Year 13 leaders welcomed new students and shared insights into opportunities, expectations, and pathways within the Health Science Academy.
Last week, the Health Science Academy (HSA) held its first assembly of the year. Year 13 HSA students led the assembly, welcoming the new Year 11 cohort and introducing them to what they can expect as Academy members. They outlined key expectations, upcoming events, and the academic and pastoral support available as students begin their journey toward a future in the health sciences.
A highlight of the assembly was hearing from Year 13 students Alofa Lawrence, Judith Fynn, Saiesha Chotu, Loviana Pepa, and Kristin McIntyre, who shared their experiences from the Hands On Otago University programme they attended over the summer. Their reflections offered younger students a clear picture of what the scholarship opportunity involves, along with practical advice for preparing a strong application in future rounds. Their insights helped Year 11 and Year 12 students understand the genuine benefits and possibilities that the Academy can open for them.
The Health Science Academy has been part of Onehunga High School since 2015 and supports students interested in pursuing one of more than 80 health‑related careers, including medicine, nursing, midwifery, community health, dentistry, rehabilitation, and mental health. The Academy provides a strong focus on science in the senior school and is supported by Te Whatu Ora’s FOU initiative, a Pacific‑focused programme operating across 14 Auckland schools to grow the next generation of Māori and Pasifika health professionals. Students in the Academy take part in specialised events, extra tutoring, work‑experience placements, and leadership opportunities designed to strengthen their pathway into health careers.
We look forward to a productive year ahead, including the upcoming HSA Fono on Wednesday 1 April at 6pm in the school hall, and a new partnership with Moana Connect supported by FOU, which will further strengthen opportunities for our students.
