SCHOOL CONTEXT STATEMENT Updated: 05/2014

Transcription

1 SCHOOL CONTEXT STATEMENT Updated: 05/2014 School number: 0926 School name: HEATHFIELD HIGH SCHOOL School Profile Text: Nestled in the beautiful Adelaide Hills, Heathfield High School is an idyllic setting for local and international students, just 15 minutes form central Adelaide, yet surrounded by bushland that abounds with native flora and fauna. Built in 1963, the school quickly grew to earn a reputation for its commitment to excellence in education. This reputation continues to grow, as the school demands the best from both its teachers and students. The school is committed to innovation and excellence. This commitment challenges us to deliver both quality and diversity in the programs we provide. We have a strong and cherished sense of tradition, and a genuine pride in the achievements of our past and present students. At Heathfield High School, we recognise that choosing a secondary school is one of the most important decisions parents, carers and students will ever make. Schools are in a privileged position of helping to shape young lives, and our school is passionate about supporting your child s learning journey. Our staff work closely with students to understand their interests, abilities and ambitions from a dynamic, richly-resourced program. The school focuses on the joy of ongoing learning, providing students with the tools to learn and think for themselves, with an aim of unlocking the individual passion in each and every student. Our high level academic achievements, vocational training and extra-curricular activities on offer at Heathfield High School are extensive, and give our students the skills needed to embrace challenging times, yet also be innovative and creative thinkers. Heathfield High School is a special interest sports school offering Volleyball in Years 8 to 11. The program continues to be Australia s premier school-based program, providing and enhanced opportunity for the pursuit of sporting excellence, within a school environment that encourages educational excellence. Heathfield are the National Schools Cup Champions affirming our place as Australia s number one volleyball school. The School s international program features overseas tours to Asia and Europe, along with short term visits from schools worldwide. Our school community is exceptionally welcoming of students from overseas, with many families enjoying the opportunities to host students in their homes. Heathfield High School is a vibrant social environment that reflects the highly desirable features of the local Hills community. 2014SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 1

2 1. General information School Principal name: Mr Alistair Brown Year of opening: 1963 Postal Address: PO Box 96, Stirling 5152 Location Address: 99 Longwood Rd, Heathfield 5153 DECS Region: Adelaide Hills Geographical location road distance from GPO (km):21 Telephone number: Fax Number: School website address: School address: Child Parent Centre (CPC) attached: No Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) service: No February FTE student enrolment Year Year Year Year Year Year Total SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 2

3 School Card Approvals (Person) NESB Aboriginal FTE Student enrolment trends: In recent years Heathfield High School has experienced significant growth from within the school zone and continued interest from families outside of the school zone. Staffing numbers (as at February census): Principal 1 Assistant Principal (Senior Leader) 4 Coordinators 10 Teachers Counsellors 1 Librarian (SSO3) 1 ESL.01 Special Education.02 SSO Hours SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 3

4 Public transport access Heathfield High School is easily accessible by public transport. Southlink offer a number of services throughout the area with many services catering for our school s arrival and dismissal times. Southlink bus timetable information can be accessed by visiting the Adelaide Metro website: For enquiries call Adelaide Metro Infoline Four dedicated DECD school bus routes provide transport for students from Aldgate, Bridgewater, Mylor, Scott Creek, Bradbury and Ironbank. Special site arrangements Heathfield High School is lead school for the Hills Murraylands, Trade Schools for the Future and the Adelaide Hills Trade Training Centre. 2. Students (and their welfare) General characteristics The student population derives itself from a wide geographic area of the Adelaide Hills with the majority of students from the population centres of Aldgate, Crafers, Stirling, Bridgewater, Uraidla, Upper Sturt, Heathfield, Scott Creek and Mylor. The students and their parents reflect strong academic, cultural, sporting and community aspirations. A strong connection exists between the school and the local community. A positive and friendly student culture exists with education highly valued. This is reflected in the students strong desire to succeed. School Uniform Heathfield High School has a uniform policy developed and supported by the Governing Council, students and staff. There is a clear expectation that all students wear the uniform as defined in the policy. The uniform is available through Fleurs in Stirling as well as the Uniform Shop in Mt Barker. Student well-being programs A Pastoral Care program exists for all students. Students in Years 8-10 meet each morning with their ACE (Access, Engage and Connect) Group Teacher and ACE Group for essential organisational matters (attendance roll, daily notices, checking of Student Diary, uniform monitoring and sharing important information). In addition to this our school supports student development through a pastoral care / ACE program two half days each term, conducted by the ACE Group teacher and supported by the Leadership team and Student Counsellor. In Years 11 and 12 students have a flexible school day arrangement, scanning in and out through the Attendance office. ACE teachers meet regularly with students as mentors (Whole group, small group and one-to-one) to provide appropriate support. 2014SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 4

