year 12 AchievementS 2024
EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING
A MESSAGE
FROM
The Principal
Congratulations to the Class of 2024.
I am delighted to share the remarkable achievements of our Class of 2024. Their outstanding results are a testament to their resilience, determination and the culture of learning we foster here at Stuartholme.
As a Sacred Heart school, we are committed to shaping the next generations of leaders who are ready to meet the needs of a complex and ever-changing world. Reflecting on the achievements of our Year 12 cohort, we are confident they leave the gates of Stuartholme, as Mother Janet Erskine Stuart envisioned, “seriously begun on a wide basis.”
At Stuartholme, we understand that the educational journey is not a solo endeavour but a collective effort. Success is built on the rich partnership between students, staff, and families. This year’s results reflect this partnership and the supportive environment we have cultivated, enabling each student to thrive and achieve her personal best.
We celebrate all our 2024 Stuartholme graduates and are grateful to them for the legacy they leave behind. Through their call to action this year to “lift her up” they have brought together our founder’s vision in a contemporary and inspiring way. This shows that through not just logic alone but also with a compassionate heart, we can enact the courage, confidence, and compassion required to achieve educational excellence. In this way, as a school and a community, we have contributed to shaping the girls who will shape the world together.
Yours in Cor Unum,
Daniel Crump Principal
A MESSAGE FROM
The Dean of teaching and learning innovation
Stuartholme School celebrates our Year 12 cohort who have led by example in 2024 and achieved outstanding results. We are immensely proud of the exceptional achievements of the Class of 2024, exemplifying Stuartholme’s long-standing tradition of academic excellence.
These results represent the dedication and determination shown by our senior scholars during their time at Stuartholme. This cohort’s conscientious focus on their studies, coupled with their consistent effort, have led to these remarkable outcomes. We acknowledge and celebrate all the students who have worked diligently and shown commendable academic growth.
The Class of 2024 have enlivened the words of one of our Wisdom Women, Mother Janet Erskine Stuart:
Do not give up any high aspirations, aim at the very highest and the best, but understanding that to get this is a life’s work, not the work of a day, so never let failure cast down or disappoint you, but always begin again with great courage and especially great confidence.
The accomplishments of the Class of 2024 extend far beyond their academic achievements. They have embraced the many opportunities available at Stuartholme, excelling on the stage, the sports field, and in numerous other arenas. Their holistic engagement with School life reflects their enthusiasm, determination, and versatility.
What truly sets this cohort apart, however, is their embodiment of Sacred Heart values. Through their actions, they have demonstrated courage, confidence, and compassion, “lifting up” the entire School community. Their commitment to building an empowering culture is admirable and they leave a legacy that will inspire those who follow in their footsteps.
I would also like to express deep gratitude to our dedicated, expert teachers, who have guided and supported our scholars from their earliest days in Year 7 through to their final year. Their expertise, care, and encouragement have been vital to the achievements we celebrate today.
While these impressive results are a significant milestone for many, they are just one measure of success. We congratulate these extraordinary seniors and know that they will continue to embrace the intellectual habits of excellence that they have developed at Stuartholme and go on to flourish in the wider community by realising their potential to shape the world.
Well done to the Class of 2024. We wish them every success as they step beyond the gates of Stuartholme.
Annie Van Homrigh Dean of Teaching and Learning Innovation
2024 Academic AchievementS
Building on the long-standing tradition of academic excellence at Stuartholme School, we are proud to announce our 2024 graduates have achieved outstanding academic excellence in a diverse range of areas.
• 100% of our students attained their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE)
• 10 of our students achieved straight A grades in all six of their General subjects and received Certificate of Academic Commendation’s from the QCAA
• 72% of our students achieved an A in 1 or more of their subjects studied
• 8 Perfect Subject scores topping the State were achieved for the subjects of Biology, Drama, French, Literature, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, and Study of Religion.
• 20 Perfect External Assessment Scores in the subjects of Ancient History, Biology, Drama, French, General English, Literature, Mathematical Methods, Modern History, Music, Specialist Mathematics, Study of Religion, Visual Art
•26 Perfect Internal Assessment Scores in the subjects of Ancient History, Biology, Chemistry, Chinese, Digital Solutions, Drama, French, General English, Literature, Mathematical Methods, Modern History, Music, Physics, Specialist Mathematics, Study of Religion, Visual Art
•47 Diplomas were awarded, 3 Certificate IIIs were awarded and 17 Certificate IIs were awarded
In addition, our ATAR performance is worth celebrating.
