Peter Martin: Recipient of the 2024 De La Salle Award at St Michael’s College

We are delighted to share a heartwarming story of recognition from St Michael’s College, where Peter Martin has been awarded the prestigious De La Salle Award for 2024. This esteemed accolade is presented each year to a graduating student who embodies the core values of Lasallian education—faith, service, and community. Peter's exceptional academic performance, unwavering commitment to service, and exemplary leadership have made him a truly inspirational figure within the College community. Below, you can read about his remarkable contributions and the lasting impact he has had on both his peers and the wider community. 

Congratulations Peter Martin, the recipient of the De La Salle Award 2024

The De La Salle Award is the pinnacle of student recognition at St Michael’s College and is presented to the graduating student who best personifies the spirit of the College. It seeks to promote and recognise our core values, awarding a student who contributes to the broader life of the College while achieving academically commensurate with their ability.

This year’s award winner has fulfilled all of these criteria and has made an outstanding contribution to the St Michael’s College community. They have been academically diligent, receiving ‘Excellent’ ratings from all teachers for their application to study and behaviour, while also serving as a source of support and inspiration for their peers.

Beyond the classroom, this student has shown unwavering commitment to service and community. From regularly assisting with Year 7 prayer sessions in the Reflective Garden, helping with school masses, assisting at Breakfast Club, helping set up the Year 8 Retreat Day, and participating in Camp La Salle, they have always given up their time to step forward and help. Their service extends beyond school, with volunteer work and coaching at their local sporting club – further demonstrating their commitment to fostering community. This student truly embodies the Lasallian spirit of service, and we are proud to honour their selflessness and dedication.

As a leader, they have taken initiative in various areas, including leading Retreats and college tours, always inspiring others with their calm and ‘can-do’ disposition. One staff member described them as someone who “quietly leads by example in both words and actions,” while another noted how this student “is genuine, very humble and truly Lasallian when working with younger students and peers. Always smiling, always approachable, always showing sincere care for others.”

St John Baptist de La Salle dedicated his life to the education of the young and less fortunate, inspiring others to do the same. This student has embraced this calling in their own unique way, living out the Lasallian values of faith, service, and community. This student demonstrated honesty and vulnerability in speaking to our Year 11s on Retreat Day, as well as on a Q&A panel with our Leaders Elect. Another staff member explained that they’ve rarely seen someone “so kind and patient with our younger students.”

Earlier this year, this student completed The City Run marathon in support of Adelaide’s domestic violence programs. Among 265 runners, and after only a few months of very dedicated training – this student won the race! This example alone truly embodies their dedication and drive to push beyond expectations for a good cause.

We honour this student, not only for their achievements but also for the enduring legacy they leave behind. This student has left an indelible mark on our school, and they serve as an inspiration to staff and students alike. The values they embody are a testament to the enduring impact of education and the power of one individual to make a difference.

Congratulations to Peter Martin, the recipient of the De La Salle Award for 2024.

Source: St Michael's College, Adelaide