Blue Mountain College Celebrates Academic and Sporting Excellence in 2025

Blue Mountain College has announced the recipients of its prestigious awards for the academic year 2025, recognizing outstanding achievements in both academics and sports. The awards ceremony celebrated students from various year groups who demonstrated exceptional diligence, talent, and dedication across a range of disciplines.

Highlights from the Year 7 Awards

Among the notable awardees in Year 7, George Anderson was honored for his diligence and athletic prowess, becoming the Under 12 Boys’ Cross Country Champion and receiving the Gosden Memorial Cup for his outstanding performance in cross country. Other exceptional students included Charlie Blair, recognized for excellence in Mathematics, and Henry Howden, who excelled in multiple subjects including Physical Education and Agriculture. The RB Prize for Perseverance went to Mitchell Stiven, who also triumphed in both the Under 11 Boys’ Cross Country and Under 12 Boys’ Swimming categories.

Furthermore, Sophie Salter emerged as the Under 12 Girls’ Cross Country Champion, while Wianro Pienaar showcased versatility by winning awards in a variety of subjects, including the Speech Competition.

Achievements in Year 8 and Beyond

The Year 8 awards featured Hannah Stewart, who distinguished herself as the Under 13 Girls’ Athletics Champion and was recognized for her excellence in multiple sports. Neihana Beauchamp was awarded the title of Under 13 Boys’ Athletics Champion, alongside multiple accolades for his contributions to Rugby.

In Year 9, Cullam Anderson claimed the titles of both Under 14 Boys’ Athletics Champion and Under 14 Boys’ Swimming Champion, further solidifying his reputation in athletics. The Stark Family Trophy for the highest performance at SISS Athletics was awarded to him as well.

Moving to Year 10, Cassidy Anderson excelled in Social Studies and became the Under 15 Girls’ Swimming Champion, while Frikkie Botha matched this achievement in the boys’ category. The awards underscored student accomplishments across various subjects, including Mathematics, English, and the Arts.

The accolade for General Excellence was awarded to Katelyn Dennehy, who achieved top rankings in Mathematics, Science, and English.

Celebrating Senior Achievements

In the senior years, Libby Young stood out in Year 13, earning the Senior Girls’ Athletics Champion title and multiple Sports Blues for her contributions to netball and cross country. Boston Setefano achieved recognition as the Deputy Head Student for 2025, alongside receiving the Principal’s Prize. His leadership qualities were acknowledged through various awards, showcasing his commitment to the college community.

The event also featured special awards, including the McAlister Cup for Interhouse Competition, awarded to McKellar House, with leaders Jackie van der Linden and Ella Stuart at the helm. Various other prizes recognized contributions to school sport, community service, and academic excellence.

Awards like the Spirit of New Zealand Voyage 2026 and scholarships from local organizations including the West Otago Young Farmers’ Scholarship and Tapanui Brass Band Performing Arts Scholarship were also presented, highlighting the community’s support for student development.

The ceremony at Blue Mountain College not only celebrated academic success but also highlighted the importance of perseverance, leadership, and community involvement among students. As the college looks to the future, these awards serve to inspire the next generation of learners and leaders.