At school this adventurous and inquisitive young man engages
openly with new ideas and works hard to achieve academically. In
2010, as a Yr 11 student, he was awarded 1st in class
for both engineering and woodwork. His strengths are in practical,
hands-on aspects of technology and logistical problem-solving.
In addition, Raymond is a talented sportsperson. He is a New
Zealand representative in under 19 volleyball and under 16
Australian Rules Football, part of the Manurewa High School 1st XV,
a Chiefs representative and also a Counties Manukau representative
for rugby. The Principal of Manurewa High School at the time that
Raymond was applying for a First Foundation Scholarship endorsed
that "Raymond has excelled in sports leadership. His mature
approach has seen him lead with confidence and professionalism. He
has become a sports person of impressive calibre for a person of
his age."
His future aspirations are to train as a Mechanical Engineer by
studying a Bachelor of Engineering at either AUT or The University
of Auckland. Raymond also aspires to play professional rugby.