They may only have had 15 students completing the HSC in 2017 and only five ATAR students, but the tiny Nambucca school has topped the Valley with its results.

The school’s seniors recorded an impressive four results in the top band of academic achievement in the HSC exams.

They also walked away with eight band five, and nine band four results.

Megan Johnstone, who, together with her twin sister Sara, has attended the school since Kinder, recorded the top ATAR for the Nambucca Valley, with a score of 92.85.

“I thought it might go the opposite way and be under 90, so I was a little shocked and it was pretty awesome to get a score above that,” Megan said.

“I’ve had to put in a lot of effort, creating and following a study plan, and making sure I felt confident.”

“It was completely nerve-wracking, and it’s just such a relief that we’ve done it.”

Megan said she was lucky to have her sister by her side as a study partner.

“It’s so good having a twin going into the HSC, to ask each other questions, quizz each other and discuss any concerns,” Megan said.

Sara, too, achieved incredible results, scoring two band six results in both Food Technology and Textiles and Design.

At the beginning of 2016, the first Stage 6 Textiles and Design course was implemented at the school, allowing students the chance to get creative with dyeing, applique, embroidery, beading and felting techniques.

This year, each graduating student was required to complete a signature piece for their final portfolio.

Megan created a 1920s-inspired garment, complete with layers of hand-pleated georgette, scalloped hems, tiered textured fabrics, individually hand-crafted and dip-dyed tassels and an innovative avocado-dyed fabric.

Her couture efforts were recognised by the state and her frock was included in the Sydney exhibition of outstanding textile projects from 2017.

From this exhibition, a number of projects were then chosen to be part of the Shape 2017 exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney from February 23, and Megan’s gown was among those selected.

Both sisters are looking set to continue their education in Newcastle next year: Sara is keen to try Primary Teaching with a focus on special education, while Megan will likely be offered a place in a Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics.

In fact, 13 of the 15 Bowra Central seniors have either been offered a place at university or full-time employment.

One lucky and hard-working lady, Courtney McEwen will be the first in her family of seven kids to go to university.

She has been successful in winning not one, but two scholarships to the schools of her choice— a $25,000 scholarship for the Hotel School and a new Indigenous scholarship for the National Art School, both in Sydney.

The talented student’s biggest worry now is choosing which offer to take up.

“It’s going to be really interesting leaving here and living in a big city,” Courtney said.

She is thankful for the help and support she has received from the teachers at Bowraville Central School.

“It helps going to a small school because you get more one-on-one support, and the teachers have been really dedicated and put in extra time,” Courtney said.

“I think that even if we’re not totally prepared for what comes next, they’ll still be here for us if we need them.”

Meanwhile Brittney Edwards is keen for the next adventure in her life after securing a place at Lismore in a Bachelor of Nursing.

“After I found out my results, I celebrated by going home and burning my notes—we had a bonfire,” Brittney said.

“I’m just excited to get out of the Valley and make something of myself.”

Teacher Eve Riches is delighted at her students’ success.

“We have worked really hard to support the students to apply for university, scholarships and pathways to employment,” Ms Riches said.

Guardian News wishes all the BCS graduating seniors the best of luck in the next phase of their lives.