Academic Results 2024
Academic results
Year 12 achievements
Future pathways Words of wisdom
Welcome from the Headmaster
It is a pleasure to offer this publication that presents the academic results of the young men of the Class of 2024.
At Churchie, academic growth, effort and improvement are central to all that we do. Accordingly, the academic culture at Churchie is very strong, as is our ambition for every student.
We believe that every student can build the confidence to manage new learning, knowledge and skills throughout life.
The School’s academic culture is built upon 113 years of effort and high achievement, a proud history that has produced eleven Rhodes Scholars. As an
academic institution, we deeply value intellectual and scholastic pursuits and recognise our role, in partnership with parents and the community, in assisting our young men to develop habits that will enable them to continue their pursuit of knowledge and learning throughout their lives. A central goal is to develop confident young men who can learn anew in any setting in the world and live happy, contributing, and fulfilled lives.
The young men of the Class of 2024 attained very strong results in all three academic pathways including the International Baccalaureate Diploma, the Queensland Certificate of Education and our suite of Vocational Education subjects. It is a joy to see your students achieving at the very top in their chosen fields.
A key feature of both the IB and QCE is the rigorous suite of external examinations for which the students have to prepare.
In bringing the achievements of our young men to you, I pay tribute to our academic leaders, heads of faculty, housemasters and teachers, all of whom provide high-quality teaching, professional expertise, generous encouragement and inspiration.
All our teaching and corporate services staff believe deeply in the potential and future of each young man and share in the achievements of all our students. Their
high-quality teaching is acknowledged by parents, year upon year.
I acknowledge the support of our parents, the School Council, and the wider school community, all of whom contribute to the mission of encouraging each young man to realise his goals and aspirations.
On behalf of the Churchie community, I warmly congratulate the students, staff and parents of the Class of 2024 for their academic achievements and wish them every success for the future.
Dr
Alan Campbell Headmaster
Message from the Deputy Headmaster
By any standard, the young men from the Class of 2024 were among the most successful graduating cohorts nationwide.
As a community, we admired remarkable successes in each of our three academic pathways. Of our boys studying the QCE, 64.9 per cent achieved an ATAR over 90, which is the best on record. Our average IB score was a clear margin above the international mean. Our VET students achieved a myriad of diplomas, certificates and TAFE qualifications.
Regardless of their pathway, we are immensely proud of the achievements of our boys from the Class of 2024 in the classroom and across the school more broadly.
As you read through this publication, it will be clear that many of our highest achieving students were able to translate Churchie’s core values into broader educational, leadership and cocurricular programmes. Whether it be demonstrating integrity on the sporting field, developing a sense of faithfulness through various service activities, exhibiting courage in the performing arts, or showing respect for others in various national or international contexts—we are very proud of how so many students from the Class of 2024 committed themselves with distinction in so many areas.
A highlight of this particular publication, Academic Results 2024, is the academic advice that our most successful graduating students offer our younger boys. Their tips are often invaluable. We also ask our graduating class for broader comments on their time at Churchie. Some of Oliver Pan’s reflections offer something very special in this respect:
Churchie provided me with so many opportunities to grow both personally and academically. From the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award programme that allowed me to achieve my Gold Award and go on a once-in-a-lifetime sailing trip, to the numerous service activities, cultural exchanges and sports tours, these opportunities have allowed me to see into the world and what life outside of school is like.
Churchie’s amazing teachers and staff are the cornerstone of the School’s academic prowess, as their genuine care and support for students make learning that much more enjoyable. I can truly say that I could not have become the person I am today without the incredible opportunities that Churchie has given me.
In their time at Churchie, the Class of 2024 demonstrated a profound understanding that true academic achievement is not merely about earning high grades but about deeply understanding and developing their own sense of character. They met challenges with a mixture of determination and delight, and saw opportunity and potential wherever they went.
As they embark on the next chapter of their lives, and as they continue to grow and mature as young men, we have no doubt that the Class of 2024 will make outstanding contributions to the world beyond Churchie.
Richard Wheeldon Deputy Headmaster
CHURCHIE STUDENTS
ACHIEVED THE TOP ATAR OF
Academic highlights
3 99.95 CHURCHIE STUDENTS ACHIEVED AN ATAR OF 26 99+
Churchie QCE ATAR results vs Queensland ATARS
CHURCHIE RESULTS QUEENSLAND RESULTS*
*Queensland results are from 2023 as 2024 Queensland data was not available at the time of publication.
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme
TOP SCORE WAS (PERFORMANCES ABOVE 43 ARE ‘HIGHLY ACCLAIMED’)
STUDENTS RECEIVED THE IB DIPLOMA WITH DISTINCTION (40+ IB SCORES )
3 26 44/45
32/45 MERITS WERE ACHIEVED (PERFECT SUBJECT SCORES OF 7 OR A IN EXTENDED ESSAYS AND FOR THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE) (THE WORLD AVERAGE WAS 29)
CHURCHIE’S AVERAGE RESULT WAS
Message from the Dean of Studies Years 10 to 12
The 2024 QCE cohort is to be congratulated on their impressive academic results, which have allowed them to obtain scholarships and enter universities they previously had not considered. They clearly understood that very little is achieved without hard work, discipline and perseverance, and this cohort epitomised these characteristics.
26 STUDENTS ACHIEVED AN ATAR OF 99 + QCE
Congratulations to Max Gao, Oliver Pan and Hayden Zhu who achieved an outstanding ATAR of 99.95 (the highest possible ATAR). We must also acknowledge Hugh Agnew, Garry Chen, Charlie Grisham and Dario Lim who achieved an ATAR of 99.9 (the second highest possible ATAR). To put this extraordinary feat into perspective, only 36 students in Queensland gained an ATAR of 99.95.
At our Academic Celebration Assembly on Thursday 20 February, we celebrated 38 QCE boys who were the recipients of an ATAR of greater than 98 (23.03 per cent of the QCE cohort). Further, 39.4 per cent of the cohort received an ATAR of more than 95, with 64.9 per cent achieving an ATAR of more than 90. These are extraordinary results, and it is very exciting to hear of the scholarships and tertiary pathways that have been opened as a result.
