Newman Senior Technical College year 12 students recognised by friends, family and teaching staff

Around 130 final year students, the college's largest cohort to date, were rewarded for their educational accomplishments at an assembly and awards presentation on Tuesday, September 24.

The college is celebrating its 40th year and year 12 students will officially finish their school careers at a year 12 graduation at Panthers in Port Macquarie on November 8.

Newman Senior Technical College principal Mark Nunan said graduating students would now have to trust in their own skills in the workplace.

"Pope Francis encourages all of us, he suggests that to start without confidence is to already lose half the battle," said Mr Nunan.

"Trust in the skills that you have learnt, not just the things you've learnt in classrooms but as young people interacting with the community, staff and each other.

"Year 12 I'd like to ask you to acknowledge family and friends that are here. This is also a significant achievement for them as well.

"At the end of the day a job is a job, as you move forward I'd like you to remember that your work is what you make of it.

"What is your purpose, your mission and how can you be of service? It's such an important part of moving forward as young people.

"To quote Pope Francis again, 'living together is an art, it's a patient art, it's beautiful and it's fascinating'.

"More than anything else I hope you get to move forward in service of relationships with the community. It is so important that the lessons you have learnt are the things you take forward into your whole life.

"Ultimately a job is a job, but who you have become as young people is the most important thing."

Special award winners included Kieran Gainsford for the Newman College Trade Student Award, Ruby McGoldrick for the Andrew Turnham Service Award and Wyatt Lawerence for the Young Endeavour Maritime Award.

Brad Smith collected the Trade Work Placement Award, Taayla Murphy was recognised with a Service and Commercial Work Placement Award.

Jarod Lathham was given the School-based Apprenticeship Award and Michelle Moran was given the St Agnes' Parish Service Award.

Eight students received Principal's Recognition Awards for great commitment in supporting the college, as voted by staff.

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