Sixteen-year-old Amelia Frear, who moved to New Zealand from Cambridge, UK, when she was in Year 9, has topped the country in Scholarship History. Amelia has multi-levelled (joined classes with the year above in all her subjects) since she started at Diocesan School for Girls and is planning to study a BA in English and Philosophy at Auckland University (a year ahead of schedule). She also received a Scholarship in English. Amelia admits to feeling a little nervous about the transition to tertiary study but is looking forward to the challenge. After completing her degree she hopes to study postgraduate law in Australia.
Amelia credits her history teachers at Dio for creating engaging content and encouraging open discussions that made every class different and thought-provoking. In particular, she singled out her Scholarship History teacher, Alex Baker, for his inspired and insightful teaching, which she says helped her learn the value of critical evaluation, and gain a better understanding of the world we live in. Amelia goes on to say, “History has always been one of my favourite subjects throughout school, along with English. I love the storytelling aspect of both, and the really interesting ideas and perspectives they offer.”
Alex says, “I’ve taught Amelia since Year 9 and she always showed a willingness to push herself further and read around topics. She would always ask great questions during and after classes. This restless pursuit of deeper understanding is key to being a scholar.”
