HSC Academic Results & Success Stories 2022

Tony George

Tony George

Congratulations to the students in the Class of 2022 who have achieved outstanding academic results, some of the best for The King’s School.

King’s received 17 state rankings achieved by 12 students over 15 subjects. This is a record for the School, and an incredible achievement by the students. The total number of Band 6 results achieved was 384, the second highest number achieved in The King’s School’s history. Our special congratulations to Rohan Srivastava and Kevin Wang who achieved a perfect ATAR of 99.95. Kevin was First in Course for Chemistry and Mathematics Extension 2, and Ajeshwar Virk was First in Course for Punjabi (studied externally at Secondary College of Languages).

After two years of disrupted learning leading into their HSC studies due to COVID-19 lockdowns, it was wonderful that this cohort was able to immerse themselves in the full King’s experience for their final year of school. The School’s academic team and teachers implemented additional resources to support our 2022 HSC students that operated throughout the entire year, including holiday workshops and the availability of tutors to the boys during the school day and after hours.

The 2022 cohort has been extremely diligent in their efforts, staying focused on the academic program, without deflecting from their co-curricular involvement. They have achieved an exceptional set of HSC results and we are extremely proud of them.

I extend my thanks to the School’s exemplary teaching staff whose commitment to the boys was instrumental in all facets of their learning journey. The staff are genuinely invested in the boys and show dedication beyond expectation to see them succeed.

We are grateful for the wonderfully supportive parents of our 2022 graduates who have held an important role throughout their sons’ journey at King’s. We know you – like us – are incredibly proud of all they have achieved.

At The King’s School, we aim not only for academic excellence, but to provide a well-rounded education that affords our students many opportunities beyond the classroom. Through the School’s core distinctives of Academic Excellence and Character Development within a Christian

Community context, the 2022 cohort has achieved an abundance of success through many avenues of the King’s experience. Along with celebrating their academic achievements, we delight in their growth and character development into compassionate and wise young men. I am inspired by the way these students have carried themselves, as each boy has shown immense humility, compassion and integrity.

On behalf of the School community I would like to thank our Year 12 Kingsmen from the Class of 2022 for the positive impact they have had on the life of the School and for the many achievements throughout their King’s journey. They have all served as exemplars of the values of the School and as outstanding role models to the younger boys. We are confident they will emerge into society as Global Thought Leaders.

For now, we say our farewell and wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

Tony George Headmaster

22 Boys in the All Round Achievers’ list (a Band 6 or equivalent in 10 or more units).

17 State Rankings: 12 boys named in the Top Achievers list (state ranking) for 15 subjects.

18 students achieved an ATAR greater than or equal to 99.

Jacqueline Camilleri

Congratulations to the class of 2022! We celebrate here the amazing work of our Year 12 students who have gained outstanding HSC results across a wide range of courses.

What makes the results all the more impressive is that they have been achieved by students who have kept a healthy balance of academic and co-curricular endeavours. The focus on Academic Excellence and Character Development continues to produce confident, well-rounded young men who are fully equipped for life beyond the school gates. Thank you to all teaching and support staff who have helped to shape and mold these fine young men.

Some of the highlights include:

• The total number of Band 6 results achieved was 384, the second highest amount achieved in The King’s School history.

• 151 boys, out of 238 (63%), gained at least 1 Band 6 Result. (Distinguished Achievers).

• Top ATAR: Rohan Srivastava and Kevin Wang with a perfect ATAR 99.95.

• 17 State rankings achieved by 12 students over 15 subjects.

• 22 (9%) boys named in the All-Rounders’ list (a Band 6 or equivalent in 10 or more units).

• 12 boys named in the Top Achievers list (state ranking) for 15 subjects: Agriculture, Biology, Chemistry, Chinese Continuers, Drama (2), English Advanced (2), Industrial Technology, Legal Studies, Mathematics Extension 2, Music Extension, PDHPE, Punjabi, Software Design and Development, VET Automotive, and Visual Arts.

• Best results on record for the English Department:

– 90% of English Advanced students achieved a result in the top 2 bands.

– 43% (62) of students achieved a Band 6 in English Advanced – the best in the School’s history.

– 85% (17) of English Extension 1 students received an E4 – the best in the School’s history.

– The English Extension 2 student (Vice Captain Hugh Robinson) achieved an E4.

• Kevin Wang: 1st in state for Chemistry, Mathematics Ext 2, and Mathematics Advanced (2021), and 19th in state for English Advanced.

• Ajeshwar Virk: 1st in the state for Punjabi (studied externally at Secondary College of Languages).

• Robert Napoli (School Captain) achieved 6th in the state for PDHPE, 9th for Agriculture, and 11th for Biology; an outstanding achievement whilst leading the School.

• All students in the following subjects received results in the top two bands: Music 1, Music 2, Music Extension, Visual Arts, Chinese in Context, Chinese Extension, French Extension, German Extension, English EAL/D, English Extension 1 and 2, History Extension.

• Business Studies achieved the most Band 6s (26) on record.

• Economics attained outstanding results for the third year running with 32% of students achieving a Band 6.

• Samuel Baker achieved a state ranking in Legal Studies (15th).

• Vedant Upmanyue achieved a state ranking in Software Design and Development (6th).

• Software Design and Development achieved the highest number of Band 6s on record – 47% (8).

• Record number of nominations (59) for subjects with practical components for possible inclusion in displays or performance next year: Drama (23), Industrial Technology (21), Music (7) and Visual Arts (8). 6 Selections: Music (1), Visual Arts (4), Drama (1).

• 72% of Drama students achieved a Band 6 result (compared with 20.5% of the state).

– 94% of students achieved a Band 5 or 6.

• 20.6% of Agriculture students achieved a Band 6 result (compared with 7.9% in the state).

• The percentage of Band 6 results in the following subjects approximately tripled the state percentage: Ancient History, Modern History, Biology, Drama, English Advanced, English EAL/D, English Extension 2, Industrial Technology, Music 1, Software Design and Development.

Jacqueline Camilleri Deputy Head (Academics)

ATAR Top

ATAR

1

% The King’s School

Rohan Srivastava 99.95

Kevin Wang 99.95

Amardeep Gill 99.90

Harry Yuan 99.80

Robert Napoli 99.70

Hugh Robinson 99.65

Vedant Upmanyue 99.60

Lawrence Wei 99.60

Billy McKittrick 99.50

Veer Benepal 99.45

Alex Wang 99.35

Liam Hamill-Mamo 99.25

Garry Yan 99.15

Harry Guan 99.15

William Xu 99.15

Vidun Amarasinghe 99.10

Eric Li 99.05

Kyan Luu 99.05

Veer Benepal Billy McKittrick

Bill Tian

Kevin Wang

Kyan Luu

Sohan Takkalapalli

James Farrington

Zayaan Mody Vedant Upmanyue

Lawrence Wei

Amardeep Gill

Robert Napoli

Alex Wang William Xu Garry Yan Harry Yuan

Liam Hamill-Mamo

Hugh Robinson

Giri Karthigeyan

Angus Southwell

Eric Li

Rohan Srivastava

SCHOOL RESULTS IN FOCUS 2022

17

State Rankings

Individual Subject NSW RANK

Kevin Wang Chemistry 1st

Kevin Wang Mathematics Extension 2 1st

Ajeshwar Virk

Hugh Davies

Punjabi Continuers 1st

VET Automotive 2nd

Amardeep Gill Drama 3rd

Lawrence Wei Music Extension 4th

Liam Hamill-Mamo Chinese Continuers 5th

Robert Napoli

PDHPE 6th

Hugh Robinson Drama 6th

Vedant Upmanyue

Ethan Dearnley

Software Design and Development 6th

Industrial Technology 6th

Amardeep Gill English Advanced 7th

Robert Napoli

Agriculture 9th

William Nguyen Visual Arts 10th

Robert Napoli Biology 11th

Samuel Baker Legal Studies 15th

Kevin Wang English Advanced 19th

* Highest number of state rankings in the School’s history.

DUX OF THE SCHOOL & TOP ATAR

Kevin Wang

ATAR 99.95

CHEMISTRY STATE RANKING 1ST MATHEMATICS EXTENSION 2 STATE RANKING 1ST ENGLISH ADVANCED STATE RANKING 19TH ALL ROUND ACHIEVERS’ LIST

The 2022 recipient of The Reverend Canon Wallace Mort Prize for Dux of the School, Kevin Wang, is an exceptional young man with an excellent mind who has excelled academically and beyond during his six years at The King’s School.

