HE attained the perfect score – ten out of ten. This is the number of distinctions Northdene resident, Damien Nadioo, achieved for his matric pass.
Schools countrywide successfully ushered in the new school year on Wednesday, 11 January with all eyes now cast on the class of 2017. The Star College matriculant wants to share his habits and study routine which he used to achieve his goal of attaining a 90 per cent aggregate.
“It was an intense year but I knew what I was in for because I chose to do 10 subjects in Grade 10. I was also shortlisted for a Physics Olympiad in Grade 11 which was hosted in Zürich, Switzerland, last year so I knew that if I was chosen, it would clash with my school work.”
While much of his time was dedicated to studying, playing volleyball was instrumental in helping him unwind. So he suggests having a healthy outlet such as sport helps keep life balanced.
He advised that working ahead of time, identifying and focusing more on challenging subjects were the best ways in which to ensure a stress free exam period.
“The year has already begun, work in advance, consult with your teachers and use your time wisely. Work hard, study the syllabus but also find a way to balance it out by giving yourself time to relax. For instance, English, Maths and Physics were key subjects that needed more of attention my intention and I worked with a tutor,” he said.
Working hard and attaining good results was Naidoo’s working formula in Grade 11, his goal for his matric year was to completely cut out watching TV and to dedicate more time on his work. “After my final paper, I went straight to the TV and caught up on my favourite shows,” he said laughing.
Naidoo’s mother, Judy, said she and her husband, Lawrence, nurtured their son. “We gave him a lot of advice and instilled discipline in him. We are both teachers and we understand the importance of monitoring a child and providing support,” she said.
Damien will study actuarial science at UCT.
