Newtown High School of the Performing Arts on Gadigal land has again cemented its reputation for excellence in vocational education and training (VET), with student Grace Hardy recognised among the state’s top achievers at the NSW 2025 First in Course ceremony.

Grace was placed first in the HSC VET Entertainment Industry course and also tied for second in Human Services; an achievement her school says reflects both her dedication and the breadth of opportunities available to students.

“I'm quite surprised, but also proud,” Grace said. “But it also shows that all my hard work throughout the two years of the course has paid off.”

Principal Dr Susan Green said the recognition reflected Grace’s efforts.

“We feel pride and the sense that it is well deserved for Grace, who worked so hard throughout the year,” she said.

Dr Green described Grace as “a mature, dedicated and modest student, intrinsically motivated to achieve her personal best in all her subjects,” noting that Newtown High School of the Performing Arts offers students extensive choice to pursue their passions.

She added that Grace is “a highly talented musician,” dedicating hours each day to practice while performing in multiple school ensembles and choirs.

Alongside the Entertainment Industry and Human Services, Grace studied Advanced Mathematics, Advanced English, Music and Music 2, balancing demanding academic and creative workloads.

Newtown High School of the Performing Arts has a strong track record in VET, having also topped the Entertainment Industry course in 2024.

Dr Green said expert teaching was key.

“Our teachers! We have expert, passionate teachers who know how to challenge, engage and motivate our students,” she said, highlighting Entertainment Industry teacher Zoe Van Munster, who has worked internationally, including six months in the creative industry at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Grace said choosing a VET course was one of the highlights of her HSC.

“There is honestly no downside to taking a VET course,” she said. “It's my favourite course that I took throughout the HSC. I learned so much.”

Dr Green said the results reinforced the value of VET pathways.

“We believe an arts-rich education sets you up for life,” she said.

Grace is now planning a gap year in Canada to complete a ski instructor’s qualification before pursuing her next creative chapter.