As a Mathematics Advanced accelerant, Kevin completed this subject in Year 11 and was awarded 1st in the state. He was also Year 11 Dux and silver medallist at the International Chemistry Olympiad and a gold medallist at the Australian Chemistry Olympiad in 2022.

In recognition of his brilliant mind, Kevin was awarded the GB Owen Tuck Prize for Original Literary Composition, the DJ Thomas Prize for Physics, the Edward Britton Summerbell Prize for Chemistry, the UNSW Year 12 Student Mathematics Prize and academic prizes in Chemistry, English Extension 1 and Mathematics Extension 2.

While Kevin is a gifted academic student, he also contributed significantly to co-curricular life at King’s. According to Kevin, it was the opportunity to try things outside the classroom which really pushed him to develop as a person.

“King’s helped me to recognise I could achieve greater fulfilment than academic success alone. It was through my co-curricular achievements that I was able to find self-confidence,” he says.

Kevin was an integral member of the 1st Debating team, the Twelve Club and the Write Now Club. He also contributed to sports, playing Tennis, Table Tennis and was Captain of the 2nds Volleyball team. He was a member of The Future Project and a Year 12 Monitor in the Academic Portfolio.

“Through all the experiences I have had during my time at King’s, I have realised that I am both willing and capable of extending and enriching my path towards my final destination – and just how rewarding that can be.”

Kevin extended and enriched his pathway in many ways. As a member of the Cadet Corps, he was promoted to Cadet Under Officer (CUO) in recognition of his leadership skills. He also demonstrated resilience and endurance, gaining his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. This achievement is a true testament to his willingness to pursue opportunities outside the classroom.

Kevin contributed to the King’s Music program as a member of the Clarinet Ensemble and the Symphonic Band.

“My advice to the next class of HSC students is to make your last year at The King’s School count. Try whatever you want, leave with no regrets and do not take things too seriously.”

Kevin hopes to become a medical doctor and is planning to study a Doctor of Medicine at UNSW or a Bachelor of Science and Postgraduate degree in Medicine at the University of Sydney.

Rohan was most deserving of the coveted Alan Mitchell prize for 2022. Academically gifted, a competitive debater and conspicuous on the tennis court, he achieved in every corner of the School.

While Rohan has an extensive list of accomplishments from his 13 years at King’s, he believes his best lessons were in the simple ways we can connect with others and demonstrate good character.

“King’s has been instrumental in revealing to me the importance of skills and characteristics outside the classroom. Whether it be always saying ‘hello’ to a passing teacher or looking someone in the eye with a firm handshake, I have really treasured the School’s message about the value of character and leadership in more than just the academic space.”

Rohan distinguished himself as a leader to his peers, serving the School as

resilience and endurance by achieving his Gold Duke of Edingburgh’s International Award.

Through his experience in various leadership roles at the School, Rohan has learned that a well-rounded leader strives to make a difference within their community.

“To be a Kingsman who serves the community, you must embody the School’s Values of Responsibility, Integrity, Compassion, Humility, Excellence, Responsibility, Honesty and Gratitude,” he says.

Rohan was a valuable member of the Twelve Club, Business Investment Club, Write Now Club and founded the Behaviour Science Club. It was in the Debating program Rohan’s talents shone, participating in the 3rd GPS Debating team, Senior A ISDA Debating team and the Senior Sloane Debating team. He was Vice Captain of Debating and received Full Colours for his achievements.

Rohan’s remarkable skill on the tennis court secured him a place in the 1st Tennis team for six years, receiving Honour Colours and being awarded the Feez Shield for Tennis for five years. Rohan was a member of the GPS 1st Tennis team from 2019 to 2022 and the CIS Tennis team in 2020 and 2021.

“King’s always supported each endeavour I undertook, offering a wide range of unique services in Debating, Tennis and academic competitions. Additionally, King’s strong support networks in Houses, counsellors and staff were instrumental in helping me through adversity.”

School Executive Monitor for Academics, Britten House Captain and Captain of Tennis. In all his leadership roles, Rohan embraced the experience, showing incredible commitment and proving a fine example of what it means to lead for the good of others. Rohan was also an active leader in the Cadet Corps, earning the rank of Cadet Under Officer and Platoon Commander; and demonstrating initiative,

Rohan has accepted an offer to study a Bachelor of Science in Economics at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

“In the future, I’d like to work in the finance industry. I hope to use my experience in university to explore this industry further, alongside my passion for behavioural science.”

“

I have really treasured the School’s message about the value of character and leadership in more than just the academic space.

Median 76.7 73.85 76.15 80.38 80.9 79 83.95 85.45 82.25 84.3 86.8 85.3 83.15 83.25 87.45 86.95 86.3 85.6 86.23 84.68 84.3 Mean 71.29 71.55 72.7 76.3 77.21 75.83 79.25 81.95 78.25 80.30 81.08 82.85 80.38 80.53 83.20 83.02 82.58 81.89 82.93 82.02 82.1 Standard Deviation 20.11 18.29 20.06 17.94 16.24 16.75 16.83 14.76 16.03 14.79 17.06 14.47 15.13 15.57 14.54 14.78 14.26 13.52 13.70 13.81 13.9

SCHOOL CAPTAIN & VICE CAPTAIN

Hugh is a fourthgeneration Kingsman, who has proven himself to be a fine role model for future generations. With an impressive list of accolades that scope far and wide across many facets of the School, Hugh ensured he did not leave a single stone unturned during his time at King’s.

This year, Hugh served as School Vice Captain and House Captain of Macarthur Waddy Boarding House. He was a Year 11 Monitor in 2021 and a Gowan Brae Monitor in 2020. Hugh is an enormously effective leader, winning the admiration of the entire King’s community for the faithful and competent way he has led his fellow Kingsmen.

Hugh is an academically gifted  student who consistently received Academic Effort Awards. He was granted Honour Colours for 1st Place in Drama and English Extension 2. To his credit, Hugh received HSC OnSTAGE nominations for his individual and group performances.

“Receiving Academic Honour Colours was one of my biggest achievements at King’s. Coming from the country town of Wagga Wagga, with very little academic prowess and being in the lowest classes for everything, to becoming one of the top academic performers in my year, has been my biggest accomplishment.”

Outside the classroom, Hugh contributed to a range of School clubs. These included Scipionic Circle, Agriculture Club 2020, Tech Club 2020-2022, Shooting Club 2020 and The Future Project 2021 and 2022. He was President of the Business and Investment Club in 2021 and 2022. Hugh represented the School in Rock Climbing and Athletics. His forté is Mountain Biking, for which he was awarded the 1st place trophy in the Men’s two-hour solo Mountain Bike Classic. He participated in the Cadet Corps and was promoted to the position of Cadet Under Officer (CUO) and Company Commander of B Company in 2022. He received his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award in 2021, the 2022 Frank Denham Prize for effort connected to adventure, and the Richard Manion Memorial Prize for his School Magazine contribution.

“King’s has taught me that nothing amazing or valuable comes quickly. It is through dedication, commitment and patience that individuals and even communities can come to accomplish great things. The process of applying patience is often painful and requires consistent sacrifice. Yet, it is the only means to attain purpose and the experience is most fulfilling and rewarding.”

Hugh plans to study arts/law at the University of Sydney, with aspirations to study a post-graduate business degree in the United States. He hopes to work in funds management or investment banking.

“The unique and most powerful part of King’s that has enabled me to reach my full potential is not the facilities or grounds. While these are amazing and certainly help, it is the welcoming and nurturing culture the King’s community fosters. This culture enabled me to understand my full potential and invigorated and empowered me to pursue it. A Kingsman should know excellence is not a result, but rather an attitude.”

Vice Captain: Hugh Robinson

School Captain: Robert Napoli

Robert Napoli was the third Kingsman in the School’s history to serve as School Captain for both the Preparatory School and the Senior School. With innate leadership qualities, Robert not only established himself as a highly-respected member of the School community, but he also displayed exceptional interpersonal skills, respect and compassion, virtues for which he will long be remembered by the younger students he so graciously led.

