The year 12 cohort were presented with their graduation portfolios at a major awards ceremony to honour their achievements and successes ahead of the Higher School Certificate examinations in October.

Lucy Westcott was named the Student of the Year, taking out several major awards across multiple subjects as well as community service and leadership honours.

Principal Jim Dempsey congratulated all students on their achievements. A mass was held at St Agnes' church where Fr Paul Gooley wished every student a lifetime of success with the qualities of respect and kindness at the foundation of everything they do.

"Fr Gooley spoke about your time at St Joseph's Regional College. He prayed that your time here has taught you how to live well. Not only how to survive academically, but also your time here has taught you how to thank God, care for others, how to forgive, how to love others and how to give back to the community," Mr Dempsey said.

"He asked you to take a couple of seconds each day to thank God for all you have - your education, the staff who have helped you, for your parents, family and friends who have been with you throughout this journey.

"Finally, I hope over the next few weeks you will be able to approach your exams in a confident manner so you are determined to demonstrate all you have learned over these past few years.

"It is important to remember there is life after the HSC and that there are many pathways to careers you might wish to pursue.

"You will encounter all kinds of exciting things as you move beyond College life. But it remains a world awaiting your energy, your dedication and your generosity of heart."

The full list of major awards winners are:

Course Awards - First Place

Academic Excellence Awards

Orla Aherne, Tessa Connors, Olivia Coram, Jerica David, Kalisha Glover, Lauren Jones and Lucy Westcott.

Year 12 Major Awards

The HSC exams commence on Thursday, October 17.