“When I get to see them succeeding or growing as a person, I feel such a huge pride.”
All of the girls had worked incredibly hard to prepare for the competition.
“It’s huge, we train in all breaks, intervals and lunchtimes, weekends and school holidays.
“It does take a lot of time to put it all together.”
Tauhara College's soloists danced their way to the national competition (from left): Pippi Lawson, Kayley McAdie, Aja Topless, Holly Taplin, Sophie Harrington, Chontelle Wilson, and Breiona Monteith.
Wilson is no stranger to success with her dancers; Tauhara College was one of only a small number of schools to have won the national competition on three separate occasions.
She said their winning formula was not what many might expect in the dance world, focusing on having fun, putting the students’ wellbeing first, and creating a safe, supportive atmosphere.
“We took a bit of a break over Covid to prioritise students’ mental health, so to come back and do so well is fantastic.
“I think my favourite part, and something that is mentioned quite often by the judges and organisers, is the culture of our school.
“We’re like a big family, so every time we go off to a competition, it’s something that’s noticed.
“I think it’s a huge part of the reason that we do so well.