He served as a member of SRC from Years 7 to 10 and was part of the Cadet Corps leadership team as a Cadet Under Officer (CUO) and Company Commander. He was awarded the Burkitt Shield in honour of the way he led the School.

In addition to his legacy of outstanding leadership, Robert also pursued many other passions and talents in school life.

Robert is a gifted academic student who received Academic Honour Colours for his achievements. He was awarded the Agriculture Prize, the Biology Prize, the Personal Development, Health and Physical Education Prize and a certificate for Academic Proficiency at graduation.

During his senior years, Robert represented the School in Swimming. In recognition of his dedication, talent and sportsmanship within the sport, Robert was appointed Captain of Swimming. He received Swimming Honour Colours and represented the School in a number of elite swimming teams including the GPS and NSW squads. He was appointed Captain of the GPS Swimming Team and won the School’s SJ Pullen Trophy for Senior Swimming.

“King’s helped me achieve my best by providing many different experiences to build character and resilience. From Corps camp, leadership opportunities, sporting and academic experiences, we were shown how to face challenges and learned how to overcome obstacles,” says Robert.

Robert led his School by the premise that Kingsmen should practice School Values when they are at school and when they are not. “Kingsmen build positive relationships with others and are servant leaders for those around them. They go out of their way to help others, are trustworthy and compassionate, and have a positive, balanced mindset.”

Robert is interested in working in the field of Science and Technology, which he attributes to his enjoyment of HSC subjects Biology and Agriculture. In 2023, Robert plans to take a gap year to reflect on his school journey and spend some time with family and friends before he enters further studies.

“I will remember King’s as a positive and inclusive community with many amazing opportunities and facilities for boys to thrive and extend themselves. I will always remember the incredible school spirit at weekend sports fixtures and the daily dining experience at lunch with friends.”

Well, this is it. Throughout my years at the Senior School, I’ve watched five boys present their final School Captain speech, each with different stories to tell and new advice to give to those seated in front of them.

I want to share with everyone what eight years at King’s has meant to me. I want to put into words my true perspective on the opportunity we have been granted, and the importance of appreciating and being grateful for those who allow it all to happen.

I like to think of King’s as a very large and complicated family. It is a household with many brothers to learn from, lean on and with whom to share precious memories. This household also has many other people in it, people you see every day, and others you do not. People who at different times have been my Mentors. Those who have taught, inspired and helped me grow. As a member of this family for so long

now, I believe that everyone who is a part of it, every boy, teacher and staff member at this School, forms the very definition of King’s. Or, perhaps my definition of it, anyway.

I promise you that it is not our 320 acres that make The King’s School. The defining factor of this place is not our facilities, or our academic and sporting results, or any other kind of result we strive to achieve. After eight years, I’m confident in saying it is each tough choice, challenging relationship and embarrassing mistake boys experience and overcome that truly becomes the foundation of our School.

I look back on my time at King’s and realise that I am every mistake I have ever made. Every regret that weighs me down, fear that scares me and wrong path I have chosen. However, each of those mistakes has taught me a lesson. Every regret has taught me to take risks and be free, every fear has taught me to be brave, and each path I have taken has given me a new perspective and taught me how to show kindness along the way.

I have experienced a lot King’s can offer and how it can challenge you and make you question who you are and why you turn up each day. My advice to the boys is to remember that it is the people that make The King’s School. Your classroom teacher who stayed behind after class to help you. Your sports coach who wakes up at 5.00 am, day in and day out, to help make you that little bit faster because they believe in you. It is the groundsmen who spend hours making our fields that little greener for you to run on each Saturday. The Braeside staff who drop everything to sew on a button that has fallen off the blazer you need to wear right before assembly. The Dining Hall staff who clean up your plates and cutlery long after you have forgotten about what you ate for lunch. The counsellor who meets with you time and time again because they have a genuine interest in your health and wellbeing. And it is your mate who, without hesitation, puts his arm around you when all you want to do is give up and quit.

SCHOOL CAPTAIN

PDHPE STATE RANKING 6TH AGRICULTURE STATE RANKING 9TH BIOLOGY STATE RANKING 11TH ALL ROUND ACHIEVERS’ LIST

You may get lost at King’s, just as I have at times. Washed up by the speed and intensity at which our School operates. However, never forget that every person at this school, no matter who they are, has something to teach you and a valuable story to share. Find those people.

I do not believe it was ever my job to change the definition of King’s. I believe it is the responsibility of every student to add to it. Every day. Each mistake you learn from, fear you overcome, regret you move past, every wrong path you make right and every person for whom you express your gratitude. This is how you add to the definition of King’s. And boys, do not ever consider subtracting from that definition.

I want to leave you with the three things that helped me on my way through King’s, which I did not exactly know in Year 7 or even get right over the years. I was taught these things along the way or discovered them during times of adversity. If you swear by these things, even though they can be hard to follow, you will leave your family, mates, our School and yourself in a better place.

One – be true to yourself. Two - when a door opens at King’s, walk straight through it. In other words, take the amazing opportunities you are so lucky to have in front of you before it is too late and the door closes forever. Threeshow gratitude. It is a choice. How often you genuinely thank your parents or pause and take a moment out of your day to acknowledge the person who has made life a little bit easier, a little bit better, is totally on you.

A teacher once shared some advice with my Year 9 class. They told us that we are no better than any other boy or girl in any school across the world. We are no more worthy of opportunities, more deserving of an education or more entitled to live a life of happiness than anybody else our age. Yet, we are luckier than most. Not better. But perhaps luckier.

Kingsmen, from the bottom of my heart, it has been the greatest honour of my life to be your School Captain for 2022. Being a leader at King’s has meant the world to me and will always be an opportunity and privilege I can never repay.

So, after eight years of learning the most important lessons, experiencing the most challenging struggles and forging the unbreakable bonds, I leave you with this:

Long live our community. But more than this, long live the sacrifices, service and love given by those who are grateful, those who are accepting of opportunities and those who are true to themselves who allow this place to forever be The King’s School.

What and who is a real man? As a Kingsman, I have come to understand three defining aspects of masculinity.

First, gratitude.

A simple yet often neglected attribute of the man society often fails to recognise. While gratitude should be universally practised, for a man, it is a source of grounding. What I mean by this, is that a man deprived of gratitude unravels into despair and worthlessness. Privilege becomes an entitlement, mutualism becomes parasitism, love becomes exploited, kindness becomes laboured and respect becomes lost.

Gratitude is often disguised in thankyous, cards and hugs, but what it symbolises is far deeper. Gratitude is acknowledging someone else has made your life just a little bit easier. This acknowledgment is the catalyst to human unity. When a man can acknowledge that he would not have made it throughout the day without that passing compliment, without those small words of assurance, without that small gesture of generosity, a man has the humility to acknowledge his shortfalls.

Next time you are buying a pen from Braeside, emptying your plate at the Dining Hall or being picked up from school by your parents, appreciate the people who make your journey through life an experience worth enduring by simply showing your gratitude for them.

My second defining aspect of masculinity is a man’s rite of passage.

There are milestones an individual will experience when developing into an adult, such as getting a driver’s licence, being able to legally drink and completing a university degree. Yet the rite of passage you choose can either deter you from, or guide you, to becoming a real man.

A noble rite of passage is being emotionally available to listen and provide assurance to a person in

crisis, to sacrifice your own comfort for someone else’s, to do the right thing even when no one is looking. A rite of passage is devoting your energy and time to something you are passionate about, without expecting recognition. A rite of passage is making the executive decision which, while you know in your heart is right, is not the popular option.

You are not born a man. It is something you become. It is you, and only you, who has the power to choose which rite of passage you endure; constructive or damaging. Sometimes we will give into temptation, whereby our rite of passage is spontaneous idiocy. Do not fret if you find yourself in these situations. With some retrospect, and the bravery to acknowledge your moment of weakness, a new rite of passage emerges – the opportunity to learn from your own mistakes.

Lastly, the third pillar of man is an acceptance of gradual growth.

So often, we are afraid of stagnancy, overwhelmed by the thought of becoming redundant and left with no purpose or sense of belonging. It is a constant, agitating desire to see new growth and improvement, perpetually wanting to become better men in the classroom, the workforce, in a social setting and in our minds. However, growth is slow and often painful. Heck, it took us almost six million years to evolve into Homo sapiens. Yet we expect to become affectionate, powerful and intelligent young men over the span of a few years.

