Class of 2017, take heed of these words of advice from Estcourt’s top performing matric learner: “Study from day one.”

Savannalee Hodgkinson (18) from Estcourt High School (EHS) says that the six distinctions she received in the 2016 Senior Certificate Examination was expected but still leaves her speechless at times.

With A symbols in Maths Literacy, Life Orientation, English, Afrikaans, Geography and Life Sciences, Savannalee topped the Estcourt circuit and has made her school proud.

Reminiscing on the events of January 4 when she received her results, Savannalee describes how she noticed a group of EHS learners at a convenience store engrossed in the newspaper.

“I was with my dad and we bought the newspaper. We sat in the car as I looked for my exam number and then saw my results and distinctions. I expected these results as I knew I worked hard. My dad was so glad because I am the little baby,” said Savannalee.

The Hodgkinson family has been rallying around Savannalee throughout her grade 12 year and she says she attributes her academic success to them.

“I would like to say thank you to my parents Lynette and Gerald and my big brother Vaughan, I owe it all to them. My parents have always been there taking me to extra lessons, going the extra mile, they listened, imparted words of wisdom, asked me questions and helped me with my speeches. I would also like to thank all of my teachers,” said Savannalee.

The journey ahead for the 18-year-old begins with a Bachelor of Education degree at the University of Johannesburg. Why do you want to be a teacher?

“South Africa is so vibrant and all I want to do is help. I want to enrich South Africa, help children reach their destiny and achieve their goals, as I have,” she said.