VCE Results 2023
Congratulations to the Class of 2023!
Our 2023 VCE results demonstrate the incredible commitment our Grammarians have to their studies at MGGS. These results also demonstrate our School community’s capacity to support all students to achieve their personal best.
We are delighted by the achievement of our students, as their results pave the way for continued learning and new opportunities. But ultimately, education is about so much more than academic success. And as a school community, we are so proud of all the times our students have challenged themselves in areas they are passionate about, shown courage and demonstrated strong leadership. – Dr Toni E. Meath, Principal
2023 VCE Results
For more information about how ATAR scores are calculated and what various VCE statistics mean, please see our blog post on this topic.
37% of our Year 12 students obtained an ATAR result of 90 or over,
placing them in the top 10% of the state; this is a great achievement.
Our VCE students have excelled in a diverse range of studies. Study scores of 45 or higher were achieved in 17 studies, covering English, Humanities, Languages, the Arts and STEM – Chemistry, Maths, Physics and Psychology.
2023 High Achievers
The following students received an ATAR of 95 or higher:
| Chelsea Hinh 99.9 | Viet An (Lily) Doan 98.4 | Anonymous 96.95 |
| Rosemary Nguyen 99.9 | Pippa Barnes 98.35 | Grace Keating 96.9 |
| Zoe Fourlanos 99.8 | Jiale Zheng 98.35 | Lola Dahan 96.6 |
| Zoe Vlahos 99.8 | Elke Kahsnitz 98.2 | Ella Lawson 96.5 |
| Eloise Bisley 99.75 | Amelia Darcy 98.2 | Charlotte Millear 96.4 |
| Jessica Li 99.65 | Madeline Burns 98.1 | Anastasia Williams 96.05 |
| Sophie Jensen 99.4 | Caitlyn Harbottle 98.1 | Cara Duffy 95.75 |
| Audrey Choi 99.25 | Anouk Bennett 97.8 | Sophie Theodore 95.75 |
| Phoebe Rayner 98.85 | Anonymous 97.75 | Arabella Beeston 95.3 |
| Beatrice Froomes-Houseman 98.55 | Amelie McComb 97 | Camilla Morrison 95.15 |
| Lili Kovacs 98.5 |
The following Grammarians received the outstanding news of a perfect Study Score for a Unit 3/4 subject:
| YEAR 12 | Zoe Fourlanos | English |
| Rosemary Nguyen | Physics | |
| YEAR 11 | Esther Nastri | Drama |
| Zoe Paul | Physical Education | |
| Ondine Thompson | Psychology |
Meet our 2023 School Duces
We congratulate our 2023 School Duces: Rosemary Nguyen and Chelsea Hinh.
School Dux – ATAR 99.9
Rosemary Nguyen is a student who possesses an extraordinary combination of qualities, including being passionate, and self-driven. Rosemary has undertaken a range of subjects in the VCE program, including Chinese Language Culture and Society, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and English Language. She was also the School’s STEM Captain this year.
Her academic excellence has been recognised through prestigious awards, including being a recipient of the Premier’s Award for VCE Chinese Language Culture and Society. Between 2021 and 2022, Rosemary obtained more than ten major awards in various Mathematical and Science competitions. One of the highlights was being awarded second place in the Australian Computational and Linguistic Olympiad State Competition.
First setting foot within MGGS’s red brick walls as a shy, bookish girl, to now, confidently stepping out into the world, unafraid to voice my opinion and pursue the things that excite me, my time at MGGS has been nothing short of empowering. Surrounded by this inclusive and encouraging community of strong women and girls, I have always felt supported in venturing outside of my comfort zone as I grow alongside my peers. My time at MGGS will always be defined by sisterhood, and for this, I am sincerely thankful.
Rosemary’s musical talents also shone at MGGS through her involvement in the orchestra, Pianists Plus, Stage Band and Concert Band. Her dedication and contributions to these ensembles have enriched our School’s Music program. She has also been an active participant in the Debaters Association of Victoria, showcasing her strong communication and critical thinking skills.
Growing up with dreams of building robots and owning my very own pristine white lab coat, I always found my STEM superheroes in my teachers and in older students. Donning the additional hat of STEM Captain this year in addition to my studies and extra-curriculars was truly a challenging undertaking, but it was also during this time that I felt so incredibly fulfilled.
School Dux – ATAR 99.9
Chelsea is a highly motivated and detail-oriented student who has shown a strong commitment to academic excellence. Throughout her journey at MGGS, she exhibited high academic capabilities and was recognised with numerous prestigious awards.
