Celebrating student success plays a significant role in shaping the culture of a school. Whether it’s applauding academic, sporting and arts successes at assembly, in the school newsletter or on social media platforms, the recognition of student success strengthens the entire school community. But success isn’t just about coming first, second or third. It’s also about attitudes and behaviours, which is why ACG Strathallan implemented its dual award system, the Pride in Achievement Award and the Strathallan Merit Award.

The Pride in Achievement Award has been in place since the school opened in 2001. It recognises student endeavour, with a focus on academic learning rather than results, and aligns with the school’s motto, ‘Pride in Achievement’. The award is presented each term, and to be nominated, students need to demonstrate a strong commitment to learning by approaching their studies with enthusiasm and a positive mindset.

It is a prestigious award. The Pride in Achievement Awards are a key focus of end-of-term assemblies, and each term’s nominations are then calculated to determine the recipients of the Principal’s Award at each year level which are presented at the end-of-year prizegiving.

The Merit Award complements the Pride in Achievement Award and was introduced in 2025. It reinforces positive attitudes both in and out of the classroom, rewarding students whose actions exemplify the school’s values of pride, respect, compassion and integrity - respect for the environment, compassion for others or pride in persevering, for example.

As Deputy Principal, Chay Carter, explains, “The Strathallan Merit Awards are aligned with our larger school goal of strengthening our culture by authentically living our values.”

Notes of recognition are sent to each student, as well as the student’s tutor, dean and parents. There is also a merit award ‘wall’ in each tutor room which celebrates students that receive an award, ensuring they are also recognised by their peers. Chay says that in weeks 3-5 of this term alone, 220 letters were sent, making these behaviours the standard rather than the exception.

Being recognised for doing the right thing feels good – for students and adults.

“Recognising, rewarding and celebrating student positive behaviour, taps into the intrinsic motivation of students and encourages a positive culture,” Chay says.

At Strathallan, celebrating success goes beyond handing out certificates. By recognising students who live the school’s values "authentically," ACG Strathallan moves beyond theory and shows students what those traits look like in practice. And it creates a cultural shift where students are motivated to strive for excellence in everything they do.