YEAR TWELVE 2025
Celebrate
HVGS
The Graduating Class of 2025 As 2025 draws to a close, we present to you our annual Celebrate publication capturing the HSC achievements of the graduating cohort. They are among 80,000+ HSC students across NSW who received their HSC results and ATARs on Thursday 18th December. Each one of our graduates has their own talents. While in Celebrate we shine the spotlight on the high achievers across a range of endeavours (academics, arts, sports, leadership and service), it is important to recognise those students who have demonstrated resilience and perseverance throughout their school journey. We celebrate and honour every graduate in these pages - every student in our 2025 graduating class has made an invaluable contribution to the fabric of HVGS. We are proud of the achievements of the graduating Class of 2025. They embraced the relative autonomy of Years 11 and 12, stayed open to the multitude of pathways available to them, and grasped the opportunities on offer at HVGS. They were renown as one of the calmest Year 12 cohorts during their HSC examinations, watching out for each other with compassion. We have watched them grow as human beings with strong minds and opinions, and a readiness to take on the world. They are a creative, tenacious and entrepreneurial generation as is captured in these pages. 40 percent of our graduates are on the Distinguished Achiever’s List, 10 were awarded an ATAR of 90 or above, and 32 of our graduates achieved an ATAR of over 80. As a non-selective and inclusive school our goal is to meet each child where they are and help them get to where they need to go. These results reflect the hard work and commitment of our students, and their teachers who worked tirelessly to help graduates achieve their potential.
Students and parents frequently reference the extraordinary support, time and care given by our teachers, and all staff who influence and shape the learning experiences of HVGS students. On behalf of the community, I extend my sincere gratitude to our staff for their dedication to, and care for, our students. Whilst the Class of 2025 is recognised in the HSC School Rankings published in the media, we know that our students are much more than this number. Sitting behind each individual student are countless stories of endurance and effort as they challenge themselves to go that little harder and strive to overcome obstacles that come their way. In Celebrate we recognise and value individual excellence, such as Muhammad Khurram who was awarded the highest ATAR, and Lachlan Campbell, our 2025 Dux. Likewise, we recognise April Hensley-Turner whose HSC Visual Art Body of Work was selected for ARTEXPRESS 2026, Claire Thompson who received an ENCORE nomination for her Musicology Viva Voce and Phoebe King whose Design and Technology Major Project was awarded second place in Uprising. Our graduates leave our gates as young adults who, through their schooling, have learned much about the world and themselves. They have also taught us. Through their actions they have provided lessons to their peers and the broader school community about the importance of responsibility, compassion, respect, integrity, courage, optimism, citizenship and gratitude. It is with the last value that I end: to our graduating class of 2025, thank you for sharing your educational journey with us and now take a moment to Celebrate! Rebecca Butterworth | Principal
HSC Highlights In 2025, HVGS ran 42 HSC courses, and 88 students sat final HSC Examinations. 89% of all results were Band 4, 5 or 6 - the 2nd highest attainment since 2018 The highest ATAR of 94.9 was attained by Muhammad Khurram Over 40% of HVGS students made the NESA HSC Distinguished Achievers’ List 36 students shared in 56 top band results across all HSC courses examined This is the highest percentage of candidates recognised on this list since 2018 10 students were awarded an ATAR above 90. Outstanding subject results were achieved in: Agriculture - nearly half of all candidates received a Band 6, four times the state average 13 of the 16 students achieved a final mark of 80 or higher Community & Family Studies - 85% of candidates at Band 5/6 compared with 33% statewide Design & Technology - 90% of candidates at Band 5/6 compared with 49% across NSW Drama - 4 of the 6 drama students achieved a Band 6, triple the state average Earth & Environmental Science - 70% of candidates achieved a mark of 80 or better, double the state average English Extension 2 - both students’ Major Works were awarded at the highest level, with marks of 47/50 and 48/50 They were placed in the top 15% of the state Legal Studies - 38% attained a Band 6, easily more than doubling the 15% statewide attainment for the course 13 of the 16 students achieved a result of 80 or better Music 1 - 8 students were awarded the highest level. This represents nearly 75% at Band 6 compared with 22% statewide The lowest result in the Music 1 course for HVGS was an impressive 88/100. Visual Arts - double the state average for Band 6 attainment. All students achieved a result of 80 or better Seven students across four different courses achieved an outstanding final HSC result of 95/100 or greater: Molly Murphy - Music Extension Zali Scher - English Extension 2 Sophie Abrams - Music 1 Sofia Leonard - Drama Erin Mullen - Music 1 Claire Thompson - Drama Phoebe Howells - Music 1
HSC Highlights
36
94.9
Students on the Distinguished Achievers’ List
Muhammad Khurram has achieved the highest HVGS ATAR
10 students received an ATAR above
12 Nominations for HSC Major Works and Performances
90
32 HVGS graduates achieved an ATAR over 80
Distinguished
Achievers
Congratulations to our 36 students who achieved 90% or higher in at least one course, earning a place on the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) HSC Distinguished Achievers’ List. This represents over 40% of our candidates - our strongest result since 2018!
