VCE results 2023: Victorian year 12 students receive their ATAR scores
Nearly 60,000 students across the state have received their VCE results, including “shocked” Scotch College student Ronan Ahl who became the third member of his family to receive a perfect score. See comprehensive school results here.
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More than 246,000 study scores have been issued to nervous year 12 students on Monday, including 21,000 study scores of 40 or above.
The results, which are available online from 7am, include an impressive 656 perfect 50 study scores.
The state’s biggest ever VCE cohort of 57,601 students posted a completion rate of 97.4 per cent, with 93.6 per cent meeting literacy and numeracy standards in the General Achievement Test (GAT).
Premier Jacinta Allan has congratulated the class of 2023.
“Today is a big day,” she said.
“What you do from here in the education state is up to you and there have never been more choices available across university, TAFE, traineeships and work.”
Scroll down to see your school and meet the state’s top performing students here.
Melbourne High School: Three score perfect 99.95
Krishav Malhotra was overwhelmed this morning to discover all his hard work had paid off, returning a perfect ATAR score of 99.95.
Mr Malhotra achieved four perfect scores of 50 in subjects including English, Maths Methods, Specialist Maths and Physics.
He also achieved a study score of 43 in chemistry this year and 45 in biology last year.
“I wasn’t expecting it, I’m feeling quite emotional,” Mr Malhotra said.
“My parents are very proud, we might do a small family trip to celebrate.”
Mr Malhotra hopes to go on to study medicine at university.
“I’m motivated by empathy and to help others, but I’m also really excited by the challenge of medicine. I love the science behind it.
“I was so thankful to study at Melbourne High School. It’s a great school, the teachers and students are extremely supportive.”
Victoria’s top school has achieved three perfect ATAR scores of 99.95.
53 students, which makes up 14.7 per cent of the cohort, have received an ATAR 99 or above.
The selective school has maintained a median ATAR of 94.7.
It has increased its average ATAR to 91.59, which is slightly higher than the previous year.
The school’s principal Dr Tony Mordini said he was “incredibly proud” of students’ efforts.
“The students have shown amazing dedication to their studies and worked really hard,” Dr Mordini said.
“They were in their earlier years during Covid, they had a disruption to their education. Despite this hurdle, they’ve risen above this.”
Dr Mordini said the class of 2023 had been really engaged in developing the school’s culture.
“Well done to students on their fantastic achievements,” he said.
Yeshivah and Beth Rivkah Ladies College
Half of Yeshivah and 37 per cent of Beth Rivkah students placed in the top 10 per cent of the state, achieving ATARs of over 90 and more than half of the raw study scores attained by our cohort of Yeshivah students in STEM subjects were above 36.
Principal Rabbi Elisha Greenbaum said: “We are extremely proud of our graduating classes at Yeshivah and Beth Rivkah Colleges.”
“They are to be commended and their achievement justly celebrated. We are especially proud of their academic achievements, whilst remaining committed to studying Torah and volunteering for chessed,” he said
Academy of Mary Immaculate
The Catholic girls’ secondary school saw nine per cent of its year 12 cohort achieve an ATAR of over 95.
Meanwhile, 19 per cent of students achieved an ATAR of 90 and above while 42 per cent of students achieved an ATAR of 80 plus.
The school’s median study score was 31.
Principal Sr Mary Moloney said the results are a reflection of the students’ hard work and commitment.
“Our learning philosophy supports students to explore their gifts, experience success and commit to their own learning journey,” she said.
Greater Shepparton Secondary College
The regional high school had great success this year with the top ATARs including a score of 97.4.
The school had a 93 per cent VCE completion rate, with 163 students obtaining the certificate this year, while 70 students completed VCAL.
College principal Barbara O’Brien said the school’s results were “just as we expected it to be”.
“We are definitely pleased with those numbers,” she said.
A large number of students also achieved ATARs in the middle 70s.
Point Cook Senior Secondary College
The school’s principal Shaun Sleep described this year’s results as “pleasing” after four year 12 students received ATARs above 90.
The average ATAR was 59, with students also scoring an increased number of study scores above 37.
“Our results were pleasing — all of our students have been rewarded for their hard work,” Mr Sleep said.
“And we’re really proud of the way they have committed themselves to their studies and achieved what they wanted.”
Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School
School principal Narelle Umbers was thrilled to see the results for this year’s VCE cohort.
Nine per cent of year 12 students achieved an ATAR higher than 98 and 21 per cent of students ranked higher than 95.
