Congratulations to Samuel, who has been recognised with the Academic Extension Award – Curtin Rising Scholar Program after successfully completing Curtin University’s Fundamentals of Programming unit last semester and achieving a High Distinction.

Samuel completed the unit through the Curtin Rising Scholar Program, which provides selected students in Years 10, 11 and 12 with the opportunity to undertake accredited university study while they are still at school. Students study genuine Curtin University units and, upon successful completion, can earn credit towards future university study.

Participating in the program requires a significant commitment. Depending on the unit, students may devote around eight additional hours each week to attending classes, completing coursework and balancing university study alongside their regular school commitments.

Samuel’s achievement also reflects the broader purpose of our GATE Program, which seeks to cultivate and extend the potential of gifted and high-achieving students through our RISE Framework. Students are encouraged to engage with advanced concepts, solve complex problems and collaborate meaningfully, while also exploring opportunities beyond the GATE classroom.

These opportunities include academic competitions, university partnerships and programs linked with international organisations such as NASA. The Curtin Rising Scholar Program is one example of how students can extend themselves academically and experience the expectations of university study while still at school.

Selection into the Rising Scholar Program is itself an achievement. Students must demonstrate a strong academic record, meet Curtin’s eligibility requirements, complete an application and receive a nomination from the College.

Several other SCBC students are currently undertaking or preparing for Rising Scholar units across areas including Science and Engineering, Business and Law, Health Sciences and Humanities. We congratulate Samuel on this outstanding achievement and look forward to seeing more of our students embrace opportunities that challenge them to take their learning beyond the classroom.