Please note, in alignment with the QTAC privacy policy, a school is only permitted to see a student ATAR result if permission has been granted by the student. In this case, unless a school has received permission from each student to receive their ATAR score, the data presented can only provide a snapshot representation and is not indicative of the entire cohort. The following is a Stuartholme snapshot of our 2024 successes that were shared with us:
We offer our congratulations to our Dux Claire McCormack, and to our Proxime Accessit Sophia Lyons
2024 RESULTS
These outcomes reflect the dedication and hard work of our students and staff, the quality of teaching and unique learning opportunities provided at Stuartholme School, and the support of families and our community.
Stuartholme School’s focus on educational excellence ensures that students not only excel academically but also develop the skills and values needed to contribute positively to society. The school is committed to continuing its mission of empowering young women to lead and serve in a rapidly evolving world.
100% attained a QCE 8% ATAR 98 and above 21% ATAR 95 and above 95% ATAR 80 or equivalent and above
20 students achieved 100% in at least one external exam
10 students achieved straight As in all six General subjects
72% students achieved an A in one or more subjects
Lift Her uP
Cor Unum Captain, Susannah Streeton, alongside Committee members Rosie Sheehan, Mia Woodhouse, and Stella Berge, inspired the entire Stuartholme community with the launch of the 2024 theme, Lift Her Up
Supported by the artistic talents of Alexa Rose (Year 12) and her sister, Grace Rose (Class of 2022), who designed the theme’s logo, the Cor Unum team set an uplifting tone for the academic year.
The committee explained the heart of Lift Her Up:
“This year’s Sacred Heart goal, ‘Building community as a Christian value’, reflects the spirit we see every day in this school. We wanted a theme that celebrates the unique strengths each of us brings—whether you’re a rower, musician, maths enthusiast, or public speaker. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone feels valued and supported. In embracing our Christian values, we also honour Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat’s vision for the school. Lift Her Up is about cheering for one another, lifting each other up to achieve our best.
But it’s also a call to action: to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate in our wider community.
Saint Madeleine Sophie believed in action over words, and with this spirit, we challenge everyone to participate in social justice initiatives and fundraisers to ‘lift up’ the lives of others.”
School captain
Susannah Streeton
As Cor Unum Captain, what legacy do you hope to leave for future students?
My hope as outgoing Cor Unum Captain is that our theme this year, #LiftHerUp, strengthened students’ sense of Stuartholme as a sisterhood, inspiring them to both give and receive support from one another. With the introduction of Year 5s, we especially wanted each student to experience a strong sense of belonging from their very first days - something bigger than themselves. I believe cultivating a broad view of community is essential to becoming a compassionate, contributing member of society beyond school. Seeing students embrace this challenge through active participation in group activities, community service, and school events was truly rewarding. The Lift Her Up Awards, where students nominated each other anonymously, were created to recognise qualities like compassion, courage, and confidence within our community. The number of nominations each term was heartening and confirmed for us that a legacy of sisterhood will continue here at Stuartholme.
What advice would you give to other students who aspire to be leaders, especially while managing academic and cocurricular demands?
Madeleine Sophie’s concept of “wise freedom” is very real when considering leadership at Stuartholme. There is no single definition of a leader, so my advice is to remain open-minded about your strengths and avoid self-doubt based on preconceived ideals. In my experience, I gained as much from my role as I was willing to put in. Though leadership responsibilities added to my workload, they helped me become more organised and productive. The key is to be fully present in each task and move on with focus to the next, avoiding perfectionism. Maintaining time for social activities, sports, and relaxation has also been central to my balance and energy this year. Ultimately, leadership taught me resilience, adaptability, and openness to new ideas and people.
What does it mean to be a Stuartholme girl?
Since Year 7, my understanding of what it means to be a Stuartholme girl has evolved through the connections I’ve made. The girls in my year are not only funny, empathetic, and enthusiastic, but each one brings something unique to their chosen passions. What unites us is a sense of belonging to something greater than ourselves. Stuartholme is not merely a place to meet academic requirements; being part of this community means respecting our values and appreciating the gift of friendship and shared growth among students committed to embodying these principles.
What has been the key to your academic success?
The best academic advice I can give to those entering their senior years is to choose subjects that genuinely interest you. No subject will be easy all the time, and assessments can be demanding, but it’s easier to handle the pressure if you have a true interest in the material. The subjects that ignite your curiosity are the ones where you’ll feel motivated to dive deeper, even during challenging times. You’ll enjoy learning more, have better conversations with teachers and classmates, and benefit from engaging fully in class. Staying focused during class can free up more time for yourself in the afternoons, easing the study load around exams.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Looking back, I feel incredibly grateful for the friendships I’ve made at Stuartholme. These connections have been the source of so much joy and have deeply shaped who I’ve become. By participating in a wide range of activities, I met many wonderful people, I may have otherwise missed. My only wish is that I’d put myself out there even sooner to give these friendships more time to grow. For younger students, my advice is to focus less on the stress around friend groups and more on being kind, open, and involved. You never know who might bring unexpected happiness into your life until you get to know them.
