Monaro High School Year 12 student and school captain, Alistair King, is finishing his school life on a high note.

As he prepares for the Higher School Certificate (HSC) exams beginning later this month, Alistair received the news his industrial technology major work was nominated for possible inclusion in SHAPE, a showcase of outstanding major projects by HSC students in NSW.

Alistair spent many hours constructing a pan break, used for bending sheet metal. He also created a 76-page folio to accompany it.

Selections for SHAPE will be finalised by early December. The showcase will be held at the University of Technology, Sydney from Monday, 16 March 2026, to Saturday, 11 April 2026.

Alistair has also received three offers of early entry into tertiary courses. He has been offered two courses at the University of Wollongong - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Flexible First Year) and Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical), and a Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Mechanical) at Charles Sturt University.

“We are very proud of Alistair,” MHS principal, James Armitage, said.

“He is intelligent, courteous and always puts in his best effort across all facets of school life. These achievements are a great recognition of his hard work and dedication.

“Congratulations, Alistair. We look forward to hearing more about your accomplishments in what I am sure will be a bright future.”

Last week was the final official week for the Year 12 students, with the HSC written exams to take place between 16 October and 10 November.

Several other Year 12 students have also already secured early entry offers from various tertiary organisations.

From nutrition, psychology and engineering to criminology, physiotherapy, and environmental science, there is a great variety of opportunities ahead for the students.

“I would like to congratulate the Year 12 students who have secured early entry offers for tertiary courses,” Mr Armitage said.

“These are only received by students who have been consistent in working hard over their senior years. It’s a significant achievement and they should be incredibly proud of themselves, as the school is of them.

“I’d like to wish the Year 12s all the best for their upcoming exams. Make the most of these holidays to prepare, so you can do your best on the day.”

Amongst some normal classes and study time, the Year 12 cohort made the best of their last week of school life together.

Throughout the week, the group travelled to Canberra to go ten pin bowling and go karting, dressed-up in themes of fairytale and 70s and 80s, had breakfast and a friendly game of soccer with the teachers, and attended their final assembly.