Stories of Excellence 2025 – 2026
From Our Principal
This publication celebrates student achievement in its fullest sense. It honours personal best, formal academic results and leadership, not as separate pursuits, but as interwoven expressions of young people striving to become the best versions of themselves.
At Pembroke, excellence has never meant perfection. It has never been about comparison, rank or external validation alone. Rather, it is about growth. It is about effort sustained over time. It is about young people setting meaningful goals and pursuing them with integrity, curiosity and courage. Excellence, in this sense, is deeply personal. It looks different for every student, yet it is no less worthy of recognition.
Across our School, there are more than 1,700 individual stories of young people striving for personal excellence. Some of these stories unfold on the sporting field, where discipline, teamwork and resilience are forged through training and competition. Others are found on the stage, in rehearsal rooms, studios and galleries, where creativity, vulnerability and self-expression demand courage and commitment. Many are shaped through academic endeavour, where students pursue ambitious goals that build their futures, their confidence and their sense of self. And some are lived through leadership, expressed quietly and consistently in service of others.
They lead by modelling our values, particularly when doing so is difficult. They lead by amplifying the voices around them, especially those still finding their confidence.
Yet leadership at Pembroke has never been confined to titles or badges. Every act of kindness is leadership. Every defence of dignity is leadership. Every student who steps into the arena to build solutions rather than inflame problems is exercising leadership. These moments may not always be public or celebrated, but they shape our culture in profound ways.
Leadership at Pembroke is not hierarchical. It is exemplary. It is not a position above others, but a posture among them.
As I reminded all at the recent Commencement of Year Ceremony, we will know ourselves not by how we champion those in power, but by how we empower the young and the vulnerable. This is lived daily at Pembroke, every time a student reaches out, speaks up or stands alongside another to uphold their dignity.
When individuals aim higher, our School achieves magnificent things. Not because we are seeking to be the best, but because we are committed to becoming our best. Together, these individual journeys form a collective story of excellence, one grounded in effort, service and purpose.
Leadership at Pembroke is not hierarchical. It is exemplary. It is not a position above others, but a posture among them. It is not the privilege of being seen, but the responsibility of seeing others. Our student leaders lead not because their voices are the loudest, but because they are principled, grounded and consistent.
This publication honours those stories. It recognises achievement in its many forms and celebrates the insight, presence and commitment of young people who shape our School for the better. I commend it to you as a reflection of who we are and who we are becoming, together.
Mark Staker Principal
2025 Year 12 Results
Pembroke’s High Flyers across SACE and IB
21 student ATARs
99+
67 student ATARs
95+
121 student ATARs
90+
99.95
Two Perfect Scores (99.95 ATAR)
Grade Distribution
Our 2025 SACE Dux: Kyle Liu
Kyle started at Pembroke in Year 7, in 2020. His hard work and determination throughout his schooling culminated in a perfect ATAR of 99.95. We congratulate Kyle on this extraordinary achievement.
We asked Kyle a few questions about his time at Pembroke and his plans for the future:
In Year 12, I studied Physics, Chemistry, Specialist Mathematics, English and two of the University of Adelaide’s Headstart courses – Introduction to Forensic Science and Introduction to Logic. In Year 11, I was able to study Stage 2 Mathematical Methods, Biology and Activating Identities and Futures (AIF).
I loved participating in Pembroke’s Fitness and Conditioning co-curricular. This early introduction into weightlifting allowed me to discover my passion for the gym and I’m incredibly thankful for that. In Year 12, I found going to the gym perfect for releasing the stresses of study whilst maintaining my health and wellbeing. I also really enjoyed working out with friends, each on our own fitness journey, but in that moment showing up for each other and motivating one another to strive for improvement.
Focus on the present and what you’re doing in each moment to work towards your goals. Don’t be afraid of setbacks – they are completely normal and are a great opportunity for growth and self-improvement.
When choosing my subjects I considered both my interests and my tertiary studies. I had decided on pursuing a career in medicine at the beginning of Year 11 and I’ve always had an interest in science and mathematics. So going into Year 11, naturally I decided to study Mathematical Methods and Biology. Then in Year 12, I progressed my studies further by choosing to study Specialist Mathematics, Chemistry and Physics.
I plan on studying Medicine this year. The combination of science and compassion within medicine really interests me, and I’m eager for the chance to contribute positively to the lives of others as a future doctor.
My advice to current students would be to TRY YOUR ABSOLUTE BEST. Set goals, back yourself and genuinely give it your all by putting full effort into everything you do. By doing this, not only will you be able to reach your full potential, but when you’ve finished, you’ll be left with no regrets. You will never think, ‘I could’ve tried harder,’ because you’ll know deep down that you truly gave it your best. Don’t focus too much on the desired outcome and become blinded by it; instead, focus on the present and what you’re doing in each moment to work towards your goals. Don’t be afraid of setbacks – they are completely normal and are a great opportunity for growth and self-improvement.
