Celebrating Classroom Excellence at the 2025 Academic Assemblies
Two Academic Honours Assemblies took place on sequential Friday’s in March, recognising the outstanding academic achievements of Saint Kentigern’s senior students. The first assembly celebrated the efforts of Year 13 and some high-achieving Year 11 students, the second recognising the efforts of the Year 12 students; acknowledging their dedication, perseverance, and pursuit of excellence.
Principal Damon Emtage and IB Coordinator Dave O’Brien presented the IB Awards, honouring students who had demonstrated exceptional academic ability. IB Honours were awarded to students who gained 36 or 37 points, while IB Colours were presented to those achieving 38 points or higher. Among them, Daniel Xian stood out as the top IB student, alongside an impressive six NZQA scholarships in calculus, chemistry, economics, english, physics, and statistics.
For NCEA students, Academic Honours were awarded to those with a GPA of 85–89.9%, while Academic Colours recognised those achieving 90% or higher. Morgan Alley was named the top NCEA Yr 13 student, achieving a remarkable GPA of 100% and securing three NZQA scholarships in english, health and physical education, and media studies. At the Year 12 assembly, George McGuinness was recognised as top in Year 12 for his perfect GPA and four scholarships in calculus, English, health and physical education, and history.
NZQA Scholarship recipients were also acknowledged for their ability to demonstrate high-level critical thinking and application of knowledge in some of the most challenging secondary school examinations. Students were recognised across a range of subjects, a reflection of the depth and diversity of academic talent within our school.
Reflecting on the students’ success, Deputy Principal Angee Robertson spoke to the importance of academic excellence as a reflection of the College’s core values. “Today is more than just a celebration of success – it's a celebration of our values: respect, integrity, excellence, and love. Excellence is not merely about grades or accolades, but about the relentless pursuit of being your best selves.”
As the assembly concluded, students were reminded that excellence is a personal journey, one that extends beyond numbers and awards. "Everyone is capable of achieving their own personal best, just choose to believe."
Congratulations to all the students who received awards, and to the staff and families who continue to support and encourage their success.
