Student sent on top science programme

The Royal Society of New Zealand has invested in a talented Whakatane High School student following his science research.

Jonathan Everett had an experience of a lifetime last December when he participated in the Genesis Energy Realise the Dream programme organised by the society.

He joined 19 students on the week-long event following his performance in the EBOP Science Fair.

During the week, he visited businesses and science research centres such as DairyNZ, Niwa, Tokaanu power station and the Liggins Institute at Auckland University.

At the end of the week Jonathan and the other students were awarded prizes at Government House in recognition of their outstanding achievements.

Nine secondary school students won more than $30,000 worth of travel and cash prizes following the programme.

Although Jonathan was not one of the major prize winners, he returned home very enthusiastic about science and wishes to not only return to Realise the Dream but to encourage others in the area to do the same.

"It would be good if more secondary students could enter the EBOP Science Fair, especially in the technology and science sections," Jonathan said.

"I want to thank Mr Morley West and Ms Janie Stevenson from the EBOP Science Fair who helped me with my nomination."

Jonathan said the highlight of the week was gaining inspiration from other participants, and generally learning lots of new things.

Royal Society of New Zealand chief executive Di McCarthy said it was an important programme for future scientists.

"The Genesis Energy Realise the Dream programme is designed to excite these young scientists and open their eyes to the opportunities a career in science can offer in New Zealand and also to reward them for their excellent science and technology projects.

"These are our top science students from around the country and they have put hours of work into outstanding science and technology projects. Realise the Dream is designed to give them every encouragement to continue to pursue their education and careers in science, technology and engineering and to reward them for their hard work."