I am also excited to note that the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority named four Churchie boys as Distinguished Academic Achievers (Max Gao, Oliver Pan, Max Yan and Hayden Zhu). Congratulations to these young men on this award, which is granted to students who demonstrated exceptionally high achievement across a diverse range of learning options. Additionally, 13 boys
from Churchie were awarded a Subject Achievement Commendation for achieving the highest result in at least one general subject or general (extension), with some of these boys achieving this for up to four of their subjects. Another 36 boys were awarded a Certificate of Academic Commendation for achieving an A exit result in at least six general and/or general (extension) subjects.
These remarkable results would not have been attained without the ongoing reflective practice our staff undertake as they motivate and empower the students across all subject areas. Churchie is fortunate to have professional staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every student is meeting his individual learning goals.
These results are a culmination of the hard work demonstrated by the students, staff and parents as we collaborate to provide a learning environment where success in all aspects of the School is promoted and celebrated.
Marcia Brumpton Dean of Studies Years 10 to 12
39 STUDENTS ACHIEVED AN ATAR OF 98 +
31 STUDENTS ACHIEVED AN A IN ALL 6 SUBJECTS ON 226 OCCASIONS, STUDENTS RECEIVED 95% OR ABOVE IN A GENERAL SUBJECT ON
24 STUDENTS ACHIEVED 100% IN 10 DIFFERENT SUBJECTS
102 OCCASIONS, STUDENTS RECEIVED 98% OR ABOVE IN A GENERAL SUBJECT
Message from the Dean of IB Diploma Programme
When looking at the most recent cohort of International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme graduates, I cannot help but marvel at the journey they have undertaken over the past two years and the strong platform they have built to enter confidently and successfully into life beyond Churchie.
The well-rounded nature of the IB Diploma Programme requires students to complete six subjects, including a second language. In addition, students complete a 4,000-word extended essay and a theory of knowledge course comprising a presentation and 1,600-word essay. Students also undertake 18 months of creativity, activity and service. The rigorous content, often at university level for the higher-level sciences and maths, along with the 70 to 80 per cent external examinations marked by international assessors, ensures students’ organisational skills are put to the test.
The School is very pleased and proud of our students who performed very well on an international stage. Of note is the performance of Finbar Curran, who achieved a maximum subject score of 7 for five of his subjects—Japanese ab initio, History HL, Philosophy HL, Chemistry SL, and Maths Analysis and Approaches SL—as well as an A for theory of knowledge and his extended essay.
Our academic high achievers demonstrated consistency of effort, forensic analysis of feedback and dedication to constant improvement as the keys to their success. Our 2024 cohort secured three prestigious scholarships—a testament to the well-rounded nature of IB students.
23 DIFFERENT IB SUBJECTS
STUDIED BY CHURCHIE STUDENTS
9% RECEIVED A CERTIFICATE OF DISTINCTION FROM IB SCHOOLS AUSTRALASIA
Congratulations to Bill McCart for receiving the Tuckwell Scholarship at ANU and to Finbar Curran and Vincent Wu for both receiving the UQ Ramsay Scholarship. Students also seized every opportunity presented to them. Will Shackel embodied this through his work as the founder of ‘Nuclear for Australia’, the first youth-led campaign for the prohibition on nuclear energy to be lifted in Australia. Along with his intensive preparations for his external examinations, Will also spent a week at MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), where he attended the short course ‘Nuclear Energy in a Low-Carbon Future: Key Facts and Issues’.
I acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the IB teachers, corporate staff and faculty heads, as well as the tireless support of the parent body and wider Churchie community. Finally, I commend all students who embraced the demands set before them and refused to give in to adversity. You have been wonderful examples of seizing every opportunity and embracing a lifelong journey of success.
Catherine Prosser Dean of IB Diploma Programme
100% PASSED THE CORE (EXTENDED ESSAY, THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE, CREATIVITY, ACTIVITY, SERVICE)
33% RECEIVED A CERTIFICATE OF MERIT FROM IB SCHOOLS AUSTRALASIA
70% ACHIEVED AN IB SCORE ABOVE THE WORLD AVERAGE
Max Gao, Oliver Pan and Hayden Zhu
Top ATAR achievers
Congratulations to Max Gao, Oliver Pan and Hayden Zhu who achieved the highest possible ATAR of 99.95.
Max Gao
Max Gao was ‘extremely content and happy’ to learn he had earned the highest possible ATAR following years of hard work and dedication to his studies, which also saw him recognised by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority as a Distinguished Academic Achiever.
Max found the staff at Churchie to be very supportive of his academic goals, assisting him to achieve the results he was striving for and earning him an Academic Excellence Award at Speech Night.
‘The biggest way the teachers and staff at Churchie supported me in achieving my academic goals was by answering all my questions, however small,’ he said. ‘Whether in the classroom, at lunch or even on the weekend, my teachers were always willing to answer my countless questions and queries. I could not have achieved my results without the constant support from all my teachers.’
During his time at Churchie, Max also took advantage of the wealth of cocurricular opportunities available, including debating, chess, tennis and music, describing these and his Year 10 Outdoor Education camp as some of his schooling highlights.
‘Not only were my cocurriculars a relaxing break from academic study, but they created some of the happiest memories of my secondary education,’ Max said. Max has accepted a Melbourne Chancellor’s Scholarship to study a Bachelor of Biomedicine at The University of Melbourne and plans to continue to study post-graduate medicine. His love for community service inspired his career choice, and he would eventually like to work clinically in a hospital while also undertaking research opportunities.
Oliver Pan
Upon receiving his ATAR of 99.95, Mawson House Vice-Captain Oliver Pan ‘felt a satisfying sense of accomplishment’. ‘It felt like all of my persistent effort and hard work for six years had finally paid off,’ Oliver said.
Receiving the highest ATAR capped a rewarding year for Oliver, who received an Academic Excellence Award and The W C Milligan Memorial Prize for English at Speech Night and was also recognised by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority as a Distinguished Academic Achiever.
Oliver thanks the teachers and staff at Churchie for supporting him in achieving these results.
