In a formal ceremony held at Sydney Town Hall on Monday, Madeline Jackson and Amy Baxter were presented with a Secretary's Award for Outstanding School Achievement for the Stage 2 history project.
The presentation were made in front of a packed audience of dignitaries, members of Parliament, CEOs, family, friends and staff.
The project was recognised for its innovative approach to strengthening connections between Finley High School and local primary schools.
Developed in response to a NSW Department of Education strategy to create meaningful engagement with feeder primary schools before the traditional Year 6 transition program, it was delivered to students at Berrigan and Tocumwal Public Schools.
A culminating event also brought together students from Blighty and Finley Public Schools at Finley High School.
The initiative significantly improved student engagement, strengthened relationships between students and staff, and increased students' confidence about transitioning to high school.
Madeline and Amy received their award from Mr Murat Dizdar, Secretary of the NSW Department of Education.
Earlier in the evening, the Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car presented the Minister's Awards.
The ceremony also featured outstanding performances by talented students from across the NSW public education system.
Finley High School principal Jeff Ward also attended the ceremony, and expressed how immensely proud he was of Madeline and Amy.
“Their dedication, hard work and passion perfectly embody this year's awards theme, ‘Inspiring Excellence’,” he said.
“It was a privilege to nominate Madeline and Amy for this award, and even more rewarding to see their outstanding project recognised on such a prestigious stage.
“Their achievement is one that our entire school community can celebrate with great pride.
“A special thank you goes to the students and staff of Berrigan, Tocumwal, Blighty and Finley Public Schools for their enthusiastic participation and support throughout the project.”
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