There is a phrase we commonly associate with growth; the pursuit of happiness. In other words, we correlate the achievement of growth

with happiness. You come first in a class – there is inherent academic growth. You get that leadership role you had been working for – there is inherent growth in your character. You get selected for that sporting team you had been training for – there is inherent growth in your skills and fitness.

Yet, when you achieve these things, often, the satisfaction of them is ephemeral and fleeting. They are not nearly as fulfilling as you had expected. This is because there is more you could have and can achieve. You simply desire more growth and this is where the problem lies.

Real fulfilment and happiness exist in the pursuit itself and life is a constant pursuit. You will never reach an end goal, a final epiphany that puts all your stress, anxiety, depression and fear to

ease. These are all inevitable aspects of life, and so they should be. Navigating through these challenges and hardships is the essence of life.

Let me end on this. I am still discovering what it means to be a man. I am by no means a perfect leader, a perfect brother, a perfect son or a perfect anything. I just know that at the start of each day, all we can do is pursue personal growth and do so with gratitude and a rite of passage that positively impacts others and our society. Leaving us as nothing but kind, affectionate, emotionally intelligent and truly masculine individuals.

Boys, it has been an honour to serve as your Vice Captain for 2022. I thank every single one of you for contributing to my development as a man, just as you will for every Kingsman sitting beside you today. I wish you all the best for your own development into the young, courageous, brave and faithful men you will become.

OUTSTANDING PRACTICAL WORKS AND PERFORMANCES

NESA ONSTAGE SELECTION

Ryan Bond Toad’s Glorious Adventure

Amardeep Gill “The Courtroom”

Ty Arnott “The Shortest Straw”

Veer Benepal “The Maharaja of Punjab”

River Winn “Game Day”

Jack Vukasovic “The Lesson”

Jack Rowe “ Honest Engagement ”

Michael Tzakos “Pets in Paradise”

Aryan Singla “Angel in Jail”

George Hanmer “Trial in Purgatory”

Hugh Robinson “ Caught Off-Guard ”

Noah Duke “The Kings Parade”

River Winn, Ty Arnott, Noah Duke, Jack Rowe “The Cereal Serial”

GROUP PERFORMANCE NOMINATIONS

Hugh Robinson, Amardeep Gill, Ryan Bond, Veer Benepal “A Hillbilly Hunch”

Aryan Singla, George Hanmer, Michael Tzakos “A Fascinating Formula”

OUTSTANDING PRACTICAL WORKS AND PERFORMANCES

Industrial Technology

Henry Brigstocke

Hugh Davies

Samuel Dugan

Hugo Foster

Louis Gilder

Sean Graham

Alex Jones

Zachary Harris

George Kerr

Alexander Macdonald

Felix Leahy

Angus Lee

William Maslin

Bryce Ruttley

Charles Savage

Cooper Thom

Sam Thompson

Jack Vukasovic

Angus Williams

Campbell Wilson

Jackson Woodhill

OUTSTANDING PRACTICAL WORKS AND PERFORMANCES

Music

NESA ENCORE SELECTION

Ty Arnott

Lawrence Wei

Campbell Wilson

Lawrence Wei

Jackson Chong

Campbell Wilson

Zhenhao Ding

OUTSTANDING PRACTICAL WORKS AND PERFORMANCES

Visual Arts

ART EXPRESS SELECTIONS

‘It’s

‘Slaves

‘Phantasmagoria’ by William Nguyen (Painting)

‘I Work Out’ by Harry White (Collection of Works)

been ruff, but it’s been a treat’ by Jackson Chong (Drawing)

to the System’ by Kai Munton (Collection of Works)

Noah Duke

Keenan Nair

Ciaran Rushton

Jiayi He

ART EXPRESS NOMINATIONS

As a day boy at The King’s School for 13 years, Lawrence established himself as a studious and focused young man, whose quiet determination and maturity was recognised by the School community.

As a gifted musician, he participated in a wide range of musical ensembles, including the Cello Ensemble and Chamber Orchestra. In recognition of his musical ability, he was awarded The Arthur Edwin Davis Memorial Prize for Music and Old King’s Scholars’ Special Music Award.

Lawrence was a successful academic student and was awarded Full Academic Colours (2021 and 2022), the Music 2 Prize (2021 and 2022), the Music Extension Prize (2022), The Orne Prize for Ancient History (2021) and History Extension Prize (2022).

“The driving force which motivates us to work harder is undeniably the teachers who power us towards the finish line. The dedicated teachers at King’s worked endlessly to help us prepare for the HSC,” he says.

Lawrence was a valuable school leader who served as Captain of Music and Wickham House Monitor, winning the admiration of the School for the faithful and competent way he performed his duties. He was an active participant in the Cadet Corps and was promoted to the position of Warrant Officer Class 2 (WO2).

His other co-curricular interests included representing the School in Badminton and Basketball. He was also a debater, representing the School in Debating from Year 5 to Year 11. Lawrence also achieved his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award.

“In my opinion, a Kingsman is someone willing to engage in a range of activities, regardless of his proficiency. A Kingsman is not defined by his ability to be the best, but by his determination to try his best.”

According to Lawrence, the most valuable lesson he learned from King’s is that asking for support – academically, spiritually or emotionally – should always be encouraged.

“A cohesive support network exists at The King’s School comprising teachers, Housemasters, Mentors and Counsellors. They have taught me to never hesitate in asking for help – a portable life lesson.”

In 2023, Lawrence plans to study a Bachelor of Law at the University of Sydney.

MUSIC

Kyan Luu

Kyan is a talented and all-round Kingsman who contributed positively to many aspects of life at King’s.

As a gifted student, Kyan achieved Honour Colours for Academics and received an impressive inventory of accolades at graduation. These included the Bernard Riley English Language Prize, the David D’Arcy Williams Memorial Prize for Music, The Old Boys’ Union Prize for English and a Certificate for Academic Proficiency.

“Your years at King’s will strike you as most precious. There is a place for everyone at King’s, but it is up to you to find your place. Take it all in and have no regrets,” says Kyan.

As a brilliant violinist and pianist, Kyan pursued many opportunities within the co-curricular Music program at The King’s School. He was the Captain of Strings in 2022 and was a member of the King’s Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra and Senior Choir. He received Music Honour Colours for his success.

Kyan served the School as Kurrle House Vice Captain and School Monitor. His leadership skills were also recognised in Cadets, with his promotion to the position of Cadet Under Officer (CUO).

“Leading my platoon on a two-day trek during AFX22 was the culmination of my achievements at King’s. I learnt so much about myself, who I am as a leader and, with determination, courage and perseverance, anything is possible.”

Outside the classroom, Kyan contributed richly to the Cartesian Club and Composition Workshop. He also represented the School in Tennis, Football and Basketball.

“I will remember King’s as a place that helped to shape who I am today. I have a treasure chest of precious memories and experiences that I will never forget. I have also learned to cherish the seemingly ordinary. Simple things like walking to and from class with mates; you do not realise how special these things are until they are gone.”

Kyan plans to impart his talents in music and academics by becoming a tutor in 2023 alongside commencing study in medicine or healthcare policy. He also hopes to take some time to relax and travel with his mates.

A King’s Well-Rounded Education

The King’s School is committed to providing students with a wellrounded education so they may graduate with a variety of skills and talents to make positive contributions for the good of society.

All students are nurtured across the three pillars of the School: Academic Excellence and Character Development within a Christian Community. With this in mind, a Kingsman’s final year of school does not just focus on academic studies alone. To achieve well-roundedness, boys must continue to pursue a variety of co-curricular activities and sport forms an important part of the School’s offerings.

A King’s education teaches students the fine balancing act between managing commitments both inside and outside the classroom. This is an important life skill the boys take with them into the future.

The School’s Rowing program is a first-class example of this. Eight out of the nine students competing in the 1st VIII Rowing crew were Year 12 students. This crew had set their sights on a successful year of rowing, with the hope they would make the prestigious Henley Regatta.

The Rowing team worked cohesively with the academic team to ensure the boys received the very best support in all areas.