‘I can say for a sure fact that I couldn’t have been in my position today without the help of the amazing and world-class teachers and staff at Churchie,’ he said.
During his senior years, Oliver found Specialist Mathematics the easiest subject to motivate himself for.
‘While it is infamously challenging, learning about the real-world applications of concepts always kept me excited and engaged, and made studying for it just that much easier,’ he said. ‘I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to my teacher, Mr Wasley, who always made it fun to learn and was always supportive when I had any questions.’
Oliver has accepted a Melbourne Chancellor’s Scholarship to study a Bachelor of Biomedicine with guaranteed entry into the Doctor of Medicine at The University of Melbourne.
‘I decided to study medicine after school because I saw the impact, sacrifice, selflessness and dedication doctors have to their profession, especially as a person who grew up through COVID-19,’ he said.
Hayden Zhu
Hayden Zhu said achieving an ATAR of 99.95 was not something he expected, and he was thrilled that his hard work and efforts paid off.
‘When I first saw my ATAR, I felt a huge sense of joy, having achieved this result at the end of 13 years of schooling,’ he said. ‘I had always aimed to achieve this result and worked hard to attain it.’
Hayden was also recognised by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority as a Distinguished Academic Achiever, and he received an Academic Excellence Award at Churchie’s 2024 Speech Night.
His favourite subject at school was Physics because his teachers and peers made the class ‘highly enjoyable and interesting’.
Hayden found Churchie’s teachers to be very supportive of his academic goals.
‘They always looked out for my best interests by offering their time to assist me, answering questions, and providing advice to help me do well during my schooling,’ he said.
While at Churchie, Hayden balanced his academic load with various cocurricular activities, including volleyball, football and music, and he also achieved the Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award.
This year, Hayden is studying a Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine at UNSW.
‘My positive experiences and interest in the medical field led me to pursue this path’, he said. ‘I feel that my personal skills and strengths align with this field.’
AGNEW Hugh
ALLEN Oliver
ANNING Henry
ARALAR James
ATTERBY Jacob
BARRETT Joseph
BARWICK Hamish
BATCHELOR Daniel
BECKER Jaimie
BELL Isaac
BELL Sam
BENJAMIN Henry
BOND Nicholas
BOWDEN Alistair
BOX Samuel
CARTMELL Jack
CHADWICK Noah
CHANCELLOR Oliver
CHANG Akira
CHEN Garry
CHOW Nathaniel
CORMACK Luke
CROTHERS Jye
CURRAN Finbar
DAVIES Alex
DIQUE Will
DOWN Henry
DRAPER Jayden
DWYER Thomas
EDMONDS Addison
FITZPATRICK Ollie
FLEMING Astor
FORREST Benjamin
GAO Max
GODFREY Caleb
GRAY Angus
GRESHAM Charlie
GRIFFIN Benjamin
GRIGGS Zac
GUNLUK Evren
GUTTERIDGE Vincent
90+ ATARs
HADJIPETROU Felix
HANLY Caleb
HARTWRIGHT Charlie
HILLIER Henry
HOOD William
HUANG Ocean
HUANG Totty
KONDOS Alexander
LANSOM Joshua
LAU Nicholas
LEE Samuel
LEGGETT Angus
LEWIS Charlie
LI Matthew
LIAW Ryan
LIEW Jake
LIM Dario
LIU Charlie
LLOYD Jock
LOADSMAN Tom
LOWE Hugo
MALHOTRA Pranav
MANSER Eli
MATTISKE Nicholas
MCALLUM Tate
MCCART Bill
MCCARTHY Barney
MCDONALD Alastair
MCDONALD Jude
MCKENZIE Hamon
MONAHAN Noah
MOODY Nicholas
MOSTERT Cooper
MULLINS Brendan
MUTHUTHANTRI Alok
MUTINELLI Felix
NAIDU Ethan
NANAYAKKARA Shevan
NGUYEN Quan
OLECHNOWICZ Oskar
OMAR Haris
O’SULLIVAN Luke
PAN Oliver
PARCELL William
PARKES Alex
PEARCE Marcus
POWE Ollie
QUARTERMAN Zac
RICHARDS Angus
ROBINS Henry
ROSS Connor
RUDMAN Connor
RUMERY Lachlan
RYLANCE Hugh
SAUNDERS Cooper
SCHOFIELD Zach
SEETO Rohan
SHACKEL Will
SHEPHERD Ned
SHEPHERDSMITH William
SLAUGHTER Max
SMITH Caelan
STAPLETON Hugo
TAMMELA Kasper
TAN Nathan
TAYLOR Morgan
TYNE Noah
VEIVERS BROWN Xavier
VELGE Simon
WALLER Brendan
WARD George
WHITEHEAD William
WILKINS Sam
WILLIAMSON Beau
WU Vincent
YAN Max
YEUNG Oliver
YUNKER Will
ZHU Hayden
Please note: the students listed above provided consent for their ATAR to be shared with Churchie. There may be additional students who received a 90+ ATAR who opted not to share their results with the School.
Future pathways
A summary of the higher education and career aspirations of the class of 2024.
Fields of study
Field Examples of courses/majors
Architecture and Building
Creative Arts
Education
Urban and Regional Planning, Interior Design
Music, Graphic Design, Communications
Early Childhood, Primary, Secondary
Engineering Chemical, Automotive, Civil, Aerospace, Biomedical, Surveying
Health Medicine, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Veterinary Science
Information Technology
Management and Commerce
Natural and Physical Sciences
Society and Culture
Computer Science, Programming
Commerce, Banking and Finance
Mathematics, Physics, Laboratory Technology
Law, Psychology, Economics
Wisdom from an Old Boy
At our Academic Celebration Assembly, Old Boy from the class of 2023, Casey House Captain, Prefect and Captain of Tennis Ben Rankin delivered the following address to the Senior School and our highest achieving 2024 Old Boys.
It’s a privilege to be a part of this assembly. I’ve been looking forward to coming back, since I owe so much to the people who have supported me here.
As you prepare for university, I’d like to share with you some of my thoughts for navigating the year ahead.
