“I’ve always enjoyed the no-nonsense academic approach ACG Parnell has, and the amazing teachers – but I’ve also loved being part of wider school activities. They’ve enabled me to make some great memories and friends,” he says.
Since starting at the school seven years ago, Andrew has embraced a host of musical and sporting opportunities.
“I’ve played in the Junior Rock Band and Junior Concert Band and currently play tenor saxophone in the Senior Concert Band, Big Band and Senior Jazz Combo. In terms of sports I’ve played hockey since Year 7 and also play for the school’s social football team. Plus, I’ve been involved in the rock-climbing club and running club.”
His efforts have earned him a string of awards and helped him build invaluable leadership skills.
“Last year’s results for the music groups at the KBB Music Festival were amazing, getting one gold, two silvers and the best performance of a New Zealand piece for big band; it was a culmination of years of hard work. The hockey team coming second in 2018 was also really rewarding, especially as I was one of the senior members of the team.”
In the past few years Andrew has co-captained and co-coached the hockey team, been a senior member of the school’s music groups, and last year, he was a prefect. These opportunities have prepared him well for the responsibilities of Head Boy.
“When I first found out I’d been chosen I was very surprised. In fact, I didn’t believe it for a while! But as it began to set in, I felt quite proud and became very motivated to do the best job I can. Being Head Boy has given me the opportunity to give back to the school in a really meaningful way.”
And although Covid-19 has “thrown many of our plans up in the air”, Andrew has enjoyed rising to the leadership challenge.
“I’ve really enjoyed the events we’ve run this year like quiz night. Seeing people having fun makes all the hard work worthwhile. The swimming sports was also lots of fun, and some of the fundraising we’ve done for charity has been really cool to be involved with.”
In his many years at ACG Parnell College, Andrew has embraced every opportunity to learn and grow, and he hopes as Head Boy, he is inspiring other students to do the same.
“I guess I’d like to say to everyone ‘make sure you take up all the opportunities you are given’. As we’ve all seen this year you never know what’s around the corner and you never know when it might be your last chance to do something.”
So, what will Andrew take away from it all when 2020 draws to a close and he looks ahead to the next step on his educational journey?
“I think the greatest lessons I will take away from my time at ACG Parnell are the school values. The idea of wholeheartedness has really resonated with me.”
