High Achievers Assembly
This morning we welcomed back our outstanding High Achievers from the Class of 2019. It has now become a College tradition at the start of each academic year to recognise the exceptional performances of the previous cohort. The assembly was attended by the Years 10-12 cohorts, teachers and families of the high achievers.
Awards were presented to those students who achieved an ATAR of 90+, who have received special recognition from the School Curriculum and Standards Authority, or achieved excellence in a General Pathway.
In his Principal’s Address, Mr Finneran made reference to the number of significant Australians who were recently recognised as an Australian of the Year; in particular Ash Barty who was recognised as The Young Australian of the Year. He quoted Barty’s acceptance speech where she said “It’s about being humble and respectful, and giving it a crack – trying to be the best you can be, and that’s all you can ask of yourself.”
Mr Finneran challenged the High Achievers to “continue to participate, contribute and make a difference to the world in which we live. Put simply, giving it a crack. As a community we will continue to support each other to grow in our strengths – students, teachers and families. To do so, like the Australians of the Year, we need to be resilient, work hard and set goals.”
Other highlights included a performance by Newman Groove, who played Natural Woman and the High Achievers Address by Patrick Diamond.
Patrick reflected on his Year 12 experience; which he admitted was one of the best yet hardest years of his life. Patrick said “Since leaving Newman I’ve come to realise how grateful I am for the opportunities the school provided. Being in multiple bands taught me new music and skills I can take with me forever, taking part in the production gave me confidence and activities such as debating taught me how to win an argument, a skill that has proven quite useful.”
He also provided some tips for a successful year which included; your friends are your best study companions, utilise the school library, resources and study options like Homework Club, take regular study breaks and most importantly look after yourself.
It was wonderful to see so many of the High Achievers return to the College to celebrate their success. We wish them all the best in this next chapter of their lives.