Our 2025 IB Dux: Nicole Wang
Nicole commenced her Pembroke schooling in Year 7, in 2020. In Year 12, she achieved a perfect score of 45/45 in studying the International Baccalaureate. We commend Nicole on this outstanding achievement.
We asked Nicole a few questions about her time at Pembroke and her plans for the future:
For my high level subjects, I studied French B, Chemistry and Biology, and my standard level subjects were Mathematics Analysis and Approaches, English Literature, History and Theory of Knowledge. I did my Extended Essay in language acquisition, so French B.
I chose French because I had studied it in Middle School and enjoyed it. A bonus was that France has some very interesting politicians – Macron in Top Gun aviator sunglasses comes to mind. I chose Chemistry, Biology and Maths AA because I initially planned to study Biochemistry at university, and these were the prerequisites. I picked English Literature instead of Language and Literature because I preferred analysing literary texts over non-literary genres. History was an unexpected choice, but I decided to try it after a particularly engaging experience in Year 10 History.
I was involved in a couple of Music ensembles at school, like Symphony Orchestra and Clarinet Ensemble. These provided opportunities to spend time with friends and to meet new people from different year levels. The highlight was being part of the ensemble for The Addams Family, the 2024 Middle School Musical.
Pembroke’s staff are very supportive, so don’t hesitate to ask for help.
I’m on a half gap year at the moment and will be starting a Bachelor of Arts in September. I hope to work in the public sector, ideally in either a European or international organisation.
My advice to current students is to relax, because at this point, nothing is truly defining. Pembroke’s staff are very supportive, so don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Meet Our 2026 School Captains
Hi Pembroke community! We are honoured to introduce ourselves as your School Captains of 2026, Angus Underdown and Issie McEwin.
Whether you have been part of our community since ELC or have joined more recently, our role as School Captains involves leading and representing students across the entire School. It is a privilege to be trusted with this role, and we are incredibly grateful for this opportunity to serve Pembroke.
Our journeys at Pembroke both started in the Junior School, where we shared our first leadership role as House Captains, making it exciting to be working together again. Over the years, we have taken advantage of the wide range of co-curricular opportunities available to us, with Issie involved in Tennis and Music, and Angus in the Football Program. As we enter our final year of secondary education, we will each be following different academic pathways, with Issie completing the SACE program and Angus the IB Diploma.
Although Pembroke offers a strong academic program, we recognise that some of the most meaningful learning happens beyond the classroom. Through sport, friendship, leadership opportunities and co-curricular activities, we learn lessons in respect, resilience, teamwork and compassion. These experiences will shape who we are and how we lead, so we look forward to embracing every opportunity to learn from the many people within our community throughout the year ahead.
Guided by our School Motto, ‘Ex Unitate Vires’ translating to ‘Out of Unity, Strength’, we believe that shared experiences play a powerful role in shaping a sense of belonging. Events such as Swimming Carnival, cultural days, interschool competitions and whole-school activities provide opportunities for students to engage with one another beyond the classroom and across year levels. In keeping the focus on unity, we hope in 2026 to build on the strong foundations of student leadership already in place. By working closely with the Middle School Student Voice Executive and the Junior School House Leaders, we aim to strengthen communication and collaboration across campuses, and, in doing so, help build a more connected, supportive and unified School community.
This year, we hope to become more actively involved in service projects, taking a hands-on approach to helping within our School and the wider community. Whether through volunteering, fundraising or supporting initiatives led by students and staff, we want to contribute in meaningful ways and encourage others to do the same.
We are excited about the introduction of new initiatives this year, particularly the addition of an Environmental Committee within the Student Staff Executive. Environmental issues are becoming increasingly important, and we see this as an opportunity to take responsibility in shaping the sustainability of the School and learn about the impacts of our actions. We also look forward to continuing the initiatives started in previous years such as the Cluster Cup, Respectful Relationships Symposium, Junior School Clubs and much more.
Creating a welcoming school environment, especially in such divisive times, is more important than ever. Pembroke is a diverse community, and we believe it should be a place where all students are given the space and confidence to be themselves. Regardless of whether this is your very first year at Pembroke, your first year on a new campus or your final year like us, we value your input and hope to contribute to a culture where every student feels comfortable sharing their thoughts. Throughout the year, we hope to be visible and approachable and look forward to meeting as many people in the School community as possible, whether that be in the schoolyard, at School events or sports.
We also look forward to spending time on each campus, particularly in the Junior School and ELC, where we will run activities and get to know our youngest members of the Pembroke community. If you see us around, please come and say hello – we can’t wait to meet you all!
