The NSW department of education has issued the 2012 student excellence awards for the Illawarra and South East Region at a ceremony held this morning in Canberra.

48 students and teachers from Helensburgh to the Victorian border were recognised with 12 coming from the coast and highlands.

Regional Director Maria Gray-Spence says the awards demonstrate the strength of our public schools and she was personally delighted at the high standard of nominations for each award this year.

Local students Jackson Wilkes-Walburn from Ulladulla High, Olym Dongyu Zhang from Bowral High and Pollie Miller from Moss Vale High received excellence in student achievement awards.

Tess Elias and Taijha Millbank from Moss Vale High received excellence in student achievement for students with special needs.

Excellence in student leadership was awarded to Alana Faust from Ulladulla high.

Ms Linda Rout from Milton Public School received the excellence in teaching practice with Ms Jemima Finlayson from Moss Vale High receiving an award for excellent contribution beyond the classroom.

Moss Vale High School principal Suzanne Williams was awarded the principals excellence in leadership.

Sally Ray from Bowral High and Bronwyn Hedger from Sussex Inlet Public school both received excellence in contribution to education by a parent or community member awards.

Tamlyn Phillips from Ulladulla High was awarded excellence in educational support by a school employee.

Ulladulla High Scholl was recognised for excellence in school and community partnerships.

All awards were presented at a special ceremony held at Jerrabomberra Public School.