Sophie Yarham

Kia ora koutou! Ko Sophie Yarham tōku ingoa and I am Deputy Head of Whanaungatanga at CGHS for 2024.

Describe yourself in 3 words

empathetic, passionate, confident

What extracurricular activities or clubs do you participate in at school, and what do you find most enjoyable about them?

Throughout my time at Te Kura o Hine Waiora, I have participated in a diverse range of activities and clubs that reflect many of my interests. I’ve not only been involved in school committees but also actively engaged in the cultural and sporting opportunities available. Over the years, I have participated in several sports, including netball, touch, ki-o-rahi, rugby sevens, and, most importantly, rugby. Girls’ High has nurtured my passion for rugby, and I have had the privilege of winning various titles while proudly wearing our school’s red and blue jersey. Choosing to switch to rugby in Year 11 was a significant decision and one that I will forever appreciate. Playing rugby introduced me to a completely different environment within our school, and I am immensely grateful for the whānau connection I found in this space.

I have also had the privilege of contributing to and celebrating Te Ao Māori in our kura. Since Year 9, I have been an active member of our school’s kapa haka group and part of the Whānau committee, which advocates for and celebrates Te Ao Māori across all areas of our school. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been exposed to so many amazing opportunities at Girls’ High, allowing me to lead in my areas of interest and dedicate my time to the things that matter most to me.

Can you describe some positive or memorable experiences you’ve had at CGHS.

Throughout my time at Te Kura o Hine Waiora, I have had countless memorable experiences that I will cherish for the rest of my life. As an outgoing person, I have always enjoyed participating in our yearly school lip-sync competition. This is a fantastic house event that anyone within our kura can join. Each house performs a seven-minute lip-sync based on a particular theme, making a night full of lots of fun and laughter. It has consistently been the highlight of my high school journey.

Recently, I had a particularly personal and memorable experience. This year, I attended the Manu Kōrero Māori Secondary Schools Speech Competition to support my friend, who was competing in the Senior English category. Watching one of my best friends take the stage, representing Te Kura o Hine Waiora, and sharing a personal story about the importance of vulnerability was an indescribable feeling. I felt immense pride, not only for our kura but for my friend. As I waited in anticipation for the winners to be called, my heart was pounding. When my friend was awarded 1st place in the impromptu category, 2nd in the prepared speech category, and 2nd overall, tears of joy streamed down my face. I couldn’t have been prouder, which makes this a very special moment for me. Te Kura o Hine Waiora has given me not only unforgettable opportunities but also lifelong friendships that I will always treasure.

What are your favourite subjects at school and why do you enjoy them?

Throughout my time I have taken a wide range of subjects that cover all aspects within our school. The wide range of subject choices has allowed me to find the avenues that resonate and work the best for me. I thoroughly enjoy all the subjects I currently take at kura, however, I do have some favourites! I am currently studying Biology, Māori, Fashion, Health and Calculus and I particularly love Fashion and Health. I find studying fashion lots of fun. I have always enjoyed arts and crafts, so fashion is my way of connecting with my creative side. I also love Health. I have always been interested in the effect external factors have on individuals, pairs, and communities and health allows me to study this in depth. I love how in health you have to approach circumstances with an open mind and view situations from all different angles. It teaches me key life lessons and skills and that is why it is one of my favourite subjects. I love being able to select my subjects as it means I can focus my learning on the things that interest me.

Ngā mihi nui,

Sophie Yarham