On 23 March, IGS Alums Oliver (2025) and Kasen (2025) were recognised at the History High Achievers Award Presentation, held at the Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney, for their History Extension major works completed during their HSC.
Their essays were selected for the History Extension Essay Prize, organised by the History Teachers Association of NSW. Each School may submit only two works, with entries required to demonstrate original research and engaging, well‑written historical essays. From this highly competitive field, both students were awarded special category prizes offered by external organisations.
Oliver received First Place in the Ancient Past Prize, presented by the Chau Chak Wing Museum, for an essay analysing how machine‑made replicas of historical artefacts shape the way we experience museums today. As a category winner, he was invited to address the audience at the ceremony.
Kasen was awarded Second Place in the Australian History Prize, presented by the History Council of NSW, for an essay examining how representations of Indigenous Australians in Australian history have shifted in response to changing academic and public ideologies.
These awards recognise the lasting impact of HSC research undertaken at IGS and the way student scholarship continues to contribute to national academic and cultural conversations beyond School.
Thank you to the teachers, friends and families who supported them and to their History Extension teacher Alex Toomey‑Westcott for attending the event and celebrating their exceptional achievements.