Boys, you already know what is required to experience success, and you will be driven to keep pushing forward to greater achievements. You’ll find extension opportunities and like-minded peers at university who will inspire you to aim higher. Talking to older students in my degree last year helped me clarify a lot of uncertainties I had about career paths and sparked my interest in different areas. So be confident in the achievements you’ve already made; you are as capable as anyone of excelling in whichever fields you pursue. Churchie has prepared you exceptionally well and accustomed you to a standard of excellence that will ensure a smooth academic transition to university.
My first year of university has been amazing, and I encourage you to enjoy university life to the fullest. While you’ll be pleased to hear the academic load doesn’t compare to the intensity of Year 12, 2025 will present you with new priorities and opportunities to seize.
At Churchie I was often, rightly, encouraged to try new things. It’s a cliché, but I urge you to take every opportunity to try new things this year. There is a temptation to continue an approach to life that has served you well. But at university, in a new environment with new people, there is an exciting opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and make changes. With greater freedom, this year is the best chance for you to embrace a growth mindset and set new goals. While you will face failure and many unknowns, understand that this is part of the learning experience.
To get the most out of university, I recommend you continue to hold yourselves to a high standard with your routines and be enthusiastic. Many people, myself included, needed to reorient themselves throughout the year as old organisational habits die, so make an active effort to reinforce the organisational processes you’ve mastered. I encourage you to sign up for university events, sports and societies— some will last, while others will be very short-lived. Personally, after talking with older students in economics societies, I’m now looking forward to studying at the London School of Economics in the winter holidays with Churchie and university friends from my degree, which I hadn’t anticipated when I left school.
Overall, it’s been the people I’ve met and new friendships forged that have been my highlight of the year. Whilst you’ll develop a special bond with the Churchie boys in your degree, you’ll get a lot more
out of your university experience by making new friends as well.
As tempting as we all find online lectures, I encourage you to attend classes on campus to experience university life. Also, don’t underestimate how easy it becomes to lose touch with school friends. Actively make efforts to keep in touch with Old Boys, since these guys are your mates for life.
Ultimately, university provides a reset for you, and it’s an opportunity to chart a new path and find what you’re passionate about. Take a moment before university starts to reflect on what you want to achieve this year, both academically and personally. Setting goals now will help you make the most of this incredible new chapter in your lives.
Finally, to the boys starting Year 12, you of course have a demanding year ahead. Visualise the success you aspire to so you can be motivated to work towards this outcome. Many of the high achievers here climbed up the academic ranks in their senior years. Try and see the bigger picture of the reward that lies at the end of the year. The boys in front of you achieved success in the breadth of school life that many of you are striving for, and they are a great model for what discipline and determination can achieve.
Thank you again for having me back today. I wish you all well in the New Year, and, Old Boys, continue to aim high, embrace change and enjoy the exciting year ahead.
Thank you.
Ben Rankin
2023 Casey House Captain, Prefect and Captain of Tennis
Ben Rankin
Words of wisdom
Anglican Church Grammar School congratulates the seniors of 2024 for achieving outstanding academic results. We are proud to present words of wisdom and inspiration from the 2024 Churchie Scholars.
Leading scholars of 2024 with (left to right) Headmaster Dr Alan Campbell, Acting Chairman of School Council Con Castrisos OAM, Deputy Headmaster Richard Wheeldon, Dean of IB Diploma Programme Catherine Prosser and Dean of Studies Years 10 to 12 Marcia Brumpton.
Hugh Agnew
Hillary House, School
Vice-Captain, Prefect
There is no such thing as starting work too early. Organise your study and maintain discipline, form a group of hardworking mates and hold each other accountable. Complete the big tasks first and early. If you know you have a lot to do in the next term, get on top of your work ahead of time. Most importantly, get involved in a cocurricular sport or activity, as taking a break from study can help with life balance.
Awards
The Barry Kelly AM Making of Men Award, QUT Dean’s Award for Engineering, Academic Excellence Award, Subject Prize for Engineering, The Murray Millett Memorial Prize
Cocurricular
Second VIII Rowing, Fourth XV Rugby, Fourth XI Football, Debating 11.1, Morris Wind Symphony, Symphony Orchestra
Service
Headspace Viking Run, Meals on Wheels, Narbethong State Special School Cross Country, Narby Fun Day, Push-Up Challenge, Red Shield Appeal, White Ribbon Breakfast, World’s Greatest Shave
Currently studying
Hugh has received a UQ Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship to study a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and Master of Engineering at The University of Queensland and hopes to work as a mechanical engineer.
James Aralar
Mansfield House, Prefect, Captain of Music
Don’t be discouraged if you work differently or at a different rate than those who are doing very well academically. Everyone has a different style of studying that works for them, so do what works for you. Going to Study Hub is helpful, as there are staff and student tutors who want to help answer questions and keep you on track. It is a less formal environment than the classroom, so it is easier to ask questions you may not feel confident asking during classes.
Awards
The John Crampton Andrews Memorial Award, Academic Excellence Award, The George Weatherlake Memorial Prize for Mathematical Methods
Cocurricular
Fourth XI Football, Fourth VI Volleyball, Big Band 1, Chamber Strings 1, Symphony Orchestra, GPS Musicians
Service
Headspace Viking Run, Peer Tutoring, Sony Camp
Currently studying
James has accepted a UQ Excellence scholarship to study a Bachelors of Mathematics / Computer Science at The University of Queensland.
Hamish Barwick
Casey House
Interlace subject content on various days throughout the week. For example, if you have a mathematics exam in a week and an engineering exam a couple of days after, don’t spend your time solely studying maths because you won’t leave any time for your engineering exam. Instead, do an hour of maths, then swap and do half an hour of engineering. This also allows your mind to refresh, and you’ll find yourself being able to study proactively for longer.
Cocurricular
Third V Basketball, Open Cross Country, Open Track and Field
Service
Headspace Viking Run, Red Shield Appeal, The Smith Family student2student reading
Currently studying
Hamish is studying a Bachelors of Science / Laws (Honours) at The University of Queensland.