Additionally, 42 per cent of year 12s achieved an ATAR above 90, while 65 per cent scored higher than 80.
“We were incredibly proud of the Year 12 students at Ivanhoe Girls’ well before their VCE results were released today,” Ms Umbers said.
“While the high scores take the headlines, today we are celebrating all our students and their individual journeys of success.
“We are encouraging them to keep their eyes on what excites them about their future paths and the contributions they want to make.”
University High School
Eleven students at the public school received ATARs of 99 and above this year, while 10 students received study scores of 50.
The school also saw its highest proportion of 45-plus study scores since 2014 and the highest percentage of 40-plus study scores since 2018.
Principal Ciar Foster is “very pleased” with the school’s results, which she said reflects incremental improvements across a range of subjects.
Belmont High School
The number of year 12 VCE students who received an ATAR above 70 has significantly increased at Belmont High School with 50 per cent of students achieving a ranking in that range.
This is an increase of 9 per cent since last year when 41 per cent of students scored above 70.
Principal Joshua Baker has credited the rise to celebrating student success, with the school’s median study score the highest it’s been for eight years.
“The school has had a real focus on pushing the top kids and that has helped move the centre of gravity in the school,” he said.
“We work hard to celebrate success – as a result we’ve seen lots of improving study scores and there are lots of stories of kids who have worked hard and exceeded expectations.”
Lowther Hall Anglican Grammar School
• 19 per cent of ATARs 95+
• 33 per cent of ATARs 90+
• 65 per cent of ATARs 80+
The school’s median ATAR was 84.18 and its median study score was 34.
Some 18 per cent of sudy scores were above 40 and the school recorded two perfect scores of 50 out of 50 in Health and Human Development and VCD.
Hazel Glen College
The Doreen public school saw strong results across its year 12 VCE cohort, which included a set of triplets - sisters Monique, Ava and Mia Caruso.
Despite their similarity in appearance, the sisters have chosen three different pathways for their future.
Monique, who is the school captain and got an ATAR of 67.95, will aim to study fashion enterprise in Melbourne while her sister Ava, who got an ATAR of 67.25, is eyeing off a double degree in film and fine arts in either Perth or Melbourne.
Meanwhile, Mia is thinking of taking a gap year.
The sisters, who have three other siblings, credited their family for their success.
Overall, Hazel Glen College saw strong results, with the number of 40 plus study scores increasing by 2.4 per cent.
Princes Hill Secondary College
Out of 119 year 12 students, almost 18 per cent received an ATAR above 90.
Principal Trevor Smith is incredibly proud of the results which also saw 42 per cent of students rank above 79 and 8.5 per cent above 95.
“All our students have done tremendously well,” he said.
“We pride ourselves on being a school that encourages all areas of learning – English, STEM, performing arts, maths, music. This is the culture of our school.”
Brunswick Secondary College
The coeducational high school saw its best results in several years, with some of the highest ATARs including a rank of 99 and 98.10.
Principal Karen Harris said this year’s students had achieved a median study score of 31.
“We’re really pleased. The median study score of 31 shows a strong band of our students achieving strongly,” she said.
“I’m also really proud that we have strong study scores in all subjects we offer at our school.”
St Catherine’s School
The median ATAR for the School is 93.4 — the highest median ATAR ever recorded for the school.
Its median study score is 36 and 29 per cent of all study scores were above 40, once again placing the school among the best in the state.
In VCE English, 51 per cent of students achieved a study score of 40 or above, placing these students in the top 10 per cent in the state.
• 17 per cent of students achieved an ATAR above 99, placing them in the top 1 per cent of the State.
• 39 per cent of students achieved an ATAR above 95, placing them in the top 5 per cent of the State.
• 58 per cent of students achieved an ATAR above 90; placing them in the top 10 per cent of the State; and
• 65 per cent of the cohort achieved above an ATAR of 85.
Principal Michelle Carroll said: “Today, we are thrilled to acknowledge the outstanding academic achievements of our class of 2023.”
“This year, our Year 12 students have shown resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment,” she said.
Presbyterian Ladies’ College
Principal Cheryl Penberthy commended students for their results and achievements throughout the year. This included:
• 11 per cent achieved an ATAR of 99+ (placing them in the top 1 per cent)
• 20 per cent achieved an ATAR of 98+ (placing them in the top 2 per cent)
• 38 per cent achieved an ATAR of 95+ (placing them in the top 5 per cent)
• 58 per cent achieved an ATAR of 90+ (placing them in the top 10 per cent)
Ms Penberthy said: “Congratulations to students across the entire state for their hard work and resilience in what can be a challenging year”.
