Four wins, one standout system - BCE tops 2026 Australian Education Awards

Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) has claimed top honours on the national stage this week, with three educators and one school awarded major prizes at the Australian Education Awards 2026.

BCE Acting Executive Director Ross Tarlinton said the recognition reinforces BCE’s position as one of the country’s leading education systems.

“This national recognition is a significant affirmation of the innovation, teamwork and commitment to student learning that is clearly alive within our 146 schools across South East Queensland,” he said. 

“While awards never capture the full story of a school, they do shine a light on the spirit behind the work, such as educators who serve with purpose, create opportunities for young people to thrive, and build a culture where curiosity and excellence are nurtured.”

STEM excellence

Clairvaux MacKillop College, Upper Mount Gravatt, emerged as a national powerhouse with STEM and Academic Excellence Coordinator Dr Maynard Victor Erece awarded Secondary School Teacher of the Year (Non-Government) and the College securing the Street Science Best STEM Program award.  

Curriculum Leader Science, Katrina Dalglish was also named Department Head of the Year, recognised for her leadership in strengthening the College’s STEM programs.

Her work has focused on building meaningful pathways for young women to engage in STEM, including partnerships with the Queensland University of Technology STEM Ambassadors program, and Griffith University’s SuperGEMS Girls in Motorsports initiative.

These program aims to expand opportunities for young women to explore high-growth STEM fields and build confidence in traditionally underrepresented industries.

These achievements reflect the College’s sector leading approach to STEM, underpinned by strong industry partnerships and authentic, hands-on learning experiences that extend well beyond the classroom.

The College also boasts an innovative Space Program, connecting students with industry partners to work on real-world aerospace projects, another example of Brisbane Catholic Education’s commitment to future focused learning.

Dr Maynard Victor Erece acknowledges the collaborative effort from numerous support and teaching staff that made the STEM program a success.

“This recognition reflects the strength of the collaborative culture fostered within the Clairvaux MacKillop College STEM Team. The program has been shaped through the collective expertise, creativity, and commitment of staff who continually work together to provide meaningful and future-focused learning experiences for students. Their contribution is central to the success and ongoing growth of the STEM program, and this achievement belongs to the entire team,” he said.

Clairvaux MacKillop College Principal Wayne Chapman said the recognition reflects a shared commitment to excellence across the College.

“Our achievements are a testament to the passion, dedication and purpose that every teacher, student and staff member brings to our community daily,” he said.

Adding to BCE’s success Trinity College, Beenleigh’s Head of Design Technologies Belinda Vlasenko joined Katrina Dalglish as an awardee of the highly competitive category, Department Head of the Year.

A national benchmark for excellence

With BCE educators recognised among Australia’s best and schools leading in innovation, BCE continues to shape the future of learning, equipping young people to grow, achieve, and succeed in an increasingly complex world.

For more information about Clairvaux MacKillop College, Upper Mount Gravatt or to enrol click here.

For more information about Trinity College, Beenleigh click here.

Want to learn more about what makes a Brisbane Catholic Education special? Find a school near you today! Click here.

About the Australia Education Awards 2026

Presented by The Educator, the Australian Education Awards recognise educators and leaders who make an outstanding impact on their students, schools, and communities. As Australia’s leading independent education awards, they celebrate excellence across schools, principals, department heads, and teachers nationwide.

Image caption: Clairvaux MacKillop College, Upper Mount Gravatt, emerged as a national powerhouse at this year's Australian Education Awards 2026. STEM and Academic Excellence Coordinator Dr Maynard Victor Erece featured far left. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, Claivaux MacKillop College, Upper Mount Gravatt (2026).