On Wednesday 4 December, we gathered at Pipitea Marae for our annual Senior School Prize Giving, a special evening recognising the remarkable accomplishments of our Year 11–13 students.

The event celebrated both the achievements of our students and looked ahead with anticipation for the future. Principal Paula Wells reflected on the values that define Marsden students, highlighting the concept of “grit and grace”

The evening also acknowledged the exceptional contributions of staff members whose dedication has shaped the school community. Aylana Wright, Jing Ying Herrington, and Rosalba Finnerty were honoured for their tireless service, commitment, and impact over many years. Their careers exemplify the very grit and grace that Marsden instils in its students.

A moving moment of remembrance was dedicated to Hilary Fiennes, our Chief Executive Officer, who sadly passed away this year. In her honour, the Y13 Bursar’s Award was renamed the Hilary Fiennes School Bursar Award, recognising some of our brightest scholars while commemorating a woman of intelligence, integrity, and steadfast commitment to Marsden. Her husband, Toby Fiennes, assisted in presenting the inaugural awards, and the school invited contributions to the Gut Cancer Foundation in her memory. Donations remain open for those wishing to give: https://gut-cancer-foundation-in-memory.raiselysite.com/hilaryfiennes

Toby Fiennes presents one of the The Hilary Fiennes Bursar Awards

The evening highlighted many outstanding achievements, with two students receiving the highest academic accolades:

Dux: Ashreya Ranchord

 

Ashreya has had a fantastic year both in the classroom and out. She is an outstanding academic, serves her community with energy and willingness, is an empathetic leader and has a genuine love of learning.

Proxime Accessit: Lopa Mistry

 

Lopa has obviously demonstrated success across a range of subjects and levels. But she is also hugely involved in wider school life and shown positive and creative leadership in many cultural endeavours.

 

Head Girl Tiantian Ren delivered a thoughtful valedictory address that reflected the Marsden spirit. Her outstanding service and leadership were recognised with the Blundell Cup, alongside Highly Commended recognition for the Prize for Creative and Critical Thinking, and the Zoe During Award for Social Justice, celebrating her commitment to advocacy and action.

Reflecting on the year, Principal Paula Wells celebrated not only academic success but also the strength of relationships, the culture of care, and the character development fostered across the Senior School

Below is a complete list of awards in the order they were presented on the night. Congratulations to all of our award recipients, the Class of 2025, and the wider Marsden community for a truly memorable year. 

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