The class of 2023 shone for Brisbane Catholic Education as Year 12 students graduated with results to set them on to the next stages in their lives.
Hayley Murphy (pictured) was among those to return remarkable results. The graduate of Unity College Caloundra recorded an impressive ATAR of 99.85, placing her among the top 100 students in the state.
Other schools recorded outstanding results across ATAR and Vocational Education Training (VET) outcomes.
Mt Maria College, Petrie, has tripled the number of students achieving university places including those securing early entry into the University of the Sunshine Coast, Griffith University and Australian Catholic University. The College has also watched last year’s class move into apprenticeships and traineeships.
At St John Fisher College at Bracken Ridge, Charlotte Coghlan’s ATAR of 98.15 was one of more than a third of students recording a result over 90. At the same time, 57 students received Certificate III VET qualifications.
St Mary’s College, Maryborough, celebrated when 17 per cent of its ATAR-qualified students recorded a score of 95 and above. Four students received an A grade in each of their subjects.
At Unity College, principal Brett Jones expressed his profound pride in Hayley’s achievement, highlighting the community’s joy in celebrating such outstanding success.
“Hayley’s dedication and perseverance exemplify the spirit of our College,” he said. “Our community is proud of each and every student that graduated first and foremost, for who they are as people and of course their achievements.
“I also hope that our excellent staff, who work tirelessly to support our students to reach their full potential as learners and people, take time to reflect on some of the amazing results achieved, a testament to the teaching and learning programs at our College.”
Hayley says she was in disbelief when she first saw her ATAR score.
“I was aiming high, but I didn’t expect to get an almost perfect score,” she says. “I did work hard, but I didn’t want to set my expectations too high, which was why it was such a surprise.”
With her sights set on the future, Hayley aims to pursue her dream of becoming a science journalist.
“I have accepted a position at the Queensland University of Technology’s advanced Bachelor of Science, majoring in Physics,” Hayley says.
Mr Jones says Unity College students excel in various fields and pursue a variety of careers post-graduation.
“Unity College fosters a community of united and inspired individuals who are not only well-prepared for success in their chosen fields but who are also committed to making a positive difference in our world,” he says.