A strong work ethic, self-motivation, and perseverance have paid off for Trident High School’s 2025 Dux, Jayden Heiberg, with Ryan Somerville named Proxime Accessit.

“I feel extremely honoured and proud to hold this title,” said Jayden, who hopes to serve as a positive role model for his younger siblings.

Jayden, who plans to study for a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science next year, has his sights set on progressing into medicine. With limited places and fierce competition, he said he realised success would require discipline, motivation, and strong study habits.

“In preparation for next year, I began exercising greater self-management, established effective study routines, and became more intentional about how I spent my time.”

He credits his parents for instilling a strong work ethic, and several teachers – Nicola Bowe, Renee Garner, Annetjie Botha, and Darren Florence – for their encouragement.

“I am grateful for their time, support and belief in my ability to succeed.”

Jayden has been offered scholarships from the University of Auckland, the University of Otago, and the Ōhope Beach Lions Club.

He has loved his school years: “Some of my highlights include going on the wide variety of camps, including the Great Barrier Island trip, the Coromandel camp and the Goat Island trip. I have also really enjoyed playing the trumpet in the Trident Jazz Band, playing badminton and being a member of the Senior Golf Team.”

Proxime Accessit Ryan Somerville said dedication and curiosity had driven his success.

He thanked teachers who went “above and beyond” to encourage and support him.

“They pushed me out of my comfort zone and were willing to sacrifice their time. While there are so many great teachers, I want to give a special mention to Nicola Bowe, Joanna Boonen, Tracey Webster, and Sarsha Deeley, who have all helped massively in my preparation for the NZQA scholarship exams.”

Ryan will study a Bachelor of Engineering (Engineering Science) at the University of Auckland, supported by a $25,000 scholarship.

There have been many highlights over the years at Trident he said: “Achieving an English Scholarship in Year 12, the Great Barrier Island adventure camp, as well as the Boys UK Football tour.”

Trident High School’s graduating class has also celebrated impressive tertiary scholarship results – 18 students have received offers totalling more than $326,000.

Among them is Lilly Collembet, a talented cyclist who has accepted the University of Otago Leaders of Tomorrow Entrance Scholarship ($17,500), which she has deferred until 2027 to pursue her cycling ambitions next year.

“I hope to study Health Science in 2027 to become a doctor,” she said.

“Next year, I have the opportunity to pursue road cycling and I’ll be going to Belgium as I’ve been selected for a Belgium U19 women’s team called the AVIA Rudyco Cycling Team.”

Another top recipient, Manu Ngaheu-Hill, has been awarded the Kahurangi Māori Student Scholarship to Victoria University, valued at $30,000.