In a well-attended ceremony held in the school hall last night, Megan Webb was announced as the OHS 2025 Dux Artium.
Students, whānau and staff gathered to celebrate the creativity and skill of our most talented young people. Guests enjoyed a warm, convivial evening complemented by some very tempting refreshments.
Principal Shameen Hayat expressed her delight in seeing the Arts so strongly represented at OHS. “By honouring students through an awards ceremony, we aim to encourage all students to pursue their passions and have their talent and hard work recognised,” she said. The impressive number of students acknowledged on the night reflected both the depth of artistic talent within the school and the dedication of the staff who support them.
Head of Arts Mr Anthony Clark spoke with emotion about the exceptional talent on display, particularly from the departing Year 13 students. He urged them to continue following their creative dreams beyond school.
Guest speaker and OHS alumnus Jason Manumu’a shared his inspiring journey from student to creative professional. Now a writer, director and actor based at Ngā Tohu o Uenuku (Māngere Arts Centre), Jason mentors emerging Pasifika creatives developing their own stage works. He encouraged students to understand their “why,” to hold fast to their dreams, and to never allow anyone to discourage them from pursuing their passions.
Entertainment on the night included an energetic hip-hop performance by dancers Cayce Coe and Jane Deacon, known as Jayce, whose synchronized routine was a joy to watch. The evening also included a moving performance by Megan Webb and Bethany Mogan, two outstanding Year 13 dancers who will be deeply missed. Bethany and Megan performed a piece choreographed by Bethany for her NCEA scholarship. The dance was beautifully executed, truly fabulous to watch, and a fitting end to their time at OHS.
A huge thank you and congratulations to the Arts Council, Head of Arts Mr Anthony Clark, Ms Tia Woodley, Mrs Julia Vaatstra, Ms Katelyn Coogan, Mr. Brent McGarva, and Deputy Principal Ms Karen Bellis for their hard work and commitment in making the evening such a success.
Congratulations to all our award winners, and thank you for the wonderful contributions you make to life at OHS.
Most Prestigious Award Winners
Top Junior Student in the Arts – Asher Tebbutt
Top Level 1 Student in the Arts – Stella Mahy
Top Level 2 Student in the Arts – Hayden Chandler
Western Family Cup (Subject) – Jacob Cooper
Western Family Cup (Visual Arts) – Megan Webb
Dux Artium 2025 – Megan Webb
This award recognises a student who has achieved excellence across multiple arts disciplines, celebrating outstanding talent, creativity, and dedication in areas such as Drama, Dance, Music, Visual Art, Art Design, and Photography. Megan consistently demonstrates exceptional skill, commitment and passion for the Arts, setting a high standard of achievement and inspiring others.
Congratulations, Megan!
