The student of the year award recognises emerging leaders, rewards students’ commitment to their local community and connects students to community leaders and role models.

Five students across the Maitland area were nominated for the prize, and included Zoe Crouch (Maitland High School), Belle Leonard (Maitland Grossmann High School), Elizabeth Davey (Francis Greenway High School), Scarlet Avery (All Saints College, St Joseph’s Campus) and Monique Freeman (All Saints College, St Peter’s Campus).

Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison hosted an afternoon tea last Friday to congratulate the five students who were nominated for the award.

“All five nominees are exceptional representatives of their schools who have shown strong leadership whilst promoting reconciliation and cohesion amongst their peers,” Ms Aitchison said.

“Coming into NAIDOC Week it is only fitting to recognise emerging Aboriginal leaders in our community.”

Ms Aitchison said Scarlet Avery was a worthy recipient of the award.

“Scarlet has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to her studies and to her community,” Ms Aitchison said.

“She is a very diligent and articulate student who provides strong leadership for the Aboriginal community.” 

Scarlet is currently the president of the Junior Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG) at St Joseph’s.

“Through her active involvement in the Junior AECG, Scarlet has organised a number of events that has ensured the cultural inclusivity of St Joseph’s Aboriginal community,” Ms Aitchison said.

Scarlet is one of 20 students across NSW who will head to Parliament House on August 3 to attend the Emerging Leaders Forum, where she will meet with Aboriginal, business and government leaders.

“By engaging with other young Indigenous students, Scarlet will acquire new skills and knowledge when she attends the Forum that will greatly assist her as she participates in the Junior AECG,” Ms Aitchison said.