“Each student should feel incredibly proud of what they have achieved this year,” she said.
“Our students have demonstrated dedication to their studies while wholeheartedly embracing everything PLC has to offer.
“Today, we celebrate their academic achievements across a wide range of subjects and recognise our girls’ commitment to all their extra-curricular activities and community service projects.”
Kilvington Grammar School
• 5 per cent of students were in the top 1 per cent of the state (achieving an ATAR of 99 plus)
• 9 per cent of students were in the top 2 per cent of the state (achieving an ATAR of 98 plus)
• 20 per cent of students were in the top 5 per cent of the tate (achieving an ATAR of 95 plus)
• 34 per cent of students were in the top 10 per cent of the state (achieving an ATAR of 90 plus)
Principal Rob French congratulated the class of 2023 cohort on the manner in which they tackled their studies and how they supported one another throughout the year.
“On behalf of the Kilvington community, I congratulate the class of 2023 and thank them for their outstanding contribution to the school over the years,” Mr French said.
North Geelong Secondary College
School principal Nicolas Adamou said he’s the “proudest principal” in the state and is “over the moon” after seeing the school’s results on Monday morning.
An ATAR over 80 was achieved by 30 per cent of the school’s year 12 cohort, while 40 per cent of students received a ranking above 70.
“I’m the proudest principal in the state. Given the hurdles some of our students face I am just over the moon,” Mr Adamou said.
He said he was most impressed by the performance of students who recently arrived in Australia, with some of this year’s pupils only moving to the country a couple of years ago.
Mount St Joseph Girls’ College Altona
The Catholic girls’ school had great success in VET, with two students scoring the perfect study score of 50.
Identical twins Shanae and Keira Blizzard were “absolutely thrilled” upon discovering their ATAR results this morning after finding out their scores for VET Music Performance.
The sisters both have a passion for singing and playing piano.
“Our success wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of our friends, family, music teacher Mr Nick Tresize and vocal coach Irene Attard,” the sisters said.
“Having a twin sister in the VET Music class made the experience unforgettable.”
Kew High School
More than 41 per cent of the high school’s year 12 cohort received ATARs over 80, while over 19 per cent received ranks above 90.
The school’s median ATAR was 75.4 and its median study score rose to 31.
Principal Josie Millard thanked staff for their passion and dedication to the class of 2023.
“They set a standard to which future students can truly aspire,” she said.
St Kevin’s College
In all, 20 students achieved an ATAR of 99.0 or above, putting 8.4 per cent in top 1 per cent of the state.
Some 33 students achieved an ATAR of 98.0 or above, putting 13.8 per cent in top 2 per cent of the state.
• 98 students achieved an ATAR of 90.0 or above (40.8 per cent in top 10 per cent of the state).
• 160 students achieved an ATAR of 80.0 or above (66.7 per cent in top 20 per cent of the state).
Principal Deborah Barker said: “We are so proud of the Class of 2023”.
“They are to be congratulated on what they have achieved as individuals and as a cohort,” Ms Barker said.
Santa Maria College
The Roman Catholic school saw 25 students from its year 12 VCE cohort receive an ATAR over 90, with 47 individuals receiving study scores of 40 and above.
Just over half of the year 12 cohort received an ATAR of over 70, while the school’s median study score was 30.
Meanwhile, there were 52 year 11 students at the school who completed a unit three and four subject.
Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School
The class of 2023 excelled at Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School, with 23 students achieving an ATAR of 99 and above, while 15 perfect study scores of 50 were achieved.
Fourteen students found themselves in the top 0.5 per cent of the state, scoring ATARs of 99.5 or higher.
Meanwhile, study scores of 40 or higher were achieved on 321 occasions.
Principal Kate Dullard said the results reflect the persistence and resilience of a cohort who entered VCE after two years of online learning.
“Our students balanced their commitment to their studies alongside debating and chess, sport, music and drama, social justice and community service, and we couldn’t be more proud of the contributions they have made and the way they have grown and developed as a result,” she said.
“Every day, we have been privileged to see qualities of kindness and care, endeavour, diversity, respect and humility from the Class of 2023, and we know they are well prepared to face whatever comes next.”
Mount Clear Secondary College
The Ballarat high school has had a great year with its results, with four students receiving ATARs in 90s while a higher number of pupils scored rankings in the 80s.