Her selection in the Monash Scholars Cohort of 2023 is a testament to her exceptional academic prowess and her potential for future success. Moreover, her consistent excellence in Latin, Psychology, English, History and Science showcased her broad range of intellectual abilities and dedication to excellence in multiple disciplines.
In addition to her academic accomplishments, Chelsea played an active role in various co-curricular activities, particularly in the field of music. Her accomplishments as a violinist, including her achievement of LMusA with Distinction, exemplify her dedication, commitment, and extraordinary talent in music. She actively participated in Orchestra, Senior Strings, Chamber Music and Senior Choir and even arranged and led various House activities, showcasing her leadership skills and her ability to bring people together through music.
Next year, Chelsea is hoping to study Medicine at Monash.
I’m so immensely grateful for the MGGS Music department. The amazing teachers, ensembles and all of my fellow musos have made my school life so incredibly vibrant, and truly the second home that it’s been dubbed by so many people over the years. It is often said that music brings people together, but from my personal experience, music at MGGS brings people home.
Meet our 2023 School Duces Secundae
We congratulate our 2023 School Duces Secondae: Zoe Fourlanos and Zoe Vlahos.
School Dux Seconda – ATAR 99.80
Zoe is an exemplary student known for her dedication, loyalty, and ambitious spirit. Her leadership qualities shone through many roles at the School, especially as 2023 School Vice Captain.
Zoe took on a challenging VCE course load, including Biology, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, Chemistry, Literature, and Latin. As a passionate biologist, Zoe actively engaged in class discussions and experiments, displaying an impressive commitment to this Study.
Her academic journey has been decorated with many accolades, such as multiple Prizes for Academic Excellence and the Melbourne University Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholar Class of 2023. In Year 11 she achieved a perfect study score (50) in Biology, for which she received a Premier’s Award. Zoe’s exceptional achievements in intellectually demanding studies can be attributed to her meticulous organisation and self-motivated approach.
Beyond academics, Zoe expertly balances her sporting activities and social life, recognising the importance of maintaining balance. Her involvement in various dance, debating, netball, cricket and cross-country activities showcases commitment to diverse interests inside and outside of school.
Next year, Zoe hopes to study Medicine at Monash University.
I am proud that I was able to approach every opportunity with care and enthusiasm, which allowed me to appreciate my time at MGGS and push myself to my highest potential.
School Dux Seconda – ATAR 99.80
Zoe is known for her dedication, enthusiasm and commitment to her academics and co-curricular activities. This year she was part of the Student Executive Council, with her role as Mungo House Captain.
In the realm of academics, Zoe has demonstrated exceptional dedication and achievement. She has undertaken a challenging array of VCE studies, including Mathematics Methods, English, Latin, French, Chemistry, and Biology. Her academic pursuits extend beyond the classroom, as evidenced by her participation in Science Olympiads and notable achievements such as being a Finalist in the Alliance Française Poetry competition.
Zoe’s co-curricular engagement and leadership roles further showcase her remarkable abilities. She actively participated in a wide range of co-curricular activities and GSV sports. Zoe’s commitment and involvement led her to excel in these endeavours, and her 13 years of dedication to dance outside of School is a testament to her discipline and artistic expression.
2023 Student Reflections
Melbourne Girls Grammar celebrates all students from the Class of 2023. Each and every one of them has succeeded in one way or another and have pushed themselves. With a commitment to pursuing excellence and achieving their personal best, our Grammarians build their strengths and confidence. Some students have shown great leadership qualities, others have excelled in the Arts, some have achieved amazing sporting prowess and many have impressed us with their curiosity and desire to learn and grow. Below are some profiles and reflections from some students from the Class of 2023 who have demonstrated excellence in one or many fields, have been engaged with life at the School and with their peers.
Leadership | Music | Debating | STEM
Audrey was the 2023 School Captain and had an amazing year leading her peers. Her dedication to cultivating a peaceful and inclusive atmosphere has made her an exceptional role model for all students at MGGS. Audrey has achieved outstanding success in a range of academic fields and, whilst she is a passionate student of STEM, she has exhibited a love and talent for music, languages and debating as well. In VCE, she has studied English, Italian, Latin, Chemistry, Specialist Mathematics and Mathematical Methods (completed in Year 11).
