How a student is transforming mornings and mental health at Macleans College

What began as one student’s memory from a childhood spent in Singapore has grown into a thriving schoolwide initiative improving students’ sense of belonging and boosting their mental wellbeing before the first class has even begun.

“When I attended school in Singapore, the teachers would greet students at the door by name and with a high five, which made me feel welcome,” recalls Arthur.

“After studying in different countries, I really understand the difficulty of adapting to new schools and talking to people when everyone has their own friends.”

This experience sparked the idea for the ‘Good Morning Campaign’, which aims to help students feel connected.

“One of my goals for the campaign is to create an inclusive environment within the school and the community so that every student can find a sense of belonging,” says Arthur.

Arthur pitched the campaign to his deputy principal, who loved the idea and proposed trialling it amongst Arthur’s school house group.

Arthur was able to recruit student volunteers, Alvia, Jhankriti, Connor, Aarav, Kobe, Kevin, Malindu and Alec, to help to help get the project underway.

A morning ritual

The heart of the project is simple. As students arrive at school, they’re greeted by volunteers offering a cheerful “good morning”.

Arthur with Good Morning Campaign volunteers on Pink Shirt Day: Kevin, Alex, Spencer, Allesandro, Daniel and Malindu.

Students can return the greeting to receive a sweet. They receive a second sweet by completing the signature ‘Good Morning’ handshake. For those who want to go even further, there are optional press up and riddle stations to earn extra treats.

“Some of the students are better at physical exercises and some are better at more brain-intensive exercises so I’ve chosen activities that all students can be included in,” says Arthur.

For more introverted students, the Good Morning Campaign also offers a whiteboard with prompts that students can respond to via writing and drawing.

“Some of the whiteboard responses to the prompt ‘What made you have a good morning’ have been things like waking up in a warm house, having a delicious breakfast, or having someone open a door for them,” explains Arthur.

“It can be a great mindfulness practice for students,” he adds.

More than morning treats

The benefits of the campaign extend well beyond sweet treats, and associate principal Bessie Tuialii says this is noticeable.

“Arthur’s approach encourages participation and fosters a positive atmosphere. His work contributes to a sense of connection and boosts overall morale among those involved.”

What Arthur didn’t expect when he launched the initiative was how transformative the experience would be for his own growth.

“This campaign has really grown my leadership skills and helped me to take on more responsibilities,” he reflects.

Volunteers Alvia and Jhankriti welcome students at the school gate.

A journey to leadership

Arthur’s experiences in New Zealand and overseas have impacted his view on education and his growth as a leader.

“Before coming to New Zealand, I always thought high quality education was to train future CEOs, bankers, scientists, or financial elites on Wall Street.

“I’ve now realised it is to give every single person an equal opportunity to find what they love.”

Arthur is now the international prefect for 2026, as well as a peer support leader providing support and guidance for students new to the school.

“Being supported by my friends has been a very important part of my life,” he shares.

“It’s something that I want to hopefully let students know through the campaign, that there are people who are there and who are able to support them if they need it.”

Bessie says they are very proud of Arthur and the commitment and energy he brings to his initiatives.

“Students have responded very positively to his efforts, particularly enjoying his presence in the mornings. He engages both students and staff in an inclusive, upbeat, and friendly manner, which has helped to create a welcoming start to the day.”

Messages from students after completing the challenge.

Good Morning growth

The Good Morning Campaign is gaining momentum, with plans to eventually expand the fully self-funded programme to other schools in East Auckland.

“One of my goals is to be able to collaborate with as many schools as possible and hopefully train student leaders so we can extend our impact and help to build safe and comfortable environments for students to support one another.”

After all, a better morning can start with something as small as a greeting, a sweet and a smile.