On 20 December 2023, the School Curriculum and Standards Authority (SCSA) recognised Melville Senior High School graduate Isaac Panozzo as the 2023 Beazley Medal award-winner in Vocational Education and Training (VET). Named after the late Kim Edward Beazley AO, a former teacher and Minister for Education, the award is the most important education accolade awarded to a high-performing Western Australian senior secondary student.
According to SCSA, a year 12 student must demonstrate “the most outstanding overall performance in a vocational education and training program” to win the award.
Having already logged a considerable number of hours in the workplace, Isaac also obtained a VET Exhibition and a VET Certificate of Excellence in Automotive, Engineering and Logistics. He has managed to complete a Certificate II in Integrated Technologies (Pre-vocational) and a Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways.
Isaac attributes his success in winning the award to his passion for integrated technologies and robotics, which he studied at TAFE in year 10.
Minister for Education Hon. Dr Tony Buti had the following to say about the Beazley Medal recipients:
“Elena and Isaac’s dedication, determination and hard work, with the support of their families, friends and teachers, over the last two years to complete Year 12 and achieve the recognition of these awards is an inspiration to us all.
“Their success is the culmination of at least 13 years of schooling and a significant accomplishment in achieving their goals as they continue onto further study, training or joining the workforce. ”
We would also like to extend our congratulations to Elena Latchem from Methodist Ladies’ College for receiving the counterpart award of 2023 Beazley Medal: WACE.
