Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) is proud to announce that two students have been named winners at the 2025 Regional Training Awards – a prestigious program recognising excellence in Vocational Education and Training (VET) across New South Wales.

Bridie Irwin from Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College Kensington was named Vocational Student of the Year, while Taine Wihare was named School-Based Apprentice of the Year, after both showcased outstanding practical skills, perseverance, and a deep dedication to their future careers.  

The pair will now represent the region at the NSW Training Awards State Final on 11 September 2025 at Town Hall.

Four other SCS students, together with one teacher, were also finalists at the awards, highlighting the strength of SCS’ VET programs. 

Kevin Carragher, Director of Education and Research at Sydney Catholic Schools, said the achievements of students and staff in the Regional Training Awards highlight the impact of purposeful investment in VET pathways.

“These results are a powerful reflection of the system-wide commitment SCS has made to VET. 

“From our dedicated teachers and trainers to our strategic industry partnerships and state-of-the-art school-based trade training centres, we are building pathways that not only lead to national recognition, but to fulfilling, long-term careers. Our students’ success at awards like these demonstrates what’s possible when excellence is embedded across every level of support,” Mr Carragher said.

Meet our winners 

Bridie Irwin — Vocational Student of the Year
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College Kensington

Bridie Irwin has been recognised for her outstanding commitment to Retail Services and her advocacy for Vocational Education and Training (VET). Her determination, resilience, and leadership have positioned her as a future industry leader. Bridie applies her skills in the real world through her employment at Woolworths, where she consistently demonstrates professionalism and customer service excellence. Her journey has been supported by passionate VET teachers Karen Mott and Paula Angelou, and VET Coordinator Gabrielle Killorn, who have each played a key role in her growth and success.

“We are so proud of Bridie and this enormous achievement. It brought tears to our eyes and is one of my best, most fulfilling moments in my teaching career”
 – Karen Mott, VET Retail Services Teacher

Taine Wihare — School-Based Apprentice of the Year
De La Salle College Caringbah & St Yon Trade Training Centre Bankstown

Taine Wihare is excelling as a School-Based Apprentice in Carpentry, successfully managing the demands of his HSC studies, apprenticeship, sporting commitments, and school leadership. With a clear vision for his future in the construction industry, Taine has demonstrated maturity beyond his years. His growth has been guided by trainers Adrian McKevett and Peter Faber, and supported by Stephanie O’Brien, Pathways and Partnerships Leader, who coordinated his SBAT placement and ensures he maintains a strong school–work balance. Taine’s real-world experience is further enhanced by his employment with Micon Projects NSW, where Ryan Morrison plays a valuable role as his workplace mentor.

“This is a remarkable moment for our College community and a proud milestone we can all celebrate. Taine’s journey, from his early days in Year 7 to the young man he is today, highlights not only his personal growth and transformation, but also the powerful impact of nurturing strengths and passions. It’s a testament to what is possible for our young men when they are supported to follow their own path. Congratulations and thank you to every teacher who has contributed to his journey”
 – Stephanie O’Brien, Pathways and Partnerships Leader

Meet our finalists 

Sienna Sultana — Vocational Student of the Year
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College Kensington

Sienna is completing a Certificate III in Business Services with ambition and drive. Excelling in her placements at Ajaka & Co and Winning Appliances, she plans to use her qualification as a stepping stone towards university studies in Primary Education, while gaining valuable office experience to support her journey.

Lillie Loveridge — Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
Brigidine Catholic College Randwick (course delivered at Southern Cross Catholic College)

Lillie is pursuing a Certificate III in School-Based Education Support through her deep passion for helping others learn and grow. Working at St Andrews Primary School, she aims to make a meaningful difference in students’ educational journeys.

Ceira Roche — School-Based Apprentice of the Year
St John Bosco Catholic College Engadine

Ceira has blossomed from a quiet junior student into a confident early childhood education trainee. Working at Gumnut Early Education Centre, where she once attended as a child, she has earned rave reviews and demonstrates the transformative power of VET.

Maddison Heslehurst — Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood

A Certificate II in Salon Assistant student and national WorldSkills competitor, Maddison is already excelling in the hairdressing trade. Her discipline, talent, and passion reflect the high standards and industry readiness fostered by SCS VET programs.

Teacher spotlight: Amanda Clarke

Also recognised this year is Amanda Clarke, a finalist for VET Trainer/ Teacher of the Year. Based at Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood, Amanda brings a wealth of industry experience from her background as a successful hospitality business owner. 

Her passion for vocational education, commitment to upskilling, and ability to engage and inspire students reflect the high standard of VET teaching across Sydney Catholic Schools.