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Lobethal Lutheran School recognised at the 2026 Australian Education Awards

Lobethal Lutheran School has been recognised at the 2026 Australian Education Awards, the peak national awards program for schools, earning Excellence Awardee status in two prestigious categories: Primary School of the Year (Non‑Government) and Best Co‑Curricular Program.

This recognition reflects a year of nationally significant impact, with the school continuing to build momentum from multiple honours across 2025 and 2026 in educational leadership, innovation, and community contribution.

Our Recognition at a Glance

Primary School of the Year (Non‑Government) – Excellence Awardee (2026)

Best Co‑Curricular Program – Excellence Awardee (2026)

Principal of the Year – Award Winner (2025–26)

ACEL Leader of the Year – Award Winner (2025–26)

Citizen of the Year Principal – Award Winner (2025–26)

Citizen of the Year  Parents & Friends Association – Award Winner (2025–26)

Primary School of the Year (Non‑Government)

This category recognises schools demonstrating excellence in teaching and learning, strong student outcomes, effective stewardship, and a deep commitment to innovation and community connection.

At Lobethal Lutheran School, this recognition reflects a clear vision brought to life in practice.

Key elements included:

  • Outstanding academic growth, exceeding state benchmarks in literacy and numeracy
  • A strong, integrated focus on student wellbeing and engagement
  • The development and national expansion of Beyond Outdoor Learning
  • A culture of high-quality, evidence-based teaching
  • Deep and authentic family and community partnership
  • Strategic leadership enabling a small regional school to deliver impact beyond its size

Outcomes speak clearly:

  • High levels of student engagement, confidence and readiness to learn
  • Continued enrolment growth, reflecting strong community trust
  • Recognition of leadership, innovation and community contribution at local and national levels

Best Co‑Curricular Program: Beyond Outdoor Learning

The Best Co‑Curricular Program award recognises initiatives that enrich learning beyond the classroom and foster the development of essential personal capabilities.

At Lobethal Lutheran School, this award celebrates Beyond Outdoor Learning, a whole‑school program that integrates forest skills, emotional literacy and experiential learning.

Judges recognised:

  • The intentional connection between wellbeing and academic success
  • A structured, repeatable learning model that builds confidence, agency and resilience
  • High levels of student engagement and participation
  • Strong alignment with the Australian Curriculum and General Capabilities

In 2025, the program expanded significantly through:

  • The publication of a practitioner book
  • The launch of an open‑access website
  • Ongoing sector visits and partnerships
  • The introduction of the #ScreenToGreen movement, supporting families nationally

This work is grounded in a clear purpose: ensuring students develop the skills, confidence and resilience to thrive in learning and in life.

A Note from Fiona Castle‑Schmidt, School Chair

“This recognition is a powerful affirmation of the exceptional work taking place at Lobethal Lutheran School. It reflects a community deeply committed to young people, where innovation, care, and high expectations sit side by side. I congratulate our leadership, staff, students, and families – this is a shared achievement, and one we can all be incredibly proud of.”

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