Taranaki Foundation is proud to announce George Stephens as the inaugural John Wood Memorial Scholarship recipient. This scholarship was presented at the New Plymouth Boys’ High School (NPBHS) senior prizegiving ceremony on 31st October.  John’s wife, Kerry, and other family members attended the event, marking this memorable occasion.

The John Wood Memorial Scholarship Fund was established earlier this year through Taranaki Foundation to honour the legacy of John Robertson Wood, who was a student of NPBHS in the 1950s. John was a boarder at Pridham House and left a memorable mark on the school. When he graduated, he was the only boy to have his name on five of the school’s honour boards in one year – Dux, Head Boy, Taranaki Scholarship, 1st XV Captain and 1st XI Captain.

In memory of John, who passed away in 2021, the $5,000 scholarship supports a graduating NPBHS student selected by the school who embodies a high level of engagement in school life and academic pursuits, excelling in academics, sports, or cultural activities.

George, this year’s recipient, has been actively involved in the arts, participating in drama, theatre, public speaking, and music. He plans to continue these interests at Victoria University of Wellington in 2025, where he will study Political Science and theatre/film.

Reflecting on the honour, George shared, “I was really grateful to meet the family straight after the award ceremony; it was a special moment.  This scholarship will help ease the financial pressures of university and reduce my student loan debt.”

Josh Hickford, CE of Taranaki Foundation said, “George is an incredibly deserving recipient of this scholarship, and it’s wonderful to see the community supporting students in accessing these opportunities, transforming passion and potential into real opportunities.”

The Taranaki Foundation and the Wood family are delighted to support George as he starts his university journey and look forward to seeing his future achievements.

For more information:

  • Read more about the John Wood Memorial Scholarship here 
  • Find further information about Taranaki Foundation Scholarships  here