Lithgow High School

Lithgow High School has strong academic and sporting traditions. The school is successful in providing a broad curriculum for students from within and beyond the Lithgow Valley. A member of the Western Gateway Education Community of schools, our school provides "Opportunities for Everyone" as the local inclusive secondary learning community. The National Partnerships Low SES initiative supports enhanced teaching, learning and achievement. The school achieves regional and national awards for student film making, consistent improvement in School Certificate performances; and a pattern of outstanding individual academic achievements in the Higher School Certificate. Within broad sports programs during 2010 the school's boys' and girls' hockey teams have both won the NSW secondary schools' knockout competitions. The school is recognised for outstanding creative and performing arts. Students come from a broad range of backgrounds. Many are the second or third generation family members at this school. They are encouraged and assisted to achieve their potential in every activity. The school is part of the PBL (Positive Behaviour for Learning) initiative. Expectations at Lithgow High School are that we are "Respectful, Safe, Responsible Learners". Strong linkages are in place between the school, TAFE NSW Western Institute and Charles Sturt University. During 2010 an independent learning centre was introduced along with a unique "hub" to improve integrated learning. Gifted and talented students' programs have broadened. More flexible extension and enrichment strategies include the regional virtual selective classes, connected classrooms and extended hours of face-to-face teaching. The school promotes and recognises "Excellence in a Caring Educational Environment", working with community and academic partners to improve subject options, community consultation, participation and learning. Improved growth rates in literacy and numeracy are continuing school priorities and are being achieved. NAPLAN results indicate that the Western Gateway Educational Community schools' growth from years 5 to 7 is positive. Growth in numeracy is at state level. In Year 9 the school's focus area for improvement has been writing which has demonstrated an upward trend in 12 months. The growth rate is above that of state and region. Over the last three years the school has consistently reduced the numbers of Year 9 students in the lower two bands for numeracy. Indigenous students' numeracy growth in Year 9 is 11 points above the state average. The school's NAPLAN results are between those of the region and the state. All areas in Literacy are either consistent or demonstrating growth. The school is using additional resources from the National Partnerships program to target and achieve improved learning outcomes. Additional mentoring and focused teaching will be applied to assist students whose performance is identified as requiring additional support.