Congratulations to Harry Graafsma and April Simpson who have been recognised with a Premier’s VCE Award for their outstanding academic results in 2023.
Harry received a Premier’s VCE Award for being an Outstanding VCE Vocational Major Student. Harry completed a VCE Vocational Major at Marist-Sion College and commenced a Diploma of Aviation as part of his practical component. The course gave Harry the knowledge and practical skills required to embark upon an exciting career as a commercial aeroplane pilot.
April received a Study Award for her perfect study score of 50 for Religion and Society. April’s teacher, Mrs Rose Marie Black said, “April is a self-directed learner. She always took notes and checked for understanding when unsure of a concept. April’s writing was exceptional from the start, and she was an absolute joy to teach.”
Ms Lisa Harkin, Principal of Marist-Sion College, Warragul, said the College community was immensely proud of Harry and April for their achievements.
“April is a very deserving Premier’s Award recipient. April has a quiet determination; her commitment as an independent learner is inspiring. The Marist-Sion College community is delighted by all that April has achieved and we wish her all the best of success in her future endeavours at The University of Melbourne and beyond.”
“Harry was one of only six students who received a Premier’s Award as an Outstanding VCE Vocational Major Student across the state. Harry has a strong character; he committed to attending Moorabbin Airport twice a week – an enormous undertaking. As one of our Applied Learning Captains, Harry role modelled a positive attitude to all elements of his coursework.”
Harry said, “I loved the VCE Vocational Major. It was the best thing I could have done. I started my apprenticeship in February with Qantas. That has involved a lot of theory at TAFE. I’ve been in the evacuation systems shop and I have worked on the escape slides. The VCE Vocational Major program and the Diploma of Aviation contributed to me getting my foot in to where I am now. To any students considering an alternate pathway to their learning, I’d say don’t doubt yourself, embrace the opportunities and chart your own course.”
The entire Marist-Sion College community would like to congratulate Harry and April on being the recipients of such a prestigious award.
The annual Premier’s VCE Awards recognises the top-performing students in the state. This year, 310 students were recognised at the prestigious award ceremony, including three international students and six students who completed the VCE Vocational Major program with distinction, and 23 Top All-Round VCE High Achievers who achieved study scores of 46 or higher out of 50 in at least five VCE subjects.
To view the full Honour Roll and to read more about the Premier’s VCE Awards, visit: https://www.vic.gov.au/premiers-vce-awards