From scholarship to success: Amelia's remarkable journey at Penrhos
At Penrhos College, a tradition of philanthropy has paved the way for countless young girls to pursue an education that challenges, nurtures and empowers them.
Through the Penrhos College Foundation, generations of girls have been able to dream bigger and reach heights that may have once seemed unattainable.
Amelia Davies-Waddell’s inspiring journey at Penrhos began in 2013 when she transitioned from a public primary school to attend Penrhos in Year 7.
Amelia's school photo, 2014
“I applied for a scholarship at Penrhos College and was very excited to hear that I was successful. I was 10 years old and thought it was the best thing that had ever happened to me!” Amelia recalls.
However, Amelia's path took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with a rare form of melanoma at the end of Year 7. While navigating the challenges of multiple surgeries, the support from her teachers was unwavering. They ensured Amelia’s education continued, fostering an environment where she could still thrive academically and personally despite her health battles.
“I received great support from Penrhos. It really shaped my life,” says Amelia.
Amelia with her Alumni Endeavour Award, 2017
“I’m particularly thankful to Mrs Gillam, the Assistant Dean of Pastoral Care, who advocated for my learning needs and recognised I would benefit from skipping Year 9 to continue to be academically challenged.”
Amelia continued to excel, driven by a newfound purpose to enter the medical field inspired by her personal battle with cancer. The nurturing and supportive environment at Penrhos played a crucial role, says Amelia.
“I feel very lucky I could go to Penrhos; to have been in a learning environment with teachers who encouraged us to learn and aim high, to celebrate and champion women and their achievements, and to explore the different opportunities that we were offered at Penrhos.”
Amelia Davies-Waddell (Runner up DUX of the School), Sammi Looi (DUX of the School), Georgia Whitford (DUX of VET Pathway), Emily Gould (Runner up DUX of the VET Pathway), 2017
After graduating from Penrhos at the age of only 15, Amelia pursued medical studies at the University of Western Australia, graduating as Valedictorian in 2021. Now a junior doctor at Royal Perth Hospital, she is dedicated to specialising in paediatrics, inspired by her own experiences and aiming to transform her negative personal experience into positive outcomes for others.
Amelia’s story illustrates the ripple effect of supporting potential through education. By investing in a young person's future, we not only transform their lives but also empower them to make a positive impact on the world.
Amelia as Valedictorian at her graduation from medical studies at UWA, 2021
“A good education is one of the greatest gifts you can bestow, supporting the opportunity for those who otherwise might not be able to access a fantastic education is immensely worthwhile.”
Help shape the future of Penrhos and our girls. Together, we can continue to provide exceptional educational opportunities and maintain a legacy of excellence and community support at Penrhos.
You can donate online at www.penrhos.wa.edu.au/community/giving or reach out directly to Ra Stewart, Manager Foundation and Partnerships, at stewar@penrhos.wa.edu.au
We put our students at the heart of everything we do
Join us in shaping a bright and promising future for the next generation of leaders, innovators and change-makers. On behalf of these students, thank you.
