'Work, play equal success,' says Guiaco Presbyterian valedictorian

Traveer Pattron, 11, wants all children to succeed in their goals.

And he is starting with himself.

On Tuesday, Traveer delivered the valedictory address during Guaico Presbyterian School’s online graduation ceremony for the standard five class. Two days later, he learned he had passed for Hillview College when the secondary entrance assessment results were released.

But the honour did not come easily.

In an interview with Newsday Kids, Traveer, who lives in Sangre Grande, shared the work it took to become valedictorian and gave advice to help others be exemplary students.

“Time wasted won’t be retrieved. It is always wise to use prudent time management and develop a timetable with important goals to work towards.”

For Traveer, children must learn to be diligent inside and outside of the classroom.

While an A-student, even getting a special award for mathematics, Traveer was also heavily involved in extra-curricular activities.

He played cricket, football, and draughts.

Playing sports isn’t only fun, but according to Traveer, “It’s good to engage with teammates and learn the skills of cooperating with people when you are on a team.”

For children not familiar with draughts, which is a board game, he said, “Once you understand and have respect for the game, it isn’t hard to play draughts. You’ll easily learn the game.”

But even if someone is not interested in sports, there are many other activities to get involved in, said Traveer.

For example, students can represent their school in a competition, like he did. Traveer was on his school's team for the Ministry of Health’s national healthy lifestyle quiz.

And although he may have been occupied with schoolwork and extracurricular activities, Traveer always made time for others. He aspires to be a doctor because he wants to help people.

“As a friend, I like to help people through any problems they encounter,” said Traveer who sometimes helped classmates with their schoolwork.

In his valedictory address, Traveer shared his most memorable experiences which included playing sports with his classmates and going on field trips.

“It was indeed an honour to be presented with that great task of being valedictorian for my year group.”

In all his success, Traveer knows he did not do it alone.

His parents, Ria and Deryck Pattron, are his biggest support system.

And like the old saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child.

“I would like to thank my parents, grandparents, siblings and family members for their loving support and encouragement.

“I would also like to thank my teachers for sharing their skills and knowledge. They provided a loving and nurturing school environment.”

While there is still some time to go before Traveer starts his new school, he is already preparing.

Traveer’s older brother Triston goes to Hillview and he is using his notebooks and textbooks to get familiar with the subjects taught at the Tunapuna school.

With extra time indoors since March, due to covid19, Traveer plays video games.

He has even learnt how to bake.

So, what’s his favourite treat to bake? Chocolate chip cookies.

Relaxation is important, he said but added children must not lose sight of their goals.

“It is important for young children, like me, to stay in school and work hard so that they can have a good education and be an inspiration to everyone around them."