School Dux
Claire McCormack
What has been the secret ingredient in achieving your exceptional academic results?
Definitely a combination of things! My amazing teachers absolutely helped, and it’s essential to know that if you don’t understand something, it never hurts to ask. Other than that, the secret ingredient is not so secret – with hard work and discipline, high academic results follow.
How did you continually challenge yourself to improve and reach your potential?
I did this through continual belief and effort towards being the best I can be. It was made simple by the support of my teachers and family, but again, dedication towards my studies really challenged me to improve myself. By aiming to do all the study possible prior to exams and continually editing and improving my assignments, my results were boosted, and this gave me confidence coming into the next round of assessment.
What advice would you give to other students who are finding their academic workload challenging?
Plan out your work to make it more manageable. Schoolwork can seem very overwhelming when you have a lot of it, but when a list of tasks is written, it seems like there is a lot less to do. You can also use the ‘pomodoro’ method when you feel overwhelmed or burnt out – 25 minutes of study, then 5 minutes of rest, which can be really useful. Otherwise, just try to get your work done earlier rather than later – it’s very tempting to procrastinate, but it’s better in the long run to be prepared.
What is one of the most important lessons you learned in school?
The importance of community is a lesson taught by Stuartholme which is absolutely essential to me. Having people around you who support you and who you support is of paramount importance, and having the Stuartholme community there for me was something I always knew I could rely upon.
What does it mean to be a Stuartholme girl?
Being a Stuartholme girl is something I will always be, and something I will remain proud of throughout my life. I received an education that was enriching in academics, extracurriculars and preparation for life in general. Being a Stuartholme girl means having a community there for you and being able to boast a wonderful extensive education that, as Janet Stuart says, leaves you thoroughly begun on a wide basis.
Proxime Accessit
Sophia Lyons
What has been the secret ingredient in achieving your exceptional academic results?
It’s about setting clear goals and maintaining discipline with your study load, while also ensuring that you have time and energy to dedicate to your co-curriculars and other things that bring you joy. Additionally, having a strong support network within both the school and boarding environments, including teachers, supervisors, tutors, and peers, has been crucial for me, as their guidance and encouragement have helped to keep me focused on my goals.
This year, you received a great honour as a recipient of the Cor Unum Shield. Can you tell us about this award and what it means to you?
Receiving the Cor Unum Shield is a tremendous honour; it represents the spirit of unity and service that Stuartholme fosters. Its name, translated as “One Heart,” reflects the values of collaboration, compassion, and commitment to the common good. To be recognised in this way is humbling, as it highlights the collective effort of everyone I have had the privilege to work with. In particular, this award reminds me of the importance of our community at Stuartholme and the power of working together with integrity and authenticity. It encourages me to continue striving for excellence, for both my personal growth and the betterment of those around me.
What is one of the most important lessons you learned in school?
For me, one of the most important lessons I learned whilst at school is summed up in the phrase often used at Stuartholme: “We shape the girls who will shape the world.” This “shaping” refers to Stuartholme’s goal of producing graduates who are wellrounded citizens. Stuartholme does not pressure girls into being perfect scholars or athletes but rather encourages them to develop and grow in an atmosphere of wise freedom, achieving balance and success in whatever form that takes. As such, I learned that perfection is not the standard, but perseverance, empathy, and trying your best are highly valued
How did you continually challenge yourself to improve and reach your academic goals?
To continually challenge myself and reach my academic goals, I made a conscious effort to step outside my comfort zone and embrace opportunities for growth. Whether it was committing to studying challenging subjects, seeking out additional resources when I needed them, or pursuing co-curricular and service activities that allowed me to give back to the Stuartholme community, my goal was to have a well-rounded education. Staying organised and managing my time effectively further allowed me to balance my academic goals while still maintaining and growing friendships, participating in sport, and overall enjoying my year. Ultimately, I believe that adopting a mindset that embraced the opportunity for learning through both successes and mistakes was a significant challenge for me, but it allowed me to improve all aspects of my life and reach my academic goals.
As a boarder, how did you grow academically, emotionally, and socially through your boarding journey?
As a boarder, I believe your schooling experience is quite unique, offering opportunities for growth that are truly priceless. Academically, the routine nature of boarding and scheduled study times, with access to tutors four days a week, allowed me to develop efficient time management practices and strong study skills, which greatly contributed to my academic progress. Emotionally, my boarding experience challenged me to become more resilient and adaptable. Living away from home and family for extended periods taught me how to navigate challenges on my own, but it also highlighted the incredible support network I had from both staff and the girls I lived with. It was the connections with these amazing women that supported me on hard days and truly made my time at Stuartholme invaluable. In particular, the lasting friendships and experiences from the “sisterhood” of boarding were largely influential in helping me communicate effectively and appreciate different perspectives.
