“My mom always tells me to stop trying to calculate the forces on the car and pay attention to the roundabout,” he said.

He is hoping to study mathematics and computer science next year, either at the Australian National University or the University of Melbourne, and may look at working in academia after that.

Kevin won the Beazley Medal for the VET pathway, completing his Certificate II in Aeroskills, and a significant number of hours in the workplace while at school.

He also received the VET exhibition and a VET certificate of excellence in the automotive, engineering and logistics industry area.

He said his advice was to “always make sure you submit work to the best of your ability”, even in subjects you don’t like.

Kevin said initially the aviation course offered at his school had only been available through the ATAR pathway, but that this changed when he reached senior school.

“It offered very similar courses as the ATAR course, so I was able to pick up general subjects instead,” he said.

“My parents were everything. They were my number one supporters, they always knew I could do something big.

“They were absolutely over the moon (when they found out about the Beazley Medal). My mum couldn’t believe it at all. We are all so, so happy.”

Kevin said he was hoping to celebrate the award with a steak dinner.

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Education Minister Dr Tony Buti said both students had received outstanding results.

“These students are fine examples of the students of your 11 and 12 in the public education system of Western Australia, they have worked incredibly hard.

“They have achieved so much through the support of their schools, their teachers, and also their family.

“My congratulations to each of the 3722 senior secondary school students who will find out today that they have achieved an exhibition or award from the School Curriculum and Standards Authority.

“Congratulations on your success. What a wonderful way to celebrate the end of your time at senior secondary school.”

The schools with the highest number of general exhibition winners were Perth Modern School with 19 and Christ Church Grammar School, Hale School, Rossmoyne Senior High School and Willetton Senior School – all with three each.

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