In the two weeks leading up to the 2022 Head of the River, flooding had affected the crew’s usual training location, and the decision was made to relocate the 1st VIII rowers to Canberra.

Accompanying the boys on the trip was an academic tutor supplied by the School to assist students with their studies during the day. Staff supervised several assessment tasks during their stay in Canberra to ensure the boys met their HSC course requirements, while concurrently training with a rowing schedule that accommodated their academic commitments. The School arranged the secure transport of the assessment tasks to and from the venue.

When the boys secured a spot to compete at the Henley Regatta, the academic team once again worked closely with the Rowing program to meet the study needs of the boys so they could continue to achieve in both areas.

The Henley competition was an opportunity to challenge the boys as athletes. It also presented a channel for the boys and the School to connect with prestigious international universities, such as Harvard and Brown. Many of the boys are looking to pursue study opportunities with these institutions as a result of this experience.

The boys should be congratulated for the way they embraced the opportunities presented to them with dignity, determination and gratitude.

Harry Staniforth

Harry is a stand-out sportsman, who achieved the most prestigious accolades for his achievements in sport at King’s. He was a faithful school leader who served the School as School Monitor and Vice Captain of Macarthur Waddy. As a boarder at the School for six years, Harry was a fine example for the younger boarders as an examplar of the School Values of respect and excellence.

As an athlete, Harry displayed exceptional ability and natural giftedness.

He was a talented member of the 1st Rugby and Rowing teams, and he received Full Colours in Rugby and Honour Colours in Rowing. In 2021 and 2022, the 1st VIII Rowing crew of which Harry was a member, were recipients of the Major Rennie Trophy.

“King’s provides world-class coaches across sports who have helped me to pursue my goals,” says Harry.

Harry represented the School in Rowing at a National level. He was part of the crew that competed in the elite Henley Regatta in June 2022.

“It’s important to have a healthy balance between school, sports and co-curricular activities and try as many activities as you can,” says Harry.

Harry held the rank of Cadet Under Officer (CUO) and Platoon Commander in the Cadet Corps, further demonstrating his skills in leading others and serving for the good of the community. He attained the Bronze Award in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.

“I will remember King’s as a place with countless opportunities where I could develop my sporting and leadership skills.”

Harry hopes to pursue a career in property economics and is looking to study at the University of Sydney or the University of Technology, Sydney. He is looking forward to playing Rugby with Sydney University and plans to take up surfboat rowing. Harry is one of several King’s graduates who is also pursuing opportunities to study at an international university.

PROFILE

Jack Vukasovic

Jack is an impressive young man and a dedicated, hardworking student who established himself as a fine role model inside and outside the classroom.

As an exceptional sportsman, Jack represented the School at the highest level in Football, Water Polo and Swimming. He was a member of the 1st teams in each sport, a feat for which he received Honour Colours in Swimming and Football and Full Colours in Water Polo. He also represented the School in the GPS Swimming team and the GPS and CIS Football teams.

“My parents chose to send me to King’s because of its reputation for producing well-rounded, communityminded individuals. There are many opportunities to be pushed out of your comfort zone and try new things. Through those experiences I have learned that, with effort, anything is possible,” says Jack.

In recognition of his sporting achievements, in 2021 and 2022 Jack was the recipient of the prestigious Neville Body Sports Award, which is presented to an accomplished sportsman in the School. In 2022 he also received the Justin Matthews medal for demonstrating continued courage on and off the field in Football.

“I think the best lesson I have learned from my time at King’s is that success is only achievable through effort and perseverance.”

Jack also contributed to the Industrial Arts Club and the co-curricular Music program, playing trumpet and guitar and performing for the School musical Grease in 2020.

PROFILE

“My teachers and coaches provided me with invaluable support and mentorship during my time at the Senior School. I will look back at King’s with fond memories and will miss all the people who have helped me along the way, especially my mates.”

Jack believes in the final year of school, it is important to focus on more than just your ATAR score. “

At King’s, Year 12 boys have great opportunities to lead and mentor the younger boys and it’s important to embrace these experiences.”

In 2023, Jack hopes to go to university and is looking to pursue a career in health science or education. “I may even return to King’s one day as a teacher, but for now I look forward to coming back as a Football or Water Polo coach like many Old Boys often do,” says Jack

Charlie Jeffreson

The 2022 Captain of Athletics Charlie Jeffreson is a talented and passionate athlete with an extensive list of accolades for his performance on the track where he has given –and continues to give –his heart and soul.

After being awarded NSW and Australian Champion on multiple occasions, Charlie gained selection in the World Junior Athletics Championships as a National Representative. As Captain of Athletics, Charlie led from the front in the 2022 GPS Athletics Premiership team victory. He was awarded The Clive Hall Cup for his selfless and exceptional performances. He was also awarded Athletics Honour Colours for three consecutive years, a testament to his extraordinary talent.

“King’s formed a support network of people who helped me thrive as a student-athlete. It was because of this network that I was able to perform at my best and reach my goals,” says Charlie.

Master in Charge of Athletics, Ben Gavan, played an important role in supporting Charlie as an athlete. He speaks with much pride about his significant contribution to the King’s Athletics program.

Charlie has been an incredibly dedicated young man across many areas of life at The King’s School. He has an unrivalled commitment to his chosen sport of athletics and his studies.

“Charlie has been an incredibly dedicated young man across many areas of life at The King’s School. He has an unrivalled commitment to his chosen sport of athletics and his studies. Perhaps most importantly, he has been whole-heartedly dedicated to ‘The Mighty Sky Blue and White’ and his classmates,” says Ben.

“This was never more evident than at the AAGPS Athletics Championships in 2022, where he captained our team to an emphatic victory. Of all the wonderful highlights Charlie has given to our School, the most memorable is watching him celebrate this victory with his friends, tears in his eyes, being carried around the track by a wave of fellow Kingsmen, joyous in victory,” he says.

Charlie says his best advice to the next class of HSC students is to remain resilient and stay focused.

“I will remember King’s as a haven for success, where I had the opportunity to achieve my full potential and develop into the Kingsman I am today. Along the way, I have created close bonds and lifelong relationships.”

Charlie is the recipient of a scholarship at the University of Southern California (USC), where he will pursue his studies and passion for athletics.

“

Chris Yoo

2023 Executive Monitor for Academics, Chris Yoo is a gifted student with many accolades to celebrate, including the 2022 Dux of Year 11. He received the KG, A, PL and AH Binnie Award for this achievement.

Chris completed his HSC Advanced Mathematics course as a Year 11 student. He also achieved first place in Year 11 Mathematics Extension I, English Extension I, Chinese Continuers and Software Design. In early 2022, he received Academic Full Colours for his accomplishments in Year 10.

“King’s has taught me to make the most of every opportunity I have. There is an unparalleled diversity of opportunities at King’s that allows boys to pursue their passions in numerous fields,” says Chris.

Outside the classroom, Chris has been involved in The Future Project, Cyber Taipan Club, Badminton and Table Tennis and holds the position of B Company Commander in the Cadet Corps.

“To be a Kingsman means to immerse yourself in the rich culture and community which has evolved over 190 years. You must embody the values of the School by exercising academic wisdom for the good of society,” says Chris.

With Advanced Mathematics now completed, Chris has his sights set on his final year at King’s and plans to savour every moment. “I expect Year 12 will be the busiest year so far as I will be juggling HSC preparations, co-curricular activities and my leadership role. While it will be challenging, I know there will be rewarding moments.”

PROFILE

Steven Wan

Steven is a gifted academic student, who not only completed Advanced Mathematics as a Year 11 accelerant, but also secured first place in Year 11 for Drama, English Advanced and Modern History as well as receiving an award for Academic Proficiency. He received Academic Full Colours in 2021 for outstanding academic performance, including the Drama prize in 2021.

“I think it’s important to study hard, but also to study smart and with efficiency. For me, it is more about the journey, not the destination. I try to enjoy learning, as not many students in the world have the opportunities we are granted.”

Steven contributes to the Cadet Corps, Student Colloquium, Debating and Scipionic Circle. He is also a talented performing arts student who has performed in school musicals.

Taking on Advanced Mathematics as an accelerated student has allowed Steven to complete one of his HSC subjects ahead of time, giving him the ability to remain focused in other areas during Year 12.

