Roger Skeels was a standout student at Carey Baptist Grammar School, entering in 1957 from Deepdene School with a strong academic and sporting record. He quickly excelled, becoming Dux of his form in his first year, earning Cricket colours in 1960, and captaining the First Eleven in 1962, while also competing in cross-country, tennis, and football for the First Eighteen.

In 1961, he qualified for Matriculation and received a Commonwealth Scholarship. By 1962, he was awarded the Henry Meeks Senior Award, appointed School Captain, and served as President of the Student Representative Council.

After graduation, Roger began a Commerce degree at the University of Melbourne, completing the first two years, and stayed active in the Old Carey Grammarians' Association (OCGA).

Tragically, Roger died on 28 February 1965, shocking the Carey community. In his honour, Headmaster Gerard Cramer established the Roger Skeels Memorial Prize for Outstanding Service to the School, first awarded in 1966. Carey remembered him as a "true son" with a bright future ahead.