At MGGS, I have experienced highlights in every field. From academics, where I flourished thanks to the enthusiastic and (at times) exasperated guidance of my teachers, to sports, where I learned how to do everything from taekwondo to Zumba, there are few aspects of my life that have gone untouched by school. And yet, the greatest highlight of my time at MGGS is without a doubt the connections I’ve made with other students.
Audrey’s passion and talent in music are unmatched. She has been an active participant in both the Orchestra and Choir throughout her time in the School. Her commitment, perseverance, and exceptional musical abilities have greatly contributed to and enhanced the overall quality of these ensembles. Furthermore, Audrey has been awarded distinction in the musical certificates of harp, piano and violin.
In addition to her musical endeavours, Audrey has also exhibited dedication to the field of STEM. Her achievements in the Australian Computational and Linguistics Olympiad, Australian Science Olympiad, Australian Mathematics Competition, Mathematics Olympiad, and numerous competition awards are a testament to her passion, perseverance, and impressive intellectual capabilities. Her curiosity, critical thinking, and analytical skills have led to tremendous success.
Next year, Audrey plans to study Biomedicine at Melbourne University and to continue to get involved in student life.
Leadership | Boarding | STEM | Sport
Charlotte is a third-generation Grammarian who started at MGGS in Year 9, when she moved to the Boarding House from her home in Western Victoria.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first walked through the red brick walls, but I soon came to understand why my mum and grandmother speak so fondly of their school days. Like they did, I have embraced all that school has to offer in and out of the classroom. It has been a great honour in my final year to represent MGGS as School Vice Captain.
Throughout her time at MGGS, Charlotte has shown dedication to her academic studies, never shying away from hard work and consistently applying herself. She was able to accelerate her studies in 2022 completing Units 3/4 Geography and in 2023 she completed English, Mathematical Methods, Business Management, Physical Education and Health & Human Development as part of her VCE program.
Throughout her school years, Charlotte has received many academic prizes and was also named School Athlete of the Year for Netball in 2022. She’s also held many leadership positions, most notably School Vice Captain this year.
This School, especially the Boarding House, will always hold a special place in my heart. I have learned so many invaluable lessons, developed as an individual and made memories and friends that will last a lifetime.
When asked what she’s proud of, Charlotte answered:
Not being afraid of stepping outside of my comfort zone where I tried to immerse myself in lots of school activities such as sport and leadership roles. Through doing this I have made memories and friendships which I will cherish for life.
Next year, Charlotte hopes to study a business-related degree, such as Commerce at Melbourne University.
STEM | Sport | Languages | Music | Volunteering
Amelie has been at MGGS since Prep and demonstrated an excellent work ethic throughout her whole learning journey at the School. For VCE, she studied Mathematical Methods, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Italian, and English. She received numerous academic awards in her time at the School. Additionally, she participated in several competitions and received the major bursary for Science Talent Search and the 2nd prize in the Dante Alighieri Italian Poetry Competition.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Amelie has embraced her passion for sport. As a valued member of the MGGS Rowing Program, she was selected in the 1st VIII crew, represented MGGS at the Henley Royal Regatta in 2022 and 2023. The 1st VIII also won the Australian National Rowing Championship in 2023. Her love for sports was reflected in leadership roles she has held: Year 10 Sports Representative in 2021, Cross-Country Captain in 2022, and Athletics Captain in 2023.
Amelie has also embraced her passion in music by being part of Merton Chamber Voices, Carol Service Choir, and House Music A Cappella Group.
Outside of school, Amelie’s dedication to surf lifesaving goes above and beyond, as she has volunteered for over 200 hours in this noble pursuit. Her dedication to surf lifesaving exemplifies her commitment to making a positive impact on her community and contributing to the wellbeing of others.
My time at MGGS has altered the way in which I perceive the importance of working as a team. Specifically, Year 12 demonstrated to my peers and I the benefit of assisting one another, to foster greater success for our cohort. The MGGS Rowing program also helped to build my understanding of the invaluable nature of a team. Having the opportunity to compete in the Henley Royal Regatta in both Year 11 and 12 was something I will look back on fondly for years as it shaped me into a stronger athlete, as well as increasing my productivity in order to overcome the challenge of balancing these commitments with school.
Next year, Amelie is excited to be studying at Princeton (USA) where she will continue rowing.
