The Port Macquarie college works with students disengaged from mainstream education. It graduated 12 students with records of school achievement this year.

Principal John Beaumont said this moment is the culmination of many milestones for students, teachers and the college.

"The progress and successes of Nautilus College do not occur in isolation and it is a wonderful testament to the local community that we have been able to thrive throughout 2019," he said.

"The efforts displayed by students this year are commendable but education is a life long journey and one certainly worth experiencing.

"The college has journeyed significantly since we began in January with 17 students (rising to 41).

"Enrolments have progressed to the stage where we need a larger premises and the foresight of the Mid North Coast Community College has seen the purchase of five Albert Circuit. This will provide us with greater opportunity and room for further development."

The Nautilus Principal's Award presented and sponsored by The Sunrise Rotary Club of Port Macquarie was won by year nine student, Jasmine Berrigan.

The 2019 Student of the Year Award was presented by the Zonta Club of Port Macquarie and won by Jess Honeyman.

"It has been a lot more supportive than mainstream education and I think I've achieved a lot more than when I was there," said Ms Honeyman.

"You get more one on one time and you can express how you feel. There are ups and downs but it's been pretty good for me.

"I'm proud of myself because I was in a rough place where I didn't think I would finish. It's a bit sad and it's been a long road.

"I'd say to people just to give it a go. They are not going to keep you here if you don't want to be here."

Caleb Law and Blake Mearrick won the Achievement through Persistence Awards for their exemplary diligence and academic perseverance.

Character, Commitment and Citizenship Awards were collected by Silas Gill, Shearna Russ and Glenn Batterson for their compassion on campus.

Students Silas Gill and Kinta Clanahan were given Attendance and Reliability Awards for their attendance records and task completion.

"It's been such an experience here and we have done a lot. I prefer the education here," said Ms Clanahan.

"I learnt about respect here. If you respect where you go and other people. You get it back and that will take you a long way in life.

"It's a special day just to know you're graduating year 10. When I first started I didn't think I'd get through because I was getting expelled from schools and I didn't understand the work.

"Next I'll be going to TAFE for year 11 and 12."

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