GLOUCESTER High School’s 26 graduating students have celebrated academic, leadership, and vocational achievements as they undertake their HSC examinations.
The school farewelled Year 12 at a graduation assembly on Friday 25 September, before written examinations began on Tuesday 13 October.
Sophie Lenehan placed first in Year 12, with Georgia Ellis second and Kymani Tarr third.
“I actually cried when I found out I had placed first because it was what I had been working towards the whole year,” Lenehan said.
She topped English Advanced and Food Technology and received the Leone Hooke Memorial Award for excellence in English, along with the Mid Coast Connect Vocational Education and Training Award.
“My teachers were my biggest encouragement throughout the year,” she added.
“They genuinely cared about my success and put in so much extra time and effort to help me do my best.”
Georgia Ellis placed first in Biology, Investigating Science, and Health and Movement Science. She received the Derek Kerry Memorial Award and shared the University of New England Vice Chancellor’s High Achievement Prize with Andrew Fraser.
“I’ve always loved science, particularly biology, because I enjoy learning about how things work and why they happen,” she said.
She plans to study rural science at the University of New England, with an interest in beef cattle production, genetics and nutrition.
Kymani Tarr topped English Standard and Hospitality and received the Ampol Best All Rounder Award.
“I work really hard to balance school with sport and other commitments,” she said.
“So I’m proud to have found that balance and to be recognised for my efforts across academics, sport, leadership and community.”
School captains Brody Taylor and Blake Walker shared the Gloucester High School Service Award with Lenehan.
Brody also received the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award and topped Business Studies and Legal Studies.
Taylor topped Chemistry and Industrial Technology – Timber, with his timber major project earning a SHAPE nomination.
Kamryn Beard received the Black OPAL Award for classroom engagement and application and the Reuben F Scarf Award for Commitment.
Principal Jacqueline Dalton praised the class’s talents and contribution, including improvements to the senior centre and a gift of academic gowns for future graduation ceremonies.
“Throughout their journey, they have represented the school with immense pride and distinction,” she said.
Her message to students looking beyond their examinations was to keep their results in perspective.
“Your marks are just a snapshot in time – they don’t define your worth, your intelligence, or your future.”
By Sonja DUNCAN
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