Head Students' Welcome
Kia Ora and a warm welcome to 2026!!
We are Petra Ferrel and Gracie Aitken, and we are incredibly honoured to serve as your Head Prefects this year at Te Kura Kōhine O Te Rāwhiti O Te Upoko O Te Ika, Wellington East Girls’ College.
It is with great pride and excitement that we welcome all students, parents and visitors to our wonderful kura. We are a close-knit and thriving sisterhood, and a place for young people from all backgrounds to connect, share values and aspirations.
Rāwhiti is built upon the shoulders of the many East sisters who have come before us, and who shaped the traditions we treasure today.
This year is our 101st since opening, and moving into our second century this kura remains a place for young people to grow strong voices and make an impact in our Pōneke community. Here, individuality is celebrated, potential is encouraged, and we come together as a whānau to achieve great things. We continue to honour the traditions and values of past generations, while focusing on what matters to our rangatahi and whanau today.
"Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini."
My strength is not mine alone, but comes from the strength of many.
This whakatauki reminds us that individual success, strength and leadership are collective efforts. Our sisterhood is a team, and each achievement of ours reflects the contribution of many hands. Rāwhiti’s incredible strength lies within its people, within you. We believe in kindness, and you will see this in the endless support we give. Everyday, East students show up for one another, from cheering and chanting voices at sports and cultural events, to helping hands and listening ears, all unwavering in our blue and gold spirit.
Now a little bit about ourselves:
Gracie Aitken is originally from Christchurch, Gracie and her big family of 6 made the shift to Wellington in 2019. Gracie truly has a heart of gold and a smile that instantly makes others feel at ease. She is so supportive towards her peers, always leading with determination and integrity. Gracie is incredibly approachable and easy to talk to, that's what makes her such a great example to our teina. I am beyond grateful to have the opportunity to work alongside such a kind and empowering wahine.
Petra Ferrel was born and raised in Miramar, and is a proud East Girl. She leads with kindness and warmth, and her service to this kura shines through in everything she does. Calm and composed, she is a friend to everyone, and you WILL see her chatting in the hallways and bringing people together. I couldn’t be prouder to have such a thoughtful, passionate and caring partner to grow alongside in 2026!
As your Head Prefects for 2026, our goal is to share our endless love for Rāwhiti and uplift you, to help you find a place and grow as individuals. Our favourite part of this kura is our beautiful diversity, yet togetherness.
East’s motto is ‘take the light and pass it on’. Every single one of you brings something unique to Rāwhiti, whether it is talent, perspective or passion. We encourage you to not dim your light, but to have a role in brightening others. Your contributions to this school are what help us to shine as a collective, and are the foundation that keeps our special sisterhood and legacy alive.
This kura has gifted the two of us so much, in knowledge, friendships, and memories. In turn, we want every student to feel as supported as we have to give things a go, feel assured in their abilities and identity, and ultimately enjoy and learn from 2026!
Whether it is your first or last year at Rāwhiti, engage in the countless opportunities offered to you. Taking part in a sports team, joining clubs and committees, or representing our kura through the arts, culture or academics are valuable experiences. There is so much to learn and gain from getting involved.
In your five years at East, you will become part of something larger than yourself. Embrace this. The people you meet will widen your perspective and challenge you to grow as an individual.
In 2026, Rāwhiti’s success is in our hands. Together, let’s have a year full of fun, growth, achievement and empowerment and leave a lasting impression on the future of Wellington East Girls’ College.
Arohanui,
Gracie and Petra xx