On Monday, we welcomed 2025 Concordia Dux Michael Pope back to the College for the presentation of his Dux medallion.

The College Dux is awarded to the student with the highest ATAR, or Australian Tertiary Admission Rank. Michael achieved our highest ATAR of 99.65 and achieved Merits for Chemistry and Ancient Studies.

At Concordia, we pride ourselves on developing students who can learn well and who have a holistic approach to life and learning. We are proud of all of our graduates from the Class of 2025, and we are particularly proud of students like Michael who have pushed themselves hard to achieved the best possible outcomes.

Following the presentation, Michael spoke to the 2026 Middle and Senior School students, encouraging them to put in their best effort at school and to enjoy the opportunities that come their way in such a supportive learning environment. He particularly encouraged our Year 12s to embrace all that this milestone year has for them, to keep things in perspective, to work to the best of their ability while also making time for rest and for fostering friendships. You can read some excerpts from his speech below.

"... Throughout the entire year, last year, I had everyone doing everything that they could to support me. Everyone went above and beyond, and it was, truly, extraordinary.

The school lived up to its motto in every way. And since I read it on the wall in the gym, I have spent a lot of time pondering and appreciating all the ways in which it does. Fortiter in Re, Suaviter in Modo. Firm in Principle, Gentle in Manner. ... The school's principles are not harshly enforced. The school rather nurtures. It supports you to do your best. Concordia believes in academic excellence, believes in the well-rounded person, and believes that its students can and should be extraordinary. Yet, the school takes your hand and encourages you to achieve your own goals, in your own way.

... Look after each other this year. Although you have different goals, you are all in this together. So, support your friends and encourage them. Spend time together and be understanding.

... If you get to the end of the year and feel like you did everything that you could, you should feel so incredibly proud of yourself... and, this will look different for everyone. I think that the most important part is that you know that it was your best. And that is the challenge that I set all of you."

We wish Michael and his peers from the Class of 2025 all the very best for their future endeavours.

Laura Austin
Senior School Leader