International | STEM | Languages | Volunteering | Music
Lily started at MGGS in Year 10 as an international student. She is a highly engaged, committed and hardworking student. She completed English Language, Mathematics Methods, Specialist Mathematics, Psychology, Accounting and Vietnamese (Second Language) as part of her VCE program. Her academic prowess was especially evident when she accelerated and completed Mathematics Methods Units 3/4 as a Year 11 student and received an academic award for Vietnamese (Second Language) Units 1/2. Additionally, Lily also studied French for six years and only excluded it from her VCE program because she was taking too many subjects. This is reflective of Lily’s commitment to academic excellence and the ambition to study all subjects that pique her interest.
Lily has sought out opportunities to pursue her areas of interest outside of school. She volunteered in the Fiji Book Drive and participated in the Model UN conference in 2021, attended the Commerce Melbourne University camp in 2022, and completed work experience at RMIT Engineering in 2023.
Lily also enjoys playing tennis and her dedication to the sport is evident in her representation of the School in the GSV tennis program, as well as her participation in competition outside of school. Lily is a dedicated music student and has continued with piano lessons throughout her VCE years.
My time at MGGS was filled with joy and love. The people that I met along this journey have helped me to continuously learn and grow. I enjoyed participating in extracurricular activities, particularly GSV Tennis where I got to meet new people and get out of my comfort zone. Moving towards the future, I hope to pursue my passion in Psychology and other social sciences. I am proud of the person MGGS has enabled me to become – more self-disciplined, compassionate, and courageous.
Sport| Duke of Edinburgh Award
Hannah has been able to balance her dedication to sport along with her academic pursuits. She was committed and diligent in her academic studies and achieved consistent results across her years at MGGS.
Hannah is an exceptional and dedicated sportswoman. She demonstrated excellent leadership skills as part of the rowing squad, her netball team and has been a passionate member of Taylor House.
Hannah leads by example and was involved in rowing for four years as part of the 9As, 10As and the First Eight for Years 11 and 12. She attended the Australian Rowing Championships in 2021, 2022 and 2023, winning in 2023. Hannah was a member of the Rowing Victoria Pathways crew in 2022, winning the regatta against other states. In 2022 and 2023 Hannah attended the Henley Regatta in England.
Hannah has played netball for nine years playing representative netball at Prahan for the last four years. She won most valuable player in 2019 and 2020. Hannah has been part of the ‘Crew of the Season’ in rowing for 2020, 2021 and 2022 and achieved the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Next year, Hannah is excited to be studying at the University of Massachusetts on a rowing scholarship.
When asked for advice for future students, Hannah said:
You don’t need to be the loudest voice in the room to have an impact. Find you passion, embrace it, work hard and great things happen.
Leadership | STEM | Debating | Sport
Madeline started at MGGS in Year 8, after moving to Melbourne from the UK. She quickly found herself at home at MGGS and got involved in all the School had to offer.
I feel my time at MGGS has allowed me to experience friendships and relationships with people from around the globe and be introduced to a variety of cultures through these friendships.
Reflecting her varied skillset and breadth of interests, Madeline has achieved sustained success in her chosen study of Mathematical Methods, English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Global Politics. In addition to being awarded numerous academic awards at Melbourne Girls Grammar, Madeline’s academic pursuits have also been recognised on a national and international level. She achieved High Distinctions at the Australian Science Olympiad and the Rio Tinto Big Science Competition.
As a natural leader who can positively and calmly guide others towards a common goal, Madeline was elected to several leadership positions at Melbourne Girls Grammar. Most notably, Madeline was peer-elected to the role of 2023 Blackwood House Captain and Swimming Vice-Captain.
A highly engaging public speaker, Madeline has participated in Debaters Association of Victoria and Domain Debating and has readily discussed topical issues as part of the Melbourne Girls Grammar’s Feminist Collective. Outside of school, Madeline is a talented swimmer competing at a national level where she has led her peers as National Squad Leader.
Next year, Madeline hopes to start a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Melbourne, majoring in Politics and International Relations.
MGGS has taught me that it is OK to change your mind. We are given such a variety of subjects to explore from a young age and from this I have been encouraged to embrace new challenges and supported when I have chosen a new passion or area of interest.
First Nations Scholar | Boarder | STEM | Sport
Jaidah joined MGGS in Year 9 as a First Nations Scholar and boarder. She a quietly determined and driven student who embodies the qualities of a fine Grammarian. She has pushed herself with a challenging portfolio of subjects and thrives in the mathematics and science domains. Jaidah has a strong sense of herself as a student, seeks feedback to improve and strives to achieve her best.