Principal Lynita Taylor said the school was pleased to see the outstanding results.
“We’re very happy. We have a lot more 40-plus study scores this year too, and our average ATAR has gone up significantly,” she said.
“It’s been growing over the past 6 years, so this a great.”
A total of 99 students completed their VCE at the school this year.
St Albans Secondary College
In the western suburbs, year 12 students at St Albans Secondary College did remarkably well with four students receiving ATARs in the 97s, nearly 15 per cent receiving ranks in the 90s and 37 receiving results in the 80s.
Stella Xie, who joined the public school in year 11 after spending her first few secondary years in a private school, is one student who received an ATAR of 97.45.
“I got an ATAR score of 97.45 and 47 in English, which is much better than I expected so I’m really excited,” she said.
St Albans College principal Craig Jennings said students at the school did well in challenging circumstances.
“There’s no doubt students in this year have struggled as a result of Covid – and that’s true of all schools,” he said.
“But they have done really well, and I’m very pleased with the results. They’ve managed to pull it together in the end, which is great.”
Year 11 student Kelly Lam, who achieved two perfect scores of 50 in biology and maths, also did immensely well.
She said her key to success was to be “consistent throughout the year”.
“In order to do well you need to put in effort everyday, not just for exams,” she said.
“I hope to work as hard and achieve as much next year.”
Miss Lam was the only student from her school to get perfect scores.
Meanwhile, 39 students from the school got a study score over 40.
Strathcona Girls Grammar
51.6 per cent of Strathcona Girls Grammar students achieved an ATAR of 90+.
18.7 per cent of students attained an ATAR of 98+.
Strathcona Girls Grammar’s median ATAR is 90.9.
23.7 per cent of students achieved overall studies scores at or above 40.
Six students received perfect scores of 50 across English, Health and Human Development, Psychology, General Mathematics and Legal Studies.
Acting principal Tracy Herft said: “Congratulations to Strathcona’s class of 2023 for their outstanding achievements over the course of their VCE”.
“This year’s results are a true reflection of the hard work and commitment put in by our dedicated students, and the support and guidance provided by our devoted educators. Well done to all.”
McClelland College student reacts to ATAR
Year 12 McClelland College student Danya Corkery was thrilled to receive an ATAR of 86.6.
While she was disappointed by some of the study scores she received, overall she said she was “happy”.
“I want to study a double degree in civil engineering and business at RMIT,” she said.
(My ATAR) is 86.6, and it was what I was hoping to achieve!”
Fintona Girls’ School
Half of the all-girls’ school’s year 12 cohort received an ATAR of 95 plus, while 25 per cent of the Class of 2023 achieved a ranking of 97 plus.
Additionally, 8 per cent of students achieved an ATAR of 99+, in the top 1 per cent of the state.
Two Fintona students achieved the highest possible ATAR of 99.95.
The median ATAR across the cohort was 95, while 28 per cent of students received study scores above 40.
Principal Rachael Falloon said she’s so delighted for the class of 2023.
“They embraced life and the countless opportunities before them, and we will look on with interest as to the next phase of their education and the exciting career paths beyond,” she said.
Loreto Mandeville Hall
Principal Angela O’Dwyer is delighted with the school’s exceptional VCE results and congratulating the Dux of School Emma Guthrie with an ATAR of 99.85.
The class of 2023 achieved 11 perfect study scores across the following seven subjects: Chemistry, Economics, English, Legal Studies, Health and Human Development, Physical
Education and Visual Communication Design.
A total of 9 per cent of students attained an ATAR of 99 or above which is in the top 1 per cent of the state.
In addition to this, 30 per cent of students achieved an ATAR above 95 and 53 per cent of students achieved an
ATAR of 90 or more.
“The Class of 2023 are fully deserving of their extraordinary results and we are very proud of
what they and their teachers have accomplished,” Ms O’Dwyer said.
Brighton Grammar School
5 per cent of students received an ATAR of 99 or above.
29.5 per cent of students received an ATAR of 95 or above.
48 per cent received an ATAR of 90 or above.
The median ATAR was 89.7 and there were 12 perfect study scores across a range of subjects.
Headmaster Ross Featherston said: “I am very proud of our year 12s who adopted the legacy motto of stand beside – by supporting each other and those in our community this year,” Mr Featherston said.
“They have held leadership roles, played sport, performed music and drama and undertaken community service activities. These experiences have enhanced their academic success and hopefully will set them up to have successful and happy lives.”
