narrabri high school annual report 2011 · in 2011 narrabri high school has served 641 students....
TRANSCRIPT
Narrabri High School Annual Report
2011
Mr Geoff Myers (M. Ed Admin, B.A. Dip. Ed.) - Principal Mr Wayne Knight (B. Econ. Dip. Ed.) - Deputy Principal
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Table of Contents
From the Principal‟s Desk
PBL Report
English and Drama Faculty Report
Mathematics Faculty Report
Science Faculty Report
Agriculture Report
History Faculty Report
Music Report
Social Science Faculty Report
Technology and Applied Studies (Industrial Arts) Faculty Report
Technology and Applied Studies (Home Economics) Faculty Report
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education Report
Special Education Report
Visual Arts Report
Aboriginal Education Report
Student Welfare Report
Student Representative Council Report
Technology Report
Vocational Education and Training (VET) Report
Sport
2010 HSC Results Report
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From the Principal’s Desk...
In 2011 Narrabri High School has served 641 students. There have been forty-nine permanent
teachers employed and a rotation of temporary and casual teachers. There are six administrative
staff, a general assistant, an agriculture assistant, an Aboriginal Education Officer, three full time
cleaners and two full time and several part time in-class tutors to support student learning. Without
doing too much investigating, I would venture to say that makes Narrabri High School one of the
biggest enterprises in the district.
It is not only a big organisation – it also complex and this complexity is reflected in the variety of
programs summarised in this report. There are certainly highlights contained in the reports by
Head Teachers and program managers but there are also numerous achievements that warrant
particular mention. Some are whole school initiatives that transcend individual faculties, while some
are so significant that they deserve special acknowledgement and celebration. To reduce the many
achievements of members of the Narrabri High School community in 2011 in a brief report is a
daunting challenge.
We could begin with the 2010 HSC results of last December. Narrabri High School had 18 results in
the highest band, Band 6, and these were shared among 10 students across 9 subjects. Eighteen
students received acknowledgement for coming in the top 20 positions of the New England Region
and some received multiple acknowledgements. Georgia Barden (Music and Physics) and Stephanie
Halbisch (Senior Science) received official commendations from the Regional Director for achieving
first place in the region.
The 2011 Year 12 cohort has also
boasted some outstanding individual
achievers. Our School captains, Katie
Brooks and Thomas Vaessen, and their
deputies, Phoebe Stanford and Ben
Duncan, were exceptional role models,
great communicators and wonderful
ambassadors of Narrabri High School.
Our prefects and Student
Representative Councillors showed
maturity and leadership in a range of
situations. It was pleasing to see the
outstanding qualities of Matthew Nott
(Year 10) being recognised by his
election to the position of President
of the Regional SRC Committee.
However, our 2011 captains Katie and Thomas were not only enormously impressive student leaders.
They also shone in individual pursuits: Katie was Regional winner of the Sydney Morning Herald
Young Writer of the Year competition while Thomas‟ selection in the NSW Combined High Schools
First XV was the culmination of a wonderful career in rugby at Narrabri High School.
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Vice-Captain elect for 2012,
Shelley Higgins also achieved
an outstanding individual
honour by gaining selection in
the NSWCHS girls‟ cricket
team. There were also many
students who achieved regional
selection in a range of sports
and the accomplishments of
our Boys Cricket Team, the
AFL team and the Chess team,
all of which earned success at
Regional level, are most
commendable. However, the
most outstanding sporting
performance by a Narrabri
School team in 2011 is
undoubtedly the performance of the Under 15 Boys Relay Team. Mitchell Barnes, Dylan Gale, Guy
Gleeson and Justin Shaw won the gold medal at the NSWCHS state athletics championships.
There have been a number of staff changes during 2011. Perhaps the most
significant change has been the retirement of one of Narrabri High
School‟s great stalwarts, Mr Peter Hood. Mr Hood taught Agriculture at
Narrabri High School for his entire teaching career and was a great
contributor to the School and the town. He was also a great supporter of
rugby, a fact acknowledged by his award of life membership to the
NSWCHS Sports Association for his contribution to Rugby.
From a staff perspective, a
highlight of 2011 was our
General Assistant, Mr Stephen Duncan, being named
Narrabri‟s most valuable employee in the BEST
Employment Awards in September. Stephen‟s diligence in
the upkeep of the School‟s grounds is obvious for all to
see. What is less well known is his advice and initiative
on issues relating to maintenance, occupational health
and safety and organising school facilities. His award is
thoroughly deserved.
In terms of curriculum, a particularly noteworthy initiative is the Career Link program which has
been trialled in 2011. Designed to accommodate students with vocational aspirations, the program is
particularly appropriate for students returning to school as a result of the new school leaving age.
Integral components of this program are the new non-matriculation English Studies course and
increased involvement with TAFE.
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Another significant program has been the enhancement of the transition of students from Year 6
into high school. The introductory sessions and orientation days that have provided an effective
social transition in the past have been retained but supplemented by a range of additional elements.
Of particular note have been initiatives to augment the students‟ academic transition. These have
included shared units of work developed and taught by teachers at both the High School and the
students‟ regular primary school teachers. In addition, opportunities have been provided for visits
by primary teachers to high school classes and vice versa; in this way common teaching approaches
can be developed and shared.
Extra-curricular highlights of 2011 include the
performances by our Concert Band and some wonderful
results by the Narrabri High School Show Team. Some
new areas of involvement in 2011 include twenty-four
Year 9 students participating in the State Emergency
Service Cadet program and enlistment in the NSW
Premier‟s Student Volunteering Program. Matthew Nott
was recently awarded a Diamond level award for his
voluntary work and seven other students from Year 10
received Bronze Awards.
Narrabri High School has acquired some important additional resources in 2011 that will benefit
students‟ learning. In particular, the new Language and Technology Centre was officially opened
while our Agriculture Department acquired a new tractor and thirteen new interactive whiteboards
have been installed. Our photocopying facilities have been enormously improved by our involvement
in the “Pay as you Print” program.
In my 2010 Report I made considerable mention of Narrabri High School‟s exclusion from a number
of equity programs that limits our access to funding. That situation has not changed and I am most
appreciative of the significant and ongoing financial support of so many elements of the Narrabri
community. Without financial contributions from the P&C, Federation Farm and many of the larger
local business enterprises, many of the resources mentioned above could not have been acquired.
