The reason they didn't, and subsequently went on to become school captains at Canobolas Rural Technology High School (CRTHS), is because of their school's support staff, the VERTO Aboriginal Youth Leadership Program and their mentor, Aunty Mary Croaker.

"I absolutely hated school when I started and was desperate to drop out as soon as I could in Year 10," vice captain Nick explained.

"If it wasn't for Aunty Mary (Croaker), the Aboriginal Youth Leadership Program and the CRTHS teachers there's no way that I would have stayed and graduated."

Captain Tyren agreed, adding: "I was the same. It's funny now that I look back, the senior years were the best years at school and I'm so glad my teachers (and) Aunty Mary (Croaker) ... helped me stay in school."

Tyren and Nick's decision to complete their HSC was well rewarded at their graduation ceremony.

Tyren was awarded the highest marks in the school for Aboriginal Studies, and the CRTHS Prize for Leadership.

Nick's awards included the highest marks in the school for mathematics one and The Rotary Club of Orange Daybreak Youth Service Above Self Award.

The boys' mentor, Ms Croaker, was full of pride for the pair she had watched grow up.

"I still remember when they started in Year 7. To see them now, I'm humbled to know we had a small impact on how far they have become and how they see themselves now - strong Aboriginal men," she said.

"I'm so grateful to be a part of their lives. They're great people, great role models and have big futures ahead of them."

Tyren hopes to work in the sporting or community services field, while Nick has his eyes set on becoming an apprentice heavy diesel mechanic.

Either way, both students are keen to work with the next generation of young Aboriginal people and let their actions lead by example.