As exciting as 2026 is, we recognise that none of this would be possible without the support we receive from peers, family and staff. We would like to thank the members of the Student Staff Executive, and our Vice Captains, Vito, Lia, Patrick and Ava, who we will be working alongside this year. It is a privilege to be part of such a passionate and reliable group of leaders who serve the School with pride. We also extend our sincere thanks to Principal Mr Staker, Head of Senior School Mrs Piggott and Assistant Head of Senior School Mr Clark for entrusting us with this role. Your leadership and guidance have been invaluable to us, and we are excited to work alongside you and represent the Pembroke community in 2026.
Angus Underdown and Issie McEwin School Captains
Being a leader means helping others to feel confident, included, and united...
Our 2026 Middle School Captains
Our 2026 Middle School Captains, Henry Braithwaite and Mia Huang, talk about their goals for the year ahead, what they love about the Middle School and what leadership means to them.
We are both incredibly proud and excited to be leading the Middle School in our roles as the 2026 Middle School Captains. As members of the Pembroke community since the beginning of our schooling, we are honoured to continue building a strong community in 2026 and beyond.
As leaders of the Middle School this year, we hope to achieve many things that will positively impact our School community. Looking towards the year ahead of us, one thing is evident: we are extremely lucky to have such a large and diverse school. Having the opportunity to connect with the Sub-Schools at Pembroke is something that we truly value and believe is incredibly important.
One of our key goals is to collaborate with the new Junior School House Leaders and other Year 6 leaders to strengthen the connection between the Junior and Middle School campuses, as well as helping them gain confidence and capability in their leadership skills. We want to make entry to Middle School seamless for the new Year 7s, helping them feel a strong sense of belonging in this new, welcoming environment.
We also value opportunities where we can connect and learn from Senior School leaders, including the SSE and School Captains. Learning from them will help support our own leadership growth while also strengthening cross-campus ties, forming a stronger sense of unity across the School. We love being able to see the younger students express themselves freely and grow into who they want to be. This has been available to them through the large number of subjects Pembroke offers. The Middle School also offers a wide range of trips with long-lasting experiences and memories that not many people have. This includes language trips and exchanges, sport and music trips, service and cultural trips.
As Middle School Captains, what we love about Pembroke is that we are part of a community that values inclusion, wellbeing and personal growth.
We are so proud to be Middle School Captains as this role allows us to support our peers and help improve our School community. Being a leader means helping others to feel confident, included and united, while living our Motto Ex Unitate Vires – Out of Unity, Strength
We believe student leadership is a key aspect of our schooling as it prepares us for our future where leadership is present all around us. It allows us to make a positive difference in our community, whether a student has a title or not. It’s about setting an example, stepping out of your comfort zone, encouraging and supporting others and making sure everyone feels seen.
Ever since joining the Middle School in 2023, we have felt the presence that leaders have at this School. Leadership is everywhere you look in the Middle School. From your weekly House meetings where the House Captains will go through the weekly agenda, to the Middle School Captains before us often running entire assemblies on their own.
We would like to sincerely thank Mrs Sheidow, Mr Staker, Mrs Andrews, and our Heads of House and Assistant Heads of House for their ongoing support and guidance throughout our leadership journey. We would also like to thank Mr Pascale and Miss Patton as they continue to support us in our roles this year. We feel so privileged and excited to work with such a passionate and dedicated team of Co-Captains and the Student Voice Executive this year.
Lastly, we wish everyone a wonderful year ahead, and we can’t wait to work together to make 2026 an amazing year for our community!
Mia Huang and Henry Braithwaite 2026 Middle School Captains
Our Junior School Leaders
Ginevra Betti (Flinders House)
What does being the leader of your House mean to you?
It means being a good role model who is approachable and genuine. Being able to problem solve calmly even when things are difficult. To be given the ability to represent our School Values in our community and beyond. Being a leader provides opportunities for a positive change.
What’s your favourite thing about being a student at Pembroke?
I love the numerous opportunities Pembroke has to offer and its sense of inclusion. Pembroke encourages us to have a critical mindset and to think outside the box, which will help us to be successful later on in life.
Harvey Wadham (Flinders House)
What are your hopes and aspirations for this year?
I want to set an example that, at Pembroke, we love to have fun and have a smile on our faces but if something needs to change, remember our Essential Agreement. I want to make the Junior School community more ‘vibey’ with some music at lunch or maybe even as the bell.
What do you want to do when you leave school?
When I leave school, I want to have a job that isn’t always on a screen or computer, like a physio, involvement in sport or an outdoor activities job. What I would most like to be when I grow up is to have involvement in sport. If that means being a team doctor, team director or team manager, that’s perfect.
Charli Pyman (Spencer House)
What do you want to do when you leave school?
When I leave Pembroke, I would love to become an ELC teacher because I love working with little kids. I am inspired by Mrs Chandler’s story about wanting to become a teacher but no school was near her, so she set up a kindergarten and looked after many kids.