These groups have also provided support for other specific projects. Organisations and businesses
have also been supportive of the School by providing work experience placements for our students,
making personnel available for interview panels and as guest speakers and by donating those prizes
which we present tonight to our high achieving students. Narrabri High School benefits from the
support of the community and, I would suggest, repays that support by providing a stream of well
developed young people who will become valued members of the Narrabri and wider communities.
I commend this annual report for your attention. It is a comprehensive report, as befits a
comprehensive high school. When our list of achievements becomes narrow or ceases to reflect a
broad range of students‟ endeavours, then we will have failed in our role. I am proud to be principal
of a school that provides opportunities for all students and I am proud that our school has
relationships with our community that are strong, productive and mutually beneficial. I congratulate
and thank all members of the Narrabri High School community: the staff (teaching and non-
teaching), the students, their parents and our many supporters. Thank you for a successful 2011.
Have a safe and happy holiday and I look forward to working with you in 2012.
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Positive Behaviour for Learning A school-wide approach to social learning
What is Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL)?
PBL is a scaffold approach that teaches behavioural
expectations as part of a social learning curriculum across the whole school. This instructional model
allows teachers to teach the behaviours they want and provide feedback for students on their
progressive mastery of those behaviours. PBL identifies and teaches replacement skills and builds
relationships.
What kind of problems does PBL address?
High rates of problem behaviour (eg defiance, insubordination, fighting), ineffective and inefficient
disciplinary practices, lack of general and specialised behavioural interventions, lack of staff support to
address problem behaviour, negative school climate, high use of crisis/reactive management.
What systems are emphasised?
School-wide discipline (all students, all staff, all settings)
Classroom management
Non-classroom supervision (eg hallways, canteen, playground)
Individual students
What strategies are emphasised?
Explicit teaching of expectations
Joint understanding of systems implemented
Acknowledgement/reward schemes
Does PBL mean there will no longer be consequences for inappropriate behaviour?
No, that is not the case. With PBL, consequences are clearly defined and taught to students and
consistently implemented across the whole school. This happens in conjunction with a whole school
acknowledgement/reward system which is also consistently implemented.
What has Narrabri High School done so far?
Explicitly taught the expectations of behaviour in shared space around the school through
dramatisations on assembly, videoed plays, quick quizzes and power points
Collected data which helped highlight problem areas in the playground. Some of the problems
identified were active and passive areas, the congestion in the gravel area, out of bounds and
defiance
All minor/ major and severe incidences within the playground were identified and a flow chart was
designed to show how staff could respond to each incident
A survey on the effectiveness of DEAR was carried out by both staff and students
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Some potential solutions were raised that may minimise many of the identified issues within the
playground
Increased the amount of RISE signage around the school.
Who can be involved?
PBL is based on the premise that “It takes a village to raise a child” and is designed to be accessible to
all stakeholders in our community. Our leadership team involves staff members (both teaching and non-
teaching, executive and non-executive), parents and students. Please contact the school if you would like
to know more about PBL or how to participate.
What is the next step?
Data collection on the implementation of new playground changes
Introduction of PBL into the classroom
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English and Drama Faculty Report
The English Faculty of 2011 continued to aspire to motivate students to strive for their best at all
times and to be proud of their achievements. The faculty is led by Mrs Stanford and is ably
supported by Ms Manchee, Miss O‟Brien, Miss Keppie, Mrs Magann, Mr Partridge and Mrs Wallace
(Support Teacher Learning Assistance). This year we welcomed Miss Rhiannon Hall to the faculty
and she has now been appointed permanently.
2011 has seen the implementation of the HSC English Studies course which enables students who
are not seeking university entry to meet the English requirements of the HSC without sitting a
formal exam. This course has successfully supported students completing Work Studies and TAFE
based study and has been well received by Year 11 students enrolled in the course.
A variety of opportunities exist for our students to develop their skills and achieve success in
extra-curricular competitions. Senior students Katie Brooks and Sophie Charalambous displayed
their public speaking skills, general knowledge and citizenship in the Lion‟s Youth of the Year
Competition with Katie winning at district level. Katie was also the regional winner of the Sydney
Morning Herald Young Writer of the Year Award for her short stories, „Herald Sweat and Herald
Blood‟, „Reality Dresses in Black‟ and „Massacre‟. Many students also received outstanding results in
the drama section of the Narrabri Eisteddfod in individual mime, group mime, monologue and play.
Narrabri High School‟s Senior
Debating team was Zone champion,
competing successfully against Duval
and Inverell High Schools. This team
has debated together since Year 7 and
is to be commended on its efforts
throughout their time at Narrabri High
School.
The Years 10 and 12 Drama classes
have participated in a range of
activities and developed their
awareness of the importance of Drama.
The highlight of the year so far is, no
doubt, the visit to the school by John
Jarrett and the cast of „The Sum of
Us‟. They spent a great afternoon with the students, sharing their experiences of life as an actor.
It was wonderful to then see the actors practise their craft on stage that night, performing in an
iconic Australian drama.
The HSC class was examined by a panel of three judges from various schools across New South
Wales. Three Group Performances and eleven Individual Performances were presented with great
skill. Year 10 was fortunate to be the audience for the day, exposing them to the requirements of
Drama in the senior years.
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Mathematics Faculty Report
It was great to see the number of Band 5 and 6 results achieved by students in Mathematics
courses in the 2010 Higher School Certificate. While 2009 high achievers moved on to university
training in fields including Mathematics teaching and engineering, 2010 has produced students
entering veterinary science, accounting and teaching to name a few. Mathematics provides the tools
for a vast array of career options!
Year 11 students Maddison Barden (2 Unit and Extension 1) and Joshua Wilson (Extension 1 and
Extension 2) have now been accelerated and completed their HSC courses and examinations. Six
students in Year 7 have completed the Year 8 course and will now decide whether to continue to
accelerate into Year 9 Mathematics in 2012. Miss Broderick has also worked successfully with a
group of primary school students who have studied the Year 7 Mathematics course.
