Turramurra High global achiever ready for uni three years early
Year 9 student and education globetrotter to study nursing at Auckland University of Technology. Jim Griffiths reports.
23 June 2025


She’s not quite 16, but Turramurra High School Year 9 student Ollie Chow has fast-tracked and globalised her education, combining US and NSW high schooling.
And in a few weeks, she’ll be an undergraduate at Auckland University of Technology.
Since Year 6, Ollie has undertaken an accelerated learning program that combined online United States education with in-person studies at Turramurra High School.
Through this unique dual-schooling program, she has gained her US SATs, giving her a high school diploma.
Ollie said the flexibility of the US system, and the ability to start at a young age were driving factors.
“The American high school let me focus on the science and maths subjects that I excelled at,” she said.
When these topics were presented in the Australian curriculum, she had already mastered them, giving her the space to concentrate on new learning.
She credits reading a lot and being able to absorb new information quickly as keys to her success.
In July, Ollie will begin a Bachelor of Health Science (Nursing) at Auckland University of Technology, with a view to continue her studies in medicine, cardiology or forensic sciences.
“I've had an interest in medicine since I was quite young, and I think nursing is the easiest way at my age to start off,” she said, adding that she’s also interested in Maori medicine and health.
While Ollie is looking forward to the next chapter in her academic journey, she’s thankful for her public education and the valuable social and practical skills gained through daily engagement at Turramurra High.
This includes active membership of the local Leo’s Club, the junior version of Lions, where she’s sold cakes for the Leukaemia Foundation and sizzled sausages at Bunnings.
Principal Desley Pfeffer said staff were very impressed with Ollie’s dedication and drive.
“She’s a remarkable young lady and we wish her all the best in New Zealand," she said.
“We’d love to welcome her back to attend what would be her Year 12 Formal in a few years’ time."
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