“The best lesson I have learned at King’s is to have the courage to pursue challenging goals, strive for excellence and venture outside my comfort zone. However, we also need to be humble in our victory.”

PROFILE

– Year 11 Studies of Religion

Duncan Ball

Duncan is a student who spreads himself across many areas of the School. He possesses a great ability to manage his studies and co-curricular commitments to achieve the full King’s experience.

Taking the lead role in the School’s Term 4 play, Don’t Drink the Water, meant Duncan had to juggle preparation for his HSC Studies of Religion exam alongside his commitment to the play.

“King’s has taught me that if you do not try, you cannot win. Therefore, you should put your hand up for every opportunity.”

Duncan is a 2023 Year 12 School Monitor and a dedicated member of the King’s Athletics program. He also participates in Debating, the Drumline and holds the position of A Company Commander in the Cadet Corps. He is considering a career in journalism, but for now, he is looking forward to his final year at King’s.

“I believe being a Kingsman means applying yourself and living life to the best of your ability. By pushing yourself in as many fields as you can, you not only improve yourself, but you are able to serve and enrich our community.”

Karl Huang

As an academically-focused student, Karl is among the top performers in the subjects in which he excels. He received the Year 11 Economics prize and was awarded an Academic Proficiency award for his outstanding achievements. In Year 10, Karl was first placed in Philosophy, earning himself Academic Half Colours.

Having completed Studies of Religion as an accelerant student, Karl can now focus on his other HSC subjects.

Karl says he learned early on that many people within the King’s network are available and willing to support students in all areas of School life. He acknowledges this support gives him confidence to be a successful student, both inside and outside the classroom.

“King’s helps me achieve my best by allowing me to balance my studies with co-curricular activities and sports. This has given me a wider lens to approach challenges.”

Karl contributes richly to Chess Club, Media Club, the Community Outreach Program and Cartesian Club. His sports of choice include Badminton and Basketball. In 2023, he plans to remain focused on his studies as he enters his final year of school and is pursuing his Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.

“I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to have a King’s education. I have grown so much as an individual and improved in many areas because of my King’s experience.”

PROFILE

PROFILE

PROFILE Amardeep Gill

Amardeep is an impressive young man and a uniquely gifted all-rounder, who participated and contributed in many ways to life at The King’s School. He was a fine role model both inside the classroom and out, possessing a great capacity to lead and serve others, while demonstrating empathy, integrity and commitment.

“My parents sent me to King’s in Year 6, as they wanted me to have a well-rounded education, with opportunities to extend my passions and room to explore new interests.”

Amardeep served the School as Executive School Monitor for Character, Britten House Vice-Captain and Captain of the 2nd XI Cricket team. At the graduation ceremony, he was awarded The Old Boys’ Union Prize for School Citizenship in recognition of his contribution to character across the School.

He also demonstrated his leadership qualities through his participation in the Cadet Corps, where he was honoured with the position of Company Commander of Trek Company.

Amardeep embraced the full King’s experience and was recognised for his achievements both academically and in the co-curricular programs in which he excelled. He was awarded Academic Honour Colours and captained two cricket premierships, earning himself Cricket Half Colours. As a gifted student, Amardeep was invited to be part of The Future Project and Cartesian Club, to which he richly contributed.

He was also involved in Music, SRC, Da Vinci Decathlon and Football and was a passionate member of the A Debating team. He received Debating Full Colours for his achievements.

“I quickly learned that the more you invest in life at King’s, the more you will get out of it. I believe that, while it is often all-consuming, involving myself in a variety of opportunities at King’s taught me many things about myself and allowed me to achieve personal fulfilment.”

Of all his achievements, Amardeep believes his most fulfilling accomplishment was participating in the HSC Curtain Call and says Drama helped him build self-confidence.

“My advice to the younger boys is to not go into the HSC year with the mindset that you will only achieve academic success by cutting out ventures like co-curricular activities. Not only are these activities a great break from studying, but often the best experiences are afforded to those in Year 12.”

In 2023, Amardeep hopes to work, travel and mentally refresh before pursuing further studies in medicine.

“I believe a Kingsman has a humble confidence and is shaped by the School’s heritage and traditions so that he may be a compassionate and constructive member of his community. I will remember King’s very fondly, as I believe my experiences at school have shaped me into the man I am today. I will always remember the rich culture created by the boys and my mates, who have supported me through my journey.”

SCHOOL EXECUTIVE MONITOR – CHARACTER DRAMA STATE RANKING 3RD ENGLISH ADVANCED STATE RANKING 7TH ALL ROUND ACHIEVERS’ LIST

Veer Benepal

Veer Benepal is a fine example of an ambitious young Kingsman. As a gifted academic student, Veer has remained focused and dedicated to his studies, achieving solid results throughout his 13 years at The King’s School.

Veer received Academic Honour Colours and Debating Full Colours. At Graduation, he received the Prize for Business Studies, a Certificate for Academic Proficiency, The King’s School Lodge Prize for Economics, The Orme Prize for History Essay and The Orme Prize for Modern History.

“The best lesson I learned at King’s is the need for perseverance to achieve your goals. With so many opportunities comes the inevitability of challenges and disappointment. However, it is the lesson of remaining resilient and true to yourself which has fostered a determination that will always reside within me,” says Veer.

Outside the classroom, Veer led The Student Colloquium Discussion Society and contributed richly to the Scipionic Circle, the Write Now Club and the Da Vinci Decathlon. However, it was his prowess and commitment to Debating – Senior GPS, Senior ISDA and Senior Sloane Debating (as Captain) – which saw him awarded the Farnham Prize for Debating at graduation.

Veer was appointed as School Monitor and Vice Captain of Britten House, where he helped lead various community initiatives. He was promoted to Cadet Under Officer and Company Commander in the Cadet Corps, and was President of the Business & Investment Club.

Veer hopes to study Business and Economics in the US and is submitting over ten applications to Ivy League Universities, including Harvard, Yale, Columbia and Princeton.

The application process to universities abroad is rigorous, and applicants are assessed holistically. This includes consideration of leadership, extracurricular involvement, academic achievement and personal essays.

Another key aspect of this process is that applicants need to have an SAT score, which means King’s students study and sit the SAT exam on top of their HSC assessments and exams.

In 2022, King’s became a registered SAT host school. Veer was one of two hundred students from across Sydney who sat the first King’s on-site exam in December.

“To begin preparing for the SAT exam, I took a diagnostic test which helped me identify my strengths and weaknesses. I then studied for the exam using various resources, including Khan Academy and SAT textbooks such as the SAT Prep Black Book. This process solidified my understanding and skills of the content before undertaking timed

practice papers. After completing numerous practice papers, I created an assortment of helpful documents that included step-by-step solutions to my past mistakes, personal tips and a strategic approach for each section of the exam. This diligent process of preparation allowed me to achieve my best in the SAT exam.”

The effort Veer has given to his international applications has also put him in a positive place locally. He has received an offer for the University of Sydney Business School Change Maker Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded by the Dean of the University of Sydney Business School to a recipient who displays academic merit, leadership skills, community involvement and an interest in business.

“Discipline is more important than motivation. Know your goals and believe in yourself, especially in the hard times. Remaining consistent in your approach breeds success, but overcoming challenges defines your character. Finally, balance is the key. You will only be in Year 12 once, so enjoy the ride and try not to stress.”

ALL ROUND ACHIEVERS’ LIST

“

With so many opportunities comes the inevitability of challenges and disappointment.

However, it is the lesson of remaining resilient and true to yourself which has fostered a determination that will always reside within me.

Adjutant of the Cadet Corps, Billy McKittrick, approached his leadership duties with integrity, compassion and respect. As a boarder and Vice Captain of Bishop Barker Harris House, Billy was a dedicated, standout student, not only for his academic achievements, but also for his success within the co-curricular programs at the School. He was School Monitor for the Character Portfolio and received the Lieutenant Colonel GL Myers Shield, which is awarded to the student who shows the most outstanding military leadership.

“I believe a Kingsman has the ability to successfully balance character development, academic excellence and community involvement. A Kingsman can care for others around them, stand up as a leader for what is right and what is true and strive to be excellent in everything they do.”