This year we have farewelled Mr Wood and again welcomed Miss R Cameron. Mrs Walters (Year 9
Advisor, previously known as Miss C Cameron) has returned to full time teaching and can now add
Mathematics to her long list of teaching subject qualifications, having successfully completed her
retraining. Ms Doust (Head Teacher), Miss Broderick (Gifted and Talented Co-ordinator), Mrs
Fenton and Mrs Hamilton (Year 11 Advisor) all continue in their current roles, while Mr Loder has
taught Year 7 and Mr Bailey has taught Year 10 Mathematics.
In the Australian Maths Competition 8
Credits and 11 Proficiency certificates
were achieved by our students, while the
ICAS competition saw 2 Distinctions and 18
Credits awarded. Miss Broderick and Mrs
Young accompanied 2 teams of talented
Year 8 students to the annual Mathematics
Fun Day held at the University of New
England in Armidale. Students gained a lot
from this fun, interesting and challenging
day.
In preparation for the HSC students in
year 12 were again able to attend HSC
workshops in Mathematics General, 2 Unit,
Extension 1 and Extension 2 via video-conference. The workshops were presented by Head
Teachers and senior teachers from around the region who are experienced teachers and HSC
markers.
Interactive whiteboards are now in use in three Mathematics classrooms, with a further 2 about to
be installed. Pat Sullivan, Senior Education Officer from Tamworth has recently provided the
Mathematics faculty with professional development in the use of the “Smartboards” and plans are
underway for him to work with both the staff and students in Term 1, 2012.
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Science Faculty Report
2011 has been a successful year for Science at Narrabri High School. A number of last year‟s HSC
Science students achieved outstanding results, including: 1st and 10th in the region in Physics, 1st and
7th in the region in Senior Science, 3rd in the region in Chemistry and 6th in the region in Biology.
Students who gained a School Certificate in Science in 2010 obtained results equivalent to or, in
some cases, better than those obtained in other schools within the region.
This year saw the retirement of a long term stalwart of the Science Faculty and of Narrabri High
School, Mr Hood. His endeavours in the agricultural and sporting areas will be sorely missed. He has
been replaced by Mrs Partridge. Miss Johnson returned from maternity leave and Miss Lilliebridge
taught a mixture of Agriculture and Science classes.
In the nine years Narrabri High has entered the Newcastle University Engineering Challenge, we
have represented the region at the state championships on eight occasions. This year our team
came eighth at the state level. Once again, the Science Faculty and Narrabri High School were ably
represented by our Year 11 Physics students who assisted Newcastle University staff in running the
Primary Schools‟ version of the Engineering Challenge. The University staff and assisting Rotarians
were particularly impressed with the way our senior students conducted themselves throughout the
day.
Mrs Charalambous has continued to develop computer based learning activities for her classes and
her expertise in this area was recognized when she was invited to present at the regional ICT
conference. With most of the remaining Science laboratories having recently had interactive
whiteboards installed, Mrs Charalambous will be able to provide professional guidance on their
usage.
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The HSC Physics class had the opportunity to participate in the “Kickstart Physics on the Road”
program which was held in Armidale as well as interact with leading researchers on a range of topics
through video-conferencing.
This year we also entered the International Rio Tinto Big Science competition with Angus Williams
receiving a High Distinction. Participation in the International Science Competition and Assessments
for Schools was limited this year with only 2 entries and one student received a credit.
Students from Years 8, 9 and 11 have also performed ecological work at the Bullawa Creek State
Conservation Area. The proximity of this area to town provides an ideal opportunity for us to
undertake first hand ecological studies.
The Year 10 project is one of the Year 10 assessment tasks and is a mandatory part of the Stage 5
Science syllabus. This year‟s students produced projects of a high standard and a considerable
number were entered in the PICSE Science Week Science Investigation Awards. The major prize
winner was Caitlin Barden for her research on “the most favourable conditions for the fermentation
of sugar using yeast”. Julia Constance and Emily Bailey were other prizewinners.
A number of Year 9 students have presented their interactive tasks to Year 6 students as part of
our transition to high school program. At the end of November, six Year 11 Science students were
selected to fly to Sydney and attend a “Careers in Science Program”. This trip has been fully-
funded by the University of Technology, Sydney and is the second time Narrabri High School has
been invited to attend.
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Agriculture Faculty Report
2011 has been a busy and successful year for Agriculture at Narrabri High School. It is with great
regret that we report that our long serving Agriculture Teacher, Mr Peter Hood retired at the
beginning of the year. He will be greatly missed by the school community. Mr Hood has been
replaced by Mrs Emma Partridge. As a result of an increase in numbers of students electing to take
Agriculture, Miss Rachel Lillebridge has also been teaching a Year 9 Agriculture class, while Mr Joe
White delivered the Year 12 Primary Industries course. Mr Peter O‟Connor has continued his role as
Farm Assistant.
Our Shorthorn cattle stud continues to play an important role in the Agriculture program. The
Manchee Family, owners of Yamburgan Shorthorn Stud, have continued to give valuable support for
the management of the school‟s stud. At present, we have eight registered breeding females, all of
which have produced healthy calves, each sired by Yamburgan bulls.
Students from Year 7 through to Year 11 were involved in preparing four of our stud cattle for the
Narrabri Show: three heifers and a bull. “Narrabri High Yuman” was sashed Junior Champion Bull of
the show. In addition, the students participated in Junior Judging and Junior Paraders Competitions
with the follow successes: in the Under 25 years Junior Judging Sophie McFarland was awarded
first place with Mikayla Brown placing second. Mikayla also placed fourth in the Under 25 years
Paraders competition. In the Under 15 Years Junior Judging Year 7 students Jess O‟Neil and
Courtney Boyd were placed second and fourth respectively.
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Sophie McFarland progressed to represent Narrabri in the Group 14 Zone Finals for Junior Judging.
She reached the finals in fleece judging, placing fifth, and narrowly missed out the finals in the
beef cattle judging.
Tori McLachlan of Year 9 attended the Rotary sponsored RYAG Dairy Camp in Wingham during the
October school holidays. The camp looked at many aspects of milk production and marketing.