Sophie Abrams
Marley Alps
Elisabeth Bear
Jessica Bottrell
Ryan Bower
Oliver Browne
Jack Burgess
Miliana Callan
Lachlan Campbell
Mars Campbell
Katherine Chapman
Elizabeth Clowes
Genevieve Cowan
Alyssa Crouch
Kokoda Dunstone
Edie Fitzhardinge
Adia Fourie
April Hensley-Turner
Phoebe Howells
Isabella Hughes
Muhammad Khurram
Phoebe King
Sofia Leonard
Matilda Lidbury
Jocelyn Mainey
Ella McLeod
Erin Mullen
Izabela Munro
Molly Murphy
Rishan Naidu
Luke Purdie
Zali Scher
Claudia Smith
Claire Thompson
Nathan Williams
Craig Wright
BASED ON INTERNAL ASSESSMENT
LACHLAN CAMPBELL
HVGS DUX
Lachlan Campbell and HVGS Principal, Rebecca Butterworth at the Valedictory Dinner
As School Captain, Lachie has spent his final year at HVGS leading by example - quietly, consistently, and with a deep sense of purpose.
“HVGS has been the best environment to learn and grow as a person,” he reflects. “I’ve grown so much here. Now I’m ready for the next step.”
His leadership has never been about the spotlight; instead, it has been about showing up, supporting others, and setting a tone of calm confidence for those around him.
With a strong sense of self and a clear direction, Lachie leaves HVGS prepared for the exciting adventure ahead wherever it may lead.
Now, with school behind him, Lachie is looking ahead with equal parts excitement and curiosity.
Lachie’s achievements include: Band 6 in Mathematics Advanced Band 5 in Chemistry, Engineering Studies, English Advanced, Mathematics Extension 1, Physics and Software Engineering The O'Grady Prize for Excellence in STEM curricula The John & Gwen O'Brien Prize for demonstrating Excellence in multiple Sciences Geoffrey Newton and Family Perpetual Trophy for AllRounder in Year 12 ADF Future Innovators Award The Au Family Prize for Dux based on Internal Assessment The Cameron Build Environment, Design Technologies & Engineering University Scholarship
He’s eager to step into a world of new experiences - further study, travel, and the chance to meet people who will shape the next chapter of his life.
“I can’t wait for all the new experiences and people I’ll meet,” he says. “And to learn and work in a field that I’m genuinely interested in.” For Lachie, that field is Mechatronics Engineering - a blend of creativity, logic, and innovation that feels like the perfect fit. Subjects like Engineering Studies and Software Engineering were pivotal in guiding him toward this direction. He credits the “brilliant teachers” behind those courses for inspiring him and acting as role models throughout his senior years. But when he reflects on what truly defined his school experience, it’s not the timetable or the curriculum - it’s the people.
“The most meaningful part of school has been all the amazing people you meet along the way.” “Whether peers, teachers, or staff, they’ve made a lasting impact on the memories I’ve made at HVGS.” Those relationships, along with the opportunities HVGS provided, helped Lachie grow into someone ready for whatever comes next. School has taught him lessons he’ll carry for life - dedication, commitment, and the courage to keep striving. Lachlan Campbell and HVGS Board Treasurer, Mark Williams.
