"I have become a much more confident and outgoing person and have enjoyed so many highlights during my time at ACG. I’ve enjoyed close relationships with my teachers and small class sizes. I’ve participated in the Tough Guy and Gal Challenge and visited the Pop-up Globe in Auckland to see The Merchant of Venice and The Twelfth Night."

- Graduating ACG Tauranga student, Piper Rudkin

A $3000 cash grant will be a big boost for ACG Tauranga student Piper Rudkin, who heads off to Waikato University in February.

A recipient of the University’s Ko Te Tangata Scholarship, Piper is enrolled to study Business with a minor in Agricultural Business. The scholarship – awarded for her excellent academic results and strong community spirit – will go a long way towards covering her living expenses.

“This scholarship will really help me to prepare for university as I’ll be living away from home so it will assist with the cost of staying at the Halls of Residence. It will also help with set up costs and things like stationery,” says Piper.

Now just a matter of weeks away, excitement is building as Piper, along with hundred of teens across the country, prepare to take the next step on their educational journey.

“I’m really looking forward to the whole university environment, especially getting to know new people and having new experiences.”

Thanks to her time at ACG Tauranga Piper looks set to take tertiary level studies in her stride.

“ACG taught me how to learn so I can apply these skills to any challenge I face at University. I have learnt good study skills and I know how to manage my time and cope with pressure in exam situations.”

But Piper’s time at ACG Tauranga wasn’t only academic. The school’s personalised approach to holistic education ensures students have opportunities to grow and thrive in a diverse range of areas, from sports and the arts to community service and leadership. Piper was an Acorn Scholarship Dale Carnegie Youth Course graduate, she completed the Swivel Career Guidance Programme, and gained a Duke of Edinburgh bronze award. She was also a House Leader and member of the Yearbook Committee.

“I have become a much more confident and outgoing person and have enjoyed so many highlights during my time at ACG. I’ve enjoyed close relationships with my teachers and small class sizes. I’ve participated in the Tough Guy and Gal Challenge and visited the Pop-up Globe in Auckland to see The Merchant of Venice and The Twelfth Night.

“I’m really thankful that I was given the opportunity to attend ACG Tauranga as I feel that I have benefitted from it in so many different ways.”