At HOTA, we are deeply committed to supporting the next generation of artists. We believe in the power of arts and culture to create lasting impact, and we recognise our responsibility to foster creative pathways for young people on the Gold Coast.
The HOTA Education Awards honour the artistic achievements of secondary school students studying the Creative Arts. We believe that acknowledging students' passion, skill, and dedication during their school years helps lay the foundation for a vibrant cultural future in our region.
Each year, HOTA will provide one award per participating school, to be presented to a student who demonstrates enthusiasm, artistic proficiency, leadership, commitment to their practice, and a strong connection to their school’s creative community.
HOTA’s Education team will collaborate with each school to identify a deserving recipient in one of the following categories:
A) HOTA Future Creative: A student in Years 6–10 who demonstrates outstanding promise in the creative arts and has the potential to further develop their skills during senior schooling. This student may be participating in curricular or co-curricular programs, or may simply demonstrate a strong aptitude, enthusiasm, or flair for the arts, and would benefit from additional encouragement and support.
B) HOTA Cultural Leader: A Year 11 or 12 student who has made a significant and sustained contribution to the artistic and cultural life of their school community across any area of the creative arts. The student demonstrates leadership, initiative, and a commitment to the arts through creative practice, collaboration, advocacy, event involvement, peer mentoring, or other meaningful contributions. They also show strong potential and intent to pursue further study or a career in the arts beyond school.
Award Stipulations:
- One award per school will be supplied by HOTA, for one student recipient only.
- Schools may choose one from the following categories which best suits their selected recipient.
- HOTA Future Creative
- HOTA Cultural Leader
- Schools who are a P–12 campus may nominate one primary (Year 6) and one secondary (Years 7-12) student (maximum two awards per P–12 campus).
- Schools may choose one from the following categories which best suits their selected recipient.
- The school must be located within the Gold Coast City Council LGA.
- The student’s name and selected award category must be submitted by the nominated due date to allow time for engraving and printing.
- Correct spelling is the school’s responsibility and will be engraved as submitted.
- Schools are required to include the approved HOTA logo in either their award program or ceremony PowerPoint presentation.
- The logo file will be emailed to participating schools prior to Term 4.
- A HOTA representative may be available to present the award, subject to staff availability. Requests must be submitted in advance.
- The award is provided in kind to schools. While there is no cost, we kindly ask schools to consider engaging with HOTA through future workshops, performances, exhibitions, or tours as a show of support.
- This award is intended to complement, not replace, any existing cultural or arts awards within your school.
- HOTA's aim is to enhance recognition of creative arts education and student achievement.
- Awards are limited to the first 25 schools that apply.
- Applications must be submitted by a faculty leader with Principal or school leadership approval.
- Please also include the contact details of a school administration representative.
- Please note: Awards cannot be provided prior to 10 October 2025. Schools with earlier ceremonies should plan accordingly.
Applications close Monday 8 Sept 2025
You will receive:
- One physical trophy (or equivalent) with student name and award title engraved (where applicable)
- One certificate
- One artist statement
- One HOTA bespoke pin
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