What’s the best part about going to St Andrew’s Cathedral School for you?
For me, the most special part about St Andrew’s Cathedral School has always been its people and sense of community. I will never forget walking into the school for the first time, and being overwhelmed by its welcoming atmosphere, and feeling as though I belonged before I officially became a student. That moment made it clear that St Andrew’s Cathedral School was where I wanted to end up.
“For me, the most special part about St Andrew’s Cathedral School has always been its people and sense of community.”
Across every department of the School, the staff are incredibly dedicated. They achieve a perfect balance between professionalism, genuine care for students, and always making us feel valued and important, inside and outside of the classroom.
I’ll also always remember the way students I had never met approached me on the first day of school –with smiles, kindness and open conversation.
These simple gestures marked the beginning of some very strong friendships, that I hope will last for many years come. This School is a truly special place, where students, staff and parents work together to build a community of love, warmth and connection.
“This School is a truly special place, where students, staff and parents work together to build a community of love, warmth and connection.”
What is your proudest achievement at the School so far?
Though not marked by a single defining moment, my greatest achievement at St Andrew’s Cathedral School has been my musical growth.
I was fortunate enough to receive a Music Scholarship to the School. The support of the incredible Music staff, along with the life-changing opportunities the School has provided, has completely transformed my relationship with music.
When I first joined in Year 7, playing the flute was something I enjoyed—although I wasn’t fully committed to it, nor did I feel a deep connection to it. Through participating in many ensembles, chamber groups and classroom music at the School, I came to understand that music is far more than notes on a page.
It is a powerful form of art, capable of expressing any emotion the performer desires. This realisation ignited a new passion in me, motivating and inspiring me to work hard—not simply to achieve results, but out of a genuine love for the music itself.
You are House Captain of Hereford. What does this involve? Any highlights?
Being a House Captain means truly getting to know and support the students in your house, while also working closely with your Head of House and House Officers to coordinate major events such as Make-Off, SACS Factor and the athletics carnival.
I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to collaborate with students across different year groups and it’s also helped me build even stronger connections with those in my own year.
One of the standout moments of my time as House Captain was Make-Off earlier this year. Designing a store, creating costumes and developing food products was incredibly fun.
When did you start to develop your leadership skills at St Andrew’s Cathedral School?
When I first started at St Andrew’s Cathedral School, I was naturally a very quiet, reserved student. I tended to keep to myself and often felt more comfortable observing, rather than stepping forward or speaking up.
But over time, as I became more involved in different areas of school life—particularly through music, group projects, and eventually leadership—my confidence gradually began to build.
It was an important lesson for me that leadership doesn’t always involve being the loudest voice in the room, but involves listening, supporting others, and leading by example.
Taking on the role of House Captain really solidified this for me. It pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible, helping me to become more proactive, communicative and willing to take initiative.
“I think the younger Year 7 me would be proud of how far I’ve come.”
I’ve come to value the kind of leadership that uplifts others and whilst I’m still developing this skill, I think the younger Year 7 me would be proud of how far I’ve come.
You’re also heavily involved in music. Any highlights? What teachers have most inspired you?
Music at St Andrew’s Cathedral School has been truly life-changing for me. I’ve been given incredible opportunities that I never could have imagined before coming to the School. Performing in ensembles and as a soloist has played a crucial role in developing both my confidence and musical ability.
One of the standout experiences was the European Music Tour during the April school holidays. Over 80 students travelled to Germany, Czechia, Austria and Hungary, where we performed, took part in workshops led by accomplished professionals, and explored parts of the world I had never seen before. It was a truly unforgettable experience that deepened my connection with fellow students and staff.
“The Music Department at the School has been nothing short of inspirational.”
The Music Department at the School has been nothing short of inspirational. Every teacher has contributed to making music such a vibrant and empowering part of School life.
I’m especially grateful to Ms Kuburic for continually pushing me to reach my full potential, Ms Nelson for her warmth and encouragement and Mr Oshiro for his genuine care and support, both in and out of the classroom.
Although she’s not a classroom teacher, Ms Chen, the School’s amazing piano accompanist, has played a significant role in my musical development. She is extremely experienced and has endless patience for all of St Andrew’s Cathedral School students.
I also owe immense thanks to my incredible flute tutor, Ms Grennan — the level of playing I’ve reached would never have been possible without her guidance.
You are involved in a wide range of activities. How do you achieve balance?
Finding a balance between schoolwork, music and other commitments was something I initially struggled with. However, over time, I’ve become better at managing these demands and it’s a skill I continue to develop.
Through having busy schedule, I’ve learned that every moment counts — even small habits, like spending ten minutes on the train reviewing flashcards, can have a big impact over time.
I often use strategies like time-blocking to make the most of my day, while ensuring I include breaks to avoid exhausting myself.
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that sleep always needs to take priority. Especially in Year 11 and 12, it’s impossible to stay focused and perform at your best in School without being well rested.
In terms of leadership, I’ve come to understand that one of the most important aspects in utilising time is knowing how to delegate. Effective leadership is about overseeing and coordinating a group of people, not trying to do every little task yourself.
Do you have a few lasting memories of St Andrew’s Cathedral School or story you’d like to share?
One of my most memorable experiences at the School was my first Year 7 camp. At the time, Australia was facing devastating bushfires, so our original plan to go to Kirrikee was changed. Ironically, that week we encountered some of the worst torrential rain, turning the camp into a soggy, leech-infested adventure—complete with plenty of tears.
Since it was only Week 2 of the School year, I didn’t know anyone well at the time. Despite the challenging conditions, the experience brought my group much closer together and I formed strong bonds that made the hardship worthwhile.
It was an unforgettable introduction to the adventure of the School’s Outdoor Education Programme and taught me valuable lessons in resilience and persistence—qualities that continue to help me in many aspects of School life.
What do you hope to do next year and in your future?
Next year, I hope to begin a degree in music performance, specialising in flute, ideally at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
Looking further ahead, I aspire to pursue a career as an orchestral musician and potentially as a flute teacher.
St Andrew’s Cathedral School has given me countless incredible musical opportunities, and through these experiences, I’ve developed a deep passion for music.
I would love to continue dedicating myself to this path and further develop my musical skills to the highest level possible.
