Harper Raverty was surprised when she achieved the school’s dux title, with an ATAR of 95.30.
“I hadn’t set myself a goal ATAR because I didn’t want to be disappointed, but I would have been happy with anything over 85,” Harper said.
Harper says she will be taking a gap year next year and will be teaching performing arts at Dillmac Entertainment, but hopes to go to university in Melbourne in 2024 to study science or bio-medicine.
Harper and her classmates, like every member of the Class of 2022, have not had an uninterrupted year of school since Year 9, with two of her exams cancelled due to the recent flooding.
“We didn’t want to prioritise studying over sandbagging,” Harper said.
“We were at home while people were losing their houses, thinking ‘do I study for my maths exam or do I help my community?’
“We didn’t know if they’d be cancelled either — some of them had been, but every day the news was different.”
Principal Carmel Spry commended Harper on her positive attitude towards her schooling.
“Harper arrived at school every day with a smile and a willingness to do her best,” Mrs Spry said.
“She approached learning with genuine interest and enthusiasm. Harper chose subjects that she loves and has a strong interest in, which were also incredibly diverse, including biology, PDHPE and music.
“Harper was conscientious and diligent; she was always involved in our performing arts projects and sport program, and volunteered during the recent floods with sandbagging duties, along with other members of the student body.
“Harper undoubtedly embodies Moama Anglican Grammar’s core values of compassion, respect and integrity.”
The school said it was proud of the entire cohort, as the students had emerged from a difficult few years showing great resilience, determination and support for each other.