St Paul of the Cross Catholic Primary School Dulwich Hill has been ranked second in NSW for overall student growth averages among schools in the top ICSEA quartile, according to an independent analysis of 2025 NAPLAN data published by the Sydney Morning Herald. 

At the centre of the school's improvement is a unique concentration of teaching expertise. 

Approximately 40 per cent of teaching staff are pursuing or have achieved Highly Accomplished or Lead Teacher (HALT) accreditation through NESA, a level of professional commitment rarely seen in a primary school setting. 

For Principal Brooke Watson, the recognition reflects a sustained whole-school commitment to improving outcomes for every student. 

"I'm most proud that these results reflect the growth of every child, not just a select few. Our staff have worked incredibly hard to build consistent, evidence-informed teaching practices while never losing sight of each student's individual needs," Ms Watson said. 

"We use data deeply to understand exactly where each child needs support and challenge," Ms Watson said.  

The school currently has three accredited Lead Teachers, while a further three applications are awaiting final outcomes from NESA. Additional staff have expressed interest in commencing the process. 

The school has also implemented the Newman Selective Gifted Education Program which has driven further professional development and contributed to the growth in results.  

Consequently, Kindergarten enrolments have grown from 11 students in 2022 to 53 students already enrolled for 2027, reflecting the confidence families place in the school's approach. 

Parent Emily Maguire moved her son to St Paul of the Cross after struggling to find a setting that could meet her son's learning needs. 

Initially drawn by the school's student growth results, the family ultimately chose it for its personalised approach, strong communication and commitment to knowing each child as an individual. 

"We had almost given up hope of finding somewhere that got the balance right," Ms Maguire said.  

"St Paul of the Cross changed that." 

Despite the recognition, Principal Brooke Watson said the school's focus remains firmly on what comes next. 

"Our focus is on the whole child. Academic growth matters, but so does confidence, wellbeing, character development and a real sense of belonging." 

Notes

Ranking based on an independent Sydney Morning Herald analysis of 2025 NAPLAN growth data, measuring average student growth between Year 3 and Year 5 across reading, writing, spelling, grammar and numeracy. The school did not submit data for consideration. 

Ranking applies to schools in the top ICSEA quartile. The school did not submit data for consideration and was not contacted prior to publication.