Cotton has been the main focus for senior agriculture plant production work. Year 11 students
participated in a Cotton Field to Fabric course held at the Australian Cotton Research Station. The
course outlined each of the steps and processes in cotton production through to the end uses.
Year 11 competed in the North West Property Planning Competition, a Field Day held at Trelawney,
Somerton, which provided valuable experiences, with many experts dealing with areas relating to
the Preliminary Agriculture course.
Year 7 and 8 classes have focused on vegetable production as part of the Mandatory Technology
course. This year for the first time, the students prepared a vegetable garden which was entered
in the Spring Garden Show.
This year Narrabri High School participated in the
Northern Schools Steer Competition hosted by
Coonamble. Steers were obtained from loyal
supporters Stuart Park and Louis Griffiths and all
Agriculture students had some involvement in
preparing the steers. A group of elective students
from Years 8, 9, 10 and 11 were selected as
members of the “Show Team” and devoted additional
time preparing the steers and attending the
competition. The students were accompanied by Mrs
Partridge and Mr O‟Connor. All of the 2011 Narrabri
High School Show Team was awarded prizes. In Year
11 Junior Judging, Sophie McFarland placed 2nd,
closely followed by Zachary Tomlinson who was
placed 3rd and Nicola Onus was awarded 7th in the
Year 9 Junior Judging class. In the Paraders
competitions Zachary Tomlinson and Mikayla Brown
both reached the finals in the Year 11 class, with
Zachary placing 4th and Mikayla placing 6th. Mariah
Moss also reached the finals in the Year 10 class,
narrowly missing out on a place but was awarded a
Highly Commended ribbon. In the Year 9 class Jessica Brown, Nicola Onus and Lane Allison all were
awarded Highly Commended ribbons as was Hayden Grumley in the Year 7/8 class.
The ongoing support to Agriculture at Narrabri High School by many areas of the local community is
greatly appreciated. We particularly thank Cargill for continuing to supply cotton hull and meal
which are essential in maintaining our stud cattle herd and preparing steers.
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History Faculty Report
The National Curriculum Project for History in the junior school has been finalised with the Board
of Studies working on a syllabus for NSW. We will receive a draft syllabus early next year with its
implementation extended to 2014. In NSW History is compulsory for students in Years 7 – 10.
Year 7 and 8 History has given the students the scope to study aspects of ancient world history as
well Australian history. Some of the topics covered have been Rome, Greece, Native Americans,
Aztecs as well as traditional Aboriginal society. We have introduced a new topic of Imperial China
which aligns with the thinking of the committee creating the National Curriculum. Year 7 students
start the year with an introductory topic of “What is History?” where they have the opportunity to
develop the skills that will help them with History at high school, as well as completing a family
history research task. This year History was semesterised, so students did the subject for half a
year but had five lessons per cycle, providing more frequent contact and continuity.
Australian History, Civics and Citizenship is a compulsory course for Year 9 and 10 students that
culminates at the end of Year 10 with an external exam. Many students have shown an interest in
Australian History because they have been able to discuss significant events with family members.
Ancient and Modern History courses continue to be popular in the senior school. There were classes
in both Ancient and Modern History in the Year 11 Preliminary course and Ancient History in the
Year 12 HSC course. Both of these courses cater for students of a range of abilities. Six Year 11
students have decided to undertake the very rigorous History Extension HSC course. They will be
required to complete the course work as well as a major project which is assessed externally.
Fourteen Year 12 students attended an excursion to the History Teachers Association study days
at Sydney University in June. This was a worthwhile excursion which provided students with
lectures by experts in History and HSC marking over three days.
The History Faculty is looking forward to a number of exciting challenges next year. There will be a
Year 9 elective class called Heroes, Myths and Archaeology which has many innovative topics and a
lot of scope for the students to research areas of personal interest. Fifteen Year 11 and 12
students are going on an excursion to Germany and Italy in the Easter holidays to view significant
historical sites. This is an exciting opportunity for the students and an important excursion for
students who live in country areas. Successful teaching and learning rely heavily on staff expertise
and commitment. In 2011, students have been taught engaging programs by the following History
teachers: Mrs Brazaitis, Mr Partridge, Mr Doherty and Mr Charalambous.
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Music Faculty Report During 2011 the Music Department has had the privilege of working with a fine group of young
performers from Year 12: Kyle Atkins (guitar/voice), Jessica Campell (flute), Kate Constance
(clarinet), Alyssa Nott (flute), Jarvis Prestage (trumpet) and Alissa Rily (clarinet). In particular
Jessica, Kate, Jarvis and Alissa have featured strongly in our extra-curricula programs for the past
six years and we have appreciated their involvement, contribution, leadership and camaraderie in
the concert band. The loss of such experienced musicians will find us relying more on our younger
students who continue to develop their skills and talents within our Performing Ensembles.
This year‟s “12 Features” HSC music
evening in Room 25 drew an
appreciative audience. The Year 12
students were encouraged by the
support shown and used the
opportunity to gain valuable
performance experience prior to their
practical exams. Hannah Lonergan and
Sarah Cameron are to be commended
for their involvement in the HSC
clarinet ensembles. Our Year 12
students are excellent role models for
future senior Narrabri High School
music students.
Earlier in the year our Year 11 and 12
students attended the New England
Regional HSC Music Workshop in Tamworth where Mr Fenton led workshops in Performance, Aural
and Musicology skills for students from across the region. Our students experienced valuable
performance opportunities in this workshop with feedback being given from recent HSC markers.
The 2011 “Encore” Music excursion to Sydney was an enormous success with students having the
opportunity to see a live performance of “Jersey Boys” at the Theatre Royal and “Encore 11”
(featuring outstanding performances from 2010 HSC) at the Opera House. The Sydney
experiences, activities and general sight-seeing were a rewarding experience for all. Mr Fenton and
Mrs Barden were very impressed with the behaviour and co-operation of all students on this
excursion. These students were excellent ambassadors for Narrabri High School.
Classes in both the Mandatory Year 7 and 8 Music courses and Additional (Elective) Yr 9 and 10
courses have all developed their skills and knowledge in a variety of musical genres and practical
experiences throughout 2011. Students in Years 7 and 8 have adapted well to semesterisation with
students progressing at a faster rate in most component areas.