Valedictorian
Chloe Fitzgerald
This year, you received a great honour as Valedictorian of 2024. What does this mean to you and the legacy you hope to leave behind?
I feel incredibly privileged and grateful to be named Valedictorian. Our cohort hopes to leave a legacy that reflects the values of Sacred Heart education compassion, courage, and confidence in everything we do. This spirit is beautifully captured in our 2024 Cor Unum theme, Lift Her Up, which underscores the importance of supporting each other and making a positive impact. By embracing these values, I hope to carry forward Saint Madeleine Sophie’s vision of fostering a community where we uplift one another and lead with empathy.
What advice would you give to other students who are finding their academic workload challenging?
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed at times, especially when facing a heavy workload. One of the best strategies is to break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps and tackle them one at a time. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your teachers as they’re always willing to support you. Friends are also a great resource, whether it’s offering encouragement, sharing strategies, or simply being there to listen. Remember to take regular breaks and balance study with activities you enjoy, like going for a walk, spending time with friends, or chatting with family.
What does it mean to be a Stuartholme girl?
Being a Stuartholme girl means being part of a community of women shaped by the values of Sacred Heart education, including faith, compassion, and a commitment to social justice. At Stuartholme, we’re encouraged to strive for excellence not only academically but in how we treat others. Our education fosters a genuine sense of empathy, resilience, and a desire to contribute positively to the world. These values shape who we are and remind us to lift each other up, act with integrity, and make a difference wherever we can.
What is one of the most important lessons you learned in school?
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is to embrace the well-rounded education we’re offered. Taking on a variety of opportunities whether that be academic, sporting, cultural, and social, allows us to grow in different ways and make the most of our time here. Engaging in activities beyond academics, like sports or the arts, can be incredibly rewarding and adds so much richness to the high school experience.
What is something you would tell your younger self to do differently?
I would tell my younger self to fully embrace the final years of school. With so much happening, it’s easy to overlook the small moments, but these years can be some of the most enjoyable and memorable. Taking a step back to appreciate these times is important, as they’re often what you’ll remember most once school is over.
Boarding
Grace-Louise Moffatt
As leaders in the boarding community, how have your roles shaped your experience at Stuartholme and your relationships with fellow boarders?
Having the privilege of being Boarding Captain at Stuartholme has been incredibly rewarding, and I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity. This role has allowed me to truly understand and appreciate the love and connection within the boarding community. I have gained a deeper awareness of the effort that goes into organising events and creating special moments. Things like Boarders’ Farewell, themed dinners, boarding house event days, and recreational activities require a significant amount of work, but that effort is sustained by the way we all value and support one another.
What has been the most rewarding part of living in a closeknit boarding environment, and what lessons has it taught you about community and support?
The most rewarding part of living in a boarding school is seeing your fellow boarders grow into such amazing individuals. You experience their highs and lows, pick each other up when someone is feeling down, and celebrate each other’s successes. Over time, you develop a deep desire to see them thrive, just as you want to thrive yourself. The boarding environment has taught me to cherish everyone I’ve had the honour to meet in my life because every person has a story. While the girls in boarding are now some of my closest friends, they were once strangers to me. Each of them has taught me valuable lessons and given me memories that I will carry with me forever.
As you leave the gates of Stuartholme, what do you hope to pass down to current and future boarders?
I don’t hope to pass down much, maybe just some memories and footsteps to follow. What I truly want is for future boarders to come to share the same love I have for Stuartholme boarding. I hope they find incredible individuals to share their journey with and create plenty of wonderful memories, just as I have.
What advice would you give to new boarders starting at Stuartholme who may be away from home for the first time?
My advice to new boarders is to wholeheartedly involve yourself in everything Stuartholme has to offer. Join sports teams, talk to other girls in your grade, take a walk to the lookout, and allow yourself to simply be. It’s the sense of community and belonging that will make Stuartholme feel like home. Bring some photos of home that you love, so you always have a piece of it with you. Most importantly, enjoy your time here as much as you can, because one day it will all be over, and I promise you, you will miss it.
Reflecting on your time in boarding, what has been a defining moment or experience that you’ll carry forward with you?
It’s impossible to narrow it down to just one moment because every day in boarding has been an experience worth carrying forward. However, a couple of moments stand out. One was when my year level and I were all in the common room, simply talking and laughing. I realised in that moment how many lifelong friends I had gained. Another recurring moment is when I’ve had conversations with Supervisors and recognised just how much they care for and love us. They are truly special people, and we are so lucky to have them in our lives.