MUHAMMAD KHURRAM
HIGHEST ATAR ATAINMENT
Muhammad Khurram and HVGS Principal, Rebecca Butterworth at the Valedictory Dinner
For Muhammad Khurram, his final year at Hunter Valley Grammar School marked far more than the conclusion of thirteen years of schooling - it signalled the beginning of a purpose shaped by discipline, reflection and a desire to make his efforts count.
Supporting others academically also left a lasting impression, reinforcing the importance of patience, communication and shared understanding, and giving his learning a deeper sense of purpose.
“I’ve always been motivated by the idea that effort should lead somewhere meaningful,” Muhammad reflects.
Looking ahead, Muhammad hopes to pursue a career in Medicine - a field he believes sits at the intersection of science, problem-solving and human connection.
Throughout his senior years, his drive came not only from ambition, but from a quiet determination to prove to himself that he could remain focused and disciplined over time - even when motivation waned and pressure mounted.
“What appeals to me most is the responsibility it carries,” he says.
He did not want to look back and wonder if he had held back when the opportunity to push himself was there. His results, he says, represent far more than academic performance. They are a reflection of consistency - of late nights, moments of self-doubt, and learning how to manage pressure rather than avoid it. More importantly, they have reassured him of his ability to commit to long-term goals and see them through - a skill he values well beyond the classroom. While there was no single defining moment during his school years, Muhammad credits HVGS with teaching him how to think, not just what to learn. Subjects that required analysis and reflection encouraged him to articulate ideas clearly, question assumptions, and approach problems with depth and curiosity. These experiences reshaped the way he seeks solutions and engages with complex challenges. Equally influential were the people around him. Learning alongside peers with diverse strengths and perspectives - and being guided by dedicated teachers - fostered a growing sense of selfawareness and adaptability.
“Being trusted at someone’s most vulnerable moments and having the knowledge and judgement to genuinely help is something I don’t think another career could replicate.” Beyond its academic challenge, he is motivated by the impact medicine can have at both an individual and community level. Whether through improving access to care, advocating for patients, or simply taking the time to listen, Muhammad believes that meaningful change is built through consistency and compassion rather than grand gestures. As he moves forward from Hunter Valley Grammar School, Muhammad carries with him not only academic excellence, but the empathy, integrity and resilience shaped by his school journey; qualities he hopes will one day define him as a doctor, and as a person. Muhammad’s achievements include: Band 6 in Advanced English Band 5 in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics Extension 1, Mathematics Advanced, Personal Development, Health & Physical Education, and Physics. The HVGS Mathematics Medallion for Excellence
ADIA FOURIE
LUKE
PURDIE
Some students dream of a gap year or a university close to home. Adia Fourie? She's packing her bags for Paris - chasing butter, flour, and something far bigger than just a love of pastry.
For Luke, the journey ahead is defined by challenge and growth a balance he has already learned to navigate through the pathways offered at Hunter Valley Grammar School.
“After school, I’m most excited about moving to France to study French pastry arts and management at Ecole Ducasse,” she says. “I’m excited to be in a new place for the start of my life after high school, and experience life in Paris.”
Whether university takes him elsewhere in Australia or overseas, Luke is eager to explore new academic directions while continuing to pursue rowing at an international level.
It’s not just a whimsical escape to a postcard-perfect city. It’s a serious leap into the world of elite culinary training - something that’s been quietly building in Adia for years. And now, with school behind her, she’s ready to take it on. Adia’s study of French at school has offered her something powerful - not only a new skill but the confidence to step into the world. “I realised that I don’t have to limit myself to universities nearby, as there is plenty of knowledge outside of Australia and I am capable of accessing it. Learning French has given me confidence that I can pursue my dream.” Learning a new language, balancing deadlines, managing the demands of final-year study; it’s all been a kind of proving ground. “I’ve learnt to stay on top of my assignments,” she says matter-offactly. “And I will take this skill of time management to stay committed and dedicated to my studies at university.” Adia’s strength is in her quiet determination, her willingness to work hard, and her belief that her future is not limited to a kitchen, but the world.
