Our 2026 Peer Supporters were recognized recently by being presented with their badges by Principal Mr Couglan to acknowledge the dedication of these 47 individuals towards their leadership role. Peer Support is a unique leadership group that specially caters towards the growth of our Year 9 students as they begin their high school journey. For Year 9s, starting high school can be an overwhelming and intimidating experience, so having an older role model who they can trust can help ease this transition.  Year 12 Peer Supporter Silvana Deo said, “A common challenge all Year 9s face coming to a new school, is getting used to their new, bigger environment. A way Peer Supporters help with this is by giving tours when they first arrive and being available   to assist when they are lost.” The presence of these student leaders is significant during orientation and transition days where our Year 9 students gain their first introduction to settling into high school.  During whānau time the role of Peer Supporters is to build connections and mentor Year 9 students. This provides them with the confidence to be involved in all aspects of school life.  Peer Supporters have showcased their commitment to the concept through their attendance at training days, which involved planning with whānau teachers and understanding various approaches to mentorship.  The Peer Supporters act as the tuakana that provides guidance and mentorship for our tenia, being the Year 9 cohort.  Mrs Fawcett, the coordinating teacher who is in charge of Peer Support, puts immense effort into organizing and developing this student leadership team. She comments, “These students are often the first leaders our Year 9s connect with, and the way they lead with warmth, empathy, and integrity creates a real sense of belonging and whanaungatanga across OTHC. This leadership opportunity establishes a collective of personal growth amongst the entire team.” Year 13 Peer Supporter Rajinda Perera says, “Being a Peer Supporter contributes to my leadership journey by teaching me to understand different perspectives, step outside from my comfort zone, and builds confidence in myself while communicating with and supporting others.” When starting school, everyone has a different experience and adapting to new routines, environments, and social groups can feel overwhelming. Having an older student who has been through those challenges helps Year 9s feel understood and supported, making it easier to ask questions and share concerns. Congratulations to all 47 individuals who are part of the Peer Support Team for 2026. We continue to admire the hard work you do to nurture our Year 9 cohort.

 LISA CAMPBELL & ABISHA NISHANTHKUMAR - NEWS MEDIA TEAM