Congratulations to Portia F and Karen D

On the night of Tuesday 2 June, we were lucky enough to have represented St Patrick’s College in the Campbelltown Quota Student of the Year Quest, held this year at IRT Function Centre. The Quest invites a wide range of schools from our local area to participate. 

The competition was set in two stages. The first involved the submission of a resume and a subsequent interview before a panel of three judges, held on 28 May. The interview assessed us on our personality and grooming, academic achievements, school and community involvement, leadership, cultural and sporting experience and knowledge of current affairs.

The second had each candidate present a prepared speech on a chosen topic, and then an impromptu speech on a random subject. In her prepared speech, Karen tackled the question of ‘Where are you from from?’, exploring what constitutes being Australian and the inherent multiculturalism in the nation. She then talked on the topic of “friends”, connecting the role of peer networks in personal development to the popular television show. Portia discussed “Postcode Discrimination”, false stereotypes and the stigma with western suburbs in her prepared speech, and then talked on the topic of “glasses” as the metaphorical lenses needed to see world problems with more clarity. 

It is with great pleasure that we announce that St Patrick’s was awarded the top two spots in the competition, with Portia F walking away from the night as the overall winner, and Karen D coming in as a close runner up. It must be noted that each of the school’s candidates were extremely talented and judging would have been a difficult feat! We will be proud to engrave Portia’s name on the trophy, who we note also proudly records the achievements of former St Pat’s girls Hannah Lennon-Mather (2011), Cassandra le Good (2010) and Erin Byrnes (2006).

We both can wholeheartedly agree that the competition was an enriching experience, and not enough gratitude can be expressed to Ms Pulham; for her undying support, and Mrs Lennox and Mr Power who were also in attendance on the night. We also wish to express our deepest gratitude to Quota Campbelltown for giving us this amazing opportunity.

Portia will go on to represent the Campbelltown Quota Club in the regional district finals, against the winners from seven different clubs, including Batemans Bay, Liverpool and Camden.

Portia F and Karen D -Year 11 Students

A teacher perspective from Marguerite Pulham - Debating and Public Speaking Coordinator

Every teacher wants to inspire and energise their beloved students with a can-do attitude and belief in themselves. When we can tap into the energy of wonderful groups like Quota who want to encourage the same thing we are truly blessed. Quota is genuinely interested in what the young people from our local area think, desire and believe. The Student of the Year Quest gives our best and brightest a chance to voice their passions. Thankyou, Quota.

 

 

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