Southern Cross Catholic College in Burwood has been crowned Secondary School of the Year (Non-Government) at the 2025 Australian Education Awards held on 8 August in Sydney.

The recognition is a big win for the Year 10–12 specialist college, which focuses on vocational education and training (VET) alongside the HSC. Southern Cross was the only New South Wales finalist in its category which included several high-fee, independent schools.

Principal Tammy Prestage said the accolade validates the school’s model that puts hands-on learning at the centre of senior schooling.

“We are incredibly proud to be recognised as the best in the country,” Ms Prestage said.

“We’ve demonstrated that for many of our students, skills-based learning is as important as academic programs in changing lives. It lifts their aspirations, opens doors to meaningful, purposeful work and sets them up for future success beyond school.”

As part of the Sydney Catholic Schools network, Southern Cross offers nationally recognised qualifications across trades and service industries including hair and beauty, construction, automotive, screen and media, nursing, early childhood education and fitness.

A highly flexible timetable supports a wide range of school-based apprenticeships and traineeships, allowing students to complete the first year of an apprenticeship while finishing their HSC.

“By starting their trade careers early, our students build confidence and capability on the job while earning their HSC,” Ms Prestage said.

“They leave school with credentials that employers recognise and a clear pathway to further training or university.”

The college was also a national finalist in two individual categories, Secondary Principal of the Year (Non-Government) and Secondary Teacher of the Year (Non-Government) underscoring its leadership and practical expertise.

Ms Prestage said the whole school community should be credited for its success.

“Our teachers go above and beyond, our students embrace every opportunity, and our families put their trust in us. Together, we’ve proven there’s no single pathway to success, but for so many of our students, vocational education is their opportunity to shine.”