Isaac Bell
Mansfield House
Try to do assignments and homework early so they don’t build up and cause stress. Ensure you have complete drafts for seeking feedback. Try not to cram for exams, and I recommend brain dumps and flash cards as great study skills.
Nicholas Bond
Grenfell House, Captain of Chess
Ask your teachers if you have questions or need help in a specific area. Don’t be afraid to ask Old Boys for any advice as they have already done the subjects. For assignments, before you start writing, make sure you understand what you need to do and all the steps you must take to answer the task successfully. Doing as many practice exams or questions as possible is also important.
Samuel Box
Magnus House, House Vice-Captain
Develop and maintain a good relationship with all your teachers, as they are there to help you. They want the best for you in your academic journey. Motivation comes and goes, but discipline is what keeps you doing the work and continuing to study when it gets hard. Develop study habits and stick to them during hard times; this will develop discipline and resilience. Plan your designated blocks of study around your commitments like sport. Ensure you take sufficient breaks, as these are equally important.
Cocurricular
Third XI Cricket, Third XI Football Service
MS Moonlight Walk
Currently studying Isaac is studying a Bachelors of Engineering (Honours) / Mathematics at The University of Queensland and hopes to eventually own an engineering company.
Awards
The Anglican Financial Services (ANFIN) Award for Economics
Cocurricular
Premier Chess, Fourth IV Tennis Service
Eat Up Australia sandwich making, World’s Greatest Shave
Currently studying
Nicholas is studying a Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics (Honours) at The University of Queensland.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award, Subject Prize for Spanish
Cocurricular
First VI Volleyball, Third XI Football Service
Headspace Viking Run, Red Shield Appeal
Currently studying
Samuel is studying a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at The University of Queensland and hopes to work as a doctor.
Noah Chadwick
Kingsley House
In the younger grades, academic success comes from setting goals, creating a routine and sticking to it. However, for those entering Year 12, stress can easily disrupt your routine, no matter how prepared you feel. Stress in moderation is normal, but don’t let it dictate your life. Have fun and maintain balance, and the pressure you place on yourself will become much more manageable.
Oliver Chancellor
Kingsley House, School
Vice-Captain, Prefect
Get a group of friends you can study with to hold each other accountable. Complete as many practice exams as possible.
Akira Chang
Casey House
Rather than passively listening in classes, engage in learning through active questions and always aim to consolidate what you already know. Recognise your areas of strength and weakness by doing practice exams and past papers. Improve upon your weaknesses through a mixture of research and understanding, practice questions and asking the teacher for help.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award
Cocurricular
Third XI Football, Under 16B Rugby, 11C Volleyball
Service
Clean the Creek
Currently studying
Noah is currently studying a Bachelors of Mathematics / Commerce at The University of Queensland and hopes to work in finance in London.
Awards
The McIntyre Memorial Cup
Cocurricular
First XV Rugby, First VI Volleyball, Open Swimming
Service
Clean the Creek, Sony Camp
Currently studying
Oliver is studying a Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics at The University of Queensland and hopes to pursue a career in investment banking.
Awards
Subject Prize for Japanese
Cocurricular
Chamber Strings 1, Symphony Orchestra Service
Conch Club, Headspace Viking Run, Mother’s Day Run, Push-Up Challenge
Currently studying
Akira is studying a Bachelor of Vision Science/Master of Optometry at Queensland University of Technology.
Garry Chen
Mawson House, Prefect
Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard. Put in the hours now and reap the rewards later. Get your assignments done and start studying early. The sooner you finish, the more time you have to continuously edit and polish your assignment or knowledge for exams. Use Quizlet flashcards and practice exams, and work with friends who know more about the subject than you do.
Nathaniel Chow
Mansfield House, House Vice-Captain
For academic excellence at Churchie, uphold meticulous organisational skills, seek guidance when necessary, balance academic pursuits with personal wellbeing, establish meaningful objectives and cultivate curiosity in your cocurricular endeavours. Routinely evaluate your progress, hone sophisticated time-management strategies and foster collaborative relationships with mentors and peers. Embrace challenges as transformative opportunities, and remain resolute, understanding that dedication will culminate in sustained, profound success.
Awards
The Tyrwhitt Memorial Cup – Dux of the School in QCE
Cocurricular
Chamber Strings 1, Symphony Orchestra Service
Clean the Creek, Headspace Viking Run, Peer Tutoring, Push-Up Challenge, Red Shield Appeal, World’s Greatest Shave
Currently studying
Garry has accepted a UQ Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship to study a Doctor of Medicine at The University of Queensland.
Cocurricular 11A Football
Currently studying Nathaniel is studying a Bachelors of Engineering (Honours) / Science at The University of Queensland.
Finbar Curran
Nansen House
Focus on what is possible in the present. By being proactive, making the most of the provided resources, not being afraid to ask for help and attempting to form good habits, significant improvement is possible. Success, especially in older years, is almost entirely the result of being diligent. Be organised and consistent. Start early and plan ahead. Brain dumps and practice exams were the most effective study skills for me.
Awards
The Neville Harpham Memorial Prize – Dux of the School in IB, Subject Prize for History, Subject Prize for Japanese, Subject Prize for Literature, Subject Prize for Philosophy, The Ham Family Prize for Religious Education
Cocurricular
Senior A Debating, Chamber Strings I, Symphony Orchestra, Senior Musical Pit Band Service
Darkness to Daylight fun run, Headspace Viking Run, Legacy collection, Peer Tutoring, White Ribbon Breakfast
Currently studying
Finbar has been awarded a Ramsay Scholarship and is studying a Bachelors of Humanities (Western Civilisation) / Laws (Honours) at The University of Queensland.
Benjamin Forrest
Casey House, House
Vice-Captain
If you make the most of the opportunities offered at Churchie, you will build a strong character that will allow you to be successful. Get things done early. Don’t put off assignments because when you are heavily focused on studying at the end of the term, it is easier not to have to worry about assignments as well. Practice exams are one of the most important parts of revision as they familiarise you with exam questions, which is always helpful.