5 Some of the topics covered by ACE program for senior students include: study skills, time management, course counselling, career and job pathways. A Christian Pastoral Support Worker and Student Counsellor assist with social and pastoral care activities. Student support offered Heathfield High School prides itself on the extensive Student Support on offer. 7-8 transition program It is vital that students have a smooth transition from Year 7 to Year 8. Heathfield has an extensive and supportive program that includes orientation activities and ongoing peer support. Student Voice Student Leadership offers a liaison between students, teachers and the Governing Council. Student Counsellor The Student Counsellor can assist students with any matters that may concern them whether they are personal or school-related issues. The Counsellor acts in a liaison role between teachers, students and parents and works to foster positive student-teacher relationships. The Counsellor does not have a teaching load and is far more accessible through this arrangement. Christian Pastoral Support Worker The Christian Pastoral Support worker exists to offer support to students, staff and the community sponsored by the local churches. Student management The school is committed to ensuring that teachers and students are assured of effective and safe learning environments. Students who find it difficult to engage in their own learning are supported through a range of options. A Student Wellbeing team led by the Senior Leaders and Wellbeing coordinators supports teachers in the management of student behaviour and student welfare strategies. A case management approach through the Flexible Support Centre supports students at risk and those requiring behavioural support. Student government Student voice is strongly valued as a critical part of the school s decision making process. There are three aspects to student leadership and governance at Heathfield High School: Students 4 Students (S4S) a forum for Years 8 12 student voice within the school promoting student leadership and decision making. Big Brother / Sister Peer Support Program (BBS) Year 11&12 students provide friendship, guidance and support to Year 8 students as they transition into a secondary school environment. Peer Tutoring (PT) Senior students provide support and strategies to students in Year 8 to settle into a new school, classroom work, organisation skills and time management. 2014SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 5

6 Special programmes Heathfield High School has a Special Interest Volleyball Program, International Program, Innovation and Future Studies Program in Advanced Technologies and Global Learning. A 1:1 computing environment, Years Students have access to a wireless connected Laptop. Joint Programs Hills-Murraylands Trade Schools for the Future Heathfield High is the lead school for the Hills-Murraylands Trade Schools for the Future. The Hills Apprenticeship Broker is based at the school and assists students to gain Australian School based Apprenticeships, full time apprenticeships, traineeships as well as SACE and VET qualifications. Adelaide Hills Trade Training Centre (AHTTC) Heathfield high is the lead school for the Adelaide Hills Trade Training Centre. Students will be able to undertake Certificates in Advanced Manufacturing and in Building Construction (Doorways 2 Construction) and Food & Hospitality at Heathfield. 3. Key School Policies Current Site Improvement Plan and other key statements or policies are available on the Heathfield High School website. Recent key outcomes: 2013 Heathfield High School Annual Report provides current information regarding recent achievements and is available on the Heathfield High School website. 2014SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 6