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The Narrabri High School Concert
Band rehearses each Friday afternoon
till 5pm and has maintained its fine
reputation for excellent performances
and providing outstanding
entertainment at various special
assemblies throughout the year. All
students involved are to be
commended on their dedication and
hard work throughout the year.
Jock Smith of Year 9 was selected to
perform in the State Senior Wind
Band. This band was selected to
perform as part of the State
Instrumental Festival at the Sydney
Opera House.
The “West of the Divide” Concert Band was formed in 2010 comprising of students from the
Western, Riverina and New England regions. At the end of March this ensemble toured Hawaii,
performing in the Pacific Basin Music Festival. Jessica Campbell, Jarvis Prestage, and Jock Smith
were selected to tour with this ensemble. They were accompanied and supervised by Mr Bailey. This
tour provided an outstanding experience for these students to perform in such a competition and
experience workshops with professional conductors from across the globe.
Mr Bailey was appointed to a permanent position on the Music staff at Narrabri High School in
early April. His feelings of excitement and acceptance of the offer were conveyed back to Narrabri
whilst he was on tour in Hawaii.
Sarah Boaden and Kodey Stanford
(Year 11), Toby Owens (Year 10),
Jonathan Byast (Year 9), Hope Fagan
and Nick Walker (Year 8) attended the
inaugural New England Regional Vocal
Camp at Lake Keepit. These six
students were then selected to
perform in the Sydney Opera House in
the New England Vocal Ensemble as
part of the State Choral Festival
Concerts. Mr Fenton travelled as a
supervisor and bus driver to enable this
excursion to be viable. The effort,
commitment and contributions of these
students are greatly appreciated.
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Our two Year 11 vocalists Sarah Boaden and Kodey Stanford were then selected to benefit from
specialist instruction in vocal delivery and presentation.
This year Narrabri was selected as a venue for the
NSW Symphonic Wind Orchestra to tour in the
North West region. Student instrumentalists from
Narrabri High School and local primary schools spent
a fun day in workshops and then a public concert held
at night. There was a school concert/performance by
the visiting orchestra in the afternoon. This event
was very well supported and also provided valuable
tuition in conducting skills and techniques for local
teachers including Mr Bailey.
The Newcastle Wind Band have always had a great time and been appreciative of the organisation
and support of Narrabri High School and District schools for their annual December workshop. This
year their time with us involved keen students in a three-day workshop. It has been evident that
the value of these workshops is not to be underestimated. We are privileged to be able to secure
the expertise of the music students from the University of Newcastle for this once-a-year event.
As a central point for a number of schools Narrabri is well placed to host this event. 2011 will be
the 14th time these Newcastle University workshops have been held in Narrabri.
Mr Bailey has co-ordinated the Narrabri High School Chess Team for the last 2 years. He has been
assisted in this venture by Mr Bruce Danson who trains the members of the team on Thursdays at
lunchtime in the library. The team consisting of David Boaden (Year 12), Kyle Barton and Leon
Merten (Year 11) and Alex Hamilton (Year 8) were announced as the winners of the North West
region in September 2011. This team along with Mr Bailey and Mr Danson travelled to Sydney to
compete in the Country Schools Chess Finals in week 6 of Term 4.
The Music Department of Narrabri High
School continues to depend heavily on a
core of students who participate in more
than one ensemble, who are committed to
more than one weekly rehearsal, are eager
to try new music and maintain their
involvement for the whole year.
Our performing ensembles, elective
classes, workshops and related events give
opportunities for learning, peer tutoring,
friendships and integration for all
students from Years 7 – 12.
The student contribution and commitment to the cultural life of the school is most gratifying and
sincerely appreciated by the Music staff. Thank you to all students for their support and on-going
commitment.
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Social Sciences Faculty Report
The Social Sciences staff of 2011, comprising Mr Knight (Deputy Principal), Mr Galvin (Head
Teacher), Mrs Rainger, Mr Graham, Mr Doherty and Mr Randall, have again targeted further
developing their teaching skills and classroom management practices. There has also been an
emphasis on teamwork in the staff room. Students are encouraged to give of their best and to
enjoy their learning experiences. Student-centred learning and literacy strategies have been
emphasised in the classroom. It is important that all students have the right and opportunity to
learn without interruptions.
Local excursions (at little or no cost) have become important learning tools in the Social Sciences.
Included in these field trips are the Narrabri Creek and Maitland Street business houses as well as
Federation Farm for senior geography students.
All students in the Social Sciences have had to present a variety of individual research projects.
Year 7 Geography students had to produce a project which required them to study a world country
other than Australia and the responses from the students were exceptional. Year 8 students looked
at protecting and managing the environment involving surveys and writing and presenting oral
reports. Year 11 Geography had to prepare a senior Geography project and Year 10 a Geography
project which required students to research a local geographical aspect as part of their assessment
program. Year 11 Business Studies Students completed a business research task on a local business
and had an excursion to Sydney, the focus of which was marketing.
The Stage 4 Commerce syllabus has now been fully implemented while there are big changes to
Junior Geography with the abolition of the traditional School Certificate examination. The changes
continue in senior Business Studies with Year 12 studying the new syllabus for the first time.
Another change that has occurred is the introduction of a new Legal Studies syllabus that now
includes the impact of technology on the law.
Subjects available for
students in 2012 in the
Social Science faculty are
Geography and Commerce in
the junior school and
Geography, Business Studies,
Legal Studies and Economics
in the senior school.
In 2012 the classroom will
again take priority in the
Social Sciences as teachers
set out to ensure all
students are given the
opportunity to produce their
best.
19
Technology and Applied Studies (Industrial Arts) Faculty Report
This year has been very successful for the Industrial Arts Faculty at Narrabri High School. It has
been exciting to see so many students progress in their learning. Through a variety of learning
experiences students have each developed new and valuable skills. These practical skills will prove
useful for the rest of their lives.
In the Stage 4 Mandatory Technology
course, students have been given the
planning and practical skills to solve
design problems. An understanding of
the design process allows students to
approach design situations in a
systematic and logical way. Students
have enjoyed creating projects from
timber and mixed materials. They have
learned how to manipulate tools and
materials to achieve the desired
outcomes.
