Specimen Hill Primary School grade four student Layla Evans and grade five student Augustus Weinstock received medals in the University of NSW's International Competitions and Assessments for Schools.

The medals recognise students who receive the top score for their year level in a particular subject.

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Miss Evans was awarded a medal for English, while Mr Weinstock was recognised for his science achievements.

Principal Wendy Jackson said the Specimen Hill community was proud of the students.

"We're a very small primary school in Golden Square," she said. "To have two students achieve this, it's pretty special."

Ms Jackson said schools should view academic achievements at the same level as awards in sport and the arts.

"These are gifted students but they are still showing great application, curiosity, and a thirst for knowledge," she said.

The students would normally receive the medals at a ceremony in Melbourne, but the event was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Instead, the students were handed the accolade in front of their peers at the end-of-year school assembly.

"I think the award is extra special in a year of disrupted learning," Ms Jackson said. "Students were encouraged to be self-motivated and self-directed.

"It's a wonderful achievement in any year, but particularly in the year 2020."

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