Billy is an academically gifted student, who showed strength across all subject areas. He was an especially strong Mathematics Extension student and was Dux of the course in Year 11 and 12, earning him Full Academic Colours in both years. Billy’s other academic achievements include 3rd place in the Da Vinci Decathlon NSW State Finals, distinctions in the Australian Mathematics Competition in 2020 and 2021 and awards for Academic Proficiency every year from 2019 to 2022.

Billy achieved his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award and volunteered as an award assistant in Year 11 and Year 12, guiding younger boys through their Duke of Edinburgh journey.

“King’s, through its many opportunities and supportive communities, has allowed me to foster my diverse interests and passions in a caring and encouraging, yet competitive, environment.”

Outside the classroom, Billy contributed richly to the Twelve Club and The Future Project and represented the School in a range of sports, including Rugby, Rowing, Summer Athletics and Basketball. Billy also participated in the Music program as a member of the Senior Choir for five years and achieved Grade 8 Piano and Grade 6 Music Theory from Trinity College, London. Billy was awarded Music Half Colours amd Full Colours for his accomplishments.

“In all aspects of life, we cannot take things for granted. We must be thankful and make the most of every moment and opportunity presented to us, particularly at a school like King’s. No one wants to have regrets about things they did not do – you just need to get out there and do it.”

Boarding at King’s for six years taught Billy about the importance of establishing positive friendships and surrounding yourself with a supportive network who can contribute in many ways to your experiences at school.

“I will remember King’s for the mateships I have forged, particularly within the boarding community. I will also remember the many mentors around me, including my Housemasters in Bishop Barker Harris, Mr Ruddock and Mr Chadwick, my House Matron Carol, sports coaches, Mentors, Year

Coordinators, teachers and other staff who supported and encouraged me.”

Billy is looking to pursue undergraduate studies in Applied Mathematics and has already accepted an offer from St Paul’s College at Sydney University. He is also applying to universities in the USA, and if he is accepted, he will consider moving overseas in August 2023.

“

King’s, through its many opportunities and supportive communities, has allowed me to foster my diverse interests and passions in a caring and encouraging, yet competitive, environment.

PROFILE Sean Graham

Sean was an admirable Kingsman who was well respected by his teachers and peers. He committed himself whole-heartedly to The King’s School experience, making many positive contributions over his six years at the Senior School.

“The best lesson I have learned at King’s is to be yourself and enjoy things that interest you. When you are passionate about something, you have the drive to achieve better results.”

Sean was an exceptional Vocational Studies student who was recognised for his efforts in the Primary Industries and Business Services category at the 2022 Rotary Youth Vocational Education Awards, winning the award for Primary Industries VET.

Industrial Technology was another HSC Subject in which Sean excelled. He received an InTech nomination for his major work, a canopy which he believes was one of his proudest achievements. “I overcame numerous tribulations and seeing the final result was such a proud moment.”

As a keen sportsman, Sean represented the School in the 1st Water Polo team and was honoured with the position of Water Polo Captain. He received Full Colours in Water Polo in 2020, 2021 and 2022. He is also a competitive swimmer and was a member of the GPS Premiership winning Team in 2022, receiving Honour Colours in Swimming.

“Winning the Opens GPS Swimming and receiving my Honours was a very special achievement. It is the best feeling to realise a goal as a reward for your consistent efforts.”

In the winter season, Sean was part of the King’s Rugby program and played in the 4th XV Rugby side. He was awarded his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, adding to his impressive list of accolades.

As a student who pursued the VET pathway, Sean believes it is important to choose subjects you enjoy. “Don’t place too many expectations on yourself because there are many different pathways you can take to get where you want to go in life.”

Sean is an excellent example of how boys with the right attitude can graduate through the Industry Pathways option and be set up for a bright future. In 2023, Sean plans to use the skills he learned and jump straight into the workforce.

“I will remember King’s as a place where I had endless opportunities and the chance to try anything. I will also remember it as a place where I made lifelong friendships and learned many life lessons.”

Sean’s advice for future HSC students is, “take every opportunity you are given and enjoy it because before you know it, it will be over.”

PROFILE Angus Williams

During his six years as a boarder at King’s, Angus has established himself as an admirable young man who is well respected and fully involved in the life of the School.

Angus served in many leadership roles throughout his time at the Senior School. In 2022, he was the Executive Monitor of Community, a member of the Student Representative Council (SRC) in 2019 and 2020 and President in 2021. He was also a Year 10 Gowan Brae Monitor in 2020. He captained both the 3rd XI Cricket team and the 7th XV Rugby team and extended himself in the Cadet Corps program as Cadet Under Officer (CUO) and Commander of C Company.

“I have learnt a lot about myself during my time at King’s. I am very grateful for the many opportunities I have had to develop my knowledge, leadership skills and character. King’s has taught me to always embrace life with an attitude of service, gratitude, hard work and excellence. These lessons will no doubt serve me well into the future,” says Angus.

In co-curricular life, Angus contributed richly to the Twelve Club, Industrial Arts Club and as a Senior Intern Graduate of The Future Project. In 2022 he achieved his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.

Angus is a talented musician who achieved his Grade 8 Clarinet certificate and participated in the King’s Symphonic Band, Wind Orchestra and Gowan Brae Band. He received Music Half Colours in 2019 for his achievements.

“One of the most rewarding things about King’s is the way the teachers, coaches and mentors invest in the development and success of every student. The culture of achieving excellence was undoubtedly a key reason for my success in the HSC.”

In the various leadership roles undertaken by Angus, he always managed to find ways to lift community spirit and companionship among the boys. He was instrumental in driving fundraising initiatives and communitycentred events and was always willing to assist others. Angus lived the School Values and is a person of great integrity.

“I will remember King’s for its community. I found a genuine sense of belonging and camaraderie, not only through my involvement in sport, music and leadership roles but also through my time as a boarder of Baker Hake.”

Angus plans to draw on the leadership skills he gained at King’s, with aspirations to one day run a successful business. In 2023, he hopes to study commerce at the University of Sydney and has accepted an offer to reside at St Paul’s College.

“I believe a Kingsman strives to lead a life of service for the benefit of others. He embraces opportunities offered to him with an attitude of diligence, gratitude, integrity, humility and compassion.”

Ben Pavlakis ATAR 91.45

There is no doubt Ben possesses all the qualities of a well-rounded Kingsman. He contributed significantly to the School in many areas, embracing every opportunity presented to him from Kindergarten through to Year 12.

Ben served as a School Monitor and Dalmas House Captain, as well as Vice Captain of Music and Swimming.

He demonstrated incredible talent in Music, winning the Graham Clift Chapel Music Prize and Griffen Memorial Music Award at graduation. Outside the classroom, Ben contributed richly to the Music program at King’s. He was

a member of the Drum Line, Show Band, Symphonic Band and Symphony Orchestra, performing at a variety of School and community events.

Alongside music, Ben was an excellent Legal Studies student. He was a member of the School Mooting team and represented King’s at the Bond University National High School Mooting Competition. It was the first King’s team to enter in many years and they secured a win for the first time in 25 years.

According to Ben, a King’s boy is someone who engages in all facets of school life, to help find their passion and embrace all the School has to offer. “The best lesson I’ve learned from King’s has been to take risks and opportunities when they present themselves. Do not wait for the perfect chance, as it does not always come,” says Ben.

Ben is a talented athlete who represented the School in several elite swimming competitions. He was a member of the squad that won the 2022 Senior GPS Swimming Premiership, breaking a 12year drought for King’s. As Vice Captain of Swimming, he was an integral part of the program and his success earned him Swimming Honour Colours.

Ben says he will always be grateful to King’s for the opportunities to pursue his interests and passions.“I will remember King’s as a community in which I felt welcomed and a place where I could thrive. I was supported by the staff and the boys in all my pursuits. It has been a privilege to share so many unforgettable experiences”.

Ben plans to practice law in the future and in 2023 will commence a double degree in law and commerce at Bond University.

STAFF DEVELOPMENT AND THE KING’S SCHOOL INSTITUTE

STAFF DEVELOPMENT AND HSC MARKING

School systems throughout the world acknowledge the quality of their people, and their teaching staff in particular, is the most critical in-school factor impacting student outcomes. Every year, in the name of improving teaching quality and performance, The King’s School invests in quality teacher professional learning activities. The role of The King’s School Institute is to drive innovation, research and continuous improvement in Academic Excellence, with Character Development in the context of our Christian Community.