In Stage 5 students have enjoyed
working with timber and metal to create fine furniture and metallurgical miracles. Students have
made significant and continuous improvement in their use of materials to enhance a product and
improve its functionality. Projects in Timber Technology included dartboard cabinets, bar stools,
small cabinets and coffee tables. These objects have been produced with ever increasing levels of
skill. In Farm Maintenance students have focussed on creating projects with a high level of
functionality. These include a hobby vice, a brick carrier and a welded tool box. This has equipped
students with vital skills needed by local industry. The student laptop computers have proven to be
useful as another tool in the design and planning of students‟ work. “Google Sketchup” is installed
on all the laptops and is a fantastic software package for helping students to visualise their
projects. A lot of hand drawing is now being replaced with this new technology.
Students in Stage 6 Industrial Technology have
once again completed their Major Projects to an
exceptionally high standard. Mr Hamilton and
Mr McFetridge have enjoyed seeing these
wonderful projects come together and all of the
students should be congratulated on the quality
of the finished jobs.
Abbey Shephard‟s
Outdoor setting made from New Guinea Rosewood.
20
The senior students at Narrabri
High School can also study a number
of VET (Vocational Education and
Training) courses such as Metals and
Engineering or Construction. Both of
these courses are competency based
and are an excellent preparation for
further study in the wood or metal
working trades. The purchase of a
new guillotine last year has meant
that students are able to quickly and
very accurately cut sheet material to
size. This machine coupled with the
sheet metal bender has enabled the
construction of many excellent sheet
metal projects throughout the year.
The Construction (VET Course) students have completed the Workcover approved OH&S Induction
Certificate course for construction workers. This qualification allows students to enter
construction work sites and is essential within the construction industry.
The Year 12 Construction students have also completed the construction of a child‟s cubby house.
This work allowed them the opportunity to learn framing skills which can be applied to any timber
framed structure and will be very useful in the years ahead.
The Regional World Skills Competition was held
in Moree recently and a number of our students
competed in the event. Joshua Wilson won the
Construction competition with Jack Davenport
finishing fourth. Matthew Wall finished in
second place in the Metals and Engineering
competition with Elijah Barnes taking out
fourth place.
I would personally like to thank my staff Mr
Hamilton and Mr Symons for their continued
dedication to the education of the students at
Narrabri High School. They consistently carry
out their roles professionally and are always
supportive of the students in their care. It
should also be noted that Mr McGregor
continues to support the staff and students of
Industrial Arts in his retirement. His wisdom
and subject knowledge are a true asset to our
faculty.
21
Technology and Applied Studies (Home Economics) Faculty Report
The TAS – Home Economics staff consists of Ms Kathy Bailey (Head Teacher), Mrs Janet Barden,
Mrs Julie Roy and Mrs Julianne Brown (kitchen assistant). Mrs Roy and Mrs Barden both opted to
continue part time leave this year. During Mrs Roy‟s extended long service leave break we were
fortunate to have Mrs Sara Wallace, a trained TAS teacher, step in and take practical lessons and
Ms Sharon Hill and Mrs Gail Young willing and able to assist with other classes.
Mrs Irene Hyde has been recognised for forty-four years of service to Narrabri High School.
After Mrs Hyde‟s official retirement from the position of kitchen assistant, we finally recognised
her achievement! Mrs Hyde was presented with a service medal, flowers and gift from the school
at an afternoon tea earlier this year.
Late last year the senior Textiles and Design and Food
Technology classes travelled to Sydney for a fun-filled,
tasty and educational tour of a variety of places in the
CBD. The Textiles class viewed “Texstyle” an exhibition
of selected HSC Major Textile Projects while the Food
Technology class travelled onto Kangaroo Valley for a
tour of local businesses and a pasta making workshop.
They also visited a dairy farm in the middle of
afternoon milking.
One of the highlights of the excursion was the variety
of foods eaten – Japanese, Italian, Spanish and the
multicultural foods (and desserts) enjoyed at Sydney
Tower. These students were great ambassadors for our
school and community and it was a memorable
experience for the students and the staff who
attended.
The Year 12 Textiles and Design class has spent the year focussing on designing and constructing
their Major Textile Projects. Many hours have been spent producing these works with the project
forming 50% of the final mark in Textiles and Design. They are to be congratulated on their
creative and very individual pieces of work!
The works were displayed down the street during the last week of October in the windows of
Trademarks & Safire Designs. Thank you to Mr David Pierce and Mrs Natasha Baxter for their
support by giving up valuable window space for the display.
22
The new kitchen continues to be put to good use. Classes in
Years 7 to 12 have practical lessons each week in a range of
subjects including Technology, Food Technology, Hospitality
and Exploring Early Childhood.
Hospitality students have studied the Commercial Cookery
strand of the syllabus and have enjoyed the hands-on
lessons of preparing and presenting foods to industry
standard. They have participated in several catering
opportunities that have allowed students to showcase their
skills.
Narrabri High School hosted the Hospitality WorldSkill‟s
competition in October. Mrs Barden was the convenor and
Mrs Roy one of the four judges. Eight students from
various schools competed in the event including Jordan
Katrib from Year 11. Ninety six meals were prepared and
served by the group on the day which meant lots of washing up! All the students gained valuable
skills to enhance their Hospitality studies and picked up many tips from the judges on food
presentation, preparation techniques and food hygiene and safety.
Students in Years 9 and 10 Food Technology have also been
involved in lots of exciting experiences this year. From food
styling exercises and digital photography of their products,
to tasting and making new and unusual foods for a wide
variety of age groups, cupcakes to formal dinners, the
students have learnt much about the preparation,
presentation and hygiene required with food. They have
studied areas of the syllabus including food trends, history
of food in Australia, the food service and catering industry
and new food product development to name a few.
Students in Year 7 Mandatory Technology classes have
been introduced to the fundamental skills required to solve
design briefs using food as their material. They have made
a variety of foods and have created unusual muffins and
potato fillings as solutions to their design briefs as well as
creating some other delicious foods. They have developed
their skills and knowledge regarding the microwave, measurement and recipes and general use of
the kitchen.
