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An unwavering commitment to students, a passion for teaching, and a drive to make a difference—these are the shared qualities of the outstanding individuals honoured at the 2025 Catholic Education Awards.

Held last night (Thursday 15 May) at Hilton Adelaide, the annual awards ceremony brought together staff, dignitaries, and special guests to recognise the exceptional educators, leaders, volunteers and support staff who breathe life into Catholic Education across South Australia.

Now in its fourth year, the Awards are a highlight of Catholic Education Week (12–18 May) and acknowledge excellence across 11 categories, including Leadership, Early Career and Experienced Teacher, Religious Education, Volunteer, and Inclusive Education.

Among the recipients were:

• Isabelle Roberts (Loreto College, Marryatville), recognised for Leadership Excellence following a 46-year career in Catholic education.

• Nicholas Hauschild (Saint Ignatius’ College, Athelstone & Norwood), recipient of the Laudato Si’ Award, honoured for his leadership in sustainability and environmental responsibility.

• Joel Head (St Mark’s College, Port Pirie), whose work in developing the College’s Agricultural Centre has strengthened ties with the local farming community and opened up new student pathways.

• Natasha Smith (Sacred Heart College), celebrated for her transformative impact on the Mathematics faculty, both in the classroom and through mentoring colleagues.

• Erin Coppins (Tenison Woods Catholic School), recognised for her innovative approach to Religious Education, blending music, storytelling and hands-on learning.

• Leslie Nesbitt (Kildare College), a volunteer of more than two decades, who has significantly enriched students’ scientific learning through the creation of a specialist laboratory and tissue culture room.

This year, a new award category was introduced to celebrate Inclusive Education. The inaugural recipient, Compass Catholic Community in Davoren Park, was honoured for its commitment to helping young adults complete their education in a supportive and inclusive environment.

St Raphael’s School (Parkside) was also recognised for its Reading Revolution program—a modern, family-inclusive approach to early literacy that bridges early learning and primary education.

The evening was hosted by well-known broadcaster Jess Adamson and attended by The Hon. Blair Boyer MP, Minister for Education, Training and Skills; Jacinta Collins, Executive Director of the National Catholic Education Commission; Dr Neil McGoran, Executive Director of Catholic Education SA; and John Neate, Chair of the South Australian Commission for Catholic Schools.

The event followed Mass at St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral, led by Archbishop Patrick O’Regan.

Dr McGoran praised the recipients and nominees:

"These awards give us the opportunity to recognise just some of the many exceptional people working in Catholic education who give so much of themselves in service to our communities. Their passion, care, and commitment bring life to our mission."

Nichii Mardon, Director of Catholic Education Diocese of Port Pirie, added:

"These educators and volunteers go above and beyond every day. Their impact is immense, and their dedication ensures our students are supported to become the very best versions of themselves."

👉 Read the full list of 2025 Catholic Education Award recipients here!