THE wait for nervous Penola High School Year 12 students was over yesterday following the release of their SACE results, showing the school yet again had another successful year.
The school’s top ATAR was achieved by student Aliza Pfitzner with a score of 97.65, achieving an A for four of her five subjects and also gaining a merit for the research project.
“It is good to see my hard work studying this year has paid off with a good ATAR,” Aliza said.
“I would like to say a big thank you to my teachers who have pushed me this year, also my parents for believing in me and telling me I can do anything I put my mind to.”
In a big week for the young achiever, she was also named one of Wattle Range Council’s young citizens of the year.
Aliza is hoping to be accepted to study an arts degree at the University of Melbourne, pursuing a goal of working in foreign relations at the end of her degree.
The school’s top four students Aliza, Ella Kain, Hamish March and Bradley Tregenza all received an ATAR over 85, with nine A grades achieved by students and 96.6pc of all students achieving a C- or above.
“All stage two students did particularly well in the research project, with a 100pc success rate and some outstanding results,” Penola High School deputy principal Jason Plunkett said.
Mathematics also showed a strong result with an increase in achievement this year and high results in vocational education with many students considering vocational pathways.
“Many students who have an interest in vocational studies have already found themselves employment for next year,” Mr Plunkett said.
Students also undertook TAFE subjects including mechanical, agriculture information digital media and technology, retail and carpentry.
Principal Ngaire Benfell congratulated all Year 12 students on their achievements.
“Penola High School is experiencing an upward trend in A and B grades, which is directly attributable to the commitment of both students and staff to strive for excellence,” Ms Benfell said.