What’s your favourite thing about being a student at Pembroke?
My favourite things about Pembroke are: everybody is kind and caring, even if you’re having a bad day, they fill your bucket up. I also love the specialist lessons because they are so fun and I love learning at Pembroke.
Sam Johnston (Spencer House)
What does being the leader of your House mean to you?
To me it means that I get to help Pembroke after what the School has given me, as well as working with my House to win the sports events.
What are your hopes and aspirations for this year?
Something that we need to do as a House could be using our Values to have good sportsmanship and to be good people.
Lucy Rhodes (Torrens House)
What does being the leader of your House mean to you?
To me a leader is someone who older and younger students can look up to because they demonstrate our School Values with pride. Being elected as House Leader has given me the opportunity to have a positive impact on the Junior School.
What do you want to do when you leave school?
I am still not sure what I want to do when I grow up but I am interested in animals (specifically cows and horses), farming and agriculture.
Rupert Morris (Torrens House)
What are your hopes and aspirations for this year?
Win the House events and more importantly make sure everyone participates and has fun.
What’s your favourite thing about being a student at Pembroke?
Everyone is inclusive and fair to one another.
Stephanie Lau (Yorke House)
What does being the leader of your House mean to you?
Encouraging everyone to do their best. Being a role model for other students by showing the School Values such as bravery, curiosity, uniqueness and kindness. I am passionate about helping people feel like they belong in the Pembroke School community.
What’s your favourite thing about being a student at Pembroke?
I enjoy how Pembroke gives so many opportunities in academics and sport. I also enjoy being surrounded by inclusive, collaborative kids and teachers.
Cole Griffiths (Yorke House)
What are your hopes and aspirations for this year?
To encourage and motivate Yorke students to participate in more School events. I want to be a positive, fun leader and to ensure everyone is being treated the same. And I’d like to meet an Australian sports captain.
What do you want to do when you leave school? I would like to study/work in the sport science or human body industry.
Meet Our Boarding Captains
Francis Boulton and Ariane Lefranc are our Boarding Captains for 2026. We asked them some questions about their new leadership roles, their hopes for the year ahead and their advice for new students.
Where are you from, and when did you start boarding?
Francis: I am from Mildura, a smallish town at the very northwest tip of Victoria. They advertise it as the ‘Tropical North of Victoria’ but as I’m writing this, we are experiencing five days of 43+ degrees in a row – not too tropical if you ask me. I started boarding in Term 4 of 2024. When I first arrived at Pembroke, I couldn’t even tell you the feeling of excitement, knowing how many opportunities I had, and how nervous I was all combined into one.
Ariane: I am half French and half Chinese and I reside in Shanghai, China. I started boarding in 2024 as a Year 10 student. I felt very welcomed when I first arrived, although very nervous as I didn’t know what to expect. I had never lived in Australia nor visited it before I came. However, I was so excited to learn more about the culture, the lifestyle and most importantly meeting new people.
What does the Boarding Captain role involve, and what does it mean to you to be a Boarding Captain?
F: Being a Boarding House Captain involves bringing the Boarding community together, connecting one another while also hearing out people’s feedback and acting on that. To be a Boarding Captain still feels surreal, to be leading so many people while also still finding my way around Pembroke still hasn’t hit me, but to be voted in by the community means I must be doing something right so I’ll do everything in my power to prove them right.
A: The Boarding Captain role involves many different aspects. It can range from conducting small meetings with boarders to share information, to organising activities for the weekend and suggesting new food recommendations. We are the voices of the Boarding Houses. To me, being Boarding Captain is such an honour. I would never have imagined myself in this position, but I am so grateful that I have gained the trust of my fellow boarders in leading the way for the year to come.
What are you looking forward to most in boarding this year?
F: I’m looking forward to that stage where everyone clicks in our year level. Everyone understands that this is it, the last year we’ll be at high school before finishing up and moving into the real world with taxes and bosses. The year will be one of the best years of our lives, and yes, it will be tough, but going to school knowing I could get along with anyone I talk to balances that out 100 times out of 100.
A: This year, I am looking forward to seeing how the dynamic of both Year 12 boys and girls is at Turner House, and the impact this will have to our Boarding House experience. I also am looking forward to enhancing the spirit in the Boarding Houses. I want to create a warm environment where everyone can feel comfortable and encourage students to create stronger bonds with one another. I also can’t wait to organise fun activities where everyone is able to participate and connect while also having a good time.
What is your advice to new boarders this year?
F: Embrace it. It’s not easy moving away from your family, it comes with responsibilities and commitment to why you are there in the first place. Embrace the learning challenges while also being positive about the wins you have along the way. There’s no way around it, it is tough moving away, but if you take every moment with its merits, you’ll find yourself in a position you’ve been longing for, no matter what that position is.