Students in Year 8 Mandatory Technology have been able to study Food as well as a Mixed
Materials area this year. Students who participated in the Food area have studied a variety of
foods from countries around the world and have experienced first hand the multicultural influences
on the foods we eat today.
23
The students who studied Mixed
Materials have worked with a variety of
materials including fabrics, foods
especially chocolate and paper to
create a wide range of gifts that would
be suitable for gift giving. Items such
as Sand Art Brownies, boxer shorts,
pillowcases, cards, cookies and
handmade Christmas decorations have
been created by the students.
Professional development this year has
involved staff undertaking activities
provided by the school and department
and activities arranged privately at
weekends. Mandatory development has
included updating our resuscitation training as a whole school group and being involved in sessions on
literacy, numeracy and programming, as well as an upgrade in Hospitality in the Food and Beverage
and Commercial Cookery sections of the syllabus. Ms Bailey, Mrs Roy and Mrs Barden continue to
maintain their industry currency with 30 hours of industry exposure over a two year period
expected. Much of this industry currency is completed in the staff‟s own time. Ms Bailey has spent
some time this semester in the position as New England Hospitality Support Co-ordinator. This
position required her to ensure that all teachers of Hospitality in the New England region
completed all the requirements for their up-grade and she was able to support them with advice,
co-ordination of work placements and information regarding their work place journals. This has been
a challenging, but enjoyable position and Mrs Roy has been able to work on a casual basis so that all
Ms Bailey‟s classes have continued as normal.
With another year rapidly drawing to a close the faculty is already planning for 2012 classes.
Courses to be delivered include Exploring Early Childhood (Year 11 and Year 12), Textiles and Design
(Year 11), Food Technology (Years 10, 11, 12), Careers and Technology (Years 7 and 8). We look
forward to another productive year in the classroom.
24
Personal Development/Health/ Physical Education Faculty Report
During 2011 the PD/H/PE staff of, Mr Russell, Mrs Carter, Mr Magner, Mrs Smith and Miss Crowley
(Term 4) have further developed their teaching skills to ensure all students are given every
possibility to give of their best with all theory and practical activities.
Mr Graham has been the Wednesday Sports
Organiser while Mrs Carter has organised all
Zone and Regional Sports. This year we
reintroduced the school cross country and tug-o-
war events as house competitions. An enjoyable
time was had by both students and staff. The
success of sport at Narrabri High School can be
attributed to their dedicated organisation. Mr
Graham was responsible for the organisation of
very successful Swimming and Athletics Carnivals
as well as the Namoi Zone Athletics Carnival.
Wednesday afternoon sport has run very
smoothly with the students able to choose from a
wide variety of sports.
Faculty members have attended a variety of TPL (Teachers‟ Professional Learning) courses aimed at
keeping staff up-to-date on developments in PD/H/PE. Mr Nixon, Mrs Carter and Mrs Barden ran
and examined First Aid and CPR courses for staff members at Narrabri High School. These courses
enable staff members to provide a high level of care while accompanying students on excursions.
Numbers are increasing in the senior courses of PD/H/PE (2 unit) and Sport, Lifestyle and
Recreation Studies. The Year 7 to 10 PD/H/PE course allows students to benefit from a well
prepared, integrated course. Units of work in PE include Dance, Athletics, Volleyball, Aquatics,
Games, Fitness Testing and Gymnastics. Units in the Personal Development and Health strand
include HIV/AIDS, Smoking/Alcohol, Water Safety, Road Safety, Sun Safety, First Aid, Nutrition,
Child Protection, Lifestyle Diseases, Relationships and Careers.
The Year 9 and 10 elective course PAS will not be offered as an elective for Year 8 into Year 9
students for 2012.
The faculty continues to use community facilities including the swimming pool and the fitness
centre. Staff and students are very appreciative for the use of these community facilities.
2012 should see the high profile of the PD/H/PE Faculty maintained as staff ensures students are
given every opportunity to realise their abilities.
25
Special Education
IM Support & IO/S Support Classes
The IM Support Class has had a busy 2011. We have had to say goodbye to two class members,
Codie Haywood and David Randall who completed their HSC this year. They will be sadly missed and
we wish them all the best in their future endeavours.
During the year students have participated in a
range of activities aimed at the further
development of their learning. The class is
supported by classroom teacher Mrs Julie Duncan
and Learning Support Officer, Mrs Robina Mowle.
Emphasis is on the development of literacy and
numeracy skills which are delivered across a range
of subjects. Individual learning programs ensure
that the educational and social needs of each
student are met.
Some students attend mainstream technology
classes with their peers and are supported during
these lessons by the class learning support officer.
The students have also enjoyed attending Industrial Technology and Visual Arts as a class this year
and have produced some pleasing work through the support of Mr Hamilton, Mrs Laird and Ms
Pocock.
Throughout the year a number of students have
participated in a Work Experience Program co-
ordinated by Job Coach, Ms Katherine Bell. This
program is very beneficial to the students within
the class as it provides experience in the workforce
and valuable work skills. Ms Bell has liaised with
local businesses to provide work placements for the
students throughout the year and the support of
these businesses is greatly appreciated.
The IO/IS Special Needs class provides individual
assistance for students with disabilities and
learning difficulties so they are able to participate
to their full potential in all aspects of school life.
Individual education plans are designed to promote
the development of skills that can be used in a wide
range of community settings.
26
Mrs Louise Egan is the class teacher and is
supported by Mrs Cathy Hedges and Mrs Hayley
Kinstler as Learning Support Officers
This year we farewell Harley Finlay as he completes
Year 12. We wish him well for his future endeavours
also.
The home classroom is well equipped with a
kitchenette, a bathroom, a computer for each
student, a TV and DVD player as well as resources
that cater for individual interests and group
activities. Social stories using photos and videos are
developed to assist the students to rehearse and
review learning experiences.
Courses of individual study are accessed through
flexible timetabling which allows for home room
based study and integration into mainstream classes.
Students in the junior school study subjects that
cover the whole range of KLA‟s. The senior students
are able to select more specific subjects that
prepare them for transition to work and the
community.