Supported by flexible learning pathways at HVGS, he has embraced the challenge of balancing high-performance sport with academic success. With a second round of Year 12 underway, Luke sees this balancing act as an opportunity to further develop his discipline, resilience and time management. “I want to test myself in new environments - academically, athletically and personally,” he says. A defining lesson from Year 10 - that learning is about understanding, not just doing - shaped Luke’s approach to study. Mathematics reinforced this mindset, highlighting the importance of consistency and process as he tackled the highest level of HSC Mathematics, the 4 unit Extension 2 course. While still considering his university options, Luke moves forward with confidence, knowing the skills and mindset developed at Hunter Valley Grammar School will support him as he continues to strive for excellence both in the classroom and on the international sporting stage.
University Scholarships Congratulations to the following Year 12 students on their selection for a University Scholarship. The Jason Johnston Tertiary Scholarship for Health Sciences Isabella Hughes
The Cameron Built Environment, Design Technologies and Engineering University Scholarship Lachlan Campbell
SOPHIE
ABRAMS
MOLLY
MURPHY
For Sophie, music isn’t just something she does - it’s part of who she is. After 15 years at HVGS, she’s ready to explore that identity beyond the school gates.
Not every student leaves school knowing where they’re headed. Molly Murphy does - and she carries the calm assurance to get there.
“I’m excited to begin my music journey, hopefully at the Sydney Conservatorium, studying a Bachelor of Music (Performance) after taking a gap year,” she says.
From a young age, Molly has felt a deep connection to animals.
“I’m also looking forward to experiencing life beyond school… and discovering who I am in other areas of life.” From choir to show band, Sophie has poured her heart into every note. “Performing is exhilarating; there’s truly no other feeling like it,” she says. “Music has brought me immense joy, and some stress, but it’s all been worth it.” Along the way, she’s discovered how music unites people through shared passion and purpose. A highlight of Sophie’s time at HVGS was the 2023 Europe Trip; her first time travelling without family. Immersing herself in new cultures and practicing French in real settings left a lasting impact. “It’s a journey I will never forget.” Sophie has embraced every opportunity - music, theatre, sport, academics - and values the freedom to follow her passions. “It’s helped me understand what truly matters to me,” she reflects. “I’m confident that the values I’ve gained here will guide me as I grow into the person I want to become.” With creativity and conviction, Sophie is ready to find her voice and share it with the world.
That passion has grown steadily over the years, shaped by her studies in Agriculture since Year 9, a visit to AgQuip in Year 11, and hands-on experience at Williams River Vet Clinic in Year 10. Growing up in a regional setting, surrounded by conversations about farming and animal care, only strengthened her sense of purpose. Now, she has plans to study Veterinary Biology and Veterinary Science at Charles Sturt University - her first preference and a goal she’s worked toward with determination. “I know it’s a demanding course,” she says, “but I’m excited by that. I want to make a real difference.” Molly’s time at HVGS has been about more than academics. She’s led Liverpool House, performed in the Symphony Orchestra Concert, and built lasting friendships through early morning coffees and post-exam chats. “It’s those small moments that meant the most,” she reflects. “They reminded me I was never alone.” She leaves school with more than ambition. Molly carries kindness, integrity, and the courage to back herself; qualities that will guide her as she steps into university life and a future built on purpose.
ELIZABETH
MATILDA
CLOWES
LIDBURY
After 13 years at HVGS, Elizabeth is ready to create a new routine, and one she designs for herself.
Matilda isn’t racing toward a fixed destination, she’s embracing the journey.
“Finishing Year 12, I’m excited about finding my new routine. As someone who thrives on structure and comfort, leaving HVGS is scary but so exciting,” she says.
After finishing school, she’s looking forward to studying something she enjoys, travelling, meeting new people, and making memories that shape who she becomes.
Elizabeth plans to study a Bachelor of Design in Architecture at either Newcastle or Sydney University, continue her soccer career with the Newcastle Jets Academy, work, and enjoy an abundant social life.
