Italo Baraldi, 17, who lives at 10 Shellharbour Road, Warilla, obtained his School Certificate with the highest score at Warilla High School.
Italo has only been in Australia for five years and didn’t speak a word of English when he arrived.
Aside from his studies, Italo also has a passion for music and he plays the accordion very well.
Under the guidance of Maestro Simonelli, he has completed four exams in two years, obtaining 96 points out of a possible 100.
When asked what the boy’s future would entail, both of Italo’s parents said it would be up to him whether he goes on to study at university or the Conservatorium of Music.
The other Italian “champion” is Pietro Giorgianni, 16, who lives on Evans Street in Wollongong.
He also obtained his School Certificate with high distinction in seven subjects and was the top student to graduate from Keira Boys’ High School.
We asked Pietro what his secret to success was.
“To tell you the truth, I didn’t expect it,” he said.
“I study very little at home, except for in the lead-up to exams.
“Perhaps my secret is that I pay lots of attention in class and try to absorb as much as possible.”
Pietro’s parents added that their son has an excellent memory, which will come in handy when he pursues a career in computers and electronics.
