This represents an enormous effort in the four activity areas of Service, Skills, Physical Recreation and Adventurous Journeys, over a full year. It also includes a residential camp where experience is gained working with a group of people in a new cultural situation. Erika has been an exemplary student and was commended by Her Excellency, the Honourable Margaret Beazley, Governor of NSW, when she presented the award. Erika was one of 75 other NSW gold awardees at the recent Award Ceremony and it was fascinating to hear a brief summary of the journeys of each one. Erika spoke of the mountain top rewards of achieving a difficult summit and all the things that taught one about perseverance, despite adversity and feelings of inadequacy. Erika has shown that with careful organisation and attention to detail, the Dukes load can be fitted in with other priorities, even amidst Year 12 commitments.
Following the Award Ceremony with her parents and College Award leaders supporting her, Erika was invited to morning tea at Government House, which was most enjoyable and allowed further enriching networking between awardees and their mentors.
The accolade of a Gold Award is recognised internationally and counts favourably with prospective employers and tertiary admissions interviewers, who will allow ATAR credits in some courses for a Gold Dukes Award.
Well done Erika. This is a great achievement. We are proud of you!
Mr Jim Ward
Careers Advisor
