Daylesford College principal, Steve MacPhail, has praised the Year 12 cohort for contributing to one of the school’s best results in years.
The college’s median study score increased to 29, up from 27 last year. Mr MacPhail attributed the improvement to years of focused improvement in teaching, school culture and student wellbeing. “By maintaining high standards and providing strong emotional support, we’ve helped students thrive,’ he said. “Ultimately, the credit goes to our students, whose dedication and ability to act on teacher feedback have driven these outstanding results.”
Scout Kinnear, Dux of Daylesford College. (Photo supplied)
Mr MacPhail also congratulated college Dux, Scout Kinnear, who received an ATAR of 97.55. “Scout is currently scuba diving in Indonesia and I’ve just spoken to him and congratulated him personally,” he said. “His exceptional leadership skills have always been evident, so much so that Scout was our College Captain this year. He balanced a full academic load with numerous leadership responsibilities and led the Student Representative Council, mentored younger students, participated in community youth programs, delivered inspiring speeches and organised key events such as ANZAC ceremonies and assemblies.”
“Scout’s unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership, and service has made him an exceptional role model within the school community, leaving a legacy of inspiration for future students.”
Scout now plans to study a double degree in Engineering and Computer Science at Melbourne University.
Also achieving an ATAR in the 90s, Indigo Toner-McLachlan has demonstrated extraordinary resilience and determination throughout her secondary schooling, managing the significant challenge of chronic fatigue. Despite these difficulties, Indigo embraced part-time and remote learning both before and after the COVID-19 years, excelling academically and making the most of every opportunity. Her strong work ethic and passion for learning have set her apart, earning her top results across her studies.
As College Vice Captain in 2024, Indigo proved to be a thoughtful and capable leader, contributing meaningfully to the school community. Her resilience and academic excellence, paired with her dedication to helping others, have left a lasting impact on her peers and teachers alike.
Mr MacPhail said he was proud of Indi given the challenges she has faced and how she has overcome every obstacle put in her way. “She deserves every bit of congratulations as she exemplifies determination and resilience,” he said. “An inspiration to all her peers”.
Adding to her unique journey, Indigo’s father, a teacher at the school, taught her for VCE VET Music, an experience that enriched her final years of schooling.
Indigo now plans to study science at Melbourne University.
This article is based on a media release from Daylesford College.