“I’m excited to build my own path,” she says. “To really enjoy these next few years.”
One of her favourite school memories was the annual camps. “Camp was the best bonding experience with friends, year mates, and teachers. It wasn’t just about the activities but who you were with.” Choosing Visual Design was a big step. Though it’s a non-ATAR subject, Elizabeth was drawn to its architecture units. Her Major Design Project focused on heritage architecture, redesigning a century-old cinema into a restaurant while keeping its historic charm. This helped Elizabeth discover her passion and future direction. Balancing sport, school, and social life taught her resilience. “I’ve learned to zoom out, see the bigger picture, and approach each day with an ‘everything happens for a reason’ mindset. When things go wrong, I try to see it as a chance to learn or take a break - focusing on problems won’t help solve them.” Elizabeth’s journey is just beginning, and with her creativity and resilience, there’s no limit to what she’ll build next.
Her love for Agriculture has been a constant throughout high school, but it was PDHPE that shifted her focus. Inspired by the sporting and medical side of the subject, Matilda discovered a new passion. Now, she’s hoping her hard work lands her a highly competitive place at the University of Newcastle to study Physiotherapy. But what she’ll remember most from HVGS isn’t just the subjects, it’s the people. “The teachers have been everything,” she says. “Their dedication and kindness made school fun. I’ll miss seeing them every day.” School gave Matilda more than knowledge. It gave her the confidence to take chances, try new things, and trust herself. It is this purposeful approach she’ll carry with her into whatever comes next.
University Aspirations More than 70% of HVGS graduates successfully received early entry offers to university, either through University Direct Entry avenues or via UAC’s School Recommendation Scheme (SRS). Here are the key areas of study our students are pursuing:
Engineering
Architecture and Design
Law
Health and Sports Science
Physical Sciences
Business and Commerce
Media and Creative Industries
Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
Information and Computer Technology
Medicine
Second Generation
Students
We wish to acknowledge our Second Generation Students and their parents for being such a vital part of the HVGS community over a significant period of time.
Lucie Fleming Child of Ellen Fleming (Class of 1994)
Miller Henry Child of Chris Henry (Class of 1996)
Matilda Lidbury Child of Gregory Lidbury (Class of 1994)
Angus Hicks Child of Kelli Hicks (Class of 1999)
Grace Louise Outtrim Child of Kate Outtrim (Alumni of Yr 10, 1994)
Endeavour
Students
We wish to celebrate the many 2025 Year 12 graduates who have been a vital part of the Hunter Valley Grammar School community for all of their schooling.
Sophie Abrams
Amelie Bates
Jessica Bottrell
Ryan Bower
Oliver Browne
Samantha Chadwick
Elizabeth Clowes
Grace Coakes-Jenkins
Alyssa Crouch
Lachlan Davies
Angus Eicher
Lucie Fleming
Hamish Grebert
Charlie Haysom
Vaughn Henderson
Henry Miller
Poppy Holmes
Isabella Jabour
Phoebe King
Ava Lantz
Evelyn Parish
Peter McCloskey
Kirsten Ogle
Luke Purdie
Lucia Redman
Claire Thompson
Nathan Williams
Zali Scher
Nathaniel Pace
Stories of Success
Design & Technology From visionary concepts to innovative solutions, our graduating Design & Technology students have redefined creativity and problem-solving. Their work showcases bold ideas, technical mastery, and a commitment to designing for a better future - setting new benchmarks in ingenuity and achievement.
Phoebe King was one of three students selected from her class to enter Uprising, a national platform that supports young designers. Her innovative major project idea gained strong community support, earning her second place and $300 in seed funding. The initiative, supported by East Coast Land of Lismore and Southern Cross University, empowers students to develop their concepts in their final year.
