Shayley won the 2009 South Western Sydney Vocational School Student of the Year award against students from TAFE colleges in Bankstown. Liverpool, Miller, Granville, Lidcombe, Macquarie Fields, Padstow, Wetherill Park and Campbelltown.

She said she has studied tourism at TAFE since 2008 and was extremely grateful to receive the award.

``It is a great privilege and a huge surprise to win this award,'' she said.

``Because I already work part-time in the industry I have really enjoyed the course and hope to continue in the industry once I leave school.''

School headmaster Stuart Quarmby congratulated Shayley on her ``outstanding achievement''.

``She has an exemplary academic record and as the college captain has earned the respect of staff and students alike,'' he said.

``Shayley typifies the modern student with huge potential always searching for more than just high academic results.

``She is certainly making the most of her options in secondary education.''

A formal presentation night will be held at Liverpool Catholic Club on July 30.