What do former High Court Justice Michael Kirby, Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock, Matildas star Emily van Egmond, astrophysicist Kirsten Banks, celebrity chef Kylie Kwong and bestselling author and educator Kylie Captain have in common?

They are all former NSW public school students and among dozens of high profile alumni who have agreed to join a program, led by Justice Kirby, showcasing the benefits of a public school education.

Launched today to mark the start of Public Education Week, the alumni program reflects this year’s theme, Proud to Belong, and aims to inspire students to think big and see they are part of a community of achievement that extends beyond their school gate.

The program seeks to strengthen students’ sense of belonging and pride, a key step in the NSW Government’s goal of advancing outcomes, opportunities and experiences for all NSW children.

Across almost every industry NSW public school alumni are leading the way, whether at the Reserve Bank, the High Court, or the Olympics; in business, military, arts and entertainment, or as experts in health, education, science and construction.

This year Public Education Week will also kick-off with the inaugural NSW Public Education Awards at Sydney Town Hall to recognise students, teachers, school staff and parents for their exceptional achievement and contribution to public education.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said:

“It is exciting to see the diverse and exceptional range of former public school students stepping forward to support our public school communities through this alumni program.

“I am so proud to see the success stories that come from our incredible public school alumni and I cannot wait to see how they inspire the next generation of students to aim high, work hard and follow their dreams.

“With Public Education Week coinciding with the Paris Olympics, this is also a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the more than 50 public school alumni, staff and current students in the Australian team – some of whom have now won medals in Paris.”

NSW Education Department Secretary Murat Dizdar said:

“As the saying goes, ‘students need to see what they can be’ and through this alumni program we hope to lift their horizons and inspire them to embrace the vast opportunities a public school education will open for them.

“Our incredible alumni will also highlight to parents that a public school education will enable their children to achieve their ambitions and reach the pinnacle in any field they choose.

Former High Court Justice Michael Kirby said:

“I’m still, in my heart, Strathfield North Public School. I haven’t changed in the values I received from my school, my teachers, and my parents – values of kindness, of reaching out, and working for a better society and equality.”

Chef and Powerhouse Museum Associate Kylie Kwong said:

“Education is transformative for the lives of individuals, their families, and the wider community, and I am incredibly passionate about supporting public education to ensure that everyone in society, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to learn and grow and thrive.”