Melbourne Grammar School: Three perfect scores
Three students achieved the highest possible ATAR of 99.95.
14 per cent of students are in the state’s top 1 per cent, having achieved an ATAR of 99 or above.
35 per cent of students are in the state’s top 5 per cent, having achieved an ATAR of 95 or above.
55 per cent of students are in the state’s top 10 per cent, having achieved an ATAR of 90 or above.
Principal Philip Grutzner said the students had achieved exceptional VCE results in 2023, continuing the school’s legacy of academic excellence.
“We congratulate the three students who attained the highest possible ATAR of 99.95, as well as the 24 other students who achieved an ATAR of 99 or more,” Mr Grutzner said.
Melbourne Girls’ College
Twins Lucinda and Gwyneth op’t Hoog spent year 12 studying most of the same subjects, revising together and pushing each other to succeed.
But when the time came to open their results, they chose to get them separately.
“I knew I needed to be alone, I knew if we opened it together my first reaction would be to look at hers,” Gwyneth said.
“It was nice to take a moment by myself.”
It didn’t take long for the twins to discover their hard work had paid off, with Lucinda receiving an ATAR of 99.7, while Gwyneth got 99.65.
They put their results down to help from their teachers and working together during the year.
“We had an advantage having each other - the other one was always there to keep pushing, making each other work hard and also knowing when to stop,” Gwyneth said.
Lucinda said: “Both our parents are high school teachers and they know we tried our best, they were happy we had a good year.”
Lucinda and Gwyneth are hoping to study Biomedical Science at the University of Melbourne, although Gwyneth may take a year off study to work and travel.
Caulfield Grammar School
Two perfect scores of 99.95 and 11 perfect study scores.
In all, 22 students received an ATAR ranking 99+ putting them in top 1 per cent of the state.
Some 136 students received an ATAR of 90 or above, which equates to 33 per cent of its year 12 cohort.
Principal Ashleigh Martin said: “I am extremely proud of our 2023 cohort for the effort, commitment and pursuit of achieving their best”.
“While the results today are a milestone in their educational journey, it is all but one step in their lives,” Mr Martin said.
“I commend each and every one of our graduates and am exceptionally proud of how they completed this year with gratitude and respect.”
Haileybury: Two perfect scores
Two students attained a perfect ATAR of 99.95 at Haileybury, while 12 per cent of its year 12 cohort achieved results of 99 and above.
A total of 32 students received a maximum study score of 50 across subjects including Further mathematics, Art Making and Exhibiting, Sociology, English, Accounting and Biology.
Principal Derek Scott congratulated the cohort on their commitment and said he was impressed by what they’ve been able to achieve.
“Thanks to each student’s strong work ethic and their enthusiasm for learning more and digging deeper, this is another set of VCE results for students and their families to be proud of,” he said.
Meanwhile in year 11, 92 per cent of its cohort attained maximum study scores of 50.
Overall the school recorded a median ATAR of 89.4.
Scotch College: Ronan Ahl third brother to get perfect score
One of three brothers who all scored 99.95 in the last four years was Ronan Ahl when he opened his results at 7am on Monday morning.
The Scotch College student is one of Victoria’s top performers, after he scored a perfect 50 in chemistry, 47s in economics, English and specialist maths, and a 45 in Latin.
This is to go with the two 50s he earned in year 11 VCE last year.
So that’s three 50s altogether, which puts him among the very best students in the state.
Ronan said there were “no shortcuts” to his success” and is “shaking” after receiving his results.
“I’m filled with so much energy and shock at how today has turned out,” he said.
“It’s such a milestone to graduate in year 12.”
Ronan is the third Ahl brother to excel in the VCE, and follows Ryan, a second-year medical student at Monash who scored 99.95 and received three 50s in maths methods, specialist maths and economics. Ryan was dux of Scotch College in 2021.
Their older brother Rion scored 99.95 and received a 50 in English in 2020 and is also a medical student at Monash Uni and co-founder of 50Coach.
Ronan has also represented Australia in public speaking, received a writer of the year award for a poem and edited two Scotch College publications.
He is currently in New York with his family.
“My parents, and especially mum, have been without a single doubt the biggest support I have had in the past two years,” Ronan said.
“Mum, Dad three from three. We did it!”
After watching his brother open his results, Rion paid tribute to their mother who he said “has sacrificed an enormous amount in building us into who we are and what we have done today. She’s always believed in our capacity for the best.”
