A pe’e by student Terry Peua led the formalities of Apii Te Uki Ou prize giving day last Friday, followed by the national anthem, the opening hymn ‘Aue Te Okotai’, a prayer by teacher Sareni Poila and the welcome speech by principal Kim Noovao.

Vaihere Marie Mitchell was the recipient of the Top Academic Dux, Top Athlete and Reo Māori awards for the year.

Mitchell was honoured and privileged to be presented the Dux award, achieving one of her biggest goals.

The Year 8 student started Te Uki Ou at pre-school level.

In her speech, Mitchell said her years at Te Uki Ou has provided her with the knowledge, opportunities, and experiences to grow, succeed and move forward as a learner.

“The safe and happy environment, our teachers, the students, the education, the loving and caring staff is what has made this journey an extremely enjoyable and happy one for me,” noted Mitchell.

“This school is my foundation and I will continue to build off it.

“I am so proud to be a student here and I encourage all students to accept all the opportunities that come your way here at Te Uki Ou and to make the most of every moment and experience.”

Mitchell acknowledged the support and encouragement of her fellow students, friends, family, and the junior college and primary teachers for their guidance, encouragement, and constant support throughout this year.

“You have taught me so much this year about what it means to be a true learner, you have pushed me to always do my best, strive for excellence, and have helped me build on what legacy I’m leaving here at Apii Te Uki Ou.”

Mitchell also expressed her gratitude to “hard working Aunty Sareni (Sareni Poila), who has known me since preschool and has always been there for me”.

She thanked her parents Tina and Josh Mitchell for their endless support throughout the year.

Mitchell aspires to continue increasing her knowledge in all areas of learning and education both inside and outside of the classroom.

Awards

Awards were presented to the Early Childhood Education (ECE) students through to Year 9.

The Overall Awards for 2023 are: The Exceptionalities Award, a new award is presented to the student in their Inclusive Education programme who has stood out in achieving their goals throughout the year - Primary Level went to Wesley Trego, and the Junior College award to Benaiah Fe’ao.

The new Enviro Award was awarded to the student who has shown dedication, passion and care for the environment – Te Aroa Tuarae-White.

Dux – Vaihere Mitchell, Visual Arts Award - Kingston Matangi, Te Reo – Vaihere Mitchell, Te Peu – Teane Ioapa, Sports – Vaihere Mitchell, Rising Leader – Teuruaa Goldsworthy.

Athletics Award: Juniors (5, 6, 7) Boys – Aahan Naidu Kakerori and Harlan Tansley, Girls – Charlie Meyer and Willa Cleaver; Intermediate (8, 9, 10) Boys – Rereao Heather-Lotomau and Ryan Street, Girl – Theadora Kirikava; Seniors (11, 12, 13) Boy - Edmund Postrzygacz, Girl – Vaihere Mitchell.