Hard work and prayers drive Sacred Heart College head boy

Sacred Heart College head boy Robert Wayne Simpson says hard work and prayer helped him push through a challenging academic year and finish among the school’s top performers.

The 19-year-old from Naiivivi, Qamea, Taveuni placed third overall in the annual school exams, earning the highest marks in Applied Technology (AT) and Technical Drawing (TD).

Physics, he admits, remains his toughest subject — but one he is determined to improve.

“Physics, I mainly don’t pass that subject,” he said.

“But I’m working to lift my marks.”

Balancing schoolwork with household responsibilities was often demanding.
“Sometimes when I go home, I have chores to do. So, I study late at night to make sure I pass all my subjects,” he said.

Despite the challenges, Robert focused on the subjects he excels in.
“I mainly focus on English, Maths, AT and TD — not my Physics,” he added with a laugh.

His dream is to become a pilot. He had hoped to join a piloting school in Nadi next year, but his father advised him to first strengthen his Physics.

Robert now plans to complete a semester at the University of the South Pacific (USP) before pursuing aviation studies.

“Piloting is my dream job. I just like travelling around the world,” he said.

Robert is the second eldest of six siblings and the first in his family to reach Form 7, attend university and serve as a head boy. He said he was shocked when selected for the role this year.

“From Term 1 I didn’t expect it. I was really in shock when they announced my name,” he said.

“But I pushed myself to work towards my goals and balance everything out.”

He thanked his parents and siblings for their encouragement throughout the year.

“I want to take this time to thank my family for all their support towards my academic goals,” he said.

His advice to other students is simple: “If you want to become a head boy or achieve something greater, you have to work hard and pray hard.”