Alkira Secondary College
Alkira Secondary College dux Gurmehar Sihota got a near-perfect surprise when he opening his VCE results this morning.
Gurmehar expected to do well, but not to record the stunning ATAR of 99.5 that he received.
He credits his success to his teachers and to a friend group that spurred each other on. He plans to tackle commerce and law at Monash.
Few schools offer a better case study of multicultural demographics in Melbourne’s growth suburbs than Alkira, which is in Cranbourne North.
Almost 40 per cent of its Year 12 students were born overseas – 27 per cent of the cohort’s parents were born in Afghanistan, and seven per cent have refugee status.
The school’s results are rapidly improving, with seven students receiving 95 plus ATARs this year, compared to two last year.
Fifteen scored 90+, while the school’s highest raw study score was a 48 in accounting.
Bentleigh Secondary College
Bentleigh Secondary College principal Helene Hiotis couldn’t be more thrilled for the class of 2023, who she says demonstrated resilience, dedication, and academic prowess throughout the year.
“We are immensely proud of the achievements of these talented students. Their hard work, determination, and ability to overcome challenges speak volumes about their character and potential,” she said.
“This cohort has displayed exceptional adaptability, showcasing not only academic excellence but also the essential qualities that will serve them well in their future endeavours.”
In all, 10.7 per cent of students achieved an ATAR over 90, and 33 per cent of students returned an ATAR over 80.
Thes school’s median ATAR was 73.23, and the median study score was 30.
Helene Hiotis says the students’ results were not only a testament to their individual efforts, but also reflects the support and guidance provided by educators, families, and the community at large.
“The class of 2023 has done us proud!”
Balwyn High School
Balwyn High School student Douglas Joshi is itching to get to Australia National University, where he is one of just 25 Australian students to be granted an ANU Tuckwell scholarships.
The school dux said he was very happy with his 99.9 ATAR, including a perfect study score of 50 in Chemistry and in Mathematical Methods and Physics, achieved in 2022.
Douglas plans to explore the intersection of biology and physics at ANU and how this can be applied to medical research.
He said the highlight of his final year of school was travelling to Japan and Mongolia to compete in the Asia and International Physics Olympiads where he received a silver medal. “It was a remarkable experience to meet all these extremely smart students from all over the world,” he said.
Balwyn High School principal Deborah Harman said 15 college students achieved an ATAR of 99 and above. “Our students are just amazing as are our staff and I could not be prouder of them,” she said.
Maribyrnong College
One family at Maribyrnong College woke up to two excellent ATARs with twins Eric and Jasmin Kuzu receiving rankings of 97.9 and 96.9 respectively.
Eric, 17, received study scores of 47 in geography, 44 for business management and 43 for health and human development.
Meanwhile his sister Jasmin, 17, received study scores of 47 in geography, 44 for business management and 43 for health and human development.
Overall, Maribyrnong College’s median study score increased from 28 to 30.
Principal Michael Keenan said the college had shown significant improvement across the board, with 23 students receiving study scores of 40 or above.
Meanwhile 10 students received an ATAR of 90 or above.
Vermont Secondary College
Six students at Vermont Secondary College received ATARs of 99 or higher, while 65 students scored over 90.
Alex Lee is one student who received an ATAR or 98.85 – a score that makes him “very happy” and puts him on track to study a Bachelor of Engineering at Monash University.
“It’s been so much fun to explore different things at school,” he said.
“Just going to chisel wood for an hour definitely helped with my wellbeing during the year.”
Principal Tony Jacobs described the results as outstanding.
“Well done and congratulations to the class of 2023 – an amazing result!” he said.
Al-Taqwa College
In 2023 the school had 91 Year 12 students studying VCE and 4 studying VCAL
The school’s highest ATAR is 96.15
Seven students achieved an ATAR score over 90.
A further 18 students achieved an ATAR score of 80-89.
Another 40 students achieved an ATAR score of 70 or higher.
The average ATAR score was 70.8 and average study score 31.25.
Following the practice of previous years, the top three ATAR high achievers will be awarded the following cash prizes from the school’s non-government funds:
First: Amnah Waqas $10,000
Second: Naifah Muhammad $7000
Third: Aiman Nadeem $5000
Vice-Principal Mohammad Hallak said these were truly “remarkable results” for students and for the college.
“We can stand proud as a school in the wider Victorian community with a proven record of high academic performance,” Mr Hallak said.
“These results were achieved despite the extraordinary challenges in the secondary school careers of our Year 12s, including the Covid pandemic, including lockdowns, remote learning, and the great stresses experienced by everyone in our school community in recent times.
