EMILY MENZIES

School is back in session, and with the new year comes a brand-new challenge for a couple of students principal Wayne Bosley believes are two of Mount Aspiring College’s "brightest shining lights”.

Campbell Russell and Mackenzie Ayres, both 17-years-old, were announced as head boy and head girl for the 2017 school year at last year’s prize giving ceremony in November. After a rigorous application process, including an online application followed by a shortlist of candidates interviewed by a panel (Mr Bosley, Year 13 Dean Mr Crosbie and Year 12 Dean Ms Watts), Campbell wasn’t expecting his new title, but is now excited about getting stuck into the role. "I was quite nervous, I wasn’t expecting my name to be called up. It was quite competitive.”

It was a nerve-wracking process but the students were well supported by friends and family, Campbell said: "Everyone’s behind you, because we have a lot more on than usual; it’s very supportive.”

As part of their duties as head boy and girl, Mackenzie and Campbell will be involved in running a weekly school assembly, sitting in on executive meetings with Mr Bosley and the heads of the different school committees. As well as their internal school duties, Mackenzie and Campbell will represent the school at external events. "We are the face outside the school as well,” Mackenzie said, "It’s a massive honour to be the face of our school, it’s a big school, so it’s incredible to be chosen.”

Having both grown up in Wanaka, the two students have enormous affection for the town and their school. Well known for its sporting programmes, there is much more to MAC than meets the eye, according to Mackenzie. "We have so many opportunities for sport, and that’s what people see, but really there is so much more. It’s a really great school.”

It’s going to be a busy year for Mackenzie and Campbell, who both have full academic and extracurricular schedules. With an emphasis on the arts, Mackenzie will be taking painting, photography, business, English, maths and OP (outdoor pursuits). She is keeping her future options open, with plans to work overseas for a year before attending university in either Wellington, Australia or Canada.

With more of a science focus, Campbell will be taking physics, chemistry, calculus, PE, geography and economics. He is already considering studying civil engineering at the University of Canterbury next year.

Both students are looking forward to a challenging and exciting year, with the added anticipation of what’s to come when school lets out.

PHOTO: Wanaka App