A: My advice for new boarders is to not be afraid to start conversation with people because everyone started in the same position. Be open-minded and participate in activities because that’s the best way of getting to know people. Don’t be afraid to reach out, if it’s for a helping hand or even a small chat, everyone is willing to make a new friend. Show kindness and respect as it will find its way back to you.
Meet Our Music Captains
Both Nicholas Luu and Emily Amber have been at Pembroke since their Junior School years – ELC for Nicholas and Year 5 for Emily – and have been elected as the Music Captains for 2026. We asked them some questions about their musical history, what being a captain means to them and their advice for new students.
Challenging yourself is key for growth, and sometimes it may feel uncomfortable, but lean into it. You’ll never know how far you can go unless you try.
When did you start learning music?
Nicholas: I started learning music through the Junior School Music programs and developed all of my instrumental skills at Pembroke.
Emily: Before I started at Pembroke, I learnt how to play the viola and the piano, as well as loving singing for as long as I can remember. But this was all consolidated when I started at Pembroke, and my love for music really began with the Junior School’s wide range of opportunities that I was given from my very first day there.
What instruments do you play, how long have you been learning them?
N: I currently play the trombone, which I have been learning for seven years since joining the Year 4 Band Program. I also play the cello, which I began through the Junior School Strings Program. At Pembroke, I have undertaken Music Studies, which I found both engaging and highly beneficial for my involvement in bands and ensembles.
E: I have been doing choir for as long as I can remember. I will continue with my love for being a vocalist through all of Year 12, being involved in three different choirs, the Jazz Choir, Concert Choir and Small Combo Choir. I am so excited to continue to learn and grow within these, along with getting lessons for piano and vocals with Pembroke’s own Charmaine Jones.
What does the Music Captain role involve, and what does it mean to you to be a Music Captain?
N: The role of a Pembroke Music Captain involves leading with integrity, embodying the School Values and setting a positive example for others. It is a privilege, and I believe the core of the role is service by supporting and leading our diverse community of musicians, inspiring creativity and building upon the strong foundations of Pembroke’s vibrant music culture.
E: Being Music Captain at Pembroke means being a positive role model who encourages, supports and inspires others within an already thriving music community.
The role is about leading by example, showing commitment and enthusiasm, and helping students feel confident and proud to be involved in music. For me, it’s an opportunity to uplift those around me, celebrate the incredible talent at Pembroke, and help music continue to shine by fostering a welcoming, motivated and passionate environment for all students.
What are you looking forward to most in the Music Program this year?
N: I am mostly looking forward to the annual Generations In Jazz trip. This trip entails an amazing musical experience, where only a select few bands travel to Mount Gambier to compete in heavily competitive divisions and watch the best of the best on the big stage.
E: I am so very excited to go on the classic Generations In Jazz trip with all of my fellow Music students, it’s just such a great way to be able to showcase all of the talents Pembroke and many other schools are special enough to have! I am also very excited to be a part of, and soak in, as many Music events through school that I can, whether it’s a Pembroke Live or a Spring Fling, I am so pleased to be lucky enough to be a part of our very own repertoire of dedicated and hardworking musicians.
What’s your advice for students who are new to music or interested in starting out with an instrument this year?
N: Honesty, I say just give it a go. Music is a skill that grows with time and commitment, and starting is the most important step.
E: My biggest piece of advice to students who have taken the leap into music would probably be that challenging yourself is key for growth, and sometimes it may feel uncomfortable, but to lean into it. You’ll never know how far you can go unless you try.
Music is truly a beautiful art, once you find it, it becomes something that stays with you, giving you a voice, a sense of belonging and a way to express what words alone cannot.
The sense of community that comes with School sport is a unique privilege, one that deserves to be embraced.
Meet Our Sports Captains
We congratulate Alice Emmett and Max Woolley on being elected as Pembroke’s second ever Sports Captains after the roles were introduced in 2025. We asked Alice and Max a few questions about their year ahead…
What is your sporting background? Were you introduced to sport at Pembroke, and what sports do you play now?
Alice: I started Pembroke in ELC, where my involvement in sport began. Throughout my Junior School years at Pembroke, I threw myself into every opportunity I could. I have loved experiencing nearly every sport that Pembroke has to offer, especially Hockey which I played for School and club in my younger years. I currently play footy which I started at Pembroke in Year 7.
Max: I joined Pembroke in Year 4. The first sport I participated in was Auskick when I was five. This then led me to play Junior Football for Walkerville Football Club whilst also playing School Football and Cricket at this age for primary school. When I joined Pembroke in Year 4, I would play Football and Soccer for School in the winter, and Cricket, Tee-Ball and Basketball in the summer. I currently play Football and Cricket for Pembroke.
What does the Sports Captain role involve, and what does it mean to you to be a Sports Captain?