Max Gao
Casey House
Being well-rounded leads to greater success than academic prowess. Don’t let your academics prevent you from participating in cocurricular and service activities at Churchie and beyond. Be consistent with your study. Those who are successful aren’t only doing work in the month leading up to exams. They have worked since the start of the year. Study skills aren’t one size fits all. Get to know what works for you.
Charlie Gresham
Casey House
Never ignore a piece of work; once you start ignoring work, it becomes a habit that is very hard to undo. Always submit fully edited drafts—the feedback you receive from teachers is some of the best feedback you can get. Practice exams are crucial to academic success.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award, The John Atherton Young Memorial Prize for Biology
Cocurricular
Open Swimming, First VII Water Polo
Service
Headspace Viking Run, Push-Up Challenge, Red Shield appeal
Currently studying Benjamin is studying a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) at The University of Queensland and would eventually like to work as a doctor.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award
Cocurricular
Senior B Debating, Senior B Chess, 11A Tennis, Morris Wind Symphony
Service
Peer Tutoring, Push-Up Challenge, Red Shield Appeal
Currently studying Max has accepted a Melbourne Chancellor’s Scholarship to study a Bachelor of Biomedicine at The University of Melbourne. He would like to work clinically in a hospital while also undertaking research opportunities.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award
Cocurricular
Fourth VI Volleyball, Third XI Football Service
Headspace Viking Run, Push-Up Challenge
Currently studying Charlie has accepted a UQ ViceChancellor’s Scholarship to study a Bachelors of Engineering (Honours) / Mathematics at The University of Queensland and hopes to work in the mechanical engineering industry.
Zac Griggs
Casey House, House Captain
Do the work early. Everything becomes a lot easier when you are prepared. It won’t feel like as much effort if you complete it gradually over time rather than in a big chunk at the end. Don’t over-study at night, as you won’t take as much in as you think. Work during the day and have plenty of downtime at night to rest ready for the next day.
Vincent Gutteridge
Grenfell House
If you study, you will do well; if you don’t, you will not. Start assignments early. The burden of having an assignment due and not finished is so much larger than the time taken to actually do one. You can help this by setting your own deadlines.
Caleb Hanly
Hillary House, House
Vice-Captain
Churchie has prepared me to put in the work necessary to achieve my goals and not settle for mediocrity. Do as much as you can while at Churchie and take advantage of all the opportunities available. The main study skill I recommend is to do lots of practice exams.
Cocurricular
First XI Cricket, Open Track and Field, Under 16B Rugby, 16 Years Cross Country
Currently studying
Zac is studying a Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics at The University of Queensland.
Cocurricular
Third VI Volleyball, Third XI Football, Fourth XV Rugby, Percussion Ensemble
Service
Headspace Viking Run
Currently studying
Vincent is studying a Bachelor of Advanced Business (Honours) at The University of Queensland.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award
Cocurricular
Open Cross Country, Fifth XV Rugby, Open Third VIII Rowing
Service
Headspace Viking Run, Narbethong State Special School, MS Moonlight Walk, Sony Camp
Currently studying
Caleb has accepted a Merit Scholarship to study a Bachelor of Science / Master of Engineering at the University of Melbourne.
Henry Hillier
Mansfield House
Churchie has taught me to be confident in pushing myself outside of my comfort zone. Whether it is in sport or academics, I have learned that failing is just a step closer towards achieving my goals. Always do that little bit extra. Whether that is one more maths question, putting your hand up when you do not feel confident, or even revising flashcards when you feel like you know the terms already, all these little acts will go a long way towards improving your grades.
Awards
The C E Elliott Rhodes Scholarship Award – Proxime Accessit to the Dux in QCE, Subject Prize for French, The D C C Crombie Memorial Prize, The Captain W H V Jubb Memorial Prize
Cocurricular
First XI Cricket, Second IV Tennis, Open Cross Country Service
Conch Club, Dream Cricket, Headspace Viking Run, MS Moonlight Walk, Pink Stumps Day, Sony Camp
Currently studying
Henry is studying a Bachelor of Medical Science at Griffith University and hopes to pursue a career as a medical specialist.
Nicholas Lau
Mansfield House
For studying, I recommend the Pomodoro method. Work for 25 minutes, then take a short break. Repeat the process three more times, then take a longer break. Although it may seem like the best idea to study nonstop, burnout is not fun.
Angus Leggett
Casey House, House Vice-Captain
Stay organised with a schedule and avoid over-committing. Use cocurricular activities as a set break from studying to destress and socialise. Motivate yourself by setting a series of goals, including some that are readily achievable and others that are more challenging to accomplish. As you meet your earlier goals, your success will motivate you to reach your end goals. Find a group of people you study well with to keep each other motivated and on track.
Currently studying
Nicholas has accepted a QUT Excellence Scholarship (Academic) to study a Bachelor of Medical Imaging (Honours) at Queensland University of Technology. He would like to work as a nuclear medicine technologist.
Cocurricular
Second XI Cricket, Fourth V Basketball Service
Dream Cricket, Headspace Viking Run, Push-Up Challenge, Red Shield Appeal, Sony Camp
Currently studying
Angus has accepted a Bachelors of Science/Laws (Honours) at The University of Queensland and plans to practise law in Brisbane or study medicine following his undergraduate degree.
Ryan Liaw
Grenfell House
Try to keep procrastination to a minimum. You’ll always have time to do things outside of academics afterwards, but it is important to set your priorities. Try to prioritise understanding content over memorising it. It saves time and stress. For me, mind maps and efficient note-taking helped a lot with my study.
Dario Lim
Kingsley House, Captain of Debating
Don’t worry about other people’s results, just focus on achieving your version of success. Set high but achievable goals and never settle for the trap of ‘good enough’. If you don’t receive the result you hoped for, acknowledge that you can do better and that you want to do better. When it comes to exam preparation, note-taking is a crucial study skill. It helps you learn content faster and makes revision far easier.
