What do Rocket Lab, biomedical engineering, robotics and some fiercely competitive volleyball games have in common? They’re all part of an exciting two-week experience awaiting three of our Year 12 students this summer!
Sihoo (Ella) Jeon, Tiffany Ma and Charlotte Smith have been selected to attend the 2027 Rotary National Science and Technology Forum at the University of Auckland in January.
The Forum brings together 168 high-achieving students from across New Zealand who share a passion for science, mathematics and technology. Getting a place is no easy feat, with students completing a detailed application process, securing school recommendations and undergoing interviews before final selections are made.
Once there, our girls will get a taste of university life while exploring everything from molecular biology and biomedical engineering to electronics and robotics. The programme includes lectures, laboratory sessions, industry visits and opportunities to meet professionals working in some fascinating fields.
And apparently, the volleyball games are just as competitive as the science!
We already know what a difference this experience can make. Hannah Smith and Saisha Kamat, who attended the Forum in January 2026, returned with plenty to share.
Hannah recently spoke at a staff briefing about how the experience helped shape her decision to pursue biomedical engineering. She described the residential programme, the friendships she made and the opportunities it opened up as life-changing.
A special thank you to Rotary North Harbour, whose continued generosity and support help make these opportunities possible for our students. We also acknowledge the teachers who have supported the girls throughout their time at Westlake, including our Head of Science for his recommendation.
Congratulations to Ella, Tiffany and Charlotte! We look forward to hearing all about their adventures when they return. And perhaps finding out who wins those volleyball games!
