Hunter School of Performing Arts

HSPA is a central school in Newcastle-Muloobinbah which offers a comprehensive curriculum with a performing arts specialty. HSPA is a creative and inclusive learning environment where excellence is nurtured to enable all students to perform at their best. The school provides freedom and support for individuals to make responsible choices in a quality learning environment which promotes and develops future focused and cultural learning in conjunction with high expectations of academic excellence. HSPA is the only fully selective performing arts public school in New South Wales (NSW). General enrolment numbers are 1150 across Years 3 to 12, with 165 students in Primary and 985 students in Secondary. Students from across Awabakal, Worimi, Darkinjung, Kuring-gai and Wonnarua lands (the Hunter, Central Coast and Port Stephens) are enrolled through an audition process. The school caters for a wide range of student abilities, with a strong emphasis on the performing arts and developing the high potential of students in dance, music and drama. In addition, we have high expectations of academic success. Students at the school are supported by a staff of approximately 95 teachers and 25 support and administrative officers. The key initiatives and programs in the school focus on performing arts, mastery learning, student wellbeing and values education. Quality teaching and learning opportunities and excellence in the performing arts are supported through staff professional learning. Extracurricular activities include extensive drama, dance and music ensembles. Opportunities are provided through extension and immersion programs in the performing arts, STEM, theatre, film and audio technology. Sporting teams and competitions enable our students to excel through a range of different experiences. In supporting the learning of our students, staff and community we have fostered strong partnerships with local groups and organisations. Situated on the lands of traditional custodians, the Awabakal and Worimi peoples, this includes ongoing consultation with the Muloobinbah Local AECG, as well as links with The University of Newcastle, the National Institute of Dramatic Art, Conservatorium of Music and Civic Theatre Newcastle. The learning environment includes a state of the art 365 seat theatre, multiple recording studios, vision mixing production suites, specialist dance, drama and music learning spaces, yarning circle, commercial kitchen, multimedia learning suites, STEM labs, and dedicated visual arts, photography and ceramics spaces. The school also has a 1200 seat capacity multi-purpose centre. Sports courts and fields make up some of the many outdoor learning and green spaces within the school. The school culture is one of connectedness, inclusion and belonging with students, staff, parents and the wider community working together to promote school excellence.