Aedan Wayne Yates pointed out that the preliminary examinations were the toughest period during the 2024 IEB matric year.
The Crawford International Ruimsig learner came out victorious with 11 distinctions after an academic year filled with an extreme volume of work.
“The hardest part of the year was over, as the gruelling prelims were complete. This period was the most stringent of my high school career and required many late nights of programming (Information Technology) and designing,” said Yates.
Although Covid-19 had a little impact in his academics during the heavy lockdown, the unexpected shift from in-person learning to remote classes disrupted Yates’ Grade 8 and 9.
“Being forced to attend online school was challenging as the isolation and technical challenges involved made learning far more complicated. However, I stuck to my routine during this time, and did get fully dressed for each and every school day. This strict routine meant that I did not witness a significant change in my results compared to where they were pre-Covid-19,” said Yates.
Yates explained that his biggest achievement was being named the school’s academic judiciary, which is a position he had been aiming for and was honoured with a white blazer.
He said his introduction to rock-climbing was an added highlight of the academic year.
The aspiring space traveller urged the class of 2025 to plan ahead for their matric year, and prioritise deadlines.
“Be proactive in your matric year, complete tasks thoroughly and as soon as possible, plan for the busy times and make some time available to relax and unwind,” said Yates.
The 19-year-old is planning to study Aeronautical Engineering at Wits.
“Once I complete (this degree), I hope to pursue higher degrees in the field of Aeronautical Engineering overseas. My ultimate goal is to become involved in the space-flight industry to one day travel to space myself,” said Yates.
The Star