7 4. Curriculum Subject offerings In the Middle School (Years 8-9) students at Heathfield High School undertake study in all areas of the curriculum based on the Australian Curriculum and South Australian Curriculum and Accountability Framework These are: English Mathematics Society and Environment/History/Civics and Citizenship Science Health and Physical Education Technology L.O.T.E. (French, Indonesian) The Arts (Art, Design, Drama and Music) At Heathfield High School, the Year 8 and 9 students engage in the Areas of Study through Advanced Technologies (Mathematics, Science, Design and Technology) Global Learnings (English, LOTE, Society and Environment, History) Responsible Living (Health,Physical Education and Home Ec) The Arts (Music, Drama, Visual Arts) Each of the four Learning Areas delivers a Connected Curriculum that provides meaningful connections between the subjects they contain. Staff work in professional learning teams to plan and deliver curriculum. In the Senior School (Years 10-12) students may choose courses across a broad range of academic offerings that may also include vocational learning. The Senior School curriculum includes Stage 1 and Stage 2 subjects of the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE). Detailed and current curriculum information is available on the Heathfield High School Website: SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 7

8 Open Access/Distance Education provision The Open Access College is available to students wishing to study a subject, which is not currently offered by the school. Should a student wish to study a language outside the schools usual offerings then support for their enrolment in a language course at the School of Languages is available. Special needs Students are offered intensive support and intervention programs for specific learning needs and those with Negotiated Education Programs. A specialist staff member, Co-ordinator - Pathways for Students with Disabilities, assists with students requirements for their specific programs. Students who are identified as gifted are challenged and extended in their learning, in ways that are appropriate to their specific needs. It is important to carefully consider each child s learning style and their particular strengths or areas of giftedness in order to provide a program that will motivate and stimulate. ISEC (Intensive Secondary English Class) and ESL support is provided to improve the English communication skills of students who have recently arrived in Australia. Special curriculum features Heathfield High School has established a dynamic, richly resourced program for the delivery of VET (Vocational Education and Training). Heathfield High School Year 10, 11 and 12 students are able to access a range of nationally accredited Certificate courses in Vocational Education and Training. These are delivered at Certificate I & II level. All certificate courses also contribute units toward the SACE. The school is host school for regional VET courses in: Kitchen Operations and Front of House Operations-delivered in the Piltarilla Skill Centre Commercial Kitchen and Restaurant General Construction Course (Doorways to Construction) Advanced Manufacturing Trade Training Centre Many of the courses require students to participate in Structured Workplace Learning with an employer where they have the opportunity to further develop and apply skills in an industry area relevant to their course. School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships and can be arranged and supported by the school through the School s Apprenticeship Broker. 2014SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 8

9 At Year 10, through the Personal Learning Plan, students have the opportunity to participate in work experience in the school s Work Experience program. In preparation, students are involved in Careers and Employment Expos and get involved in many programs both in and outside the school to prepare them for their placement. Heathfield High School is home to one of the most successful and most awarded special interest sports schools in the country, Volleyball. Students undertake the Special Interest Volleyball in lieu of the normal physical education program. The combination of this program and the traditional academic studies has been cited for enhancing academic success. The sports psychology and personal development components of the program are highly regarded by students, parents and the community. The school is proud of its vibrant visual and performing Arts program that showcases student talent. The school is noted for the breadth and strength of its Music program, both within the curriculum and in co-curricular activities. The school s International Program recognises the educational value of exposure to other cultures and offers a number of programs for local and International Students. The opportunities for local students include European tour, Vietnam Community Service and Cultural tour and Special Interest Volleyball program. Heathfield High School runs a biennial European Tour with a focus on the Arts, French language and European culture. The Vietnam Tour focus is Community Service, with a project planned and undertaken during the students time abroad. In conjunction with Heathfield High School s Special Interest Volleyball program, volleyball students are able to travel internationally to participate in competitions, and to experience the culture of a different country. There is a commitment to the use of ICT as a learning tool in all curriculum areas. All staff and Year 8-12 students have appropriate computer access as well as a full range of technology supports. In recent years, our school has implemented a Literacy and Numeracy Intervention program for Year 8 students. This intervention program was introduced to support a higher standard of literacy and numeracy to students and has achieved enormous positive outcomes. Teaching methodology Heathfield High School values and promotes Middle Schooling, based on the identified needs of the young adolescent. The school has established a dedicated Year 8 Learning Area to assist our students in their transition to high school and year 8 classes are scheduled in this area wherever possible and appropriate. 2014SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 9