Achievements in vet
Vocational Education and Training (VET) at Stuartholme.
At Stuartholme, we are proud to offer exceptional opportunities in Vocational Education and Training (VET), empowering students to explore diverse career pathways and achieve outstanding results.
Highlights of VET Achievements in 2024:
• Year 12 students completed 69 VET qualifications, including:
- 47 Diplomas
- 3 Certificate III qualifications
- 19 Certificate II qualifications
• Advanced Learning Opportunities:
- Stuartholme focuses on offering the most advanced VET qualifications available in high schools – Diplomas.
- Despite the challenges of advanced qualifications, Stuartholme Year 12 students achieved a 100% completion rate for all VET courses.
Programs Offered.
Stuartholme integrates VET qualifications into senior student timetables, offering programs in:
Sport
Early Childhood Education
All RoundeR
Rosie Sheehan
This year, you recieved the All Rounder Award. Could you share what this award represents to you and how it reflects your journey at Stuartholme?
Receiving the All Rounder Award is incredibly meaningful to me because it reflects the encouragement I’ve felt at Stuartholme to participate in everything academics, sports, and service. Engaging in a wide range of activities has helped me form strong bonds within our school and beyond, while also exploring my interests. Since Year 7, I’ve been inspired by how Stuartholme girls give their all in everything they do, which I now see as fundamental to the spirit of our community.
Balancing academics can be challenging. What strategies or insights can you share with students navigating a demanding workload?
Throughout my senior years, I’ve learned the value of maintaining balance, especially during busy times like exams. Staying connected with those around you and making time for the activities you love is essential for your well being and can make you more productive when you study. Being disciplined about using class time effectively and scheduling study sessions with breaks can also help you get the most out of your study efforts.
Reflecting on your senior years, which subject has been the most meaningful to you, and why?
Geography has been particularly meaningful to me in my senior years. Studying real-world issues and exploring solutions is such a unique opportunity, and it’s exciting to know that this learning applies to almost any field. The field trips, especially to King George Square and Noosa National Park, were definitely a highlight.
If you could go back and offer advice to your younger self as you started at Stuartholme, what words of wisdom would you share?
Looking back, I’d tell my younger self to keep an open mind and not to stress over the little things. Being willing to try new things, even when it feels challenging, is so rewarding and helps you learn more about yourself and make strong friendships. Most importantly, I’d remind myself to smile and savour every moment, as these years fly by!
In your view, what does it truly mean to be a Stuartholme girl, and how has this shaped your experience?
For me, being a Stuartholme girl is all about the sisterhood and sense of community that is so unique here. It means being there for each other and engaging in the community. This year, I’ve seen so many examples of girls embodying this through courage, confidence, and compassion, celebrated in the Lift Her Up awards. Beyond recognition, we lift each other up because of the special bond and spirit we share as Stuartholme girls every day.
The Arts
Chloe Kelleher
What advice would you give to fellow Stuartholme students as they prepare for their final exams?
I believe that in preparation for your final exams, it is best to play the long game. Throughout the year, work on forming an in depth understanding of concepts and write thorough notes to refer back to later. In the weeks coming up to externals, it is important to remember that practice makes progress, and balance is key. Balance of focus between all of your subjects, balance between routine and flexibility, and balance between hustle and self-care.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of being involved in Stuartholme’s Performing Arts program, and how has it shaped your passion for drama?
In this program, we learn how to take a script or even just a concept, and develop it into a piece of art. Our performances are not just single, completed pieces but rather showcases of the hours of work that go into creating and transforming our ‘moments’. The time we spend rehearsing, is time spent building connections between students, between the actors and their characters, and between our cast and the art piece itself. The ability to create something entirely unique whilst forming endless connections is incredibly rewarding and truly motivates a sense of love for our craft.
What strategies or approaches have helped you excel in this subject?
As the students in Actors Ensemble have learnt this year, when we work as a group towards a goal with the encouragement of one another, we are able to create something beautiful. By encouraging parents, friends, teachers, and students to attend performances, our actresses are given larger audiences and are shown that they are truly supported by the community. For younger students in this community, I hope that I have inspired a sense of motivation to perform as best they can to show their talent and hard work to those that support them. Ultimately I believe that this will foster confidence within our performers and give them a sense of love for their art form.
As Drama Captain, what do you hope to inspire in younger students within the Performing Arts community at Stuartholme?
