STUDENTS at Euroa Secondary College came together this past Friday to recognise the high achievers of 2020 and look towards 2021 by announcing leadership teams at the school for 2021.

School captains Tori Walker and Abbey Lazenby presented for the majority of the ceremony and outlined their goals for the year to students.

In a speech at the beginning of the ceremony, the two student leaders said they both aspired to hold up the school’s values for the year.

“By being a student voice we hope to make a difference by incorporating your suggestions and address any concerns you may have,” Tori said.

“We hope to encourage and inspire all of the years to take the opportunity to learn and we wish all the best for everyone this year.”

The 2020 college Dux Vicki Nikolovski also addressed students via a pre-recorded message and gave an insight into what life was like as a student in the unsettled times that were 2020.

“As I’ve looked back on my high school experience, it has felt like a rollercoaster ride, with many ups and downs, highs and lows,” Vicki said

“The past year was undeniably difficult. There were many obstacles and barriers than we could have ever seen coming.”

Vicki said being a year twelve student in 2020 tested her character and strength, and thanked her teachers, students and families for all their support.

“Amidst all these events, there always was a light at the end of the tunnel and was lucky enough to receive admission to three medical schools in Australia,” Vicki said.

She chose the University of Sydney as her preferred university where she will study an undergraduate degree in medicine.

The two 2021 captains interviewed other high performing students from the previous year, who all provided advice on how to tackle the upcoming year.

Principal Leanne Winfield also addressed students and encouraged this year’s students to apply the principles of reading, research, asking questions and being active about life to excel in their studies.

“I’ve thought a lot about what students to achieve great results at whatever level whether it is at school VCE, VCAL or VET courses, the most important thing to do is focus hard on your studies,” Ms Winfield said.

“The most important thing to do is to focus hard on your studies.

“Effort and perseverance create results, and it’s not just effort but effective effort so that anyone can develop deep learning.”