Apii Nikao has joined Tereora College in signing up to the Student Volunteer Army Service Awards.

With a huge roll number of 400 primary school students, Apii Nikao student leaders will all be part of this new initiative this year, focusing on helping others, particularly those who need the most support.

Last week, the school held its student leaders’ special assembly in the school hall.

Michael Mokai, principal of Apii Nikao, said: “In 2024, our student leaders’ responsibilities are based on service.”

He expressed that the students will undertake traditional roles, helping staff with positive behaviour management, organising events, representing students and the school, assisting in daily school operations, and promoting a positive school culture.

Mokai is excited to work with this year’s group of young leaders.

“Our Student Leadership Guidance Team looks forward to working closely with the newly elected student leaders, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to the school’s culture and fostering a supportive environment for all students,” he said.

“We, and their families, are very proud of them for accepting the challenge of leadership at Apii Nikao for 2024 and I would like to extend my gratitude to all the candidates who participated in the election.”

The student leaders are nominated by their peers and endorsed by a staff member and a caregiver to stand for the student leader election.

They are voted into these leadership roles by their peers and the school staff.

Mokai said that although each student has an individual leadership style and a unique set of skills, they have all demonstrated a commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere within the Apii Nikao school community.

Head boy Sailor Areai said, “My family is feeling very proud and I’m also feeling proud of myself and excited to be able to have a leadership role at Apii Nikao.”

Head girl Sandy Tauraki expressed that her goal this year is to set an example for the students by being a role model who is respectful, responsible, and honest.

The Apii Nikao 2024 Student Leaders are: Head Girl - Sandy Tauraki, Head Boy - Sailor Areai, Deputy Head Girl - Halle Herman, Deputy Head Boy - Tekaria Matheson; Mia Mokai, Moeata Willis, Harold Browne, Gideon Ngametua, To’oa Mouauri, Temaika Boag, Tarita Raumea, Tarome Nooroa, Terito Napa, Teremoana Leito, Dezal Tokorangi, Alexis Kelly, Vaihere Nicholas, Tyla Lambert, Terina Williams, Joy Moeara, Troy Tauraa, Kimiora Patai, Joshua Kaimarama, Sophia Forsyth and Sophia Dunn.