Published 25 Jun 2026
Winners announced for 2026 ResourceSmart Schools Awards
The winners of the 2026 ResourceSmart Schools Awards were announced on 11 June 2026 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, celebrating outstanding sustainability initiatives across Victoria’s school communities.
Held under the theme “Our sustainable community,” the annual awards recognised 12 schools, students, and educators who are leading the way in environmental action and education. The event is the state’s largest sustainability celebration for primary and secondary school students, teachers, and volunteers.
This year’s theme highlighted the power of collaboration—showcasing how teachers, students, and community stakeholders are sharing knowledge, passion, and commitment to create a more sustainable future.
The Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) congratulates registered teacher Ben Coleman who has been recognised in the 2026 ResourceSmart Schools Awards for his long-standing commitment to sustainability education.
Secondary School Teacher of the Year
Ben Coleman - St Monica’s College, Epping
Since taking on the role of Sustainability Coordinator in 2012, Ben has embedded sustainability into the fabric of the school’s identity. He has transformed the college’s wetlands and gardens into dynamic “living classrooms,” where students engage in hands-on, cross-curricular learning.
Students explore sustainability through a range of subjects, including
- Science - investigating ecosystems and climate impacts
- Humanities - learning about First Nations knowledge and biodiversity
- Arts and English - drawing inspiration from natural environments
Beyond the classroom, Ben has developed strong partnerships with environmental organisations, local councils, and other schools. These collaborations enable knowledge-sharing through tours, workshops, and mentorship, supporting broader school communities in their sustainability journeys.
Judges praised his work, noting:
“It was great to see an emphasis on student empowerment and leadership. We loved the diversity of approaches to sustainability, including the incorporation of STEM and futures skills learning.”
Ben’s leadership continues to inspire students to become informed, passionate advocates for a sustainable future.
VIT acknowledges the following 2026 ResourceSmart Schools Award winners
- Primary School Teacher of the Year
Stephen McNeight –Wendouree Primary School, Wendouree - the garden specialist who transformed this school’s campus and learning - ResourceSmart School of the Year
RedGum, The Waldorf School of Central Victoria (Muckleford) – recognised for outstanding whole-school sustainability leadership - Campus Infrastructure and Operations School of the Year
Melbourne Indigenous Transition School (Richmond) – recognised for sustainable campus improvements driven by Indigenous knowledge and student involvement - Emerging School of the Year
Fitzroy North Primary School and Lilydale Heights College – recognised for quickly embedding sustainability practices - Curriculum Leadership School of the Year
Wandin North Primary School and Box Hill High School – recognised for innovative sustainability teaching - CDS Vic Excellence Award
Pleasant Street Primary School and Lilydale Heights College – recognised for leadership in recycling and waste reduction.
Driving a Sustainable Future
The ResourceSmart Schools Awards continue to highlight the important role schools play in shaping environmentally responsible communities. From infrastructure upgrades to curriculum innovation and student leadership, the 2026 winners demonstrate how education can drive real-world sustainability outcomes.
For the full list of winners, finalists and projects, visit Sustainability Victoria.