Rohan Curtis shines with 93% average at Redhill School

Redhill School is celebrating matriculant Rohan Curtis, who achieved an outstanding 93% overall average with nine distinctions in the class of 2025 . 

Reflecting on his matric year, Curtis described it as both fulfilling and reflective. “Matric was, in a word, awesome,” he said, adding that the year brought “a very real sense of closure and of achievement”. He credited the people around him for shaping the experience. “I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by many good friends and peers, excellent teachers,” he said.

Like many matriculants, Curtis experienced the emotional weight of final moments and endings. “There were many ‘lasts’ this year,” he said, from final assemblies to the last time pulling on his school jersey. Rugby, however, remained the defining highlight of his high school career. “Throughout high school my highlight has been rugby,” he said. Captaining Redhill’s First Team at their home festival was a standout moment. “Captaining my team at our home festival, where we made the finals, was extremely rewarding,” he said, despite the disappointment of losing in extra time in front of the home crowd.

Curtis believes sport was essential in helping him navigate the pressures of matric. “It’s important to find outlets for stress,” he said. “For me, this was sports.” He explained that remaining physically active had a direct impact on his academic performance. “I have found myself to be happier and more capable academically while participating in team sports,” he said. During exam periods, regular gym sessions also provided balance, allowing him to reset and refocus between long study hours.

He also acknowledged the role of his support system. “I’m very fortunate to have supportive parents,” he said, while praising his teachers for being “kind and down-to-earth human beings” who provided reassurance throughout the year.

On his academic achievements, Curtis was clear about the mindset that guided him. “If you put in the work, you will get the results,” he said. He explained that he approached matric with a long-term view, believing that effort now would open doors later. “I’ve always known what I could achieve it was simply a matter of making sure I was in a position to achieve it,” he said, noting with a smile that his friends may dispute just how much he studied. “But I studied long and worked hard for my matric results,” he added.

Looking ahead, Curtis plans to study Mathematics, driven by a passion for problem-solving. “Mathematics has almost unlimited applications in the real world,” he said, adding that South Africa needs people “who are capable and interested in solving its problems”.

Sharing advice with the Class of 2026, Curtis encouraged learners to embrace the full matric experience. “Matric is not just exams,” he said. “It is the culmination of high school.” While emphasising the importance of enjoying the year, he also cautioned against complacency. “This is not an excuse not to put the work in,” he said.

Redhill School commended Curtis not only for his academic honours and strong performance, but also for his leadership, integrity and sportsmanship qualities. 

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Saturday Star