Class of 2024 return to celebrate HSC success

Rory reflected on the attitude of his peers, saying: “We were deeply committed to the process of continuous learning, and self-improvement.”

Mr Matthew Robertson, Deputy Headmaster of Academics, challenged students to ignite their imaginations, explore their minds, and become more effective learners via reading more fiction.

Afterwards, the assembly enjoyed a Q&A by Mr Greg Nunan, Head of Senior Academy and Science Teacher, with Harrison Cluff (OKG24) as interviewee. Harry was a boarder from Year 7, a prefect in the sport portfolio, played 1st XV Rugby and 1st XI Cricket, competed in CAS Track and Field, a Rugby referee, a Cadet and earned Silver Sporting and Silver Academic colours. He’s soon commencing a Law degree at Sydney University.

Q: Can you describe your journey at Knox, and how you found your strengths and identified your weaknesses?

Harry: Moving to boarding at Year 7 was a major change. At age 12 I moved from my hometown, where there were about 14 boys in my year group, to Knox where the year group was much larger. I was a little bit scared and worried about the challenges of navigating my new life. I found the more I leaned into the Knox community – in boarding, in sports, in the classroom – the more I really built my strengths and found my passions.

Q: How did you manage your list of commitments?

Harry: Finding a routine that works, is a huge part of managing your way through school. Making time for study, committing time to sport, committing time for social life. At first it was about creating good habits, and the next stage was about nailing down the routine. By Years 11 and 12, it’s about figuring out what I really want to do and committing my time to that. Find your passion – for me it was sport and academics. And focus on that.

Q: What role do the teachers play in your journey?

Harry: They’re experts. They genuinely care. They want you to excel. They want you to succeed. I also recommend reaching out to the Old Boy tutors.

Q: What role did the Old Boys at WSA (Weeks Senior Academy) Library play for you?

Harry: I couldn’t have done it without them. We made the most of our tutors. Whether it’s marking draft essays or answering our questions. They acted as our complete coaches.

After the Q&A, School Captain Arjun shared: “Wherever you are in this journey, don’t do it alone and have the courage to achieve your personal best. Be grateful for parents who made this possible, and teachers, who work tirelessly. Rise by lifting those around us. Harness the opportunity in front of us. Give gratitude to those before us. And remember this – many hands may build a house, but only many hearts can create a school. And that is what truly defines us!”

Well done to the Class of 2024, we look forward to seeing you succeed in all your future endeavours.