YEAR 12 student Heidi Cannington from Moree says she has learned many things during her time at The Armidale School – one of them is appreciating the “endless opportunities” on offer.

“Whether it’s academics, creative arts, sport, service or activities like cadets, there’s so much for everyone,” Heid said.

Heidi is TAS sports house captain, boarding house vice-captain and swimming captain, and has embraced the school’s character curriculum – in and out of the classroom

TAS principal Ray Pearson, director of boarding David Drain and enrolments registrar Jo Neilson will be in Moree this week to meet with current and prospective TAS families, who can book a chat at TAS Regional Tour.

Heidi Cannington’s passion is Visual Arts and she is currently using the school’s kiln for her HSC major work.  Outdoor adventures have included the two-kilometre Coffs Ocean Swim, 14km City to Surf run and 19 for Nineteen, a charity walk for childhood cancer, which earned her the school’s Triple Crown challenge award.

In Year 10, Heidi spent a term in South Africa on a school exchange and last year she gained her surf bronze medallion.

She also rowed for three years, competing at the Sydney International Regatta Centre.

“I really enjoyed my years rowing, and the older girls really lead the way – there are early wake ups, tough challenges and balancing academic commitments, but all of that teaches you so much,” she said.

Heidi is undertaking her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, and has also been part of a weekly lunchtime cooking program for the Armidale Neighbourhood Centre and Armidale Women’s Shelter.

Heidi Cannington and Archie Jackman are among numerous students from the Moree district attending The Armidale School.

“These service activities really open our eyes to those in need and the reward in helping others,” Heidi said.

As part of her role a boarding house vice-captain, Heidi builds connections with younger students, helping them find their way.

“When I first came to TAS I was a bit homesick and you get thrown all these incredible opportunities which can be a little overwhelming,” Heidi said.

“But with the help of older students, you quickly find your own groove and can flourish.

“I wouldn’t be the person I am without boarding at TAS.”

Fellow student Archie Jackman, who enjoys rugby and mountain biking, agrees.

“Boarding teaches you how to do stuff by yourself and you really get to make strong friendships because you are living with your mates,” Archie said.

TAS seeks to challenge students to be the best they can be.

In last year’s Higher School Certificate, TAS was the highest-performing, co-educational school in northern New South Wales and the only school to make the Sydney Morning Herald’s top 200 schools’ list.

The school is equally known for its expansive character curriculum, which includes cadets, surf lifesaving, Rural Fire Service and community service.

TAS has a long association with the Moree region and on Thursday, March 12, school principal Ray Pearson, director of boarding David Drain and enrolments registrar Jo Neilson will be in Moree to meet with current and prospective families.

To book your chat, go to TAS Regional Tour.