At Pittwater House, some of the most powerful lessons are not found in a textbook. They emerge through practice, performance, collaboration and self-expression. The school's unique blend of co-educational campus life and single-gender classes during key developmental years creates a foundation where students are encouraged to discover their passions and develop real confidence. This winter, we meet three students doing exactly that.

Suzannah | Visual Art

Medium: Graphite and Black Pencil

For Year 11 student Suzannah, art provides an opportunity to communicate ideas that matter. Her hyperrealistic artwork, Not a Trophy, was created in response to a project exploring activism in art and focuses on the devastating impact of poaching.

"Through my hyperrealistic rhino piece, Not a Trophy, I aimed to bring attention to the impacts of poaching," Suzannah explains.

"My main goal was to show the simplistic beauty of animals, in particular rhinos, when they aren't impacted by poachers."

Suzannah uses her work to encourage reflection.

"I draw inspiration from many artists, particularly those working in hyperrealism and those who focus on animal subjects. Through my artwork, I aim to highlight the environmental degradation caused by human activity and encourage greater awareness and responsibility."

While a career in art may not necessarily be her future path, Suzannah believes creativity will remain important in whatever she chooses to do.

"I hope to have a job that allows me some freedom of creativity. I would like to think that I can use the skills I have acquired through art in any future endeavours, including the importance of visual presentation and attention to detail."

William | Music

Multi-Instrumentalist

For Year 10 student William, music is both a passion and a source of constant inspiration. A multi-instrumentalist who plays double bass, electric bass and guitar, he draws widely for ideas. "I try to draw inspiration from as many sources as possible," he says. "I'm very lucky to live in a time in which music is so easily accessible through both the internet and live performance."

William also credits the people around him for helping shape his musical journey. "I'm also very lucky to be around talented tutors and peers through the school. All of these things are an amazing source of inspiration for me."

Performing regularly has allowed him to learn from others while building his confidence as a musician. "Performing at school events has given me amazing opportunities to play with incredible musicians, from my peers to professionals with a wealth of experience in music."

One standout experience was Pittwater House's recent Soul & Blues Festival, where students performed alongside acclaimed professional musicians. "The recent Soul & Blues night was a perfect example, and an absolute standout experience having been given the opportunity to play with famous musicians and industry legends alike."

Looking ahead, William hopes to continue studying music throughout high school before pursuing jazz performance at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. "After university, I'd love to have a diverse career that lets me experience as many avenues of music as possible."

Ariana | Performance

Musical Theatre

For Ariana, in Year 9, performing is an opportunity to step into another world and bring characters to life. Her performance of Amazing Mayzie from Seussical the Musical celebrates a character who is energetic, playful and full of joy. "Mayzie is an exotic bird who is upbeat, energetic, cheeky, a little bit crazy, and full of the joy of life," Ariana explains. "This musical theatre solo celebrates Mayzie's vibrant personality and carefree essence."

Ariana studies both Drama and Dance, and the support available through the Performing Arts Department has been instrumental in her development as a performer. "Through the support and opportunities they provide, I have been able to pursue my passions, study what I love, and develop my skills and confidence as a multifaceted performer." Outside school, she trains more than 22 hours each week, supported by the school's Elite Athlete and Performance Program.

Looking to the future, Ariana hopes to build a career as a triple-threat performer. "I have always loved dancing, singing and acting. I would love to continue learning from the best in the industry." One day, she hopes to perform professionally, teach, and ultimately open her own dance school, sharing her passion and inspiring the next generation of performers.

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At Pittwater House, creative pursuits are about far more than producing a performance, artwork or final result. They help students discover their strengths, develop confidence and learn what can be achieved through dedication and perseverance.

Living by the motto Semper diligens, always hardworking, students continue to push themselves creatively, searching for new ideas, embracing opportunities and pursuing excellence in all they do. In doing so, they are creating a culture that will continue to inspire future generations of Pittwater House students for years to come.

To learn more about everything Pittwater House has to offer, visit pittwaterhouse.com.au or call (02) 9972 5789 for a school tour. •

Pittwater House  | (02) 9972 5789  | enrolments@tphs.nsw.edu.au  |  CRICOS No. 00897J

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