A: As a relatively new position, the Sports Captain role has been shaped largely by the initiative of those who have held it previously. The previous captains expressed how ‘You get out as much as you put in’, which is something that I am really looking forward to.
M: To me, sport has always been a massive part of my life. I am both extremely grateful and excited for the opportunity to help lead the Pembroke sporting community. Growing up seeing leaders in sport has inspired me, particularly the past Sports Captains who demonstrated the values of Pembroke and created a positive and welcoming environment for sport. It is an honour to be Sports Captain and I cherish the opportunity.
What are you looking forward to most in the School’s Sport calendar this year?
A: There’s so much to look forward to this year, but Winter Interschool is always a standout for me, particularly as we’re hosting it! I also love being a part of and seeing the House spirit at Swimming Carnival, Cross Country and Athletics Day.
M: This year will be packed with lots of different amazing events. I am most excited for Interschool as we are the hosts. This means the sport community can have the opportunity to take the event to another level! I am also looking forward to the Will Fry Cup, an annual event hosted on Kensington Oval.
What’s your advice for students who are new to sport or interested in starting out with a new sport this year?
A: Pembroke offers a broad and exciting range of sporting opportunities, and I strongly encourage everyone to take full advantage of them. The sense of community that comes with School sport is a unique privilege, one that deserves to be embraced. I encourage you to bring a friend (or a few!) and try something new. I can guarantee you’ll have a lot of fun. And of course, feel free to come and chat to Max or me at any time; we’d love to help you get started or simply talk about how your sporting journey is going.
M: My main advice is to do what you love. If you have a passion for sport, go out and experience it and have fun. As Sports Captain it will be one of my main goals to create a culture where students can walk into a team feeling welcomed and excited to try a new sport. You create so many memories, friends and physical and mental benefits from playing. I guarantee you all our coaching staff will be supportive and excited for a new player to join any team. If any students have questions, Alice and I are always here to have a chat about it.
Ross Family Leadership Award
Each year, the Ross Family Leadership Award is given to a Year 12 student who: leads with empathy, courage and honour; consistently delivers a high degree of service to peers, the School and to the community; inspires action and service in others; and embodies the Pembroke School Aims.
For the first time, the prize was awarded to two Year 12 students in 2025, exemplifying that this cohort has produced an extraordinary depth of leadership talent. We spoke with Max Davis and Roszi Bentley about their time at Pembroke, their shared leadership journey and their plans for the future…
When did you start at Pembroke, and what were your first impressions of the School? How did you feel in your first few weeks at school?
Roszi: I started at Pembroke in Year 6, the last year of the Junior School. My overwhelming memory of that time was how welcoming and inclusive everyone was over my first few weeks. I especially remember playing gang up chase, handball or speedball at lunch with big groups, and how close our year level felt.
This experience showed me that leadership is not always about visibility or authority, but about presence.
Max: I commenced at Pembroke in Year 5. I vividly remember being amazed by the Junior School campus and feeling incredibly excited by the opportunities it offered, particularly the small soccer courts and the playground.
From my first days, I felt warmly welcomed by my teacher and fellow students; many of my friends from my first week at school remain my closest mates today.
A standout highlight from that year was playing football at Kensington Oval for the first time, coached by two Year 12 students – an experience that gave me a strong sense of belonging within the School.
You were both Sports Captains in Year 12; how did this experience shape your opinion on leadership?
M: Prior to Year 12, most of my leadership experience came from sport and being vocal on the field, directing teammates and contributing to tactics. Serving as Sports Captain significantly broadened my understanding of leadership. I came to realise that much of the role involved quiet, behind-the-scenes work such as organising events, sending emails and developing new initiatives.
Roszi and I made a conscious effort to attend sporting events across all year levels to support teams and reinforce the School Values through sport. This experience showed me that leadership is not always about visibility or authority, but about presence. Students valued our involvement simply by knowing we were there, which I found to be a meaningful form of leadership.
How did you balance the workload of Senior School with your co-curricular commitments and any extra involvement at school?
R: Year 12 is obviously a very academic-oriented time, but I really focused on trying to stay active, spending time with friends, as well as having some downtime. The routines I created around my sport trainings really helped me to focus and make the most of my time I spent sitting down
Say yes to all opportunities... the experiences gained and the connections made are well worth the effort.
and doing schoolwork. I also spent lots of time in the Library which I found to be a really good space to focus during free lessons and after school. This allowed me to relax more at home and also prioritise my sleep. As Mrs Piggott would say, ‘SLEEP IS YOUR SUPERPOWER’. The difference a good rest would have on my motivation at school and trainings was really significant.
What initiatives during your time at school are you most proud of?
