Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) are celebrating a landmark year with the Class of 2025 achieving some of the strongest Higher School Certificate (HSC) results in the system’s history. Nearly 4,500 students completed their exams this year, collectively earning 2,875 Distinguished Achievers listings, 43 Top Achievers, and 53 All Rounders. Notably, five schools ranked among the top 100 high schools in New South Wales, according to The Sydney Morning Herald HSC rankings, with 17 schools in the top 150.
The achievement is underscored by eight students receiving HSC First in Course honours, with five of these accolades going to Bethany College Hurstville. This remarkable performance placed Bethany College second only to Sydney Grammar in the NSW state ranking for First in Course.
Record-Breaking Achievements
This year’s results also saw Band 6 outcomes reaching their highest in five years, setting a new record for top band results. This achievement is particularly significant for Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College Burraneer and De La Salle Catholic College Caringbah, which celebrated their first HSC cohorts after expanding to Year 12. Our Lady of Mercy recorded an impressive 28.4 percent Band 6/E4 rate, which is more than double the NSW state average of 12.4 percent.
Sydney Catholic Schools also excelled in the Creative and Performing Arts and Vocational Education and Training (VET), with students receiving a record 321 nominations across HSC Showcases and 1,989 nationally recognized VET Certificate II and III qualifications.
Leadership and Vision
Sydney Catholic Schools Executive Director Danielle Cronin lauded the Class of 2025 for their exceptional efforts. “These HSC results are a powerful reflection of the perseverance, ambition, and commitment demonstrated by students across Sydney Catholic Schools,” she said. “They underscore the high expectations students hold for themselves, supported by teachers who combine academic rigour with care, guidance, and a deep understanding of each learner.”
Cronin emphasized the diverse pathways pursued by students, highlighting the importance of a holistic education. “Success takes many forms, and this year’s results reflect the rich diversity of pathways our students have pursued, grounded in strong learning foundations and a sense of purpose,” she noted. “A Catholic education seeks to form the whole person, and we hope our graduates leave not only with knowledge and skills, but with confidence, character, and a readiness to serve and lead in the wider world.”
By the Numbers: 2025 HSC Highlights
- Five Sydney Catholic Schools ranked in the Top 100 high schools in NSW, with 17 schools in the Top 150.
- Eight students placed first in the state in various subjects, including Entertainment Industry Examination and Business Services Examination.
- Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College Burraneer achieved a 28.4 percent Band 6/E4 rate.
- Distinguished Achievers included Bethany College Hurstville and Freeman Catholic College Bonnyrigg Heights with 184 listings each.
- Creative and Performing Arts: 181 nominations across various showcases, with 21 inclusions.
- Technology and Applied Studies: 139 nominations, with five inclusions.
Looking Ahead
The outstanding results from Sydney Catholic Schools not only highlight the academic prowess of the students but also set a benchmark for future cohorts. The success reflects the dedication of both students and educators in fostering an environment that values excellence and holistic development. As the Class of 2025 steps into the future, the achievements of this year serve as a testament to the potential of a well-rounded education.
Looking forward, Sydney Catholic Schools are poised to continue their tradition of excellence, with a focus on nurturing the next generation of leaders equipped to make meaningful contributions to society. “We congratulate every student on their achievements and look forward with pride and optimism to the contributions they will make in the years ahead,” Cronin concluded.
