Spotlight shines on spectacular HSC success

Many of the stars of this year’s Schools Spectacular have proven they are not just top performers on stage.

Image: Featured dancer Caitlin Nilon was a high flier on stage as well as in the Higher School Certificate. Credit: Grant Hatch.

They have also been in the limelight as high achievers in the Higher School Certificate results released today.

Most of the Year 12 Featured Performers from this year’s Schools Spectacular were ranked on the Distinguished Achievers list released by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA), which administers the HSC.

Featured vocalist Cameron Barjraktarevic-Hayward, who studied at the Conservatorium High School, also had the honour of being named in the elite cohort of All-Rounders after securing top bands in English Advanced, English Extension 1, Modern History, Music 2, Music Extension and Visual Arts.

Dancer Caitlin Nilon of Karabar High School in Queanbeyan was one of three Featured Artists to secure the highest bands in four subjects.

With top grades in Dance, Drama, Music 1 and Entertainment Industry Examination, Caitlin is well equipped for the next steps in her career, taking in further study in a range of dance genres in the United States inspired by accomplished choreographer and Radio City Rockette, Sophie Holloway, a fellow Schools Spectacular alumni.

Other Featured Artists taking honours with the highest bands in four subjects were Hayley Bannerman of Wollongong’s Smiths Hill High and Conservatorium High graduate Oliver Brunsdon.

Other Schools Spectacular top performers were Leah Berry, Hannah Burton, Olive Cullen, Peter Donoso, Cassandra Doyle, Mia Fernandez, Brodie Fraser, Gabrielle Montalbo, Savannah Roberts, Sabina Salas, Arlo Sim, Liam Smith, Emma Snellgrove, Marlena Stanhope and Jamie Walsh.

Schools Spectacular Co-Executive Director Jane Simmons said the public education community was thrilled to applaud the Featured Performers excellent achievements off and on the stage.

“The HSC is a huge commitment for any student, but these magnificent young people have not only knuckled down to their studies but also followed a disciplined and demanding routine of rehearsals that resulted in a phenomenal Schools Spectacular,” she said.

“On their own, each is a remarkable accomplishment, but combined it is truly outstanding.

“The command they have shown of their self-management and balancing priorities will serve them well throughout life. We are just so proud.”

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