R: The biggest initiative we helped introduce into the Pembroke community was the Phoenix badges which aimed to bring our School Values to life through sport. Phoenix badges are awarded to students who best embody the Pembroke School Values on the field, in training or during competition and games. Our role was to head out to games, trainings and other sporting events to award them. This also tied into the introduction of the new Pembroke Mascot, the Phoenix, which we were in charge of coordinating.
M: One initiative I am particularly proud of was Pink Round. Roszi and I identified this as an area for growth within the Sports Program and were determined to create a meaningful change. Coordinating the ordering and sale of socks required significant organisation, but it was incredibly rewarding to see all senior teams as well as many Middle School teams participating. The level of School-wide involvement and fundraising for Breast Cancer Network Australia was inspiring, and I am proud to have contributed to an initiative that will continue to grow at Pembroke.
What are your plans for this year and your future after that, and how do you see your leadership and service skills playing a role in them?
R: This year, I am taking a gap year to work and travel. Next year, I’m going to go to university to study something allied health related. I’m still deciding whether to study Paramedicine or Physiotherapy but am hoping that my gap year will give me a bit more clarity about this. I’ve always known that I wanted to study a people-focused degree. I love being around people and have a genuine interest in helping those around me. Through my leadership experiences this year, these qualities have been further strengthened.
M: This year, I will be studying at Adelaide University, pursuing a double degree in Commerce and Economics. In the short term, the time management skills I developed in Year 12 will assist me in balancing university, work and sport. In the long term, I believe my leadership experiences will translate strongly into professional environments, particularly in management and team-based roles. I also intend to continue giving back to communities wherever possible, as service has become an important value for me.
What advice would you give to Year 12 students this year?
R: Challenge yourself to get involved as much as you can – even when you don’t feel like it. Often the moments where I felt most unmotivated but still persevered were the times where I was most rewarded.
M: My advice to Year 12 students is to say yes to all opportunities. Throughout the year, there will be many chances to help with initiatives or support causes, and embracing these opportunities can make the year far more memorable and rewarding. While this may occasionally feel overwhelming, the experiences gained and the connections made are well worth the effort.
Young Entrepreneur of the Year
Julian Mitchell was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2025 Next Gen Awards by BOP industries. Julian launched his own company, JMDigital, in 2021 and has balanced his academic work and sporting commitments with growing his business – all as a boarder at Pembroke.
My first website was for my dad’s windscreen business in Central Queensland when I was 11. From memory, he paid me $80 for this endeavour, which was huge for Year 6 Julian at the time. From there, I had some family friends asking me if I could make websites for their businesses and hobbies.
The first memorable one was for a business called Attainable Solutions – that website is still up today, and somehow doesn’t look too shabby! I opened JMDigital as a sole trader in 2021, and I’ve been working and growing ever since, notably restructuring the business to proprietary limited in 2024.
JMDigital delivers innovative digital solutions to Australian businesses across a diverse range of platforms. We provide websites, digital media and eCommerce, and are proud to be partnered with industry leading service providers. Hypertel, a division of JMDigital, extends this capability by providing specialised communication services, including business-grade email systems and cloud-based telephony solutions.
I was initially nominated for the award in 2024 by Pembroke’s Senior School Future Pathways Coordinator, Donna O’Connor. Her support during my time at Pembroke has been unwavering, and she played a major role in helping me run the business while in school. From there, I wrote an application discussing my strengths and experience, which then determined who would be entered into the finalists.
A major part of balancing work with school was by leveraging the flexibility which the SACE offers. By undertaking extension studies at Flinders University in Year 12 and completing an entrepreneurship VET
qualification in Year 11, I was able to select subjects that directly aligned with the skills I needed to grow JMDigital. This allowed my schoolwork and business work to reinforce one another rather than compete for time.
I was born in Gladstone, Queensland, roughly a 25-hour drive from Pembroke. Boarding fundamentally changed my life, and the support I received from Pembroke and the connections that I’ve developed from moving here are the number one reason that the business is in the position that it is today.
I’m planning to study Law next year while continuing to operate the business. This pathway appeals to me because of the wide range of transferable skills the degree develops, and because I really enjoy learning about politics and have a passion for the rule of law. I developed this through the Legal Studies Program and my incredibly talented mum, who transitioned to law as a career change about six years ago and has been a major source of inspiration and guidance throughout my time in school.
My advice to others is three words: just get started. You won’t know everything, nor do you need to. Learn as you go, take advice from all who are willing to offer and do not be afraid to seek help. Starting a business is a constant process of trial, reflection and improvement, where every challenge is an opportunity to grow. If you are passionate, committed and willing to adapt, there is no reason your idea cannot grow into something real.
Julian Mitchell (2025) Founder, JMDigital
Boarding fundamentally changed my life, and the support I received from Pembroke and the connections that I’ve developed from moving here are the number one reason that the business is in the position that it is today.
