Takapuna Grammar students were privileged to have distinguished alumni Sir Stephen Tindall visit the school on Wednesday 22nd May. As an ex-pupil of the school himself, Sir Stephen was enthusiastic about seeing building advancements, meeting students and returning where he grew up. He spoke to year 12 and 13 students in the afternoon about a variety of topics; including his memories of the school, his current environmental projects and advice for future careers.
The senior students were honoured to have such an esteemed and well accomplished alumni visit the school and inspire them for the future. He encouraged students to live a more environmentally sustainable lifestyle, discussing his tree planting projects in which he offered to provide the trees if students were willing to plant them. Sir Stephen also discussed his business ventures and ways to go about accomplishing what you're passionate about.
The students are incredibly grateful for the guidance and wisdom Sir Stephen shared with them and welcome him and other ex-pupils back at any time. By Felicity Lewis
You wouldn’t think that politics or multilateral trade agreements would interest high school students, but for 8 Takapuna Grammar students, and over 300 more from around Auckland, it is fair to say these stereotypes just don’t fit. On Friday the 17th of May, and Saturday the 18th, students from all around the Auckland region gathered to participate in the annual Rotary Model United Nations Assembly, held at Auckland Girls Grammar School. Planned for this two-day event were discussions and debates surrounding climate change, censorship, disarmament and more. Guests also had the opportunity to listen to Dr Damien Rogers, who holds a PhD in Political Science and International Relations, a PhD in Law and is a senior lecturer at Massey University.
Representing Takapuna Grammar at the event were teams making up the delegates for Guatemala, Côte d'Ivoire and Slovakia. Tyler Buysers, Ryan Er and Ariel Asraf made up the delegates for Guatemala, Libby Lord and Zoe Martin the delegates for Côte d'Ivoire, and Ailish Dodd, Laiba Batool and Will Dalzell the delegates for Slovakia. “I really enjoyed myself and felt globally engaged through the experience. I had a lot to learn from the experience; made many friends and memories”. Ailish Dodd recalls.
Overall, all students who attended the event had something to take away; whether it was that the USA believes climate change is a hoax, or that Egypt thinks we should all just grow up and trade. A massive thank you is due to Devonport Rotary, for sponsoring Takapuna Grammar to attend the amazing event. We are extremely grateful for the opportunity. By Will Dalzell and Laiba Batool
