What are the Trailblazer Awards?
The Trailblazer Awards celebrates Year 11 and Year 12 students beyond their ATAR, recognising those who have overcome personal challenges and used their final year of school to positively impact their community.
Our Trailblazers will have the opportunity to build their personal brand and profile as a future leader, learn how to successfully apply for Early Entry, Scholarships, Co-Op, and Cadetships Opportunities, and so much more!
Find out how Harry navigated his senior schooling differently throughout 2023!
Introducing: Harry Preston
Category: Sport & Elite Competitions
School: Southern Cross Catholic College
State: QLD
Career Aspiration: Engineering
Achievements
- Competed at the 2023 Track (Velodrome) Nationals and won a bronze medal in the Team Sprint.
- Selected for the Queensland state team in cycling.
- Competed at the national level, representing Queensland and competing against athletes from other states.
- Completed a week-long work experience at an architecture firm, gaining experience in using technology and software for designing personal spaces.
What makes Harry a Trailblazer?
Harry is a remarkable young athlete who has demonstrated exceptional dedication and perseverance in the sport of cycling. His most significant achievement in the last two years was competing at the 2023 Track Nationals, where he secured a bronze medal in the Team Sprint. This accomplishment is a testament to Harry’s commitment and hard work, as he trained rigorously for nearly a year leading up to the event. Despite facing challenges such as interruptions to training due to COVID-19 and injuries, Harry adapted his training routines and overcame hardships, showcasing his determination and resilience.
Harry’s commitment and dedication extend beyond his athletic pursuits. In his daily life, he embodies the values of hard work and perseverance, which he has cultivated through his rigorous training regimen. These skills have not only shaped him as an athlete but also as an individual, equipping him with the mindset to overcome obstacles and become a better person overall.
While navigating his academic journey in Year 11 and Year 12, Harry faced a significant challenge in asking for help and communicating his need for support from teachers. Recognising the importance of seeking assistance, he acknowledges that there were instances where he should have reached out for help, particularly when he was away from cycling events. Nevertheless, he has learned from these experiences and understands the impact that effective communication and seeking guidance can have on his academic performance and personal growth.
Beyond his athletic and academic pursuits, Harry has demonstrated a keen interest in engineering. He aspires to pursue a career in this field, showcasing his curiosity and passion for problem-solving and innovation. Harry’s commitment to continuous learning is evident through his work experience at an architecture firm, where he honed his skills in using technology and software to design personal spaces.
Harry’s unwavering commitment to his sport, his dedication to personal growth, and his aspirations in the field of engineering make him a true Trailblazer. His ability to overcome challenges, adapt to changing circumstances, and pursue excellence in all areas of his life sets him apart as an inspiration to others. With his tenacity, resilience, and pursuit of knowledge, Harry is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of cycling and beyond.
The Top 50 Year 11 and Year 12 Trailblazer Awards
The Trailblazer Awards aim to identify and celebrate students who use their final years of school to invest holistically in the skills and experiences that will maximise their own future opportunities and make a contribution to the future of our society.
Our winners for the Year 11 and Year 12 Trailblazer Awards have demonstrated initiative in volunteering for their school or community, have participated in co-curricular activities, and have held leadership positions within their schools.
Learn more about who placed in the Top 50 Year 11 and Year 12 Trailblazers here!
About Art of Smart Education
At Art of Smart Education, we’re an award-winning provider of holistic tutoring and mentoring for students in years K-12. Our mission is to help students answer the difficult question, “What am I going to do with my life when I finish school, and how do I get there?”
We understand that true success involves mastering study, career and leadership skills while maintaining your wellbeing, not just excelling in academics and as a result, over the last decade, we’ve supported over 10,000 students to achieve their best and maximise their options for life after school.
Each year over one million young Australians, parents, and teachers access our guides, videos and resources to navigate the journey through high school.