Behind the Scenes with Old Scholar Erin Cutts (2013)
As a Freelance Production Coordinator, Erin has worked on productions including Channel 7’s hit drama RFDS, Netflix’s The Survivors and the NBC sitcom Young Rock. She shares her journey from Pembroke into the screen industry and offers advice for aspiring creatives.
Visiting Pembroke recently to catch up with some of my past teachers, I was undeniably surprised when Mr Ferrier exclaimed, ‘I have to show you the current Year 10 students’ artworks, their recent project was inspired by your Year 12 artwork on letterboxes’. That is the magic about a school like Pembroke – students continue to influence each other for years to come; sometimes without even realising it.
To say I had a passion for The Arts would be a dramatic understatement. Performing on stage from the age of six, it was no surprise my favourite subjects were always Drama, Art and English. It didn’t matter that I lacked some of the traditional skills favoured for artists (e.g. the ability to draw in a straight line). Teachers like Mr Ferrier, Mr O’Loughlin and Mrs Brewerton consistently encouraged me to think outside the box and experiment with different materials, methods and mediums. Their generous tutelage will never be lost on me. I’m forever grateful for the endless hours spent fostering my creative spirit in the Art classrooms, and the artistic skills I still use today.
Some of my best memories and career inspiration came from years studying Drama. Writing and directing a short film for the Year 10 Unreel Film Festival sparked a passion for filmmaking I never knew I had. The experience working on Front of House/Publicity Design for our SACE Year 12 Production of Abandonment showcased that acting wasn’t the only means to sate my love of storytelling. Nothing will ever compare to the bond forged between a Year 12 Drama class working collaboratively and creatively as a team, with a steadfast leader like Mrs Feldhoff at the helm.
I’ve spent the last nine years working non-stop in production offices in nearly every state of Australia, for companies such as Netflix, Stan, Amazon and NBCU.
Working freelance in the film and television industry isn’t for the faint hearted. As a Production Coordinator, I’m on call 24/7 during production – coordinating schedules and logistics, managing the cast/crew and constantly solving any challenges that could hinder the production. The hours are long (50-75 hours a week), the locations often remote and the lifestyle can be described as ‘living out of a suitcase’. You need to be hardworking, tenacious and respectful to nurture the relationships and network needed for a career where your next job is found through who you know. But if you are passionate about filmmaking and love it like I do, there is nothing greater than working in an industry where no day is ever the same.
We’re often told that artistic industries are too risky, competitive and unstable... but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to follow your dreams.
Unlike my friends, confident of their career paths as doctors, engineers and lawyers, there is no traditional pathway for a career in The Arts. We’re often told that artistic industries are too risky, competitive and unstable, or that we should have a backup career in case everything fails – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to follow your dreams. Hearing of a Pembroke old scholar who was thriving studying Film and Television at Bond University, I applied for a scholarship there on a whim. After all, if filmmaking brought me so much joy in Year 10, maybe this was a possible career path. A few months later, I was living the dream, studying a Bachelor of Film and Television on the sunny Gold Coast, and I’ve never looked back. The two years studying at Bond University were transformative. The connections I made with my peers and teachers were paramount, while the experience moving interstate furthered a high degree of independence, adaptability and emotional resilience necessary for anyone seeking a career in the forever changing entertainment landscape. Soon after graduating university, I was recommended by a lecturer and gained my first industry job in the Production Office of a feature film. Following that moment,
From filming a mystery-drama in the stunning landscapes of Tasmania, to a hilarious cop comedy-drama in the croc-infested waters of the Northern Territory or a US sitcom based on Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s life, I’ve been fortunate to work on a diverse range of projects with some of the best in the business. While everyone always asks for a name drop of the biggest celebrities or productions I’ve worked with, it’s the experiences on a series about the Royal Flying Doctors in Broken Hill I’ll always choose to highlight. There was no greater reminder of the importance of telling Australian stories than having to halt filming because the location we were using as the plane hangar set (the actual RFDS base) needed to be cleared for a plane to land with a real patient experiencing a medical emergency. Working on a production which showcases the importance of such an incredible charity, while still entertaining, educating and moving audiences, is something I will always be proud of.
As the Class of 2025 prepares to begin their next chapter, I hope they realise just how lucky they are to be guided and inspired by the teachers and students before us. While it might not seem like every lesson taught at school was important for all our future careers – the experiences, knowledge and relationships built at Pembroke will continue to shape who we are for years to come.
For those pursuing a career in the creative industries, I hope you follow your dreams and take that leap, no matter how many people tell you not to. There is no greater privilege than to tell stories for a living, in whatever artistic medium you may choose. And for those who rely on the creative industries for solace and entertainment – remember to stay back to watch the credits next time you’re at the cinema, read the artist statements at your local gallery and study the program at the theatre; you never know which Pembroke old scholars’ names you might see.