Last year was a remarkable year for the School, celebrating 50 years of co-educational schooling. It was also a year for the ambitious, as the Class of 2022 were graduating after managing study around COVID interruptions for two years.

Graduate Emily Tombleson, finished top of the class, achieving an ATAR score of 97.95. Emily’s hard work paid off, with her goal being able to achieve above 95.

“It was not until I received a call from Mrs Chiera that it sunk in, how well I had done in receiving the top ATAR score for the cohort. I was thrilled, the stress of Year 12 had hit me hard but this result had always been my aim, it was exhilarating to know I had achieved it,” said Emily.

Emily shared some strategies for success, “To those beginning Year 12 this year, I would encourage you to continue working hard and remember that consistency is key. Work to a study plan, stay organised and utilise the wonderful support of the Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School staff,”  she recommended.

Emily urged students to consider personal wellbeing during their final year, ”In Year 12, I struggled to maintain a healthy work-life balance which I now acknowledge is immensely important to personal wellbeing. I urge this year’s cohort to remember to set aside time in their study plans for things they enjoy, and if you are struggling, seek help sooner rather than later from your teachers,” she said.

With twelve years of schooling behind her, Emily is looking forward to starting her next chapter. In 2023, she will be studying a Bachelor of Philosophy at The University of Western Australia. “Although I am nervous about the future, I am really looking forward to this next challenge,” she said.

Looking back, Emily is grateful for her years at the School., “Thanks to Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School, I feel that I am in the optimal position to look to the future with confidence having enjoyed unique opportunities through Round Square, academic challenges and sporting events, which for me was mainly on the hockey field,” she stated.