10 Heathfield High School has adopted targeted strategies to ensure the well-being, and academic and personal development, of our Middle School students. Strong social skills and sound study habits are developed through carefully-planned academic and pastoral care programs. We have developed highly- effective Anti-Bullying and Drug Strategy Programs and Policies. Students are encouraged to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Heathfield High School's senior school is based on the acknowledgement of our students as young adults, and as active learners who will learn at different rates, and need multiple challenges. Heathfield High School acknowledges that while learning becomes increasingly specialized according to our students' needs and pathways beyond school, learning is broad and varied. It occurs not only in school, but also in workplaces and community settings. Our students learn about, and can evaluate, a full range of transitions relating to future training, education, career and employment opportunities. The Year 12 ACE program aims to provide a more intensive and adult like support base for students in their final years of schooling. The emphasis on meetings with the students and their mentor teacher, making more quality time and support for students possible. The program focuses on relationship building, goal setting, achievement and planning for postschool options. Assessment Procedures and Reporting The school year is divided into 4 assessment periods. At the end of Term 1 and 3, students in Years 8 12 are provided with a full written diagnostic report inclusive of grades / achievement levels and comments. At the end of Terms 2 and 4, students are provided with summary reports which present grades / achievement levels, but without the detailed comments. (Year 12 students do not receive a school report at the end of Term 4). Parent Teacher Nights take the form of three way learning conversations and provide additional information regarding student progress. 5. Sporting Activities Heathfield High School has a developed a proud tradition of involvement in a variety of sporting activities. The extensive sporting facilities encourage wide-ranging activities and include a community sports complex, gymnasium 3 sporting ovals, beach volleyball, tennis, and basketball and netball courts. The sports program and physical education curriculum promotes health and social benefits to students, school and community. In order to cater for the diversity of talent, experience and interest among the students, and to allow opportunities where all students feel comfortable to be involved in physical activity, the school sport program recognises and proceeds with a three tiered approach. 2014SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 10

11 This includes elite sporting opportunities general interest sporting activities one-off experiential sporting situations In the elite area, Heathfield High School s Special Interest Volleyball program has achieved outstanding success over a period of more than 20 years. In addition, the school offers students participation in a variety of sports at local, Knockout (SASSA), State and National levels. Many athletes from the school have become representatives at the highest level in a variety of sports. Heathfield High School offers all students the opportunity to participate in a variety of one-off sporting activities, with the emphasis in these events being social and fun. These events include a swimming carnival, a track and field athletics day and various other sporting activities. 6. Other Co-Curricular Activities There are a variety of opportunities for students to become involved in the school community beyond the classroom, some of which include: Music Performance Drama Performance Pedal Prix Sport Carnivals Lunchtime Sports Melbourne (Volleyball) Sydney (Art Tour) Concert and Stage Band School LOTE Tours - Europe and Vietnam The school s International Program features overseas tours to Europe and Vietnam, along with short term visits from overseas, mainly Japan. Our school community is exceptionally welcoming of students from overseas, and many families enjoy the opportunity to homestay students. Heathfield High School works in conjunction with, and hosts student from a variety of not-forprofit student exchange organisations. The exchange students come from a wide range of countries and usually attend the school for between six and twelve months. The students also have the opportunity to spend time overseas on exchange visits. 2014SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 11

