KELSON Hawkins from Hawks Nest has achieved Equal Second Place in this year’s Newcastle Permanent Primary School Mathematics Competition.

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A student at Tea Gardens Public School, Kelson also received a High Distinction Certificate which placed him in the top 0.03% of the state.

Kelson attended the awards presentation function on the 18 November, stating, “I can’t believe it, Equal Second Place. I am so excited. I love mathematics.

“Last year I was the winner of the Great Lakes Area and this year I have topped that award coming Equal Second Place out of the whole competition.”

Tahnee Hawkins, Kelson’s mother, told News Of The Area, “It has been a tough year for us being in isolation for three terms of school but he soldiered on and still achieved his goal.

“What an achievement. Our family is so excited for Kelson and we are so proud of him, well done.”

Over 17,450 year five and six students from 294 schools across NSW participated in this year’s 40th Annual Mathematics Competition.

It is one of the largest maths competitions in Australia and offers awards, including money, to the top performers in each region.

The Hawkins family also acknowledged Kelson’s teacher, Caitlyn Kelly, who sent maths homework every day to support his home schooling during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Kelson’s mother added, “Caitlyn is a teacher who really cares for the future of all her students. Her dedication and love of the job shines through.

“A big part of Kelson’s success belongs to Miss Caitlyn Kelly. We can not thank you enough.”

Kelson was also supported by Carol and Christine from the Tea Gardens Library who provided academic support and exam supervision.

Next year Kelson will continue his studies at the new Catherine McAuley Catholic College in Medowie.

By Sandra MURRAY