Talking the talk, and walking the walk – German speaker hikes his way to Gold award 

Studying a language opened up the world for Lucas Blum. 

German was his favourite subject; he won the School German prize five years in a row and he discovered first-hand its practical utility when he visited Germany on exchange in Year 11. 

“I was able to use what I had learnt at school to make friends with people on the other side of the world. 

“That was probably my stand-out memory. It was awesome to see how I could apply all the German I had learnt until then in a natural setting,” he said. 

“I also think winning the German prize from Year 8 to year 12 was a great achievement. It’s always difficult to win consecutive prizes as you need to keep being consistent and diligent.    

“I found German to be less of a subject and more of a skill as learning a language is far more applicable than many other subjects. It’s something you can’t really master as you are constantly learning new words, which is what I found really enjoyable.” 

His favourite co-curricular was the Duke of Edinburgh awards; he loved the outdoor life and going on hikes with his friends, and he completed the bronze to gold awards from Year 9 to Year 12. 

He joined Trinity in Year 5, the year before his older brother graduated. 

Asked who he credited for his good results, he said: “God, my parents, and teachers for their help and support. 

“Staff are very committed at Trinity which is important as they are always trying to support us and give us feedback about where we can improve in our subjects.” 

One of his biggest challenges was a dislocated shoulder and resultant surgery which sidelined him from sport for most of his final two years. 

“I was at home for around eight weeks so I used the extra time at home to keep studying for Maths as that was my priority in Year 11. 

“Since Duke of Ed did not require me to stay back after school, and because I was injured and couldn’t play sport for most of Years 11 and 12, I had more time at home to study.” 

He said his mum inspired him to “work hard and prioritise family”. 

His advice to other students is: “Work consistently and diligently, and have fun.” 

He hopes to study architecture at Sydney University.