When Sam Lethbridge joined St Andrews as a Year 7 student in 2018, his goal was clear: he wanted to pursue a career in music. By the time he graduated in 2023, that dream was well on its way to becoming a reality, thanks to the opportunities, support, and experiences he embraced during his school years at St Andrews Lutheran College.
Since graduating, Sam, who performs as Parker, has continued on a journey that has been nothing short of extraordinary. From recording music in Los Angeles to commencing a Bachelor of Contemporary Music at Southern Cross University, he is fully immersed in his passion.
Sam has achieved remarkable milestones early in his career. In April, he received a Queensland Music Award in the Youth category for his song Sofa Bed. Soon after, he secured the top spot in the 2024 International Songwriting Competition's Youth category. His newest single, Local Paradise, which pays homage to various local landmarks, has also garnered an impressive 138,000 streams on Spotify. Sam was also featured in an article by the Gold Coast Music Network, highlighting his accomplishments.
He has even formed a band with fellow St Andrews alumni Charlie May and Sam Cuthbert, along with some university friends. Together, they have been performing at local venues—a collaborative effort Sam describes as “awesome and so much fun.”
Sam’s accomplishments don’t end there, in 2024 the band have played their first headline gig and also recently played his first support gig with his band supporting Ben Lee.
Of particular note is Sam’s favourite experience – winning a scholarship to The Prodigy Camp (for teen songwriters and filmmakers) in the mountains of Washington State near Seattle. Sam was one of only 20 young people from around the world to attend the program which had amazing mentors, including Chappell Roan.
Reflecting on his time at St Andrews, Sam speaks highly of the diverse opportunities the school provided. “I’m proud to have been part of a school where everyone had the chance to explore different things. I could immerse myself in music, sport, and art—everything I loved. That doesn’t happen at all schools”. One of his most memorable experiences was participating in the Kokoda Challenge, which he describes as ‘life-changing’. “The team camaraderie, personal growth, and sense of accomplishment were next level.”
St Andrews not only nurtured Sam’s love for extracurricular activities—such as Futsal, Touch Football, and Kokoda—but also instilled valuable life skills that he continues to carry with him. “The focus was always on teamwork, striving for excellence, respecting others, and putting in the effort to achieve your goals. Those lessons are invaluable.”
I’m proud to have been part of a school where everyone had the chance to explore different things. I could immerse myself in music, sport, and art—everything I loved. That doesn’t happen at all schools
Sam’s advice to current students is simple yet notable: “The final years of school fly by. Cherish the time with your friends, and don’t stress too much.” He also emphasises the importance of lifelong learning. For Sam, personal growth involves staying curious, reflecting, and evolving—not only as an individual but also as a songwriter.
As he continues to pursue his dreams, Sam remains deeply grateful for the foundation St Andrews provided. With ambitious goals and exciting adventures ahead, his journey serves as an inspiring example for both current and future students and we look forward to following his career and celebrating his future accomplishments with him. We are proud of you Sam!
Do you have an alumni story to share with our community? We would love to hear from you! Send your stories and photos to alumni@salc.qld.edu.au