For over a decade of my life, I’ve spent 80% of my time with teenagers. Without bias, I can honestly affirm that they’ve all been polite, well-mannered and thoughtful. When seated on my dental chair, I always inquire about their worldly and career ambitions, which they answer with solid purpose and conviction. Some want to become pilots, economists, journalists, startup entrepreneurs, and the occasional dentist.
By no extension of truth, I’m deeply inspired by the teenagers I meet. I may fix their teeth today, but I know they’ll fix our world tomorrow.
One local student from the Illawarra who deserves recognition is Zac Thompson. Zac is one of my patients. Humble as he is, I recently discovered from the local news that Zac topped New South Wales for one of his A-level subjects called “Investigating Science”.
Zac attributes his success to his love and passion for science, and his decision to only pursue subjects that he’s genuinely interested in. His dedication and fascination with science made studying easier and more enjoyable. Not one to rest on his laurels, Zac advises other students to choose subjects based on personal interests and strengths, rather than what parents, family, teachers and peers may expect or recommend. This is a valuable lesson, as studying subjects that you’re passionate about means that the process of enquiry, discovery, learning and retaining information is borne from natural curiosity rather than forced learning and memorisation.
On the flip side of Zac’s success as a student is the success achieved by the teachers at his school, Smith’s Hill High School. “Investigating Science” is taught by head teacher Andrew Smith. It’s a relatively new subject that has already produced remarkable results for students from the Illawarra. Students from this class have consistently topped the state, demonstrating the effectiveness of the teaching methods employed. Mr. Smith attributes this success to building on the students’ existing enthusiasm for science and humanities, as well as tailoring the teaching to their individual interests.
This is a real lesson on pursuing what you love in school, career and life in general.
Congratulations to my patient Zac Thompson, and all the students who completed their exams. As an orthodontist in the Illawarra, I’m proud to see young local teenagers from the tips of Helensburgh in the north to Gerroa in the south reach their full academic potential. Our future is safe in your hands, and as you can see, Zac’s perfect teeth and handsome smile were by the diligent hands of our wonderful team at South Coast Orthodontics.
Yours sincerely,
Dr Kamal Ahmed
Speaking of school… Why was the geometry book so adorable? Because it had acute angles.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What programs and extracurricular activities does Smiths Hills High School offer?
Smiths Hills High School offers a wide range of programs and extracurricular activities, including sports teams, performing arts groups, academic clubs, and community service initiatives. Students can participate in activities such as drama club, robotics team, debate club, and more.
2. What are the academic achievements of students at Smiths Hills High School?
Smiths Hills High School has a strong academic reputation, with many students like our South Coast Orthodontics patient Zac Thompson topping New South Wales rankings, achieving high grades and being accepted into leading universities. The school offers a rigorous curriculum with a focus on university, college and career readiness. Students also have the opportunity to take advanced placement courses and participate in dual enrolment programs.
3. How does Smiths Hills High School support student success and well-being?
Smiths Hills High School is committed to supporting the success and well-being of its students. The school has a team of dedicated teachers, counsellors, and support staff who work together to provide academic and emotional support to students. Additionally, the school offers resources such as tutoring, career counselling, and mental health services to help students thrive both academically and personally. Many students from Smiths Hills High School are patients at South Coast Orthodontics.