“It is a tribute to the commitment and resilience of our students, and the support of their families.”
Warrnambool College
Warrnambool College has seen a huge improvement in VCE performance this year, with the percentage of students receiving ATARs above 80 sitting at the highest it’s been in the past decade.
On top of this, the average ATAR at the school has increased by 2 points.
Principal Dave Clift said he is extremely proud of his Year 12 students and also his teaching staff.
But he stresses that these strong results are not just due to the hard work of his VCE teachers, but the efforts of teachers much earlier in each student’s life.
“Our teaching staff have worked incredibly hard, but this is also about the impact of our kinder teachers and our Grade 4 teachers, and our Year 7 teachers,” he said.
“It’s about the impact of the past 13 years, not just about Year 12.”
Hoppers Crossing Secondary College
Hoppers Crossing Secondary College has equalled its best ever VCE results today.
Principal Keith Halge said the school’s average ATAR had increased from 61.05 to 61.70 with the dux receiving 97, up from 96.45 last year.
Out of 107 students, 8 scored ATARs of above 90, 14 scored between 80 and 90 – both up from last year and equal to the school’s best result in 2021.
Some 14 students received a study score of 40 or above.
In 2013, 37 per cent students received an ATAR of above 60. This year it was 53 per cent.
Mr Halge said: “That’s a dramatic shift. We’re seeing lots more kids go off to do their preferred Uni courses, and that’s great”.
“We are very happy with the results — to have more students achieving at the top end and to see our average ATAR improve is really wonderful.”
Haileybury Pangaea
The private online school — which educates students from years five to 12 — is celebrating its first VCE successes after it launched a year ago.
At least 15 per cent of the school’s year 12 cohort attained an ATAR of 95 and above, putting them in the top five per cent.
Additionally, 69 per cent of year 12 graduates achieved VCE results that placed them in the top 40 per cent.
Haileybury Pangaea head of campus Joanna Baker said the VCE results are a milestone for the school.
“Our Year 12 graduates have been pioneers – it’s no small thing to take on a new learning model for your final year of schooling – and I am thrilled with these very first VCE results,” she said.
Haileybury Pangaea is Victoria’s first private fully online school for students from Years 5 to 12.
St Aloysius College
The North Melbourne Catholic school continued with its strong academic record this year, with the top 10 per cent of its students receiving an average ATAR of 94.58.
VCE Vocational Major students and VET students also achieved 100 per cent success, according to college principal Mary Farah.
“This year’s VCE and VCE VM results reflect not only the achievements of the students, but also the skills and dedication of our staff,” she said.
“As a VCE cohort, 50 per cent of subjects studied achieved study scores in the top 9 per cent of the state, and the overall median study score was 30. Great achievement by all!”
Ballarat Clarendon College
Almost 70 per cent of students at Ballarat Clarendon College received an ATAR of 90 or above, placing them in the top 10 per cent of schools across the state.
A total of 146 students achieved an ATAR over 80 and 19 students achieved a score more than 99.
The school said in a statement: “Our approach to teaching and learning involves a clear focus on students and their academic, social, emotional and physical progress and focus on high-quality teaching.”
The school achieved a median ATAR of 94.4 and a median study score of 39.
Seventeen students achieved a perfect study score of 50.
Methodist Ladies’ College
MLC saw nine students achieve an ATAR of 99 or above, with one pupil scoring the perfect rank of 99.95.
There were 11 perfect study scores of 50 across eight subjects, including Chemistry, Biology, English, French, General mathematics, Product Design and Technology, Psychology and Visual Communication Design.
College principal Julia Shea said it’s been an “incredible privilege” to see this year’s senior cohort grow in confidence and expand their knowledge.
“While we are immensely proud of each and every student, it is equally crucial to remind them that their worth extends far beyond an ATAR score,” she said.
“As we have emphasised to them through their schooling, there are numerous pathways to achieve their dreams, and we are here to support them every step of the way.”
Korowa Anglican Girls
• 10 per cent of students achieved an ATAR of 99 or above.
• 38 per cent of students achieved an ATAR of 95 or above.
• 68 per cent of students achieved an ATAR of 90 or above.
• 78 per cent of students achieved an ATAR of 85 or above.
• 82 per cent of students achieved an ATAR of 80 or above.
• 92 per cent of students achieved an ATAR of 70 or above
Six perfect study scores of 50.
