High-achieving Year 11 students from across the region were encouraged to view themselves as potential “high-flyers” during a special VIP tour of USC last Wednesday.

The tour provided the recipients of USC’s inaugural ‘Rise, and Shine Awards’ with several treats, including a lesson in Quidditch – the game made famous by Harry Potter – from members of USC’s fledgling Quidditch team.

The ‘Rise, and Shine Awards’ were presented late last year to 15 Year 10 duxes and high academic achievers who have registered to participate in USC’s award-winning Headstart program during 2015.

These awards cover the cost of one course of Headstart – an innovative program that allows Year 11 and 12 students to study university-level subjects while earning credits towards both a Queensland Certificate of Education and a USC degree.

Award recipients are also treated to a program of personalised career planning, access to a dedicated mentor, tertiary preparation and academic guidance from USC experts throughout Year 11 and a $100 Co-Op Bookshop voucher to purchase study essentials.

USC’s Pro Vice-Chancellor (International and Quality) Professor Robert Elliot said the awards recognised and rewarded students who were passionate about their studies.

“We are pleased to be able to give these students a chance to experience studying at university and help them continue their high academic achievement while they finish high school,” he said.

Pictured, back row: Chelsea Oakes of Grace Lutheran College, Rebekah Howard of Kawana Waters State College, Professor Robert Elliot, Nichola Bates of Glasshouse Country Christian College, Julia Bradford of Chancellor State College.

Front row: Genevieve Rose of Coolum Beach Christian College, Rebecca Beale of Unity College, Ashleigh Clare of Beerwah State High School, Mahli Burgin of Meridan State College, Evie Barnes of Maleny State High School.

Other ‘Rise, and Shine’ award recipients were: Grace Garrahy of St Teresa’s Catholic College; Malu McDonald of Noosa Pengari Steiner; Eleanor Newton of Suncoast Christina College; Natalie Vetter of Australian Christian College, Moreton; Jade Savanh of Mountain Creek State High School and Sophie Day of Nambour State High.

For more information about USC school outreach programs visit usc.edu.au/schools.

— Jane Cameron