Alston Yam named Ellison Scholar at the University of Oxford
Posted on April 10, 2026
The Macleans College community is proud to celebrate Alston Yam (Mansfield House 2021 - 2025), who has been selected as an Ellison Scholar. This is one of the world’s most prestigious and competitive scholarships.
The Ellison Scholars Programme supports outstanding students to study at the University of Oxford while contributing to solutions for major global challenges. Founded by technology entrepreneur Larry Ellison, the programme selects students for their academic ability, creativity, leadership and commitment to real-world impact. Scholars combine their studies with collaborative research, conferences and annual summer internships. These experiences focus on areas such as health, sustainability and technology, with the aim of developing practical solutions that benefit society.
Alston’s selection followed a rigorous international process. Applications opened in May 2025 and included essays, references and a short video outlining a real-world problem and proposed solutions. Semi-finalists were announced in September and completed admissions testing and interviews with the University of Oxford. After offers were released in January, successful applicants became scholarship finalists and attended an assessment day and further interviews. Final selections were reviewed by Larry Ellison before scholars were confirmed in February.
Alston has also been awarded an NZQA Premier Scholar Award. He achieved Outstanding Scholarships in Calculus, Earth and Space Science, and Geography, along with Scholarships in Chemistry, Digital Technologies, Physics and Statistics. This award will be presented at the New Zealand Parliament later this month.
During his time at Macleans College, Alston demonstrated academic excellence and strong involvement in school life. He achieved success in mathematics and science competitions at national and international levels, including representing New Zealand at the International Mathematical Olympiad. He also earned top honours in national competitions. His teamwork was evident in engineering, programming and modelling events, where he contributed to major wins, including a recent global title.
Alston was actively involved in extra-curricular activities, including music, sport and school productions. He served as Mansfield House Captain and as a prefect. He also mentored younger students and led academic initiatives such as mathematics and coding clubs. In addition, he contributed to the revival of New Zealand’s participation in the International Olympiad in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
He is widely respected for his humility, collaborative approach and strong work ethic. His achievements are matched by a commitment to service within the school community.
Alston is now completing the onboarding process and will begin his studies at the University of Oxford in September. As an Ellison Scholar, he will take part in a 10-week summer internship each year and attend conferences and collaborative events focused on global challenges.
This achievement reflects years of dedication, curiosity and determination. It marks an important milestone and serves as an inspiration to other students to pursue ambitious goals and contribute positively to the world.
Macleans College congratulates Alston on this outstanding accomplishment and looks forward to following his journey as an Ellison Scholar.