Outstanding student speakers and performers graced the stage of Sydney Town Hall alongside NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar to launch the 2026 school year on Thursday.

The Back to School 2026 featured performances by the NSW Public Schools Aboriginal Dance Company Events Troupe, guitarist Jason Tran from Canley Vale High School, and Jai Ho Primary Cultural Dance and Song.

Mr Dizdar was also joined by special guest principals, Pete Wilson (Stewart House School), Angela Byron (Oak Flats High School) and Daniel McMahon (Orchard Hills Public School), on stage for a panel discussion.

The Back to School event provides school leaders with the opportunity to come together and hear from Mr Dizdar as he sets the tone and priorities for the year ahead.