Charlie Liu
Nansen House
High school can feel overwhelming, but small habits make a big difference. Stay organised—use a planner to track assignments. Ask for help when needed, because teachers appreciate engaged students. Don’t cram—review notes daily to avoid last-minute stress. Choose friends who support you, not pressure you. Most importantly, believe in yourself—effort matters more than perfection. And get enough sleep! It boosts focus and memory and is much more beneficial than staying up cramming.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award
Cocurricular
First IV Chess, Fourth XI Football
Service
Mother’s Day Fun Run
Currently studying
Ryan is studying a Bachelor of Computer Science / Master of Data Science at The University of Queensland and would like to develop AI programs.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award
Cocurricular
Senior A Debating, Morris Wind Symphony Service
Headspace Viking Run, Red Shield Appeal, World’s Greatest Shave
Currently studying
Dario has been offered a Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship to study a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) / Master of Engineering at The University of Queensland.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award, Subject Prize for Mandarin
Currently studying
Charlie is studying a Bachelor of Science at The University of Melbourne.
Pranav Malhotra
Magnus House
Don’t procrastinate. Get on top of your work and allow time to perfect your assignments. Find a study strategy that works for you, as not every strategy works for everyone. Doing practice tests and marking yourself based on the marking guide helps ensure you cover everything and highlights gaps in your learning.
Eli Manser
Kingsley House
My advice for academic success is that there is never enough time, so start early.
Nicholas Mattiske
Mansfield House, House Captain
Keep up your sporting commitments in the older years; they are good breaks from study. Do everything early and ask as many questions as possible. Ask both your teachers and your mates. Break tasks into smaller bits and slowly work through them. Reward yourself for all your success. Do as many practice exams as possible, and your exams won’t be as scary.
Cocurricular
Army Cadets, Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, Open C Chess, 11D Basketball, 11B Cricket, 11.1 Debating
Service
Headspace Viking Run, Push-Up Challenge, Red Shield Appeal
Currently studying Pranav is studying a Bachelors of Engineering (Honours)/Commerce at The University of Queensland.
Cocurricular
Open D Chess
Currently studying
Eli is currently studying a Masters of Engineering at The University of Queensland.
Cocurricular
First VII Water Polo, Open Swimming
Service
Headspace Viking Run, Mt Gravatt Special School visits, Sony Camp, Timor-Leste Service Tour
Currently studying
Nick is studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) at The University of Queensland and would like to work as a civil engineer.
Tate McAllum
Casey House
Putting in small amounts of extra effort compounds over time. Revising content you learned in class for 10 minutes when you get home and again a week later could save hours of cramming closer to the exams. Ask for help. The teachers will help you, as will other students if you ask. Get assignments and revision done early. Don’t try to cram everything into a single afternoon or weekend; drill away at them every day, little by little, and it will feel a lot easier.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award
Cocurricular
Fourth VI Volleyball
Service
Headspace Viking Run, Mother’s Day Classic, MS Moonlight Walk, Push-Up Challenge, Walk for Awareness
Currently studying Tate has accepted a UNSW Co-op Scholarship for Software Engineering to study a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Software Engineering) at UNSW and would like to work as a software engineer.
Bill McCart
Mawson House, Prefect
To motivate yourself when the going gets tough, seek support from friends and teachers. When preparing for assignments, make sure you understand the criteria you are being marked against. Spaced revision and mind maps are helpful study skills for exams.
Nicholas Moody
Hillary House
Make sure you understand what’s going on in class. If you do that, then just a bit of effort at home each day and practice exams as your primary revision method will almost guarantee good marks. Ask for help, as there is always someone who knows what to do. Do practice exams, fix your mistakes, and repeat. For assignments, follow the writing guide, be as concise as you can and get as much feedback as possible, so you can get the best final result.
Awards
The E D Lee Memorial Prize – Proxime Accessit to the Dux in IB, Subject Prize for Film, The Morris Hart Memorial Prize for Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches, Subject Prize for Spanish
Cocurricular
Morris Wind Symphony, Symphony Orchestra, GPS Musicians, Senior Musical Pit Band, 12.1 Debating, Fourth XI Football, Theatresports, Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award
Service
Clean the Creek, Headspace Viking Run, Peer Tutoring, World’s Greatest Shave
Currently studying
Bill has been awarded a Tuckwell Scholarship and is studying a Bachelor of Law and Actuarial Studies at the Australian National University.
Awards
The Ausenco Engineering Scholarship, Academic Excellence Award
Cocurricular Open Swimming Service
Headspace Viking Run, International Women’s Day fun run, Narby Fun Day, Push-Up Challenge, Red Shield Appeal
Currently studying
Nicholas has been awarded the Ausenco Engineering Scholarship to study a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and Master of Engineering at The University of Queensland.
Ethan Naidu
Grenfell House,
House Vice-Captain
My advice for academic success is that you get out what you put in. To motivate yourself when the going gets tough, start with something small. Make sure you get a good sleep before your exams.
Quan Nguyen
Grenfell House
Start engaging with your subjects from day one and complete any set work as soon as possible. Time management and note-taking skills are vital assets. Setting a goal and reflecting on it post-completion is a classic improvement technique. Whether it is a subject grade, assessment mark or understanding part of the syllabus by a certain date, goal setting gives you a definitive benchmark to work towards.
Luke O’Sullivan
Grenfell House, Captain of Football
Keep a balanced lifestyle and choose subjects that you are good at and enjoy. Remind yourself of your end goal and use the boys around you for motivation. When preparing for exams or working on assignments, find your way of getting in the zone, and once you’re in it, get through as much work as possible. Take short, key notes and make the most of practice exams.
Cocurricular
Fourth XV Rugby, Fourth VI Volleyball, 11D Football
Service
Eat Up Australia sandwich making, Headspace Viking Run, Red Shield Appeal, Sony camp, Timor-Leste Service Tour, World’s Greatest Shave
Currently studying
Ethan is studying a Bachelor of Science at The University of Queensland and hopes to work as a doctor.
Cocurricular
Open Chess, Fourth XI Football, Senior C Debating, Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award
Service
Eat Up Australia sandwich making, MS Moonlight Walk
Currently studying
Quan is studying a Bachelors of Engineering (Honours) / Science at The University of Queensland and would like to work as a researcher in the biomedical field or as a medical professional.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award, The Football Prize
Cocurricular
First XI Football Service
Eat Up Australia sandwich making, Headspace Viking Run
Currently studying Luke is studying a Bachelors of Commerce / Laws (Honours) at The University of Queensland and would like to work in an accounting or law firm.
