Minister congratulates Gold Coast’s highest achieving Year 12 graduates

Education Minister Grace Grace today congratulated Queensland’s highest achieving Year 12 graduates from the class of 2021 — a group who are destined to be among our future surgeons, computer scientists, biomedical engineers and economists. “This year 47 graduates have received a prestigious Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) Achievement Award for exceptional academic achievements,” Ms Grace said. Youth Minister and Gaven MP Meaghan Scanlon congratulated the two outstanding Gold Coast students. “Emma Nipperess who went to Southport State High School, and Chung-Wei Hsu who went to Somerset College, were recognised in the Distinguished Academic Achiever category and receive a certificate, trophy and $1000,” Minister Scanlon said. “Emma got six straight A grades in her senior subjects and will study computer and data science at The University of Queensland. “Chung-Wei also got six As and hopes to become a doctor on completing his studies at The University of Sydney. “This is also a proud day for their families. I’m sure they are an important part of their children’s success.” Somerset College graduate Chung-Wei Hsu said his future goal is to be able to use the power of knowledge to create a visible and positive impact on the community. “My advice for other students is to have a comprehensive understanding of what you want to achieve before starting aimlessly taking actions is important to be effective in reaching the goals,” he said. “I’d like to thank my parents, the teachers and staff of my school, as well as the friends that have helped me to stay motivated and resilient throughout the process.” Ms Grace said the awards reinforced that Queensland’s new senior curriculum and assessment system enabled students from across the state to reach their full potential. “These students are the second cohort to graduate in the new QCE system and attended State, Catholic and Independent schools from Brisbane to the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba, Ingham and Rockhampton,” Ms Grace said. “I applaud the school principals and teachers responsible for the learning cultures and commitment to high standards that helped these young people to flourish.” The QCE Achievement Awards are sponsored by Griffith University, James Cook University, The University of Queensland and University of Southern Queensland. View profiles of the award winners. View the QCAA Certification Summary of 2021 results. Footage and images of Minister Grace and the outstanding academic achievers are available here.