Laguna Public School won $3000 in the primary schools challenge final, and added $250 to their prize money by defeating St. Philip’s Christian College in the primary school versus high school challenge.

A first-time finalist, Laguna defeated Cessnock West in a tie-breaker after the two schools were locked up after 20 questions each and a rapid-fire round.

Laguna Public School principal Christine Davey (no relation to the Mayor) said the win was a big confidence boost for the 34-student school.

“The community is abuzz – the staff, students and parents,” Ms. Davey said.

“It is a huge plus for public education.”

Ms. Davey thanked Mayor of Cessnock, Cr. Alison Davey and her personal assistant Pauline Ross for organising the day and all of the sponsors.

At the suggestion of the students, Laguna will be putting their prize money towards new readers, Lego and interactive whiteboard materials.

Cessnock West continued its good form in the challenge, which the school won in 2007 and was also runner-up in 2008.

Branxton Public School also made the final for the first time, coming in third place and taking home $1000.

St. Philip’s had earlier won $250 in the high school challenge for Year 7 students, the first time the city’s newest secondary school has taken out first place.

“It’s great news for the small schools,” said Mayor of Cessnock, Cr. Alison Davey.

“The academic brilliance of our students is amazing. I congratulate every school who participated and to the schools who were unable to participate due to other commitments for their contribution to education our young people.”

Previous winners of the Mayoral Academic Challenge include Cessnock East Public School (2006), Cessnock West (2007) and Cessnock Public (2008).