Archer Mawson commenced at GVGS in Year 5 in 2018. Growing up locally, Archer’s connection to the School goes back decades before he was a student himself. His dad Peter, graduated from GVGS in 1987.
Dad was meant to go to Scotch College because that’s where my grandpa went, but when GVGS opened, he ended up coming here instead,” Archer says. “He really wanted us kids to have the same opportunity he did and our parents wanted us to have a private education, but stay close to home as well.” Archer’s older brother, Lincoln, graduated in 2023 and his younger sister, Savannah, is currently in Year 9.
Looking back over his time at GVGS, Archer says the annual camps stand out as highlights.
“Year 10 OEG camp to Mt Stirling was great fun,” he reflects. “I was in a group with ten of my friends and we spent the whole time hiking and camping with no phones or anything. The weather was pretty intense, so we had to face some challenges along the way, but overall the experience brought us all closer together.”
This year, Archer is undertaking his final three VCE subjects, including Accounting, which he believes will support his long-term career goals. “I don’t love English, I’m much more into numbers and problem solving,” he says. “I think the subjects I’ve chosen will really help me in the future.”
Archer is currently combining his VCE studies with a school-based apprenticeship in heavy diesel mechanics through his family’s business, Mawson Construction. “I started my apprenticeship in Year 11. Currently, I’m at school four days a week and at the business one day a week,” he explains. “I really like it because it breaks up the week and keeps things interesting.”
Balancing VCE with an apprenticeship has been both challenging and rewarding. “It can be a bit stressful at times, but I’m only doing three subjects this year after fast-tracking one last year,” he says. “I do miss the Friday assembly each week which is a shame, but I’m passionate about the choices I’ve made and I’m committed to getting my apprenticeship done.”
While this commitment means giving up some of the free time his classmates enjoy during the holidays, Archer says he’s focused on the bigger picture.
“When people ask me why I’ve done it this way, I think that after all these years of school, I was determined to graduate with my friends and be there right until the end,” he explains. “It can be a bit of a balancing act sometimes, but I think it’s worth it.”
Next year, Archer plans to continue working towards completing his apprenticeship.
“Once school finishes, I’ll keep going with the apprenticeship full-time,” he says. “Finishing both VCE and my apprenticeship will give me more options for the future.”
