Head Student – Samuel Paton

Samuel Paton, one of East Otago High School’s Head Students, has a unique perspective on his time here. He recalls visiting the school before enrolling, captivated by the A block’s corridor of lockers, which reminded him of an American high school. However, starting in Year 7, he was surprised to find the lockers gone, replaced by refurbished, modern classrooms. His first teacher, Ms. McLachlan, made a strong impression with her firm but fair approach.

In Year 8, Samuel was homeschooled. While he enjoyed the time spent on his family’s farm, he found himself missing the social interaction and friendly competition of a traditional school environment. When he returned to EOHS in Year 9, it took some time to readjust to being around other students but before you’d know it he was back into the rhythm of school life and extending far beyond our school walls in many different aspects.

A significant aspect of Samuel’s experience at EOHS has been the strong community support, both from the school and wider area. This support has been instrumental in helping him pursue a wide range of extracurricular activities. Last year alone, he attended the International Science Forum in London (July) and the Future Leaders Academy in the Cook Islands (April). He also participated in United Nations conferences in Wellington and Auckland, and in January this year, he embarked on the United Nations Global Development Tour, visiting Boston, New York, London, Brussels, and Paris. Beyond school, Samuel is also a member of Hive, a youth advisory group for the Ministry of Youth Development and Ministry of Social Development.

Samuel has gained invaluable insights during his time at EOHS. He values the close-knit nature of the small school, noting that despite its size, it provides ample opportunity to make a real difference in the community. He’s learned the importance of asking questions and that leadership isn’t always about being at the forefront. His passion for leadership led him to create and run “Men are made, not born,” a leadership development course for his fellow students.

Sam’s plans for the future involve studying politics and public policy at university and working as a policy advisor.

His words of wisdom for all EOHS students: “Lead and integrate and learn to listen”.