Two paths, one purpose
How one Tauranga school is helping students thrive in their own way.
PHOTO ALAN GIBSON
ACG students Carl Huppmann and Ruby Jones.
There’s a saying that excellence doesn’t come in one shape. At ACG Tauranga, it’s nurtured in many forms. Just ask Ruby Jones and Carl Huppmann. From early mornings in the pool to international academic accolades, the two senior students have carved very different paths, and yet, their journeys are rooted in the same thing: a fiercely supportive school environment.
For Ruby, sport was always in the picture, having been a competitive swimmer since childhood. But it was ACG that introduced her to the team side of things.
“I wasn’t into netball at all before coming here,” she admits. “But we were such a small school back then, they needed more players. I gave it a go and ended up loving it.”
Today, she juggles netball, volleyball and art, along with her school work, and leads by example.
“Leadership for me is about including everyone. Making sure people feel seen, like they belong.”
Whether it’s younger students running up to say hello or teammates bonding during games, her influence is felt widely. But she’s also candid about her journey not always being smooth.
“I’ve never been an overachiever,” she says. “When I started here, I struggled, especially with the academics. I had to learn how to manage my time, ask for help and actually study.”
She speaks openly about the pressure of juggling schoolwork, training and her creative passions. “I put a lot of time into art. It’s something I’m really proud of.”
Carl’s story is slightly different. A self-proclaimed non- athlete when he first moved from Germany, he found his stride at ACG through the freedom to explore.
“I wasn’t into sport until I came here, but we had PE all the time, and I just gave things a try. One day I walked into the sports office and asked if I could join the hockey team and that was how I got started.”
Since then, Carl’s achievements have soared, topping the world in IGCSE PE and mentoring students through coaching and leadership roles. But he’s quick to credit the culture around him.
“Here, every teacher knows your name. They know how to help you grow.”
That close-knit feel is something both students agree on. Teachers are accessible and students are encouraged to take risks, whether in sport, the arts or academics. “It’s a school that doesn’t box you in,” says Ruby. “They support your passions, whatever they are.”
And for students just starting their ACG journey? “Don’t stress the small stuff,” Ruby says with a smile. “You’re here to learn, and everyone’s got your back.” Carl agrees: “Take every opportunity, because in a place like this, they’re everywhere.”