Darren Peng achieved an average of 90.4% and eight distinctions in Afrikaans First Additional Language, English Home Language, History, Information Technology, Life Orientation, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, as well as Further Studies Mathematics Extended.
He was also featured on the IEB Commendable Achievements list, achieving within the top 5% in five subjects.
“As well as its spirit of unity and brotherhood, St John’s is a place of exceptional and varied opportunities,” said Darren. “There is a tremendous depth of resources within every department. As a music student, a tennis player and a public speaker, for example, I had access to amazing teachers and facilities, and this is true whatever your interests.”
Darren’s favourite subjects were Mathematics, for which he achieved 91.5%, Information Technology, for which he achieved 97% and Physical Science, for which he achieved 89%. His academic highlight, notwithstanding these exceptional marks, was his overall improvement in Afrikaans, for which he achieved a final mark of 84%.
Darren plans on studying Computer Science in the United States this year. He will do a bit of travelling and seek internships in 2023 while awaiting the start of the semester.
He advises new St John’s students to “relish and avail yourself of all the opportunities. Even if you think you might not enjoy something, try it out. It could be your thing! Also, don’t let yourself become too overwhelmed by minutiae. If you bomb out in a single test, don't let it affect you too much. In the grand scheme of things, it’s what you learn that matters, not a single mark.”