2024 - Ruby Sambell (Limestone Coast)

Ruby transitioned from special education classes to mainstream classes in Year 10 and flourished studying a combination of SACE and Modified SACE subjects. She has completed a VET Certificate II in Construction and undertaken work experience in engineering and construction. She has overcome extreme anxiety to act as a spokesperson for people living with disabilities. Ruby consistently demonstrates resilience, kindness and inclusivity inside and outside her school. Ruby is also a valued team member of her local, football and basketball teams. She is currently working as a Tyre Fitter with Naracoorte Tyre Power.

2023 - Matt Heath

Matt, who lives with Down’s Syndrome, has relished ongoing work experience at a local hospitality business where he has excelled with Barista and culinary skills, including making muffins, taking orders and making a range of barista coffees.  As part of his transition to independence, Matt has compiled a book of selected and tested recipes, also tested at his own 18th birthday celebrations with his home class and leaders from his school. He also created and edited a video of his Year 12 experiences. Matt’s determination and wonderful desire to strive for his best and to be independent, coupled with his wonderful sense of humour, makes him a much-loved and respected member of the school community.

2022 - Chloe Murnane

Chloe has a passion for helping people and animals, and channelled this into raising funds for the RSCPA and Labs ‘N’ Life group whilst completing her Modified SACE. She has participated in a broad range of community activities including Adaptive Surfing, Lift Up Voices, One Culture, and supporting her peers and teachers.

2021 - Kyle Baker 

Kyle completed his Modified SACE whilst also performing and instructing with the Circobats Community Circus, including at the Adelaide Fringe. Kyle also won an Order of Australia Association Student Citizenship Award.

2020 - Sidhaarath Sellvakumaran

Sidhaarath showed real resilience during his SACE journey. In Year 10, Sidhaarath was diagnosed with Hodkin’s Lymphoma, and after a significant medical battle, he was placed in remission in late 2018. During his SACE, Sidhaarath demonstrated significant interest in both cooking and working on the school farm, and thoroughly enjoyed working with animals and growing vegetables. With support and training, Sidhaararth demonstrated he could work safely in a kitchen or agricultural background. Sidhaarath undertook work placements at Top Range Vineyard in McLaren Vale and he became such an asset that he has now secured a full time job at the vineyard. Sidhaarath has also achieved a Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award. Sidhaarath hosted a Biggest Morning Tea in 2019 and 2020 to raise money for the Cancer Council.

2019 - Jennifer Pritchard

Jennifer played an active role in her school and wider community. She volunteered for five years at Riverland Crossfit, assisting coaches to help clients improve physical, mental, and personal health outcomes. She volunteered at Berri Primary School, working with students at Year 1 with their interactive play, literacy and numeracy tasks. She also gave up her time at St Catherine’s Aged Car facility, where she served patients’ food and talked with them, which had a positive impact on their mental health. She also played for the school in basketball, swimming carnivals, and cross country tournaments.

2018 - Adele Solomon

Adele undertook work experience at Harris Real Estate where she won the company’s Top Team Player award two years in a row. She achieved a Certificate I in Hospitality and worked in the school community cafe, learning a range of skills. She was a participant in the Foundation 21 Dream Ride in the United States and is a keen dancer, performing at various community functions with Essential Talent.