All News, Teaching and Learning

Surfing to Success

Cynthia Baker-Barden is a Year 12 student (Class of 2022) who has been a part of the KRB community since 2015 (Year 5). Holding a keen interest in Engineering, Cynthia’s favourite subject is physics where she learns how things work and can apply her knowledge to her passion.

Cynthia believes that KRB is a special place to learn because of the welcoming and friendly environment. She loves how year groups work together to support each other with school and activities. An example that pops to mind for her is the coordination and cooperation that her year puts into running Fun Fridays. Cynthia also appreciates the school staff who have helped her and stood by her side throughout the years.

When looking back on her time at KRB, Cynthia remembers the Year 12 Retreat fondly, particularly being able to interact and engage with her peers through various activities. A standout moment for her was when Craig Foster and Marwa Moeen addressed the cohort and told Marwa’s incredible story as a refugee seeking asylum in Australia, as well as explaining all the work they contribute to aid other refugees.

As far as extracurriculars go, Cynthia is all about getting involved. She has been participating in surf lifesaving since I was 6 years old, both competitively in surf sports and volunteering as a trainer in education and water safety. Over the years, Cynthia has received many awards and accolades for her achievements, including:

  • 2 National gold medals for March Past at the Australian Surf Lifesaving Championships (2019 and 2020)
  • 5th place in Champion Lifesaver (2022)
  • Regional Junior Lifesaver of the Year Nominee/Finalist
  • One of the top 4 Finalists for the NSW Youth Surf Lifesaver of the Year
  • Attended the Youth Leadership Development Program for Surf Lifesaving (2021) 
  • Charlie Christensen Memorial Award for Most Outstanding Junior Member (2020) 
  • Warwick Morrison Award for Outstanding Contribution to March Past (2020) 
  • Carl Melvey Award for Excellence in Further Education in Lifesaving (2021 and 2022) 

During holidays, Cynthia is also a Head Coach and oversees children’s surf development camps with up to 60 kids under her gaze.

When she’s not in the water, Cynthia has dreams of being in the sky and has taken part in Air Force Cadets since 2019, learning and exploring everything to do with her interest in joining the Air Force and becoming a Pilot after school.

Cynthia has also been a part of the KRB IGSSA Cross Country team every year since 2016 and has been playing KRB Field Hockey since 2019.

Learn about KRB’s teaching philosophy and how it supports each student’s passions by contacting our Admissions office.