Marlie Mount Primary’s stellar PEP prodigies excel

The 12-year-old, who is the youngest of three children, hails from the quiet community of Old Harbour Glades. Joel has always demonstrated academic excellence, particularly in mathematics. Over the years, he has been recognized as the top student in his class multiple times and has collected several trophies and medals in both academics and extracurricular pursuits.

“I studied every chance I got, and with my mom constantly rushing me off the phone, I had no other choice,” Joel joked. “Even though I scored 379, I expected a little higher grade, like 385 but that’s okay, because my performance is still outstanding.”

His favourite subject is Science, as he enjoys learning about the different chemicals and compounds that make up the world around us.

“When I received my results, I was very excited and happy. I knew I’d be getting some hefty rewards,” he said with a smile. “The PEP exams were manageable. My Grade 5 teacher, Mrs. Bedward, always said, ‘Even if the exams are easy, don’t say they are or I’ll have a panic attack, just say they’re manageable’. So yes, I would say they were quite manageable.”

Joel’s mother, Susan Grant, who works as an administrator, played a major role in his success. She has been preparing him for greatness from a young age. “I am elated,” she said. “I thank God for coming through for him. His hard work paid off. Our hard work, rather. I’m glad he passed for his first choice. My godson went there, and Joel just took a liking to the school. So, my husband and I encouraged him, and he certainly rose to the challenge. We thought he would’ve wanted to go to Wolmer’s, but he had his heart set on Campion so we worked with him.”

Though she was slightly nervous during the PEP preparation and examination period, Mrs. Grant said she found comfort in Joel’s strong performance throughout Grades 4 and 5.

“We try to give him a routine to study and we allow him to have time for himself. Saturday classes and extra lessons were a must. People say smart kids don’t need extra classes, but I disagree. Those were a top priority for us. We always ensured homework was done and we prayed with him and sent him off in Jesus’ name,” she said.

Outside of academics, Joel enjoys playing cricket, video games, and helping his mother in the kitchen. His love for cooking has sparked his dream of becoming a professional chef and a businessman in the future.

“I want my son to stay focused and enter high school remembering who he is,” said Mrs. Grant. “I want him to continue working hard and becoming the best version of himself.”

While Joel’s stellar performance captured the spotlight, Marlie Mount Primary also celebrates an equally outstanding young lady whose academic journey has been nothing short of inspiring.

Twelve-year-old Chantal Campbell of Old Harbour Bay earned the title of Top PEP Girl for Marlie Mount Primary, after scoring 377.2 out of 400 – a remarkable 94% average –which secured her a place at the prestigious St Andrew High School for Girls.

“I think I could have done a little bit better, but nonetheless, I’m proud of myself,” Chantal shared. “My favourite subject is Mathematics, and I always get the highest grades in that area. I studied every evening when I got home from school, and I can safely say the PEP exams were pretty manageable.”

Although she wasn’t placed at her first choice, Campion College, Chantal remains optimistic and determined to thrive. “I know I’ll shine wherever I go,” she said confidently.

The youngest of two children, Chantal is considered the “baby” of the family — one who consistently exceeds academic expectations. She’s committed to following in the footsteps of her older brother, who currently attends Clarendon College.

Her mother, Chantal Grady, a small business owner, explained that her daughter was unable to complete the Language Arts paper on exam day, which may have affected her placement.

“She told me she didn’t finish the Language Arts paper, but she’s not the kind of child to give up. She’ll do well wherever she goes,” said Grady with a small, proud laugh. “The other day, she got 14 awards. Her grades have never dropped — from Grade 1 until now. That’s how I know she’ll always be at the top.”

Grady’s pride in her daughter is palpable, especially when recalling the long nights of revision and the sacrifices they’ve made together.

“All 12 o’clock at night, Chantal is up studying. She never drops her guard,” she said. “Mi proud a mi pickney. We don’t really have it like that, but she gives me hope that we’re going to make it out. Chantal makes me feel so proud.”

Before PEP results were released, Grady admitted to the feeling of pure confidence. Having supported her daughter’s academic life every step of the way, she was sure that her daughter’s efforts would pay off.

“Her success makes me want to work even harder to give her everything she want,” said Grady. “She’s a fighter. If she falls, she gets up. So I know I have to work harder now for my baby. From long time, she’s always been focused. Anything Chantal sets her mind to, she does it.”

She added, “I’m the kind of mother who sits down with her to make sure homework is done and that she studies. And her father drives taxi and he makes it his duty to take her to and from school every day…we’re behind Chantal 100%.”

Outside of academics, Chantal enjoys playing netball and surfing the internet. Though she keeps a small circle, her independence and drive are unmistakable. In the future, she hopes to become a doctor or lawyer — professions that match her ambition and strong sense of purpose.

When asked what motivates her, she replied: “My mother keeps me going, I just love to see the proud look on her face. I will continue to do my best and I can’t wait to graduate high school one day and make her proud all over again.”