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Sydney Catholic Schools

Southern Cross Catholic College named Australia’s best non-government secondary school

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 …

August 15, 2025|
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St Mary’s Cathedral College & Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich shaping future of education

Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) is celebrating the achievements of two outstanding schools – St Mary’s Cathedral College Sydney and Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich – for their remarkable contributions to education in 2024. 

Both schools have been recognised in The Educator’s 5-Star Innovative Schools 2024 awards for their pioneering teaching approaches that prioritise student success and well-being.

St Mary’s Cathedral College Sydney

St Mary’s Cathedral College, a co-educational K–12 school located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, has earned widespread recognition for its transformative educational model. 

Under the leadership of Principal Kerrie McDiarmid, the College has redefined teaching and learning by integrating critical thinking, student efficacy, and real-world experiences. 

A core tenet of St Mary’s educational philosophy is student efficacy – the belief that how students perceive themselves and their futures influences their success. 

“The key is to expose students to experiences and discussions that enable them to make informed decisions, take ownership of their learning, and feel a greater sense of engagement,” says Principal McDiarmid.

St Mary’s offers an education that extends beyond the classroom, leveraging Sydney’s vibrant urban environment as a dynamic learning space. 

The College’s programs connect students with cultural institutions like the Australian Museum, the Art Gallery of NSW, and industry leaders such as HEX and Sydney FC. These partnerships provide students with hands-on opportunities and professional mentorship, enhancing their learning experience while preparing them for future careers. 

“The city itself is an extended classroom,” explains Principal McDiarmid. “Students have the chance to interact with real-world industries, making informed choices about their futures and increasing their engagement with their studies.”

A notable achievement at St Mary’s is the establishment …

December 20, 2024|
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Bethany College educator claims gold at VET awards

Cassie Bartels, Vocational Education and Training (VET) and External Pathways Coordinator at Bethany College Hurstville has clinched the gold. 

She recently won Education Partner of the Year – Sydney Catholic Schools at the prestigious Partners in Excellence Awards, for outstanding contributions to VET work placement programs for our students across South-East Sydney.

Cassie’s approach is marked by meticulous preparation, ensuring her students thrive with the skills and confidence needed for successful work placements and post-school achievement in the workforce.

Like many educators across the Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) system, her journey into education follows a non-traditional path, uncovering a passion for teaching through extensive industry experience. 

Cassie brings a wealth of practical knowledge from her background in hospitality, with roles in various cafes and restaurants adding a flavourful twist to her teaching style. She relishes the opportunity to share her own stories and experiences, which VET students can directly relate to. 

“I aim to prepare students for their chosen pathways by providing them with real-life scenarios and practical skills. Work placement is a transformative experience for many students, offering them a unique glimpse into their desired industries,” Miss Bartels said. 

Cassie oversees three VET subjects at Bethany College including Business Services, Hospitality and Entertainment. 

Alongside supporting work placements, she also facilitates a range of additional VET courses available across the system through three SCS Trade Training Centres, and external partnerships such as TAFE NSW.

Bethany College’s VET programs reflect the wider offerings and programs available across the SCS system, providing students with state-of-the-art facilities and hands-on experiences.

“Our programs offer students not just experience that looks fantastic on a resume, but more importantly qualifications alongside their HSC. 

“While on their work placement, some students receive job offers to start part-time …

May 30, 2024|
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