Phoebe and an article of clothing from her Dress Able range
Harrison Ford’s BaleOut Unroller - a hay-feeding solution for small farms - and Miliana Callan’s Surf Secure - a beach safety station for tourists - were both nominated for the SHAPE showcase, celebrating the best HSC projects across NSW. Harrison at the Innovate Showcase
Beyond SHAPE, our students also excelled at the Young Business Mind Awards: Harrison Ford - Runner-Up in the STEAM Award category and Winner of Most Creative Video Submission Phoebe King - Runner-Up in the Innovation Award category for her adaptive clothing concept Miliana Callan - Runner-Up in the Business Idea Award category for Surf Secure Miliana at the Young Business Mind Awards
Stories of Success
Operation Manhood: Claire T, Sofia L and Alyssa C
Jack B and Noah M (Angus W - not pictured) - Knights of The Coffee Table
Creative & Performing Arts From captivating performances and bold artistic expression to musical brilliance and creative innovation, our graduating students have showcased extraordinary talent across Drama, Visual Arts, and Music - leaving a lasting impression of creativity and achievement. Operation Manhood (Claire, Sofia and Alyssa (L-R)
Congratulations to all our HSC Drama students, who received prestigious OnSTAGE nominations - with Operation Manhood (Alyssa Crouch, Sofia Leonard, and Claire Thompson) and Knights of the Coffee Table (Jack Burgess, Noah Murdoch, Angus Woods) both selected, alongside Individual Performance nominations for Alyssa, Sofia, Claire, and Jack. Alyssa also played Mr Jones in the School’s production of Animal Farm. Ryan at the Yr 12 Grad
In Music, Sophie Abrams (Vocal) and Ryan Bower (Saxophone) were nominated for HSC ENCORE, recognising perfect scores in their HSC performance exams. Claire Thompson also achieved a historic milestone for HVGS, receiving an ENCORE nomination for her HSC Musicology Viva Voce on Hamilton: The Musical. This prestigious recognition - typically reserved for perfect scores or truly exceptional work - marks the School’s first-ever Musicology ENCORE for Music 1. Artistic excellence was on display this year, with April Hensley-Turner earning State-level recognition in HSC Visual Arts.
Sophie performing at Latter Stomp Alyssa - Playing Mr Jones in Animal Farm
April’s HSC Body of Work was nominated and then selected for ARTEXPRESS 2026 - a prestigious annual exhibition showcasing the best HSC Visual Arts works from across NSW in major galleries. April’s Body of Work will be showcased at Maitland Regional Art Gallery from the 21st of February to 19th April 2026. April and their completed HSC Body of Work
Stories of Success
Sport Matilda P (Image: Newcastle Herald)
These pages are dedicated to the remarkable achievements of our Year 12 students who have shown commitment, drive and passion for sport. They celebrate the strength and teamwork of the Class of 2025.
Matilda Percival capped a distinguished netball career as Vice-Captain of the NSW Under-17 State Team and member of the NSW All Schools Open Merit Team - a true testament to her leadership and commitment. Matilda has also just been selected in the NSW 19U State Team. After 2 gold and 2 silver medals at the NSW Rowing Championships followed by more gold and bronze at the Australian Championships, Luke Purdie was invited to trial for the national rowing team.
Grace and Phoebe leading the Junior Fitness team to a Silver Medal at Nationals.
Team 007 (Lachie and Akash - left to right)
Luke represented Australia at the World Under-19 Rowing Championships in Lithuania, finishing 10th in the world after a stellar domestic season!
Grace Coakes-Jenkins and Phoebe King bring a combined 22 years of service to HVGS Aerobics. In 2025, they helped achieve multiple State and National medals, including Gold at State and Silver at Nationals. Both have coached several junior teams, with Phoebe also choreographing HVGS’s first student-led Aerobics routine - guiding the Junior Fitness team to a Silver Medal at the National Championships, while Team 007 (Lachie Campbell and Akash Kumarasinghe) claimed Gold in the Secondary Boys division.
Luke P (right) and Tobias E (left) in the U19 Men's Double Sculls 2025 World Rowing Championships.
A consistent and dedicated presence in the hockey community, Hamish Grebert was awarded a Student Official Blue at the Combined Independent Schools (CIS) Awards Presentation for his involvement in Hockey. Hamish G (far left) at CIS Hockey
Congratulations!
Class of 2025