Congratulations to Antoinette Earnshaw, the 2022 Old Girls’ Prize recipient. Each year, the Old Girls’ Association awards the coveted OGA Prize to a senior girl for outstanding leadership and achievement.

In 2023, Antoinette will undertake a Bachelor of Health Sciences at The University of Queensland and will reside at a residential college.

Antoinette’s interest in pursuing a career in Health Sciences, was solidified through her participation in Sony Camp through St Margaret’s. The Children’s Holiday Camp Program is a is a unique respite program that sees high school and university students take on the responsibility for the care of children with disability, allowing their families to have a valuable weekend off.

“I have always wanted to have an occupation that allowed me to help people, especially after working at Sony Camp taking care of children with disabilities in 2021 and 2022. I have recently learnt more about Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy. Studying Health Sciences should be a starting point to studying Occupational Therapy or Speech Therapy in the future,” said Antoinette.

Antoinette is looking forward to seizing every opportunity afforded to her at university.

“This year I am looking forward to embracing all aspects of life, while bringing what St Margaret’s has taught with me.  I am looking forward to gaining useful, practical and interesting knowledge within my health sciences course, making lots of new friends at college and university, and participating in team sports,” Antoinette said.

Antoinette remains thankful for the St Margaret’s community, noting that there were many people who influenced and guided her.

“The St Margaret’s community – leaders, teachers, girls and parents – all played a part in my journey. Ms Matheson, my Academic Advisor, was always encouraging me to go outside my comfort zone and assisted me with planning my goals and day-to-day priorities. My senior teachers, especially Ms Shave and Ms Cowen, made learning more enjoyable in subjects in which I didn’t necessarily excel, which made me want to put in my best effort.

“The 2022 cohort were a fabulous group of girls, who all supported each other socially and academically, which truly helped me, especially throughout Year 12.

“It was often the little things that supported me most. Whether it was a kind or encouraging word on a bad day from a teacher, coach, or friend or being incredibly grateful to be part of those uplifting moments of school spirit, such as sending off sporting teams or celebrating special occasions,” Antoinette said.

Georgia Mitchell
Manager – Development and Community