Oliver Pan
Mawson House,
House Vice-Captain
Give everything your best. If you know you truly tried as hard as you possibly could, you’ll have no regrets, regardless of the end result. When the going gets tough, remind yourself that mistakes and failures are only opportunities to get better. Learn from your mistakes, take a break, and move on. Try to eat healthy food and get eight hours of sleep, especially during exam periods. Hand in your best possible drafts by starting assignments early, and start studying early for exams.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award, The W C Milligan Memorial Prize for English
Cocurricular
Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, Third VI Volleyball, 11A Basketball Service
Clean the Creek, Headspace Viking Run, Peer Tutoring, Push-Up Challenge, Sony Camp, White Ribbon Breakfast, You Are Not Alone Fun Run
Currently studying
Oliver has accepted a Melbourne Chancellor’s Scholarship to study a Bachelor of Biomedicine with guaranteed entry into the Doctor of Medicine at The University of Melbourne.
Zac Quarterman
Grenfell House
Planning what to do when you study is more important than just planning the time. If you plan what you will do during your study session, it aids in keeping you on task and working toward a set goal. For assignments, it is best to start early and to ensure that you research thoroughly before you start writing. This will help you to understand your topic better and ensure that you write in a sophisticated manner.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award
Cocurricular
Second XI Cricket, 11B Football Service
Eat Up Australia sandwich making, Headspace Viking Run, Push-Up Challenge, White Ribbon Breakfast
Currently studying
Zac is studying a Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics at The University of Queensland and hopes to work as a financial advisor or an investment banker.
Lachlan Rumery
Biggs House
Going to Churchie is an amazing opportunity; don’t waste it. Churchie supported me in developing a strong work ethic and strong moral values. To balance cocurricular activities with academic work, be well rested and try to get as much work done as you can after sports training. Start early with small tasks as they build up over time. Each week, write a list of clear goals. The study skills I recommend are practice exams and flashcards.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award
Cocurricular
Fourth VI Volleyball Service
Conch Club, Sony Camp, World’s Greatest Shave
Currently studying Lachlan is studying a Bachelors of Engineering (Honours) / Science at The University of Queensland and would like to work as an engineer.
Ned Shepherd
Nansen House
Make sure you always have a balanced schedule. Study breaks are important to avoid burnout. Divide up your work so you can tick off smaller tasks. A sense of completion can be a good motivation for future challenges. Start things early. The hardest part of an assignment is starting on a blank page, so get that out of the way before the stress builds up too much. For study skills, I recommend flashcards as well as apps like Quizlet, which can help with spaced repetition.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award
Cocurricular
Fourth VI Volleyball, Third XI Football
Service
Headspace Viking Run, Push-Up Challenge
Currently studying
Ned is studying a Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics (Honours) at The University of Queensland and hopes to work as an investment banker.
Hugo Stapleton
Hillary House
Use your time efficiently. Don’t spend hours cramming the night before an exam; instead, do short amounts of quality work each night. This allows you to consolidate your knowledge and makes you confident in your understanding of the content, minimising your stress during the exam and ensuring you complete the assessment to the best of your ability. Keep a healthy balance between academics and leisure activities. Study hard during designated study times but take regular breaks so you don’t burn out.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award
Cocurricular
Third IV Tennis
Service
Headspace Viking Run, Red Shield Appeal
Currently studying
Hugo is studying a Bachelors of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) / Science at The University of Queensland.
Nathan Tan
Magnus House
Make a realistic study plan and start studying early and consistently. Have regular breaks. Use the day before the exam to get in a good mindset. I recommend active recall and spaced repetition as great study skills. Take practice exams in exam conditions.
Cocurricular
Third XI Football, Fourth VI Volleyball Service
Headspace Viking Run, Red Shield Appeal
Currently studying
Nathan is studying a Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics (Honours) at The University of Queensland.
William Whitehead
Nansen House, Prefect
Envision the person you’ll be at the end of your time at Churchie. Ask yourself whether you want to be someone proud of what you achieved or someone who regrets not giving everything when it got a little hard. Keep the image of that person in your head constantly. Tell yourself how much you want it, and don’t let it go. Be the boy who can honestly say he gave 100 per cent.
Max Yan
Mansfield House
My high-achieving peers motivated me to do the best I could, and Churchie’s exceptional teachers enabled me to achieve at the highest level. My preparation for exams comprised completing past papers and seeking out the hardest questions to learn the exam format. For assignments, be sure to ask your teachers if you have questions about the task. Peer reviews can also be helpful.
Hayden Zhu
Magnus House
Find a study method that works for you and trust it during stressful times. When preparing for exams or assignments, break work up into smaller parts and set mini deadlines for each part to ensure that the task will be completed. Take each disappointment as an opportunity to reflect on your mistakes and improve. Don’t forget to always believe in yourself.
Awards
The Spirit of Churchie Award, Academic Excellence Award, The Ian Cameron Design Award, Subject Prize for Literature
Cocurricular
Fourth XV Rugby, Second XI Cricket, Morris Wind Symphony, Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award, 11C Football
Service
Darkness to Daylight, Headspace Viking Run, Push-Up Challenge, Red Shield Appeal, Sony Camp, White Ribbon Breakfast, World’s Greatest Shave
Currently studying
William is studying a Bachelor of Built Environment - Construction Management and Quantity Surveying at Queensland University of Technology.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award, The Boyd N Kleinschmidt Memorial Prize for Chemistry, The Keith A Dan Memorial Prize for Specialist Mathematics, The Allan R Townsend Memorial Prize for Physics
Cocurricular
Senior Chess
Currently studying
Max has received an offer to study a Bachelor of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge.
Awards
Academic Excellence Award
Cocurricular
Fourth XI Volleyball, Fourth XI Football, Morris Wind Symphony, Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award, GPS Musicians, Percussion Ensemble 1
Service
Headspace Viking Run, Peer Tutoring, Push-Up Challenge, Red Shield Appeal
Currently studying
Hayden is studying a Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine at UNSW.
