A FIFTEEN-year era came to an emotional end this week for Jacob Faint, as he passed through a student guard of honour on his last day at The Armidale School after starting there as a preschooler in 2002.
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Jacob is thought to be the longest-attending student in the school’s history, and possibly any Australian school’s history – even K-12 central school students generally attend for ‘only’ 13 years.
He said he had mixed feelings about the end of his TAS life, but was excited about pursuing an army career.
Jacob, a day student, started at TAS in the pre-kindergarten Transition class, and one of his earliest memories at the school is of Year 12 boys reading books to his group. He gained an extra year at the school when he repeated Year 1.
Jacob said he had been “a quiet little kid who lacked confidence” but was leaving the school as the head of its cadet unit. “I’m pretty proud of that,” he said.
“I’m feeling pretty emotional saying goodbye to everyone after such a long time, but I’m happy because I’ve really enjoyed my time here.
“I’ve got so many great memories – going away on weekend sporting trips, having time with my mates and so many activities as part of cadets.”
Jacob said his decision to go for an army career was based on his positive experiences in cadets, which built his self-confidence and skills.
“I’m honoured to have been part of the cadet guard for Anzac Day for four years and lead the unit in my last year. They are memories that will last a lifetime.”
The longest-attending boarder in the school’s history is Canberra resident Dennis Martin, who lived at TAS for 11 years from 1955-65.