Head Student – Ashley Te Huia

Ashley Te Huia is one of the head students at East Otago High School this year.

Ashley’s journey at East Otago High School began in Year 7, arriving from Waikouaiti School with a mix of nerves and a very supportive mum at the drop-off gate. Though the transition felt big at the time, the fear quickly faded thanks to Year 13 peer support and the fast friendships made during House sports and the iconic Camp Iona river swims.

After a stint at Otago Boys’ High School in Year 9 and 10 to pursue rugby, Ashley realised that bigger isn’t always better. He felt like just a number there. Missing the genuine one-on-one connection with teachers, he returned to EOHS in Year 11, and it felt as though he’d never left.

Since his return, Ashley has hit the ground running. He stepped up as House Captain and soon realised that our small school environment actually provides more room to lead and be heard. Now, as a Head Student, he prides himself on being approachable to students across all year levels.

With a mantra of “Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard,” Ashley has his sights set on the future. While his dream is the professional basketball court, he’s planning for a career in Sports Management, potentially studying at the University of Otago.

Ashley’s advice to younger students is to make the most of every opportunity. Try not to turn things down. It’s a philosophy he lives by, even if it means stepping out of his comfort zone and saying “yes” to being in the school production.