St Angela of the Cross Primary School won the title of Emerging School of the Year at the 2025 ResourceSmart Schools Awards in Melbourne last week.
Recognised for its outstanding commitment to integrate sustainability into everyday learning, the school and its community is making a positive impact since joining the ResourceSmart Schools program in 2023.
Among the school's initiatives is Wrapper Free Wednesday, classroom composting, a gardening club and development of the Gippy Bird Habitat Wetland Area, which were shaped with data and research sourced through the school's comprehensive environmental audits.
The two star ResourceSmart school has proven that even small actions can lead to substantial environmental benefits. From monitoring water use, minimising single-use plastics, increasing recycling and composting, to encouraging sustainable travel through initiatives such as Ride to School Day.
The judging panel commended the school's diverse sustainability projects and engagement beyond the school gate.
"What an impressive array of innovative sustainability initiatives - congratulations on achieving such positive impacts and foundations for the school's continuing journey with ResourceSmart Schools," the judges said.
This year's winners were announced at a prestigious awards ceremony held at the MCG on Thursday hosted by TV personality Costa Georgadis.
There were 31 schools vying for an award in Victoria's largest celebration for primary and secondary school students, teachers and school volunteers taking sustainability action.
This year, Sustainability Victoria is marking 16 years of the ResourceSmart Schools Awards with the theme, 'Working Together'.
Matt Genever, Sustainability Victoria chief executive officer Matt Genever commended the school for its passion and energy in protecting our environment.
"St Angela of the Cross Primary School has demonstrated an impressive array of innovative sustainability initiatives and is a tremendous role model that will inspire other schools to take action.
"Congratulations on achieving such positive impacts for the school and wider community."