12 7. Staff (and their welfare) Staff profile The teaching staff choose to remain at the school for as long as possible, seeing it as a desirable location. Heathfield has a majority of experienced staff and leaders. All staff undertake a comprehensive induction program. Leadership structure The School s Executive Leadership Team comprises the Principal, 4 Assistant Principals (Senior Leaders) and 10 Co-ordinators. Staff support systems All staff are encouraged to participate in professional development activities during school and after hours. A planned program of professional development occurs during staff meeting times. Developing innovative curriculum, ICT teaching and learning tools, SACE implementation are some of the areas of focus. The role of Step 9 teachers as mentors has been explored and utilised. 8. School Facilities Buildings and grounds Heathfield High School is a comprehensive secondary school nestled in an idyllic setting in the beautiful Adelaide Hills, only 15 minutes from the CBD of Adelaide. Our facilities include: Advanced Technology Centre and Suites Performing Arts Space Sporting facilities including gymnasium, 3 large ovals, soccer field, tennis courts Volleyball training centre including 6 indoor courts and 3 beach volleyball courts Commercial Kitchen and Restaurant Training Centre Senior school study area and senior school café area Canteen with adjacent courtyard area School bus service Well resourced library Trade Training Centre Building Construction Centre International Room 2014SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 12

13 Heating and cooling All areas have appropriate heating and cooling systems in place. The school hall and senior school café area are heated also and available during recess and lunchtimes to students. Access for students and staff with disabilities Students or staff with a disability have access to a range of facilities, including appropriate toilets and ramps. However the nature of the school site does not provide for all students or staff with a mobility disability. Access to bus transport Transit Plus buses and School buses provide excellent travel arrangements for students to and from school. The school has access to the DEC s school buses for excursions. A number of staff have a licence to drive the minibus and the school employs 3 bus drivers as required for the larger buses. 9. School Operations Decision making structures The key decision/advisory making groups in the school are the Governing Council, Curriculum Development and School Management, School Administration Team, Student Services Team and the Curriculum Committee. Several other committees exist on a needs basis to support the work of these groups. Staff meetings are held every two to three weeks and alternate with faculty meetings and year level meetings. Staff, faculty and year level meetings include Professional Development sessions. Decision making is based on consultation, negotiation and participation with those affected by the decision. The school s decision making policy is regularly reviewed. Regular publications Publications available from the school include the regular School Newsletter, Curriculum Information and IT Policy (available on the school s website); Prospectus; School Information Brochure; Student and Parent Handbook; Special Interest Volleyball Brochure; School Yearbook; Uniform Policy Brochure. The school website continues to be the main source of provision of information regarding Heathfield High School. A daily bulletin of notices and information is published with staff and student sections. 2014SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 13

14 All students are provided with a diary that is used for communication with parents and contains information pertinent to students and their involvement in the school. Policies applicable to students are displayed in the diary. Special funding None 10. Local Community General characteristics Heathfield High School is located in the suburb of Heathfield within the southern boundaries of the Adelaide Hills Council and serves a diverse student population from the area. The school is located only 15 minutes from the Adelaide CBD in an area considered the gateway to the country, attracting many residents who desire the country community life. Residents are generally in the middle to high socio-economic status. Since its foundation the school has had strong links with the local community, manifested in the support the community shows for the school. Students who attend the school form strong friendships and networks through local sporting and other interest groups. School-Marketing and Development Manager At the start of 2005 the Governing Council endorsed the appointment of Marketing and Development Manager for the school to promote the school within the wider, local and international community and strengthen links between the school and community. Parent and community involvement Heathfield High School continues to benefit from the strong and active support of the parent body and local community. There is a strong participation in the Governing Council, various committees and working parties. Feeder or destination schools The zoned feeder primary schools include Aldgate Primary School, Bridgewater Primary School, Crafers Primary School, Heathfield Primary School, Stirling East Primary School, Upper Sturt Primary School, Mylor Primary School, Scott Creek Primary School and Uraidla Primary School. Local Government body Heathfield High School is located in the Adelaide Hills Council. The school has a strong association with the council and local government members. 2014SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 14

15 11. Further Comments 2014SchoolContextStatement.docx Page 15