Patrick Findlator, government scholarship winner. - Photo by Claudia Gardner

WESTERN BUREAU:

There's no doubt that 12-year-old Patrick Findlator understands the philosophy of fasting today to feast tomorrow.

Recipient of a government scholarship in the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT), Patrick said he deprived himself of fun time to ensure exam success.

He recently cashed in on that sacrifice. The Corinaldi Avenue Primary graduate displayed his brainiac ability with clinical performances in the national elementary school-placement exam: 100 per cent in communication task, 97 per cent in mathematics and social studies, and 95 per cent in science and language arts.

Patrick, who will be attending the all-boy Cornwall College in St James in September, conceded that while, high school would force him to work much harder, he is fully prepared to take up the gauntlet.

Success factors

He praised teachers Donnett Salmon and Jocelyn Chisholm, along with his parents and step-parent, as major factors behind his success.

"I feel very happy because I know I've tried very hard to do my work well and, over the years, with the help of my teachers, my father, stepmother, and mother, who told me what to do and encouraged me to do my best in GSAT," Patrick told The Gleaner.

He gave the thumbs up to his dad and stepmom, with whom he lives, for promoting a rigid time-management culture which helped perfect his study routine. His aunt and stepmom also dedicated Sundays to quizzing him on GSAT topics.

"I study all hours of the day, both here at school and home. By not watching too much television, I was able to keep my focus. I think that's what helped me to get this scholarship," he explained.

Now that GSAT celebrations are over and the summer holidays have begun, the aspiring zoologist is planning to transition from top gear into cruise control. Plans? Watch television, surf the Internet and play his heart out. After all, when the real acid test - high school life - begins, fun and frolic will have to take a back seat.

tashieka.mair@gleanerjm.com