At just 10 years old, Porirua student Raymond Hsu is redefining what academic achievement can look like in New Zealand. As the results page from NZQA loaded, Raymond held his breath - then burst into laughter and celebration. Merit grades. In NCEA Level 1 and Level 2. Exams usually taken by students five or six years older.
The moment, filmed proudly by his father Michael, captured a joyful child - arms flapping, feet jumping - not a pressured prodigy. And that balance is exactly what defines Raymond’s journey.
Soft-spoken and thoughtful, Raymond once had educators questioning whether he was ready for advanced academic pathways. Yet behind that quiet exterior is a curious mind capable of analysing Shakespeare, writing essays on African literature, unpacking global economics, and solving algebraic equations. His online searches range from biology and politics to TED Talks and current affairs - though he’ll happily tell you Roald Dahl remains a favourite.
At home, Raymond’s world looks like any other 10-year-old’s. Train tracks cover the lounge floor. Board games sit half-finished. He swims, practices karate, scooters with friends, and sometimes loses at Monopoly to his younger sister. His father has been deliberate about keeping learning joyful, structured, but never overwhelming.
Michael recognised Raymond’s abilities early, but navigating the education system proved challenging. Gifted programmes were limited, age thresholds rigid, and recognition slow. Eventually, home learning and a “Link School” pathway allowed Raymond to sit national and Cambridge exams - not for pressure, but for purpose.