In our own words
In our own words
Rangatahi on the impact of Active As
Daniel Chin: Active As has changed my understanding of physical activity at school
Year 13 student Daniel Chin has been part of the Active As Prefect Committee at Tawa College since it started in 2023. The group meets weekly to plan and organise the school’s physical activity initiatives. This includes offering lunchtime activities, managing the new equipment shed and collaborating with the Wellington City Council on building a cover for bike racks.
In 2025, Tawa College introduced a house system and Daniel became a house leader. He credits Active As for helping him develop the leadership skills needed for this role. Here, Daniel reflects on how the rangatahi-led programme has impacted his school and himself.
“Active As has helped me realise the importance of physical activity at school. The main thing I’ve learnt is that it is a way to connect and bond students. No matter your skill level you can enjoy and have a good time getting active. Seeing the large variety of students spread around the school getting involved in physical activity is awesome. It seems like students have found a sense of belonging.
“I remember when I was a junior, on hot sunny days I would be out with my friends playing American football on the field. There would only be a couple of other groups outside being active. Everyone would hide inside classrooms and in the hallways on their technology. Now, when I go round the school with the megaphone to direct people to our lunchtime activities, I notice a huge increase in people already outside playing sports and games. For those that still sit in the halls, we try to put on activities that will get them involved, such as Just Dance, chalk drawing, yoga, tag games, Māori games and chess.
“I’ve always had a quiet personality, but Active As has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone. Last year, I was one of the youngest in the group and took a bit of a back role. This year, I am the most experienced member of the group. This has allowed me to take on a more prominent role. I have had to talk about Active As in assembly and lead more in lunchtime activities. These are things I couldn't imagine doing 2 years ago, which shows how Active As has helped me gain more confidence.
“Right from the beginning, the Active As programme has been predominantly student-led, with the teachers supporting and guiding us through the process. This is important because, at the end of the day, it’s us, the students, that are being impacted by these decisions. We know what we will enjoy and what will be popular. It also creates more leadership opportunities that we can grow into.”
The inclusive, play-friendly environment at Tawa College is fostering new friendships across year levels.
About the author:
Daniel Chin, 17, is a Year 13 student at Tawa College. He has lived in Tawa his whole life and loves to stay physically active by playing competitive basketball, social football and cricket. He also enjoys the outdoors with his family and friends .
