Yass High School 2017 graduates achieve high marks in HSC

Highlights include the student examination mean being above the state’s in hospitality and software design and development.

In hospitality, 75 percent  of students achieved a Band 4 or higher; while 60pc of students in software  studies achieved a Band 4 or higher.

Of the software design students, Jonah Smith received the distinguished achievers award.

Jonah said it was validation for his hard work.

“It’s pleasant being acknowledged for my work and it drives me to continue to more studies,” he said.

Jonah said that while he had a broad interest, he particularly enjoyed software design and planned to study it at the Australian National University in Canberra.

”Particularly in intelligence and expert systems, as well as constructing neurological pathways and machine learning,” he said. “I’ve also applied to study philosophy and linguistics as I think they complement computer science.”

In visual arts, Braelie Jones-Hope received the distinguished achievers award. She also received the Yass Tribune Award for Excellence in English.

“Both awards surprised me, but I’m very thankful because a few of my close friends are also deserving of the awards,” she said.

Braelie planned to study law and international relations at the ANU.

Her father, Philip, said that from an early age, she showed an extraordinary innate talent for art.

“To have that talent recognised in a distinguished achiever’s award is fantastic. Both Karin [Braelie’s mother] and I are incredibly proud of her,” he said.

Mr Jones-Hope said it also reflected the quality of the teaching staff.

Other highlights at the school includes 83.3pc and 80pc of students in primary industries and art, respectively, achieving a Band 4 or higher.

Recently appointed principal Linda Langton congratulated all students.

“We thank them for their contributions and support and wish them well in their future endeavours,” Ms Langton said.