Curro Century City learner Zhongwei Liao ranks top 1% for Mathematics
05 February 2026A move to a new country and a new language set a steep challenge for Zhongwei Liao. Two years later, the Curro Century City learner finished among the school’s top academic performers, with an 82.57% overall average, five subject A averages, and a top 1% IEB ranking for Mathematics.
Arriving at Curro Century City High School unable to speak English, Zhongwei faced the immediate task of learning in a language he did not yet understand. Rather than stepping back, he chose a focused, practical approach. ‘What worked for me was listening to more English and speaking more. I also tried to think in English,’ he said.
Building academic fluency
Zhongwei soon realised that everyday conversation and classroom language required different skills. ‘Speaking English and academic English are totally different,’ he explained. To close that gap, he practised past examination papers, watched English television series, and spoke regularly with friends.
That routine led to distinctions in five subjects, including scores of 90% and above in two, and a standout Mathematics result that placed him in the IEB’s top 1%.
Support behind the results
Zhongwei credited the support around him. ‘The most helpful support was absolutely the patience from all my teachers and the encouragement from the school. To get top marks, you can never do it without their support,’ he said.
His achievements were recognised with the Head of High School Award, presented to acknowledge academic excellence achieved while overcoming personal barriers.
Advice for other learners
‘Do it and strive and do not delay because the outcome will be better than your expectation,’ said his father. Zhongwei encourages others to face challenges with confidence. ‘Never be afraid because a challenge also leads to growth,’ he said.
Now studying Chemistry at the University of Cape Town, Zhongwei’s school journey stands as a clear example of steady effort, consistent practice and belief in progress.