Jaidah’s sporting achievements have been celebrated throughout her time at MGGS. She was involved in GSV teams such as netball, basketball, football and tennis. With the Senior football team this year, she went on to win the GSV finals and the Herald Sun Shield.
Jaidah’s empathy and kindness are on fine display in her dealings with junior students in sport. She thrives as a Netball coach, who role models these qualities.
Humanities | Music | Drama | Sport | Community
Eloise personifies the School values of self-discipline and compassion, made evident by her exceptional dedication and empathy for the community throughout her journey at MGGS. She has achieved outstanding success in a range of academic fields and has studied Classical Studies (Units 3/4), Mathematical Methods, Physics, Literature, Philosophy, and Revolutions. Eloise’s excellence in academics was recognised when she received the Premier’s Award in Classical Studies in 2022.
At MGGS, I was taught to be unafraid to stand out from the group or to push myself beyond what is expected. I think, especially as young women, we are often afraid to put ourselves out there or be seen trying, but throughout my VCE I have seen my classmates and myself learn to own our achievements.
Eloise participated in the 2019 Model United Nations, where she showcased her critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, she achieved first place in the 2022 Australasian Philosothon during Year 11, demonstrating her exceptional aptitude for philosophical inquiry.
Beyond academics, Eloise was very engaged with activities at School, in music, drama and sports like our Senior AFL team. Outside of school, Eloise captained the Fitzroy Junior Football Club Under 16 Team and played in the FJFC Youth Girls Grand Final.
Moreover, Eloise has participated in several noteworthy experiences outside of school. She received her Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, and she was the recipient of the Olympic Change-Maker Award in 2023, recognising her contributions to positive change.
Next year, Eloise, plans to study Law/Arts at the Australian National University in Canberra.
I have loved being surrounded by a cohort of wonderful people who uplift one another, and enjoying classes in which everyone is engaged and pushing one another to be the best that we can be.
Music | Sport | Leadership | Entrepreneurship
Elle is a highly engaged and motivated young person who has consistently shown great curiosity in the world around her and insight into the challenges confronting our society. Elle conveys her passion for issues close to her heart in a variety of contexts.
As a learner, Elle is diligent and proactive, consistently striving for insight into how she can continue to refine and improve her already excellent knowledge and understanding. Elle has an incredible work ethic. An extremely versatile student with lot of interests outside of class, Elle incorporates her broad interests and knowledge of the world to expand her learning.
During her time at Melbourne Girls Grammar, Elle successfully balanced her academic pursuits with her extensive involvement in the co-curricular life of the School. Elle made significant contributions to music and sport, most notably as Sport Captain in 2023. Elle’s musical talent was showcased through involvement in numerous musical groups, including Orchestra, Senior Strings and the Merton Senior Choir.
Over her time at Melbourne Girls Grammar Elle has taken on many leadership roles within the sporting community including Snowsports Captain and Swimming Captain. Amongst all of this, Elle has also managed to start her own cake making business, supplying bespoke cakes for major events, including many cakes for MGGS 130 years celebrations this year.
Next year, Elle plans to study a degree in design as well as a course at William Angliss to pursue her passion in baking.
Sport| Humanities | Drama | Leadership
2023 Valedictorian Lola is a bubbly, kind and enthusiastic young woman who always strives to do her best and include others. She embraced the challenge to undertake Physical Education Units 3 and 4 as a Year 11 student and achieved a prize for Academic Excellence for History in Year 10, highlighting her aptitude and passion for the subject. Her VCE subjects included French, English, Geography, Health and Human Development, and Mathematical Methods.
During her time at Melbourne Girls Grammar, Lola made a significant contribution to sport and drama. Additionally, this year she held the position of Vice Captain of Boats, where she exhibited leadership qualities, inspiring and motivating her teammates.
Outside the classroom, Lola is an active and engaged member of our School community. She has demonstrated her dedication to both physical fitness and community by being an integral part of the netball and rowing teams. Lola displayed her resilience by joining the Merton Hall rowing team, taking part in four Head of Schoolgirls Regatta events, and earning the opportunity to compete in the 2023 national championship held in Perth. She also represented our School at the Henley Royal Regatta in England.
Next year, Lola is heading to study Political Science at the University of California Los Angeles on a Rowing scholarship.
During my time at school, thanks to an abundance of support from both teachers and peers I learnt the importance of taking opportunities as they came. I think it is only when you leave that you really appreciate all that our School has provided us and the lessons we were taught outside of the classroom.