Lumen Christi Catholic College Year 12 student Thomas "Eddie" Edwards was awarded the 2008 NAIDOC Secondary Student of the Year award in recognition of his commitment to education development and indigenous self-identity.

"I was very surprised to receive the award but very honoured at the same time," he said.

Aboriginal Education Assistant at the school Vanessa Capstick, said that she believed Eddie was very deserving of the award.

"We interviewed his friends and classmates as well as staff to put together his nomination," she said.

"We wanted to give a view of the whole person and the contribution that a student can make to the community."

Three senior indigenous students were nominated for the award.

They were John Aldridge (Year 11) Ranita McCann, (Year 12 ) and Jema Williams (Year 12 ).