Bishop Druitt College (BDC) has been named one of The Educator’s 5-Star Best Schools for 2025, a national recognition that highlights excellence in teaching, innovation, and student wellbeing. The inaugural list celebrates schools that demonstrate leadership and impact across six key pillars: innovative extracurricular programs, student support, safety and wellbeing, technology in learning, diversity and inclusion, and holistic student development.

Principal Simon Doyle said the award reflects the strength and depth of BDC’s programs across both academic and wellbeing domains.

“This award is a testament to our commitment to holistic student development and inclusive learning,” Mr Doyle said. “At BDC, we pride ourselves on creating an environment where every student is known, supported, and inspired to thrive.”

Chris Sweeney, Managing Editor for Special Reports at The Educator, shared his insights on the selection process, stating, “Bishop Druitt College fully merit their 5-Star recognition for exemplifying educational excellence. Their forward-thinking approach and dedication to comprehensive student growth are evident through innovative extracurricular offerings, advanced technology integration, and a strong focus on wellbeing initiatives.

The Educator‘s 30+ strong Intelligence Unit compiled the final winners list after the completion of a rigorous 3 months process, canvassing the opinions of objective industry experts and collating leading-edge research. In addition, further insight was provided by The Educator’s esteemed judging panel. The prestigious list of honourees was then matched with the 5-Star Best Schools’ precise criteria.

A key initiative contributing to the recognition is the Kaizen Initiative, a signature program for Years 5–8 that challenges gifted students while expanding opportunities for all learners.

“What sets BDC apart is our ability to recognise and nurture talent beyond traditional academic measures,” Mr Doyle explained. “The Kaizen Initiative is just one example of how we embrace diversity in learning, identifying student strengths across a broad range of areas, all at no extra cost to families.”

BDC’s recognition also stems from its whole-school approach to wellbeing, anchored by a dedicated K–12 Wellbeing Hub staffed by school counsellors, chaplains, and a family therapist. Proactive programs like SEAL (Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning) in primary, structured pastoral care in secondary, and the introduction of Barkley, the college’s wellbeing dog, ensure students feel supported emotionally, socially, and academically.

The college’s global engagement also drew praise. As a proud member of the Round Square network, BDC offers students meaningful international opportunities through conferences, service projects, and cultural exchange programs with partner schools in Japan, France, and Cambodia.

“We are deeply committed to developing culturally aware, globally minded young leaders,” Mr Doyle said.

Technology also plays a major role in BDC’s innovation. BDC’s digital learning strategy includes BDC Horizon Online, immersive content using AI-generated video, and cutting-edge technologies such as ClassVR, HTC Vive Pro 2, DJI RoboMasters, LEGO Spike Prime, and driving simulation software, all embedded into the K–12 curriculum.

“These tools aren’t just impressive, they’re meaningful,” Mr Doyle noted. “They foster creativity, critical thinking, and future-ready skills that students will take beyond the classroom.”

Another standout factor is the college’s comprehensive career education program, which spans Year 5 to Year 13. Designed by a full-time, qualified careers practitioner and aligned with the Australian Blueprint for Career Development, the program equips students for lifelong learning through structured stages of career exploration, development, and planning.

“Every initiative we implement is designed to meet the needs of today’s learners while preparing them for tomorrow’s world,” Mr Doyle said. “From academic enrichment to wellbeing, from global citizenship to career readiness it’s all about supporting the whole child.”

As a regional independent school in Coffs Harbour, Bishop Druitt College is proud to demonstrate that outstanding education isn’t confined to major cities.

“Being selected as one of the country’s leading schools highlights the innovation and care that drives our approach every day,” Mr Doyle added. “We are proud to be a place where every student can grow and thrive right here on the Coffs Coast.”

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About 2025 The Educator 5-Star Best Schools

The Educator’s 5-Star Best Schools report spotlighted Australia’s most forward-thinking and impactful schools—those that redefined excellence in education. This inaugural initiative celebrated schools that demonstrated outstanding performance and innovation across multiple dimensions of student learning and wellbeing.

School leaders, administrators, and education professionals were invited to complete a detailed online survey, providing quantitative and qualitative data about their school’s programs, initiatives, and outcomes. The survey was designed to assess key performance areas that defined a truly exceptional school experience.

Submissions were assessed based on the following core pillars of educational excellence:

• Innovative extracurricular programs
• Comprehensive student support
• Safety and wellbeing initiatives
• Technology in learning
• Diversity and inclusion
• Holistic student development

The Educator’s editorial and research team evaluated all eligible entries, taking into account both measurable outcomes and the strength of each school’s narrative. Final selections were made based on overall impact, originality of programs, and demonstrated commitment to student success.

A total of 34 schools were awarded 5-Star Best Schools in Australia, providing inspiration and best practices for their peers across the country.