Co-curricular Opportunities

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AuralieYear 11

“I used to think being a leader was all about telling everyone else what to do, but being at Pakuranga College, I’ve learnt what a good leader is and how to be one. Yes, you have to step up and take charge but I’ve learnt that a good leader is also someone who is a team player, is encouraging and supportive and able to take initiative and be relied on.”

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StephanyYear 13

“I’ve found that being in school councils, especially the Cultural Council, has given me a sense of belonging at Pakuranga College. I’ve met many people both culturally similar and different to me, learnt new languages, and tasted new foods, all of which have made school feel like a real community.

A cultural group can be a place where students feel a sense of home, surrounded by others who understand them. Having a community to rely on for support could be the stepping-stone to trying more college activities and living school life to the fullest!”

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VidyaYear 13

“The groups and clubs at the college have absolutely enhanced my time here. Being student-led means we get to help shape an environment where we are comfortable. Personally, I have benefitted from expressing my culture and stepping out of my comfort zone to coach a sports team for the first time; plus the friendships I have made are amazing.

For new students, joining a group will make your college life more memorable and everyone is so welcoming. There’s nothing to lose!”

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BodhiYear 11

“Representing Pakuranga College in sports is a lot of fun. I get to meet new friends, learn more skills, and keep fit at the same time. I’m a competitive club swimmer and it’s been really great to continue that at school, starting with our annual Swimming Sports and progressing through to the interschool, Champions of Champions, and National Secondary Schools competitions.

You don’t have to be competitive; the Sports Department runs a huge sports programme for all students from elite to those just wanting to give sport a go. There are so many opportunities – I believe everyone should try a sport, you’ll definitely have fun.”

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JordanYear 12

“There are leadership opportunities for everyone! You don’t have to be Head Student, you could captain your sports team, work with Year 9 students as a Peer Support Leader, or get involved in your Whānau as a Student Whānau Leader.

There’s lots of scope to be a leader as you progress through the college and some students even make their own leadership opportunities by creating new initiatives based on what they’re passionate about. Our teachers are really supportive of this, it’s how we’ve ended up with over 100 co-curricular activities to choose from!”

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AuralieYear 12

“I definitely think that Pakuranga College values leadership and believes we can all be good leaders. We have leadership opportunities in all shapes and sizes, from cultural, academic, and sports to running Whānau Group activities and leading groups in subject classes.

The college has given me many opportunities to become a leader. In Year 9, I participated in an accelerated leadership programme run by one of the Head Students. In Year 10, I attended a leadership camp and ran inter-tutor activities for my Whānau. This year I have been given the chance to mentor Year 9 students, helping them with any problems they may have. I really enjoy these opportunities.”

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FinlayYear 13

“To anyone who's sceptical about joining a sporting programme, don't be. There are opportunities for all skill levels through competitive and social teams. Make the most of the school's programmes, get some friends together, and have a laugh as a social team. Or join a team and meet new friends. I’ve made some of my closest friends through sports teams. Everyone is so supportive and we always like to celebrate a win together.”

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LydiaYear 12

“Co-curricular activities at the college are super accessible. I’ve really enjoyed being involved in performing arts as leader of the Chinese Dance Group and as part of Pakpop, a K-pop dance group. It’s fantastic to be able to combine my love of dance with my culture, plus being student-led makes the groups even more fun to be part of.

I’m also part of Concert Band which is more structured, with lots of involvement from the Music Department to get us competition ready. We do lots of performances at the college and it’s great to share our music with other students.”

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PollenYear 13

“The variety of clubs and groups we have on offer allows me to step out of my ordinary, being involved in a different club most days keeps my routine fresh and helps me stay connected.

It’s nice to receive recognition for being part of various groups, but for me, the best part is making memories with the people I’ve met. I’ve found some of my closest friends through co-curricular activities and my advice to anyone thinking about joining a club is to do it – make your time at school count!”

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DepaliYear 13

“My role as a Student Whānau Leader and Peer Support Leader has enabled me to build connections across different year levels and create significant relationships throughout the school. Being a sounding board for younger students and finding like-minded individuals in leadership roles has been very meaningful and really supported my personal growth.”

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FinlayYear 13

“The college has a great support system for young athletes wanting to progress. I’ve been part of the Junior Academy Football team, which was the gateway for me to be selected for the 1st XI. The Junior Academy has a real focus on developing skills. You need more than physical fitness to play football, you need to master basic ball skills and that was a major part of my training. When I was ready to move up to the 1st XI I had solid skills and could feel confident as a member of the team. The coaches at this level have been amazing.”

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AshleyYear 11

“I’m so proud of representing Pakuranga College in hockey. It's a great feeling to know that I’m part of something bigger and making a positive impact. Joining the team has boosted my confidence and it’s been great getting to know students in other parts of the college.

For anyone new to the college, I say make the leap and sign up for a sport. There are so many to choose from, you won’t regret it!”

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StephanyYear 13

“I think it’s a wonderful experience to learn about your own or another person’s culture, and Pakuranga College’s cultural groups have a really warm and welcoming energy that makes it easy.

A lot of students join cultural groups that they aren’t ethnically part of, and it’s very normal here to want to learn about someone else’s culture. The only requirement is to be respectful of the culture you’re learning about.”

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CerysYear 12

“Being involved in the clubs and councils at the college has introduced me to many wonderful people and provided a space to meet with other students who share my interests and passions. Working towards something bigger than myself, such as planting seedlings for Trees for Survival with the Environmental Council, has been amazing.

Genuine commitment is key, and consistently doing your part in a club or council not only makes the group more engaging but also affirms your place in the college community.”