Four year 12 students at Mount Hutt College are excited about leading their school next year after being named as head students.
Matilda (Tilly) Johnson, Emma Bungard, Elsie Dargue and Robbie Humm, said in a statement they appreciate opportunities the school has provided them with and are proud of a strong sense of community within the school.
They have all been there since year 7.
Tilly, 16, said her goal for next year was to help every student discover their passions and take advantage of opportunities the school and community have to offer.
‘‘Growing up here, I’ve seen just how great a small community can be. My favourite part is that I can walk around town and recognise almost everyone,’’ Tilly said.
She felt lucky to have all her family living close. During her time at Mount Hutt College she has been involved in several school activities with most of them sports related.
‘‘Sports have always been one of the biggest factors in my life, from the rugby field to the netball court, cricket pitch to the touch grounds. I love putting myself out there through exercise and competition,’’ Tilly said.
She thrived in team environments, using the skills she had built up to provide leadership, improving herself and team members.
‘‘One of my favourite things about college is the wide range of opportunities available to students. With such a diverse and vibrant community, there is always something new to explore, and the college does an amazing job of supporting students to make the most of these experiences,’’ Tilly said.
Emma, also 16, said she was fortunate to have been involved in many aspects of the school including house leadership, kapa haka, productions, sporting events and several committees, such as for the school’s centennial, promotions and service.
‘‘These opportunities have allowed me to grow as a leader while also connecting with students across different year levels,’’ Emma said.
She enjoyed athletics and waterskiing, along with reading and listening to music.
As a competitive gymnast for 10 years, she had developed skills that would assist in her leadership role including discipline, time management and resiliency.
‘‘As a head student in 2026, I aim to continue building a culture where every akonga feels seen and supported, where conversations around mental health are normalised, and coping strategies are taught,’’ she said.
She was looking forward to working alongside her fellow head students to make the most of their final year at college as they give back to the school in their roles.
Born and bred in Methven, 17-year-old Elsie is confident she lives in an incredible community and attends a supportive school.
Elsie said one of the special things about being part of a smaller school was that students could form lasting friendships across the all the year levels. She had served on the promotions, social, well-being and centennial committees.
‘‘I’ve also participated in peer support, played in the touch team, senior A netball team, the girls’ 1st XV rugby team, and our sevens rugby team,’’ she said. Over the last two years she had been senior gold house captain.
‘‘I worked alongside five other strong individuals who helped me grow as a leader. That experience has shaped how I lead and how I connect with others,’’ Elsie said.
One of her goals was about strengthen the connections in the school community.
‘‘I want to encourage others to try new things and take up the opportunities in front of them,’’ Elsie said.
The only male student to lead the college in 2026 is Robbie Humm.
The 17-year-old said it was an honour to be appointed a head student for the year ahead.
He could be described as being all-round with his diverse interests and hobbies. He enjoyed sport from golf to grid-iron. His hobbies included music and bonsai.
‘‘These passions have shaped who I am. Music in particular has played a large role in my school life.
‘‘I have performed with several of the college’s bands as both a saxophonist and an upright bassist.
‘‘I believe that learning an instrument is an experience that can benefit anyone,’’ Robbie said.
He knows he has big shoes to fill as this year students have set a high standard for next years leaders to continue.
‘‘What makes Mount Hutt College special is its diversity. No two students are alike, yet everyone contributes in their own way to the growth and identity of our school,’’ Robbie said.
‘‘I want to build on that momentum created by our sentinel year celebrating the diversity, resilience, and strength of our community, while helping each of us grow not only as students, but as people,’’ he said.
The student representative on the Board of Trustees for 2026 is Issy Marr.
