West Wallsend High School

West Wallsend High School is a co-educational, comprehensive Years 7-12 school which has a strong focus on high expectations and supports and encourages students to achieve their personal best. West Wallsend High School has an enrolment of approximately 600 students, allowing all students to benefit from a personalised approach to their learning. Our school vision, ‘engaged leaners, passionate teaching and exceeding expectations.’ provides the core values at our school. Underpinning this is our Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) structure, PBL values of Respect, Responsibility and Excellence are embedded in our school culture through teacher practice, student recognition and awards. The PBL program is consistent across Sugarloaf Community of Schools (SCoS) (WWHS and partner primary schools). Our strong student management and welfare systems promote a safe and peaceful environment. Students are encouraged to respect each other as they work co-operatively to meet the school's high expectations. The school works closely with partner schools to provide a seamless education for students from Kindergarten to Year 12. We focus on learning, and providing a quality education through a diverse curriculum for both mainstream and support class students. A gifted and talented students program provides a curriculum which is accelerated and compacted. Students can choose from a range of vocational subjects, ultimately gaining employment in these fields or more academic subjects with a view to university entry. Students have access to a wide range of technologies in classrooms and have opportunities to engage in cutting edge programs, for example the ME Program (a national program), which engages students and staff in careers in advanced manufacturing. The school has strong links with the University of Newcastle. Students and staff have visited faculties at the university and had the opportunity to talk to current students and staff and view resources.   As a part of our senior student careers transition program from school to the world of work, all Year 10 students participate in an individual interview, in preparation for university/TAFE and/or the world of work. Interview panels comprise a community member and a teacher, Year 10 students present work samples and answer questions related to their career plan/study pathway. Students in Year 11 and 12 have a dedicated senior study with teacher support during study periods. A series of individual interviews with senior students and their parents/guardians assist students to keep on track and fulfil their Year 11/12 study goals. Faculties provide weekly HSC masterclasses, all students are able to attend additional tutoring in English and mathematics before school at The English Breakfast Club and Maths with Milo. Involvement in creative and performing arts is encouraged with students participating in dance, music, drama and visual arts. A whole-school creative and performing arts showcase is organised every year which generates significant community interest. Our school proudly participates in Star Struck and the Hunter Dance Festival each year. We enjoy strong links with the local and greater community.