Ten OHS students have developed their leadership skills through a year-long programme with the Blues Charitable Trust.

Across this year, ten Onehunga High School students have participated in the Blues Charitable Trust Emerging Leaders Programme, which supports rangatahi to develop their confidence and leadership skills. The programme draws on lessons from high-performance sport to help young people make informed choices and prepare for their futures.

The Blues Charitable Trust has a longstanding connection with OHS, having launched its pilot programme with our school in 2022. Since then, the Trust has expanded its work to more than 50 schools, supporting thousands of young people across Tāmaki Makaurau and beyond. Its 12-month Emerging Leaders Programme focuses on personal leadership, wellbeing and preparation for future careers.

Our students were selected based on their leadership potential and the opportunity to further develop their skills. The programme is designed for students from both sporting and non-sporting backgrounds, recognising that leadership skills are valuable in all areas of life. Throughout the year, students attended workshops with guest speakers, including the Blues CEO, Blues players and community leaders connected to the Trust.

We thank the Blues Charitable Trust for its continued partnership with OHS and for the opportunities it provides our students. All ten participants will receive certificates at our next full school assembly in Term 4, recognising their participation in the programme.