Sacred Heart College Napier students have achieved NCEA results well above the national average for girls’ schools across New Zealand.

The achievements were recognised at the school’s Academic Assembly, where certificates were presented to students who gained NCEA endorsements and New Zealand Scholarship in 2025.

Principal Maria Neville-Foster said the results reflected the dedication of students, commitment of teachers and the supportive learning environment at the college

“Our NCEA results are outstanding. Across Levels 1, 2 and 3, our students are achieving well above the national average for girls’ schools and comparable kura,” Mrs Neville-Foster said.

“When students commit to their learning, ask for help, and push through the challenging moments, they succeed. We support our girls to achieve their personal success and reach their highest potential.”

The assembly also celebrated three Year 13 students who achieved NZ Scholarship – an award that recognises top secondary school students. 

Maria Greville gained scholarships in English and History, while Precious Pa received a scholarship in Painting, and Addison Kneebone achieved a scholarship in Geography.

Maria, who was also Sacred Heart’s Dux in 2025, is now studying Law at the University of Otago.

She said receiving the scholarships was a proud way to finish her time at Sacred Heart.

“I went into the exams hoping to do my best, but I didn’t really expect to get them,” Maria said. “It was a really good feeling to finish my time at Sacred like that.”

Maria said the support of teachers played an important role in preparing for the challenging scholarship exams.

“For History, we had meetings working through the kinds of questions we might be asked, and for English, my teacher gave me lots of practice tests and resources,” she said.

Academic leaders Cassiopeia Cortez and Rhea Chantrey, who helped present awards at the assembly, said the recognition was meaningful after a year of hard work.

“It’s recognition of all the hard work you do throughout the year,” Rhea said.

Cassiopeia said the support from teachers helped students reach their goals.

“You can always go to teachers who are willing to chat and help with extra resources.”

Rhea said the supportive environment at Sacred Heart played a key role in students’ success.

“Sacred Heart is such a strong sisterhood school. The support we have here makes a huge difference.”

Article added: Thursday 12 March 2026