For performances, assignments, and exams, I take a team-oriented approach. Drama is an incredibly creative and interpretative subject, therefore discussing different perspectives, sharing constructive feedback, and adding to one another’s ideas can be really helpful to improve each other’s work. You are not working against each other for the best mark, but instead working together to improve everyone’s final product. Fluidly transforming scenes can often lead to forgotten details, so a strategy I have used to remember what has been workshopped during a rehearsal, is to write annotations on my scripts and create idea dumps.
Reflecting on your experiences in Drama, what has been a standout moment or performance for you, and why was it meaningful?
A standout performance for me was my IA1 share piece. This performance takes place at the end of Year 11, however it is the first piece of official Year 12 work undertaken by senior students. Despite being with these girls in a class for over 2 years, this performance really solidified the connections between us, allowing us to truly form our little drama family.
Sport
Gretta Johnson
As a dedicated athlete at Stuartholme, what has been some of the most rewarding experiences you’ve had in sport, and how have they shaped your time at school?
Sport has been a major part of my time at Stuartholme, helping me build friendships within and beyond the school community. In Year 7, I was in awe of the older girls, who were incredibly supportive and inspiring. This encouragement motivated me to start Cross Country and train more consistently with the team. Over time, I grew to love running, and a special memory for me was qualifying for my first Nationals in Year 9 for the 3000m, held in Sydney. I was extremely nervous, but thanks to the unwavering support of my coach, Chris Gale, I ran a personal best and finished 4th.
This year, I had the privilege of leading the Cross Country team to win the CaSSSA Championships. It was incredibly rewarding to see all the hard work throughout the season pay off. The highlight of my school running career, however, was making the Australian Cross Country team earlier this year and competing in Belgrade, Serbia, at the World Cross Country Championships. This was an unforgettable experience that taught me so much about racing and preparing to compete internationally. I was overwhelmed by the incredible support from my friends and the Stuartholme community throughout the journey.
How do you prepare mentally and physically to stay competitive and perform at your best?
Running competitively requires equal parts physical and mental preparation. I train almost daily with a mix of running and crosstraining, including swimming at Stuartholme. I’ve been fortunate to receive support from my family, coaches, and mentors in developing my mental resilience for both training and racing, and I continue to work on this aspect.
On competition day, I prioritise sleep, organise my meals (especially when away from home), stay hydrated, and avoid social media to focus and get into the right mindset. Over the years, I’ve made mistakes in my preparation but have learned valuable lessons from them that help me improve each time.
What advice would you give younger students looking to balance academics and sport while excelling in both?
Discipline in sport translates well to discipline in academics. Balancing the two requires constant prioritisation and effective time management. Planning ahead is key. I found that being active helped me focus more on my schoolwork and study. I often used short gaps of time between school and training for study, which helped me stay on top of my workload.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind for Stuartholme’s future sports community?
Ability, opportunity, and determination are the hallmarks of success in sport. Stuartholme provides incredible opportunities and support for students, no matter their ability. My advice to future students is to find a sport you love and work hard at it. Believe in yourself and follow your passion you never know where it might take you. When I first started at Stuartholme, my interest in running was just beginning, and I never imagined it would bring me so many opportunities. I hope my journey inspires others to take advantage of what Stuartholme has to offer and pursue their passions with determination.
If you could go back and offer advice to your younger self as you started at Stuartholme, what words of wisdom would you share?
I would tell my younger self to believe in her abilities and understand that nothing comes without effort. Be resilient, because the journey will have its share of setbacks, ups and downs, and disappointments.
In Year 7, I came 33rd at the State Cross Country Championships and was thrilled just to make the regional team. This year, I placed 2nd at the National Cross Country Championships in Tasmania. Back in Year 7, I never would have thought I’d achieve a top-three finish at a national competition. This journey highlights that with belief, determination, and hard work, you can exceed even your own expectations.
Spirit
Stella Berge
As a member of the Stuartholme community who embodies the spirit of the Sacred Heart, what would you tell a future student about to start their journey at Stuartholme?
To every student beginning their journey at Stuartholme, I would say that Sacred Heart education is truly transformative. You will be welcomed with open arms into Stuartholme’s family and community. Throughout your time here, you will grow, develop new skills, make meaningful connections, embrace countless opportunities, and most importantly, feel deeply valued and loved. Your strengths will be cultivated to become your greatest assets in the future. While academics are essential, our founder, Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat, envisioned a holistic education, and that is the real gift of Stuartholme.
As the final Berge sister to attend Stuartholme School, what legacy do you hope you have left behind?
With my two older sisters graduating from Stuartholme in 2018 and 2021, I grew up eagerly listening to their stories from boarding school and couldn’t wait to start my own journey here. The greatest lesson they taught me was to be true to myself, and this has shaped the legacy I hope to leave behind. I hope I’ve inspired others to embrace who they are, build genuine connections, and seize every opportunity. My wish is that, in our interactions, others have felt a sense of joy and warmth. Most of all, I hope each Stuartholme girl knows she is incredibly capable and deeply valued in this world.
