As the citation reflects, Rosie has been an integral part of the fabric of our school for over a decade. Her versatility and passion inspire both her colleagues and her students. From navigating the logistics of daily relief to coaching sports and leading national trips, her impact is felt in every corner of the campus.

The Highgate Fellowship is a fitting tribute to an educator who lives and breathes the spirit of Otago Girls' High School. Please join us in congratulating Rosie Joyce on this well-deserved honour!