It has been a year of exciting events at Wanganui Collegiate School with the opening of the Sir Harold Gillies Science Centre last month and the demolition of the former administration block to make way for a new building.
The college hosted Sir Graham Henry at a special dinner, and was presented medals awarded by the Sultan of Oman to former student DC Nairn, who was killed in action in Oman.
The school also launched the Global Food Value Chain (GFVC) programme in partnership with Massey University and Food HQ.
Wanganui Collegiate also had its first drama production in five years with the musical Jesus Christ Superstar.
Senior students have now finished the school year and are in the midst of sitting exams, but the young leaders took some time to reflect on their school days and talk about their plans for the future.
The Chronicle would like to wish them - and all graduating Collegiate students - well for their exams and their future endeavours.
-What are the highlights of your high school years?
The Collegiate Weekends and Open Days: seeing students compete for their houses and watching potential new students learn about our school. - Connor McErlich
The Source to Sea Cycle Challenge was an incredible experience. It was such a great way to bond with the students in our year group in a challenging and rewarding environment. Over the five days we biked 165km and canoed down the Whanganui River, sleeping in tents on the side of the river. - Abi Petrie
In Year 12, I took part in Source to Sea, a journey from the headwaters of the Whanganui River to its mouth at Castlecliff Beach. I was able to test my boundaries and develop my ability to take the lead in new experiences. I thoroughly enjoyed this challenge and was able to take away new skills and knowledge of teamwork and co-operation. Another major highlight of my time at Wanganui Collegiate School would be the Inter-House competitions including athletics, cross country, house music, tug-of-war and tikanga. - Sophie Collins
Throughout my high school years I have thoroughly enjoyed the unique community environment at Wanganui Collegiate School. The Inter-House competitions, ranging from cultural through to sporting, have been a special part of my time here. I think it's great how you interact with people across all year groups through these competitions, which is what I have really liked. - Jamie Gillespie
My main highlights at Wanganui Collegiate School have been the various cultural events. From our unique House music and House Shakespeare competitions to the school production of Jesus Christ Superstar, I enjoyed every aspect of cultural life at my school. - Zsofia Herrmann
-What are your plans for 2016?
I will be attending Lincoln University in Christchurch to study for a Bachelor of Agricultural Science. - Sophie Collins
I will be spending the first six months of the year working as an ambassador for The CatWalk Spinal Cord Injury Research Trust, then spending the second half of the year in Kenya working in areas of conservation. - Abi Petrie
Studying Law and Commerce at Canterbury University. - Connor McErlich
I plan to study first-year Health Sciences at Otago University and will be staying in Carrington College. - Zsofia Herrmann
A Bachelor of Architectural Studies at Victoria University in Wellington. - Jamie Gillespie
-What would you say to a Year 9 student in 2016?
Take every single opportunity you are thrown as the last thing you want to feel is regret when you leave. The amazing memories you make at school and the mark you leave behind are entirely in your own hands. - Zsofia Herrmann
This school has made me step outside my comfort zone a number of times, which has made me develop my character. I have also found this year that it is important to make time for others by putting them first. I have enjoyed seeing others succeed and acknowledging their achievements, as the juniors in the school really look up to the seniors. - Jamie Gillespie
Use every opportunity that is given to you, as you never know where it may lead. Take the time to enjoy what you are doing and make the most of all the experiences. - Sophie Collins
Make the most of every opportunity you are given. Your time in school goes much too fast so it really is important to cherish the friendships you make and the experiences you are given. - Abi Petrie
Fully immerse yourself in any opportunities that come your way. - Connor McErlich