Breakout: Todd Herskope

Todd Herskope was just one of over 300 students accepted into the academically exclusive Melbourne High School in 2007 from thousands of applicants.

Coming from Camberwell High School where he completed years seven and eight, the 15 year old had high expectations which the school hasn’t taken long to reach.

“I have more opportunities to get involved at Melbourne High,” he said. “I am doing co-curricular activities like cross-country skiing which weren’t on offer at my old school.”

Melbourne High School has many programs and facilities that most public schools can’t offer. Thanks to its association with South Yarra Sports Centre, the students have full access to gym, basketball, tennis and hockey facilities, as well as an indoor pool.

When asked to compare his new school with his old one, Todd said there were some obvious differences.

“There are very few kids who hold back other students in their classes from achieving their full potential because they aren't trying or just want to muck around. Students are more focused and disciplined” he said.

“And we can enjoy a more balanced education, taking part in academic, sporting, musical and social activities because of the hard working and friendly environment that we work in at school”

Reports have shown that compared with other government schools, Melbourne High receives extra public funding, and Todd feels this is justified.

“As it’s a school where students take their work more seriously and want to excel more than at normal public schools, I think it’s fair that MHS receives more funding,” he said.

And while Melbourne High’s results speak for themselves, Todd understands that just being a student of the school doesn’t guarantee him the results he wants.

“I know I’m going to have to work incredibly hard to reach the standards expected by Melbourne High,” he said. “But I think just being accepted into a school labelled ‘academically exclusive’ is an inspiration that will really help.”