Being a leader, how have you developed as a person?
During my time at Stuartholme, I’ve been honoured to hold leadership roles, including Cor Unum Committee and Grenoble Boarding Captain. My growth and personal development are a testament to the support of the Stuartholme community. Here, I’ve acquired skills I never knew I was capable of, formed lifelong friendships, and grown into my true self. I feel ready to embrace the next chapter of my life, but none of this would have been possible without the support of this community. Stuartholme has given me more than I could have hoped for, instilling in me the values of courage, confidence, and compassion, which have become second nature.
How have the values of the Sacred Heart shaped your worldly view?
The values of the Sacred Heart hold a special place in my heart. Starting my journey at Stuartholme in Year 10 after attending a rural high school was a significant transition, but these values changed my outlook. The goal of ‘a deep respect for intellectual values’ introduced me to the joy of learning and the excitement of expanding my knowledge. My time here has deepened my faith, enriched my appreciation for community, and shaped my connection to others. As I leave Stuartholme, I feel a strong calling to give back and to share with others the gifts and skills that Sacred Heart education has given me.
This year, you received a great honour as a recipient of the Spirit Cup. Can you tell us about this award and what it means to you?
Receiving the Spirit Cup for 2024 is a tremendous honour. The community and spirit at Stuartholme are what I treasure most. Being awarded the Spirit Cup for my contributions to our sporting, cultural, and service communities is incredibly special, but I would make every contribution a million times over. Being part of this community, this family, this sisterhood, means being part of something much greater than oneself. It is my absolute privilege to give back and remain actively involved in the Stuartholme community.
One of my favourite parts of our senior year was our year level coming together at our final assemblies and Valedictory to sing Cor De Jesu, embracing each other and singing with spirit - it really displayed how special the sisterhood we have created over the years is.
AMELIA DAVIES
As I reflect on my senior year, filled with memories, lessons, and experiences, I am so grateful to be surrounded by those who support and care for me. Something I have taken from this year is that success looks different for everyone. Whether your goal is to achieve top marks in a subject, make a sports team, or simply try your best, you should always remember that your success or goals will not be the same as others’. As I think back on this year, I have realised that not comparing myself to others allowed me to become more successful in achieving my goals and aspirations, let me be myself, and have one of the best years ever with my friends and cohort.
EDIE CAMPBELL
The joy, laughter, happiness, tears, and friendships I have made and experienced during boarding and my senior year are more than I could have ever hoped for.
MARY-JANE HARRIOT
Social JusticE
Tara Nic Phaidin
As Social Justice Captain, what lasting impact or legacy do you hope to leave behind for future students and the community?
JPIC has been a cornerstone of my Stuartholme journey a place where I’ve always felt safe and welcomed. This year, my goal as captain was to build up group numbers and morale, creating a strong foundation for future growth, even if we didn’t accomplish everything we set out to do. I hope to be remembered in the Stuartholme community as compassionate, friendly, and reliable, and I want my passion for social justice to inspire others to continue our work in the years to come.
How did you continually challenge yourself to improve and reach your potential?
Serving as JPIC Captain this year has been incredibly rewarding, boosting my confidence and strengthening my leadership skills. I took on the challenge of managing club meetings, organising activities, and educating others on social justice topics like environmental sustainability and media literacy. Working alongside others has always been something I love, and my time in JPIC has helped me hone my teamwork and teaching abilities even further.
How has your work in Social Justice at Stuartholme influenced your perspective on community, responsibility, and change?
JPIC has been instrumental in shaping my values around community and responsibility. Being part of a supportive group of like-minded individuals has reinforced my commitment to collaborating for meaningful projects, such as the StuCase Rummage. Through opportunities like the Lord Mayor’s Youth Environmental Leadership program, I’ve been able to act on my passion for environmental sustainability and make a positive impact on Stuartholme’s environment. Leading JPIC has shown me what it means to be responsible for a group that looks up to you and is eager to learn, which has been a truly fulfilling experience.
How have the values of the Sacred Heart guided your understanding of justice and compassion, both within Stuartholme and in the world beyond?
The values of the Sacred Heart closely align with JPIC’s commitment to humanitarian and environmental rights, and these are imparted through the Sacred Heart goals. The fourth goal, “a social awareness that impels to action,” is especially relevant to JPIC, where members are encouraged to use compassion and critical thinking to confront injustices in our society and environment. Through JPIC, students learn to extend compassion toward others, as well as the world around us, caring deeply for society and the environment.