In the Institute, we are committed to ensuring all staff engage in continuous professional learning and apply that learning to improve student achievement. In 2022, The King’s School Institute processed 320 staff requests for professional learning from the Senior School alone. Additionally, 174 requests were approved for the Preparatory School and Tudor House. The King’s School facilitated 2,600 hours of professional learning experiences to its teaching staff across all three campuses. This year, The King’s School Institute hosted our inaugural KingsTECH event on the Senior School campus. Teachers from our three campuses attended and engaged in a day of innovative professional learning on integrating various technologies into their teaching toolkits. Leading technology developers such as Microsoft, Apple and Google were just a few of our esteemed workshop facilitators.

In 2022, The King’s School Institute also facilitated a number of Higher School Certificate deep dive workshops with some of our Senior School departments. This gave our teachers additional insight into HSC examination construction and marking processes. Participating teachers reported that these activities were extremely beneficial for providing them additional understanding of HSC performance expectations.

Dean Dudley, CF Director - The King’s School Institute

Every year, around 5,000 HSC markers are appointed to mark across written examinations, practical and performance examinations and language oral examinations. Applicants are considered across a number of position types within the marking operation, such as marker, pilot marker, senior marker, coordinating senior marker or judge. At King’s, we encourage staff to pursue professional learning in a range of areas and one of those is HSC marking.

Each year approximately 30 members of staff take on the additional work to grow as a teacher, gain further understanding of marking rubrics and foster connections with teachers across the state. We spoke to a few of our staff about why they believe HSC marking enhances their professional practice.

“Participating in HSC marking is an incredibly valuable experience. It has deepened my understanding of the requirements of examination questions and the marking guidelines that accompany them. Staff are able to develop learning activities to target examination skills, which include unpacking the requirements of questions, preparing responses and having the students apply the NESA marking guidelines by peer reviewing each other’s work.”

Jacqueline Camilleri Deputy Head (Academics)

Thoughts from the staff

“Being involved in the examining and marking process at the HSC level is instrumental in successfully teaching Years 11 and 12. The insight gained into student responses from across the state, along with the requirements of HSC exam questions, allows us to tailor our programs and teaching to achieve success at the HSC level. The connections we make with colleagues allow collaboration and consultation, especially in smaller candidature subjects like languages. Working with the standard setting committee has allowed me to be certain about the characteristics of particular students in each HSC band.“

Suzanne Hill

“HSC marking is an invaluable tool for teachers to enrich not only their content knowledge but also be exposed to a variety of different writing styles and responses, which enhances their pedagogical practice. In addition to being exposed to different styles of writing, teachers can also discuss and enhance their own knowledge and practice through conversations with their peers and discover new and innovative ways to engage their students and enhance their overall results. We bring these skills back into the classroom to enrich and deepen our students’ content knowledge and understanding. This allows more competent and experienced students to thrive in their confidence and ability.”

Caitlin Solomonides Studies of Religion I/II marker and pilot marker (six years)

“Participating in HSC marking is an incredibly valuable experience that has impacted my teaching practice and pedagogical knowledge. It has also deepened my understanding of the requirements of examination questions and the marking guidelines that accompany them. Having marked both English and History courses for over twenty years, I am confident in my understanding of marking rubrics and what each band of response looks like. Consequently, I have developed learning activities to target examination skills, unpacked the requirements of questions and applied the NESA marking guidelines to enable students to peer review each other’s work. As one of the teachers from the English Department involved in HSC marking each year, I not only provide insights about the marking experience to our Stage 6 team, but also ensure our students gain a richer understanding of what the non-negotiables are for each of the modules. Hence, taking on additional marking each October and November refines my professional knowledge and practice that undisputedly optimises student participation and achievement.”

Ana M Campos Assistant Head of English, HSC English and History Marker

“I recall early in my career that HSC marking was always mentioned as the best professional development a teacher could obtain. After HSC marking Industrial Technology for the past 11 years, I can safely say that this has proven accurate. The ability to network with other teachers and discuss what works best for their environment, along with breaking down content and ways students can work together, has allowed me to grow as a teacher and unfasten new ideas and strategies. Becoming a senior marker these past two years, opens newer avenues of development around aggregation and statistics. While the marking process has changed dramatically over the past 10 years, including going online, it remains an invaluable experience for staff. All these benefits flow through to the students and fellow department staff, ensuring this knowledge benefits the whole School.”

Michael Ienna Head of Computing Studies, MIC Robotics Club, MIC Media Club, MIC Programming Club

HSC French Continuers marker, French Extension Pilot marker, Senior marker for French writing, Senior Judge for French Extension (Since 2011)

2022 HSC COURSE LIST

Agriculture

Ancient History Biology

Business Studies

Chemistry

Chinese Continuers Chinese in Context

Chinese Extension Drama

Earth and Environmental Science Economics

Engineering Studies

English Advanced English EAL/D

English Extension 1 English Extension 2

English Standard English Studies

French Continuers

French Extension Geography

German Continuers

German Extension

Hindi Continuers

History Extension

Industrial Technology (Graphics / Metal / Timber) Information Processes and Technology

Japanese Beginners

Japanese Continuers

Legal Studies

Mathematics Advanced Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2 Mathematics Standard 1 Mathematics Standard 2 Modern History Music 1 Music 2

Music Extension

PDHPE

Photography, Video and Digital Imaging Physics

Punjabi Continuers

Software Design and Development Studies of Religion I Studies of Religion II Visual Arts

TAFE/VET Courses: Automotive: Mechanical Technology Aviation (Remote Pilot) Business Services

Entertainment Industry Hospitality

Primary Industries

GLOSSARY

The HSC mark

Is a 50:50 combination of a student’s examination mark and school-based assessment mark that may include tests, written or oral assignments, practical activities, fieldwork and projects.

Schools submit an HSC assessment mark for every student in every course. NESA puts the marks through a process of moderation to allow a fair comparison of marks in each course across different schools.

Performance Bands

HSC marks for each course are divided into bands and each band aligns with a description of a typical performance by a student within that mark range. For a 2 unit course, Band 6 indicates the highest level of performance and the minimum standard expected is 50.

Band 6 = 90-100 marks, Band 5 = 80-89 marks; Band 4 = 70-79 marks; Band 3 = 60-69 marks; Band 2 = 50-59 marks; Band 1 = 0-49 marks. Each band is aligned to what a student at that level of performance typically knows, understands and can do. The ‘average’ performance in most courses is usually a mark in the mid-70s (Band 4). For an Extension course, the bands are E4 (highest level of performance) to E1.

SMH league tables

The list published and the information provided in The Sydney Morning Herald is a limited measure and only takes into consideration Band 6 results. Other statistics such as the percentage of students in each of the other bands and course means compared with State means also is important when gauging success.

The Honour Roll includes the schools with students who achieved Band 6 only (90 or higher) in a course. High Scores is the number of Band 6 scores. Success is High Scores expressed as a percentage of entries, rounded to two decimal places. Rank is based on the precise success rate.

Distinguished Achievers are the students who achieved a result in the highest band (Band 6 or Band E4) for one or more courses.

Educational Access Schemes (EAS)

The Scheme helps students who have experienced long-term educational disadvantage gain admission to tertiary study.

Schools Recommendation Schemes (SRS)

Aim to help you access higher education through recommendations from your school. Universities use a wide range of selection criteria, including school recommendations, senior secondary studies and personal awards and achievements. Early entry schemes (including SRS) make offers before the first and second offer rounds.

Equity Scholarships (ES)

Help financially disadvantaged students with the general costs associated with tertiary study. By submitting just one application you’ll be considered for all available Equity Scholarships for which you’re eligible.

The ATAR is a rank, not a mark.

The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) is a number between 0.00 and 99.95 that indicates a student’s position relative to all the students in their age group (i.e. all 16 to 20 year olds in NSW).

So, an ATAR of 80.00 means that you are 20 per cent from the top of your age group (not your Year 12 group).

Almost 2/3 of King’s boys, consistently attain an ATAR above 80, i.e. top 20%. 63% of our students gained ATARs over 80 in 2019 (63% in 2018 and 66% in 2017). The average ATAR across the state is usually around 70.00. The ATAR helps universities rank applicants for selection into their courses.