Haileybury is honoured to have been named Australian School of the Year at the 2026 Australian Education Awards in August.  

The award was a recognition for the entire School and an acknowledgement of all the people who contribute to the Haileybury community. It reflects the hard work and achievements of students, the care and dedication of teachers and staff, and the support of families.  

“Students at Haileybury flourish because of our strong teaching and developmental framework,” reflected Derek Scott, Haileybury CEO|Principal. 

During the same awards evening, Haileybury was also named Primary School of the Year – Non-government for a record seventh time. This was a remarkable achievement and reflects the strength of Haileybury’s Junior School teaching. In addition, Deputy Head of Mathematics Duncan Berg was also recognised, receiving the award for Secondary Teacher of the Year – Non-government. 

“Our evidence-based teaching methods, strong community ethos and clear focus on delivering education excellence in a safe and supportive learning environment have created a school where students and staff have a genuine sense of connection and place. This enables everyone within Haileybury’s community to thrive,” commented Derek. 

Each year, the Australian Education Awards recognise government and non-government schools across Australia in a broad range of categories.  

Being named Primary School of the Year – Non-government is a significant honour and reflects the importance that Haileybury places on early years education. Importantly, the early years are a critical developmental time that shapes how children feel about school and about themselves as they graduate into their Senior School years.  

Haileybury’s approach in Junior School includes developing strong foundations in literacy and numeracy through the School’s Explicit Teaching Model. It is an evidence-based model that is proving so effective that Haileybury is now teaching it to educators around Australia. While fostering strong grounding in literacy and numeracy, the School also builds a love of learning, curiosity and confidence. 

“During the early years of school, a child’s education really takes flight. This is when schools can shape a child’s love of learning, spark curiosity and help them build the confidence they need to ask questions and discover the things that excite them,” says Derek. 

The awards reflect the care, commitment and shared effort that help to make Haileybury such a supportive place for young people to learn, grow and achieve.