Median ATAR: 94.10
Median Study Score: 36
Principal Frances Booth, said: “We strive to prepare our students for the world beyond school”.
“The lessons they learnt extend far beyond textbooks and ATARS — they include the power of collaboration, the strength found in overcoming challenges, and the importance of embracing diversity. I wish them all the very best for the future,” she said.
Wesley College
In addition to receiving their VCE results, Wesley College students used ATAR release day to reflect on their extracurricular achievements and life after school.
Among future career aspirations, some students shared they’d like to become actors, athletes or work in commerce.
Year 12 student Marlo is one high achiever who hopes to study at Showfit next year.
“I have participated in every play and musical since starting at Wesley which helped me find some of my strongest friendships and created possibly the largest support system I have had,” she said.
“My goal is to become an actor and next year I plan to study at Showfit, which is an auditioned preparatory program for those wanting to pursue a career in musical theatre.”
Another student, Willem, said he wouldn’t have succeeded if it wasn’t for the support of family, teachers and friends.
“I hope to study Commerce next year and work in the aviation or automotive industries where I can use my Japanese language skills,” he said.
Mount Scopus Memorial College
• 6.7 per cent of students achieved an ATAR of 99 or above.
• 37 per cent of students scored an ATAR of 95 or above, while 56 per cent of students achieved an ATAR of 90 or above.
More than 75 per cent of Year 12 placed in the top 20 per cent of the state.
Four study scores of 50 were achieved in the following subjects: English, Physical Education, Religion and Society.
The median study score was 37 and 31.7 per cent of study scores at 40 or over.
The median ATAR was 92.1
Principal Rabbi James Kennard said: “Our class of 2023 are to be congratulated on these wonderful VCE results”.
“This cohort of active, community minded students have demonstrated both extraordinary school involvement and an outstanding commitment to their studies,” he said.
“We are therefore prouder than ever at their achievements, and we thank their teachers for their endless support and encouragement.”
Teen’s long journey to VCE
For Glenroy College student Elian Youkhana, year 12 results day isn’t just about receiving his ATAR but a reflection on how far he’s come since his family fled to Australia from war-torn Syria.
The 18-year-old is one of more than 50,000 school leavers who gathered around their devices on Monday morning to see if their hard work paid off after months of studying and 13 years of schooling.
Mr Youkhana’s high school journey was far from ordinary, with the student overcoming language barriers, bullying and childhood trauma to become the first person in his family to attain a VCE.
His family moved to Melbourne in 2017, six years after their home became a battleground in the Syrian civil war.
Prior to this, Mr Youkhana survived being held hostage by ISIS for more than a year, bombs raining down around his family’s village and his home being set alight by the extremist group.
When he first set foot in a Glenroy College classroom as a year 7 student, Mr Youkhana knew basic English and had missed three years of primary school.
“I focused on my education despite some people saying I didn’t know English – they used to laugh,” he said.
“Look at me now, I’ve graduated. This is a big achievement for me and I finished year 12 without failing a subject and I got a certificate (award) as well.”
Mr Youkhana received study scores for the subjects EAL – which stands for English as an additional language, maths, legal studies, health and human development and product design.
He chose to study VCE because he “wanted to make his parents proud” and aspires to be the first person in his family to attend university.
“I’m really hoping to study architecture at RMIT. When I was younger, I always wanted to be an architect,” he said.
Paris Dess is another Glenroy College student who faced adversity in the lead up to year 12 exams, with the 18 year old forced to miss two weeks of school due to falling ill.
“I couldn’t give my full potential because I was really sick,” she said.
When she returned to school, Ms Dess was determined to catch up with her studies by pulling “all-nighters” and not leaving her family home.
While she hoped for an ATAR in her 70s, the year 12 student acknowledged she tried her best given the circumstances.
“Honestly, I’m taking each day as it comes and don’t mind what I get because I know that it’s not going to be the best,” she said.
Unlike her friend Mr Youkhana, Ms Dess said she is considering taking a gap year next year to focus on herself.
“Having a break is OK and then when I feel better, I’ll go to uni,” she said.
VCE students fearful of ‘witch hunt’ after exam bungle
VCE students are fearing a “witch hunt” to identify those who have higher marks than normal as a result of the leaking scandal, with one principal warning there was now no guarantee ATARs will reflect effort.
‘Set to go nuclear’: VCE exams debacle sparks legal fears
Some private school parents, spending up to $50,000 for year 12 fees, are “set to go nuclear” if their children miss out on prestigious tertiary offers.