A Peninsula Grammar Journey – Sam Robson

As the Class of 2026 prepares to take their next steps beyond Peninsula Grammar, our Peninsula Grammar Journey series celebrates the young people they have become and the experiences that have shaped them along the way.

Through their own voices, students reflect on the teachers who believed in them, the opportunities that challenged them, the friendships that mattered and the lessons they will carry forward. Their stories remind us that excellence is about more than achievement. It is found in character, confidence, growth and the courage to pursue what comes next.

1. What is a moment from your school journey that you’ll always remember?

The Year 10 kayaking camp. It was such a good opportunity to step outside my comfort zone and do something completely different with one of my best friends. It was a great experience and gave me memories I’ll always have.

2. Which teacher, mentor or experience had the greatest impact on you, and why?

The person who has had the greatest impact on me is my coach, Mr Peel. He gave me so much positive reinforcement and always made me feel like he believed in me, even when I struggled to believe in myself. His encouragement helped me rebuild that belief in my own ability and taught me not to let setbacks define me. I’m extremely grateful for the confidence and mindset he helped me develop.

3. What advice would you give your younger self starting Year 7?

Don’t try to balance every pressure and expectation placed on you. Focus on what you can control and what you enjoy doing, then give the things that matter to you 100 per cent.

4. Which co-curricular activity, sport, performance or leadership opportunity has meant the most to you?

For sure, the Firsts Soccer team. Playing alongside some less experienced players gave me a different perspective on how far I’ve come. Being able to teach the boys things during a game and see them take it on board made me reflect on my own progress over the years. It also made me grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given and for now being in a position where I can help my teammates develop.

5. What are your plans after Year 12?

I have two potential paths. Plan A is to move to Europe and work hard for the opportunity to earn a professional football contract. Moving overseas seems scary, but my brother has done the same and I’m excited to embrace the unknown and see where it takes me.

Plan B is to earn a professional contract in Australia, hopefully with Melbourne City. Alongside playing, I’d like to start my own coaching business and use my experience to help other players develop. Longer term, I hope to establish myself in Australia and create opportunities to play for bigger clubs overseas.

6. What excites you most about the next stage of your journey?

The independence, the challenges and the experiences. I’m excited to start building the life I want and taking responsibility for where I go next.

7. What values will you take with you beyond graduation?

Resilience, empathy, determination and discipline.

Rapid Fire Questions

Three words that describe your Peninsula Grammar experience.

Rewarding, memorable and connected.

Favourite School tradition.

House Performance. Watching it has always been very funny, so getting to participate in my final year should be even better.

Favourite place on campus.

The Commons in the Zammit Centre. Nothing beats having lunch around a table, talking about random things and having a laugh.

One thing you’ll miss most about Peninsula Grammar.

Having the whole friendship group together every day.

One thing you’re looking forward to next.

Travelling and chasing my dreams.

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