From resilience to results: St Benedict’s boys shine in post-pandemic matrics

St Benedict’s College has marked a historic milestone as its Class of 2025 becomes part of the school’s 50th consecutive year of a 100% matric pass rate, reinforcing its reputation for academic excellence.

The 124 learners produced a record 337 distinctions - an average of 2.72 distinctions per boy - the highest in recent school history. The group also attained an overall average of 73.7% (B), with six boys achieving overall averages of 90% or higher.

This cohort is the first to return to “normal” schooling after the disruptions of COVID-19. Entering Grade 8 amid the pandemic, the boys developed resilience and adaptability - qualities that contributed to their exceptional results.

“These results represent an exceptional milestone in the life of the College and, in many respects, set a new benchmark of excellence to which future generations of Bennies boys can aspire,” said College Head Dave Jeffrey. “While it is customary to celebrate our top academic achievers, these results are, in fact, a collective success. They reflect the commitment, resilience, and perseverance of every boy who sat for the examinations, each of whom contributed meaningfully to this remarkable outcome.”

Strong Academic Performance Across Subjects

Of the 124 boys who passed the NSC exams, 99% qualified for University Entrance (Bachelor Degree) passes, with 100% eligible for tertiary studies. Fourteen subjects exceeded the IEB national averages, including Information Technology, Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Business Studies, and English.

In key subjects, averages were particularly strong:

• Life Orientation – 82.19% (84 distinctions)

• Information Technology – 81.52% (13 distinctions from 21 boys)

• Mathematics – 76.85% (41 distinctions from 86 boys)

• Physical Sciences – 75.02%

• Business Studies – 73.11%

• English – 72.73%

Record-Breaking Top Achievers

Jordan Dos Santos led the Class of 2025 with a stellar 93.6% average and 10 distinctions, earning top 1% national recognition in English, History, Life Orientation, Life Sciences, and Physical Sciences. He also featured on the IEB Outstanding Achievers’ List.

Close behind was Charlton Chung, achieving a 91% average with 10 distinctions, top 1% recognition in Geography and Mathematics, and a place on the IEB Commendable Achievers’ List.

Other high achievers included:

• Christian Moll – 92.1%, 9 distinctions, top 1% in History & Life Orientation

• Adham Gittings – 91.7%, 9 distinctions, top 1% in Business Studies

• Diego Brazao – 90.4%, 9 distinctions, top 1% in Mathematics

• Pundit Forka – 91%, 8 distinctions, top 1% in English & Life Orientation

• Andrew Scott-White – 89.4%, 8 distinctions, top 1% in Mathematics & Physical Sciences

In total, 15 boys earned seven distinctions or more, while 28 achieved overall distinction averages of 80% or higher. Ten students were recognised among the national top 1% in at least one subject.

A Culture of Excellence

Jeffrey praised the collective effort that underpinned the results: “We are immensely proud of the achievements of our boys, and this year's results give us every reason to celebrate. They reflect the culmination of 13 years of hard work, determination, and commitment by our boys. Such success is never achieved in isolation. These results are the product of a powerful partnership between our dedicated boys, supportive and engaged parents, and a passionate, nurturing teaching staff who consistently go above and beyond in their calling.”

Preparing Future Leaders

St Benedict’s College emphasises the development of well-rounded individuals. Jeffrey added, “As you embark on this exciting new chapter, we send you forth, our young trailblazers, with a reminder to lead with integrity, pursue knowledge with curiosity, and carry the values of our school into all that you do. This Class of 2025 has already demonstrated exceptional resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges. You adapted when the world changed, you persevered when uncertainty prevailed, and you have emerged stronger. May your journey be marked by excellence, resilience, and compassionate leadership, as you strive to create a brighter future for yourselves and others.

“Over the years, we have been proud to produce outstanding sportsmen, advocates, judges, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and principled leaders. We are confident that the Class of 2025 will continue this legacy. You possess the essential qualities needed to excel in all areas of life and to make meaningful contributions to your communities, society, and the world at large. Go forward with confidence and purpose for you are a light in the world.”