About 3000 talented public school students from throughout the State converged on the Sydney Entertainment Centre to continue the 18-year tradition that The Guinness Book of Records lists as the biggest show of its kind in the world.

There was a special local flavour at this year’s spectacular.

Former Dubbo South High School student Stevan Ramsay had one of his original compositions, Heroes, feature. The song was also performed at the recent Goodwill Games in Brisbane.

Now working full time as a composer, Mr Ramsay graduated from Dubbo South High School in 1993. He performed at five School Spectaculars.

Former Dubbo South High School teacher Barry Foster, who now heads the education department’s specialist units and produces the spectacular, paid the ultimate compliment to the 2001 edition.

“This was our best spectacular ever,” Mr Foster said.

“Once again we surpassed the standards of talent and excellence that have made the Schools Spectacular a must-see on the Sydney entertainment calendar.

“This year’s theme was Celebrate and we celebrated the best young performers from more than 200 public schools.”

Celebrate presented a spectacle of sensational performers, exciting dance sequences, breathtaking costumes, and music that stirred and inspired.

A one-and-a-half hour special on the spectacular will screen on ABC television next month.