The Deputy Head Boy of Apia Primary School has added another feather to his cap – that of dux of his primary school.

Leinad Pule of Vaivase Tai was declared the dux of Apia Primary School on Tuesday after he attained first place in English, Maths, Social Studies, Health and Physical Education and Visual Arts.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer, the 13-year-old said he is lost for words with his achievement and for making the list for Samoa College in 2021.

"I’m very speechless actually, I have no words but I am very glad that I have made my family proud," he said in an interview. 

"Not only have I made it to Samoa College, but I think there are quite a few of us here that have made it to Samoa College, and I’m grateful to God for that for his love and goodness that all of us have made it through this year and to Samoa College."

Mr Pule is following in the footsteps of his older siblings who are all Samoa College former students, together with his father who is also an alumni.

"Going to Samoa College has been a dream of mine ever since I was young and my dad, sister and my brother attended Samoa College and I’ve heard stories from my dad about the college," he added.

Looking back on the journey he has taken, up until his Year 8 graduation on Tuesday, Mr Pule said it was challenging due to the hard work and sleepless nights.

"I think the challenge for me this year was really trying to find the right answers for my schoolwork," he said while laughing.

"But I was able to overcome it by really doing the work and through sleepless nights of studies and really keep going even in the early hours of the morning.

"I think I got through the year with the help of all the students in my class, in our level and just the whole school actually."

Mr Pule said his responsibilities as the school’s Deputy Head Boy required him to help the teachers and principal look after some of the classes and the school, which he is proud and grateful to the school for.

"My role as deputy head boy I was able to help the teachers and principals by looking after the kids and just going about my duties as a deputy head boy telling students to clean up their rubbish and just help look after some of the classes," he added.

"Many thanks to the principal, the vice-principal, the teachers and the whole school for educating me and for the experience in this school which has improved my understanding and knowledge of things.

"They’ve helped in fostering a good attitude for me and I’ve learned respect and obedience from my experience here."

The top student said he is not sure yet of what he wants to be when he grows up, however, he said his father’s IT background has already made an impression on him.

Leinad is the son of Ie Pule and Leefu Pule.