What is one of the most important lessons you learned in school?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned at Stuartholme is to stay true to myself and my values, especially when it comes to helping others. I owe so much to the past JPIC captains and supervisors who supported me and showed me how to embrace self-confidence and compassion. Putting yourself out there to stand up for your beliefs and help others can be daunting, but it’s brought me so much joy and self-assurance. It’s an experience I hope everyone can have and carry forward in their own journey at Stuartholme.
Languages
Ava Cheal
As Academic Captain, what practices or mindset have been most valuable in guiding your success?
As I reflect on my journey at Stuartholme, I’m grateful for the growth and achievements that have defined these past six years. Serving as Academic Captain has inspired me not only to aim for personal success but to create a supportive academic environment for my peers. I believe reaching our full potential means pushing ourselves academically, but it’s more about the journey of learning and growth than just grades. This role has taught me that strong relationships inspire genuine academic progress, so I’ve focused on building connections through tutoring sessions and sharing study techniques to support others in their academic journeys.
Achieving 94% in the Mandarin Proficiency Exam is an impressive feat. What drew you to study Mandarin, and what has been the most fulfilling aspect of learning a language at Stuartholme?
Taking the HSK 3 Mandarin Proficiency Exam this year allowed me to continue my Chinese studies beyond school, and achieving a 94% score was an exciting milestone. Mandarin captivated me because it offers such a unique perspective on the world, but the most rewarding part of learning Chinese at Stuartholme has been the connections I’ve formed with peers along the way. This accomplishment reminded me of the value of dedication and showed me that even the most challenging goals are within reach.
What advice would you give to students seeking to improve in their studies or learn a challenging subject?
For students aiming to improve or tackle difficult subjects, I recommend focusing on aspects that genuinely interest you. In my Chinese studies, I found exploring the meanings behind idioms and phrases very engaging, which motivated me to keep learning. When you connect with topics that resonate, it supports your academic success and broadens your perspective on the world.
What does academic achievement mean to you beyond grades, and how do you think it will shape your future endeavours?
Academic achievement, to me, is about stepping out of my comfort zone to grow and learn. The support and challenges I’ve encountered on this journey have prepared me to take on future goals with confidence. My experience as Academic Captain has shown me the value of connecting with and empowering others, which will guide me in future leadership roles.
LeadeRship
Mia Woodhouse
What does it mean to be a Stuartholme girl and how has this shaped your experience?
Being a Stuartholme girl means to be loved. Throughout my experience, the immense support that I received from my peers, teachers and staff was pivotal in overcoming challenges that I faced and celebrating success. My years at Stuartholme have taught me resilience, empathy and the value of true friendship. The friends that I have made over the years, whether it be the girl I caught the bus with from Year 7 or the boarders that let me eat all their Jatz, have completely shaped me into who I am today. I know that many of the bonds I made will last a lifetime and I’m forever grateful for all the girls.
Which subject has been most meaningful to you and why?
Health was certainly the most meaningful subject to me. The topics that we studied felt the most applicable to real life, providing me with valuable knowledge and skills beyond the classroom. Much of the enjoyment came from our incredible teacher, Mr Cameron, who was probably the kindest and funniest teacher I had throughout my years. He was always, without fail, extremely accommodating for his two senior classes and all of the girls often chatted about how excited we were about going to class.
What do you hope the cohort of 2024 has inspired to students following in your footsteps?
I hope that the 2024 Seniors have inspired younger students to make a conscious effort to connect with the people around them. We definitely prided ourselves on the unity of our group - constantly having each other’s backs. Our Cor Unum Committee’s 2024 theme, Lift Her Up, was born as a reflection of the comradery that exists within the cohort. We hope that students may have watched this kind of support that we shared over the years and reciprocate it within their own year levels.
What advice can you give to students who aspire to be in leadership - how do they manage this and the commitments of school life?
To anyone who aspires to be in leadership during their final year: It seems awfully cliché, but just be yourself. You will need to lean into your strengths. This means that you don’t need to be perfect at everything you do. Embrace the qualities that make you unique and show everyone what makes you, you! Leadership is never about being flawless, it’s about being approachable, willing to listen, and having the ability to make others smile. At times, leadership can feel overwhelming, but the key is to find parts of the work that excite you. Whether it is connecting with peers or organising events, focussing on what you love will make your work a lot more rewarding.
If you could go back and offer advice to your younger self at Stuartholme, what words of wisdom would you share?
I’d tell myself to stop trying to have it all figured out. Friend groups will change and you’re going to get a mark you weren’t expecting. I realised soon enough that the journey is all about how you rise from the imperfect moments. Invest in your cohort because they honestly will build a foundation for life, laugh when silly things go wrong, and always take the long way back to class to enjoy the view of the city… And of course, don’t rush to grow up.
