Celebrating the Success of Our 2024 Graduates

Last week, our College Community had the privilege of welcoming back students and families from the Class of 2024 to celebrate their incredible achievements. It was a special occasion, not just because of the outstanding academic results we recognised but because of the warmth, pride, and shared joy that filled the campus.

As part of the celebration, we acknowledged the exceptional efforts of 39 students who achieved an ATAR above 90, a testament to their commitment and perseverance. We also celebrated the remarkable 34 A+ merit grades achieved across Year 11 and Year 12 students, reflecting the depth of academic excellence within our college. These accomplishments are the result of years of dedication, resilience, and a shared commitment to learning.

One of the most inspiring moments of the event came from our College Dux, Abir Sindhu, who spoke about his journey and the reality behind such achievements. He reminded us that success is never achieved in isolation—it is only possible with the unwavering support of teachers, friends, and family who guide, encourage, and uplifted him along the way. His words reinforced a powerful truth: behind every high mark is a network of people who believe in and support each student's journey.

While this celebration was, at its core, a recognition of academic success, what stood out most was not just the numbers and accolades but the deep sense of pride, love, and care that radiated from the students and their families. It was a day that beautifully captured what education should be about – not just striving for high grades but the profound fulfilment that comes from hard work, dedication, and the recognition of a journey well-travelled.

As we move forward into 2025, I hope that students aspire to achieve the excellence we celebrated—not just for the academic merit but for the pride they will feel in themselves and the pride that others will have in them. True success is measured not only in results but in the personal growth, resilience, and sense of accomplishment that comes from giving your absolute best.

What can you do to help students achieve their best?

The achievements of our 2024 graduates serve as an inspiration for every student in our college. Their success was not a result of last-minute effort in Year 12 but rather the accumulation of years of consistent habits, strategic learning, and perseverance. While academic excellence is celebrated at the end of the journey, it is built from the very first day a student walks into a classroom. For students in Years 7-11, now is the time to establish the foundations that will lead to their own success in the years ahead. Achieving outstanding results is not about being naturally gifted but about using the right strategies, managing distractions, and maintaining balance.

1. Adopt High-Impact Study Strategies

Not all study methods are equally effective, and research has shown that some of the most used techniques—such as passive reading and highlighting—are among the least effective ways to retain information. Instead, students should focus on active learning techniques that significantly enhance understanding and memory retention.

• Retrieval Practice: Testing yourself on material rather than simply rereading notes has been shown to improve long-term retention. One study by Dunlosky et al. (2013) found that self-quizzing was far more effective than rereading or highlighting.
• Spaced Repetition: Instead of cramming the night before a test, students should review material regularly over time, strengthening memory recall.
• Elaborative Interrogation: Asking "why" questions about content forces deeper understanding, making it easier to remember.

2. Limit Digital Distractions

In today's digital age, managing the allure of smartphones, social media, and other digital platforms is crucial for maintaining academic focus. Recent studies have highlighted the negative impact of digital distractions on student performance.

A 2023 analysis by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) found that students who reported being distracted by peers using digital devices during math lessons scored, on average, 15 points lower in mathematics compared to those who reported minimal or no such distractions.

To mitigate these distractions and enhance learning efficiency, students can:

• Create a Focused Study Environment: Designate specific areas for study that are free from digital interruptions.
• Manage Notifications: Disable non-essential notifications during study sessions to minimise interruptions.
• Set Specific Goals: Define clear objectives for each study session to maintain direction and purpose.

If you would like to read any of the research mentioned in this article, here are the details:

• Dunlosky, J., Rawson, K. A., Marsh, E. J., Nathan, M. J., & Willingham, D. T. (2013). Improving Students’ Learning With Effective Learning Techniques: Promising Directions From Cognitive and Educational Psychology.
• https://www.edweek.org/leadership/digital-distractions-in-class-linked-to-lower-academic-performance/2023/12?utm_source=chatgpt.com

VET Commencement

Whilst the official commencement of the academic school year took place in Week 1 of this year, our students undertaking external Vocational Education & Training (VET) were able to officially begin in Week 2. These VET courses offer our students valuable opportunities and experiences beyond the traditional classroom setting. These courses enable students to earn a nationally recognised VET qualification whilst at the same time completing their South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

By combining secondary education with vocational education and training, our students have the opportunity to develop workplace-specific skills designed to meet current and future employment demands. By keeping their options open, our students can pursue vocational and higher education pathways.

At Christian Brothers College, students can choose from a wide variety of VET pathway options through a wide range of VET program choices, with examples including:

• Automotive
• Business – delivered on campus by Christian Brothers College teaching staff, in partnership with Foundation Education
• Construction
• Cookery
• Electrotechnology
• Fitness
• Hospitality
• Information Technology
• Plumbing
• Retail
• Salon Assistant (Barbery and Hairdressing)
• Screen & Media
• Sport Coaching – delivered on campus by Christian Brothers College teaching staff, in partnership with the Australian College of Sport

During our recent DUX assembly, we recognised the outstanding results achieved by the graduating class of 2024. It is noteworthy that 89% of our graduating cohort incorporated VET courses into their academic journey, positively contributing to their overall ATAR results. This emphasises the significance of VET not only in enhancing ATAR aspirations but, more importantly, in opening diverse career pathways and valuable real-world experiences post-graduation.

If you would like more details about VET at Christian Brothers College, including costs, courses or SACE credits please contact Tia Milohis, Careers Counsellor - tmilohis@cbc.sa.edu.au

Mr David Salamone-Violi
Director of Teaching and Learning