They were: Coonabarabran High - Clayton McKinnon, Legal Studies (20), Dubbo School of Distance Education - Christopher Syme, Entertainment Industry Examination (2) and Dubbo School of Distance Education - Regan Layton, Metal and Engineering Examination (3).

Six Orana public schools had one or more students placed on the Distinguished Achievers List honouring students who scored the top band in one or more subjects.

They were: Coonabarabran High, Dubbo College Senior Campus, Dubbo School of Distance Education, Dunedoo Central, Gilgandra High, and Nyngan High.

Solid results achieved by HSC students at public schools were praised by Public Schools Relieving Executive Director, Graham Kahabka.

Mr Kahabka congratulated students and wished them well for the future.

"We are already hearing of some outstanding results and some wonderful personal achievements," Mr Kahabka said.

"The HSC results are again demonstrating that our local public schools can equip students to achieve up with the top students in the state.

Mr Kahabka said he was confident the latest crop of public school graduates was well-equipped for further study, work and life.

"Many of our students are already well set on their chosen pathway," Mr Kahabka said.

"Whether it is by being awarded early entry at university, securing an apprenticeship or traineeship, establishing themselves in employment or feeling assured that the results they received yesterday will enable them to meet their goals, our students finish 13 years of

schooling ready to take the next step."

Mr Kahabka said it was pleasing to hear from schools about students who were the first in their family to complete school through to the HSC.

"This is a proud moment for these students and their families," Mr Kahabka said.

"Having this well-recognised credential offers assurance of improved life outcomes and a great model to encourage other family members to make the most of educational opportunities."