DALE Findlay of Thornlands has been announced as class valedictorian and year 12 student of the year at the Alexandra Hills TAFE campus’ graduation ceremony.
A total of 77 students from TAFE Queensland’s Senior College have joined more than 50,000 year 12 students across the state to farewell their school days this week.
Dale said he had found the traditional high school setting a challenge but excelled from the time he started at Senior College last year.
He was among the students attending their graduation ceremony on Wednesday at Redland Performing Arts Centre.
“I knew in year 10 that it was a make-or-break year for me and that if I couldn’t be happy where I was then it was unlikely I would be happy elsewhere, until someone told me about Senior College,” Dale said.
“For me it was a really positive change. I take a lot pride in the way I interact with my peers and my teachers and because it’s an adult learning environment I have always felt like my interactions were very positive and respectful.”
Named as both class valedictorian and student of the year, Dale said it was difficult for him to talk about how well he had done.
“But I am getting better at owning my success and the truth is that I have done really well and am proud of what I’ve achieved,” he said.
“Being about to graduate is a massive complex feeling, it fills me with gratitude for all the teachers and people, parents too, that have helped me through my education and all the tough times that come with that.
“I think I will miss most the dedicated teachers and admin staff who keep the college alive.”
Senior College and community pathways director Jacqueline Smollet said the college offered students the option of a Queensland Senior Certificate, OP education alongside VET and workplace qualifications.
“Our learning pathways for senior secondary school students appeal to a wide range of individuals from those who simply prefer to learn in an adult environment, to those who need flexibility because they are either already undertaking an apprenticeship or have a particular talent or skill, like athletics or swimming, that they are pursuing professionally,” Ms Smollet said.
“It is so important that these students have the opportunity to complete their senior schooling, while still being able to follow their passions—and we are really pleased to be able to offer this alternative.”
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