In a moment of triumph for educational excellence, First Education, founded by Haralambos (Harry) Mavrolefteros, was awarded the prestigious Business of the Decade title at the 2025 Australian Small Business Champion Awards. Held on March 29, 2025, at The Star Sydney, the glittering ceremony celebrated small businesses’ resilience, innovation, and impact across Australia. For First Education, this accolade marks a pinnacle achievement, recognising its unwavering commitment to fostering passion and confidence in over 1,000 students through the dedication of more than 200 tutors.
A Vision Born from a Child’s Love for Learning
Harry Mavrolefteros’ journey with First Education began with a simple yet profound observation. As a seven-year-old at St Spyridon College, he was perplexed that some of his classmates disliked math—a subject he found as delightful as ice cream or chocolate. “Maths was such a cause of joy and challenge that I couldn’t see how others could not enjoy it too,” Harry recalled in his heartfelt speech at the awards ceremony. This early realisation planted the seed for First Education, a tutoring organisation driven by the mission to make learning a source of joy and empowerment.
First Education was founded in 2010 in a modest storeroom above their parents’ optometry practice in Maroubra, Sydney. What started as a small endeavor has become a beacon of educational excellence, with centers in Bondi, Randwick, Maroubra, Mascot, and Earlwood and a robust online tutoring platform reaching students across Australia.
Building Passion and Confidence
At the core of First Education’s philosophy is that learning should build students from the inside out. “We wanted to ensure that students understood that learning is something that should be enjoyed and builds you up,” Harry said. This ethos resonates throughout the organisation, from its tailored tutoring programs to its nurturing environment. First Education serves students from Kindergarten to Year 12, offering personalized support in subjects like English, mathematics, and science, and specialized coaching for exams such as the Opportunity Class (OC), Selective School tests, and the Higher School Certificate (HSC).
The company’s impact extends beyond academic results. By fostering a love for learning, First Education helps students develop confidence and resilience—qualities that prepare them for life beyond the classroom. With over 1,000 students enrolled and a team of 200+ tutors, First Education has become a trusted partner for families seeking to unlock their children’s potential.
A Team Effort Recognized
In his acceptance speech, Harry quickly shared the credit with those who supported First Education’s journey. He expressed deep gratitude to his wife, Tania, his parents, and siblings, whose belief in his vision laid the foundation for success. He also acknowledged the dedication of First Education’s managers, tutors, parents, and students, describing them as a community united by a shared passion for education. “I’ve found other people who believe in building our students’ passion and confidence, as I do,” he said. “We are First Education!”
A Legacy of Excellence
The Australian Small Business Champion Awards, now in their 27th year, are a hallmark of recognition for small businesses that demonstrate outstanding achievement. For First Education, winning Business of the Decade is not just an award—it’s a testament to nearly two decades of transformative work. Since its inception, First Education has expanded its reach, offering both in-person and online tutoring to meet the evolving needs of students.
First Education’s success lies in its ability to adapt and innovate. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisation swiftly transitioned to online tutoring, ensuring student continuity. Today, its hybrid model combines the best of face-to-face and digital learning, providing flexibility without compromising quality. This adaptability, coupled with a student-centered approach, has earned First Education a reputation as a leader in the tutoring industry.
Looking to the Future
The Business of the Decade award is a milestone, but for Harry and his team, it’s also a call to keep pushing forward. First Education remains committed to inspiring students to embrace learning with enthusiasm. Plans are underway to expand its online offerings and explore new ways to support students, including workshops and mentorship programs. “This award is not the end—it’s a reminder of why we do what we do,” Harry said.
First Education offers a free trial lesson for families considering tutoring to experience its unique approach firsthand. With centers in Bondi, Hurstville, and Wollongong, and a growing online presence, it ensures accessibility for students in remote areas. First Education is poised to continue shaping the future of education in Australia.
As Harry stood on stage, surrounded by his team and loved ones, he reflected on the journey that began with a seven-year-old’s love for math. “This is the Everest of recognition for us,” he said, his voice filled with gratitude. For First Education, the Business of the Decade award is more than an honor—it’s a celebration of a vision that continues to inspire students to find joy in learning.
