Student Spotlight
The annual Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong (CEDoW) Vocational Education and Training (VET) Awards were held on Thursday 28 August 2025, at Wollongong Golf Club. The event was an opportunity to celebrate the achievements, commitment, and dedication of VET students and trainers in all Catholic schools across the Diocese.
The awards were strongly supported by school communities, including parents, principals, leadership teams, and local industry and partner organisations.
More than 1,600 students are currently undertaking VET courses through CEDoW, helping them prepare for further study, training, or employment after school.
CEDoW Executive Director, Peter Hill, said, “Vocational Education and Training is more than a school program. It is a pathway where students learn through doing, gain real-world experience, and build knowledge, confidence, and capability. Fully integrated into our Catholic curriculum, VET prepares students for employment, further study, or both, while connecting learning with life and broadening career pathways. These awards recognise not only what students have achieved but the immense potential they carry forward.”
Congratulations to the following students on their achievements.
Major Award Winners
- VET Student of the Year:
Stephanie Grant - St Francis Catholic College, Edmondson Park (Business Services)
- School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year:
Emily McLeod - St Mary Star of the Sea College, Wollongong
(Certificate III Early Childhood Education and Care)
- Overall VET trainer of the year:
Ms Melissa Keith - Magdalene Catholic College, Narellan (Hospitality/Cookery)
2025 finalists:
- Business Services Student of the Year:
Monique Gilchrist - Magdalene Catholic College, Narellan
- Entertainment Student of the Year:
Anabella Dicdiquin - St Mary Star of the Sea College, Wollongong
- Construction Student of the Year:
Heidi Colless - St Joseph's Catholic High School, Albion Park
- Electrotechnology Student of the Year:
Zachary Rutter - Holy Spirit College, Bellambi
- Fitness Student of the Year:
Georgia Dudley - St Mary Star of the Sea College, Wollongong
- Outdoor Recreation Student of the Year:
Zeke Beattie - St John the Evangelist Catholic High School, Nowra
- Primary Industries Student of the Year:
Angus Pursehouse - St Gregory's Catholic College, Campbelltown
- Cookery Student of the Year:
Bree McMahon - St Patrick's College, Campbelltown
- Hospitality Student of the Year:
Stephanie Grant - St Francis Catholic College, Edmondson Park
The standard of entries this year was exceptional, and we would like to acknowledge all students and trainers who participated.
