Westlake Girls High School (WGHS) is a leading New Zealand sporting school with a proud history of sporting participation and excellence.

Year 9 and 10 students who demonstrate a high ability and commitment to their chosen sport may apply to join the CYGNET programme. This programme aims to develop and extend skills of promising athletes by offering sport specific training and topics related to athlete development.

CYGNET is an innovative, cross-curricular programme aimed at developing motivated athletes. Timetabled as a curriculum subject, CYGNET students attend one period of code (Sport ) with a specialist coach per week., growing confidence both interpersonally and in their sport of choice. Additional to physical education classes, students will also cover fitness, strength conditioning, nutrition, sports science, skills training, mental skills and core health. Lessons are always positive, challenging and focus on extending the students. CYGNET students are expected to represent the school.

In 2026, basketball will be introduced as a valued addition to the Year 9 Cygnet programme. Recognised as one of the most popular sports at Westlake Girls, the basketball academy will prioritise the development of students’ technical skills, tactical knowledge, and collaborative team-building abilities, thereby fostering both individual proficiency and cohesive team performance.

Read the brochure here

Apply below. Applications for 2026 will close on Friday, 19 September 2025. Successful triallists will be notified within 2 weeks and trials begin in mid-October.

2026 Cygnets will be announced by the end of November.