All students participate in courses that utilise
specialist rooms for Food Technology, Wood
Technology and Visual Arts. The Land Laboratory is
used to study vegetable gardening and animal
husbandry. The Physical Education strand of
PD/H/PE makes use of a wide variety of equipment
from the sports store and resources including the
well equipped gymnasium, the lush grassed oval and
cricket nets. The linked expanses of hard surfaces
and covered areas allow for games and bicycle riding
in all types of weather.
All students gained valuable experience horse riding
in the RDA program and we would like to express
our gratitude to all the volunteers involved.
As the school year ends the class has trips planned
to celebrate the International Day for Disabilities
at Narrabri Bowling Club and a Swimming Carnival in
Moree.
27
Visual Arts Report
Students of Visual Arts are encouraged to be imaginative and thoughtful whilst developing skills and
gaining knowledge about art and the art world. By using a variety of expressive forms, students are
asked to visually explore, interpret and represent relevant themes and issues through their art
making. These challenges and opportunities are designed to develop their talents, expand upon their
ability to communicate and solve problems, and heighten their understanding and awareness of the
world they live in. The study of Art History and Theory are of great interest and importance in
understanding the process of art making and convey the relevance of the “what, when, where, how and
why”.
In 2011 we had a record number of students successfully exhibit at the Narrabri Show in the school,
group and individual sections in sculpture, drawing, painting and mixed media. Carla Jane Lennox from
Year 7 was awarded the Junior Grand champion. Carla Jane also received first prize in the high school
division with her sculpture for the “Waste to Art” competition.
During the Easter school holidays a group of dedicated students participated in the Narrabri Shire
Council art project. Students were privileged to work with renowned artist Damien Kamholtz as they
developed designs and painted a mural for the new public toilets in Tibbereena Street.
This year sixteen Year 12 students submitted a HSC “Body of Work” which are artworks which
reflect their view and sense of place in the world. Students utilised a variety of expressive forms
such as painting, drawing, mixed media, documented forms and photography to comment on issues and
themes such as their families, religion, self identity and the environment. All students presented
meaningful visual statements expressing understanding of the relationships among the artist,
artwork, world and the audience. Our students‟ artworks are compared to over 9,800 other works
across the state. Approximately 800 highly ranked works are set aside for the exhibition selection
process. Of these one in four will secure places in one of the Art Express exhibitions planned for
next year.
Georgiana Christakos – „The furnishing and building of the sanctuary‟
28
The Visual Arts faculty has had the privilege of working with a fine group of students in the Year
12 class of 2011. We have appreciated their involvement, contribution and leadership. Year 12 and
their artworks provide an excellent role model for future senior and junior Visual Arts students to
see what is possible and encourage many to continue to develop their skills and talents.
The Year 12 artworks were showcased in an exhibition night in October which was held in the school
library. This event was a huge success with many parents and community members attending the
evening. More of these occasions are planned for 2012.
A small group of Year 12 students completed the Photography course this year. Students utilised
digital technologies to capture, manipulate and transform images. They explored many themes such
as portraiture, landscape, macro photography, self identity, the environment and community issues.
Each student submitted a “Body of Work” which reflected their ideas and utilised Photoshop
techniques. Megan Scilley entered in the Narrabri Show and the Australian Museum‟s Photographic
Competition with pleasing results being achieved.
Earlier this year Mrs Laird attended an Art Express teacher training day in Armidale. This was an
opportunity for teachers from the North West region to develop their ideas for the practical and
written components in the Higher School Certificate. Art Express is held annually at the Art Gallery
of NSW and tours to various other art galleries in NSW. These works represent a broad diversity of
different artworks submitted for that year's HSC. Attending such courses enables staff to network
with other teachers and expands on the learning opportunities for our senior students.
Visual Arts maintains its popularity with over seventy students studying the elective courses in
Years 9, 10, and 11. Year 11 are currently developing themes and concepts for next year‟s HSC “Body
of Work”. Students have explored a variety of themes this year including: What is Art?, Post -
Modernism, issues and theories and modern art. Year 10 has used a variety of materials to create
colourful and imaginative artworks based around the theme of Fantasy and the Surreal. Year 9 has
explored the themes The Human Figure, Portraits, Pop Art and Animals through a range of
expressive forms. These students also had the opportunity to work with a variety of sculptural
materials, focusing on the work of famous sculptors throughout history.
The Year 8 classes explored The Environment and
were introduced to art forms from many different
cultures around the world. This included the use of
symbols in the making of their artworks and the
study of famous artworks from across time. Year 7
classes have been busy creating artworks designed to
develop their skills in the areas of drawing,
printmaking and painting.
Mrs Laird and Ms Pocock would like to thank those
who have supported us over the past year and
acknowledge all the students whose efforts
throughout this year have produced artworks of a
high standard. Paige Pollack – „Love‟
29
Aboriginal Education Officer Report 2011 has been a very busy and exciting year for all Aboriginal students at Narrabri High School.
The beginning of the year saw the handing over of the new Aboriginal Resource Room. Transition
into the room was met with great anticipation and excitement.
In March, female students from Years 8, 9 and 10 participated in the „Go Girls Program‟ held at
Narrabri TAFE on Wednesday afternoons. The program covered areas such as self esteem
awareness, goal setting, teamwork, communication, cultural issues and language. All the students
who participated received awards from TAFE that were presented by Acting Head Teacher Annie
Turner and Narrabri High School Principal, Mr Myers. We received great feedback from the girls
about this program and we are hoping to again run it in 2012.
In Term 3, we ran a similar course with the boys called „The All Stars‟ program. This was conducted
at the school on a Thursday afternoon, in the resource centre, and ten students graduated from
the program.
Our NAIDOC celebrations at Narrabri High this year were very successful. We again held a
sausage sizzle and a touch football tournament that was taken out by the senior student team. We
conducted the traditional flag raising and the cutting of the cake, whilst Lyn Trindall, as guest
speaker, addressed the school on this year‟s theme, „Change: the next step is ours‟.
Also in Term 3, students in Year 10 participated in the „Walking Tall‟ program that was held each
Friday in the resource centre. This program helped teach the students about how to prepare to
enter the workplace and how job interviews work. Again we received great feedback from the
students and from the teacher of the program, Gemma Brown. Nine students graduated and were
presented with awards by Mr Myers. Students also participated in the successful SES program.
In Term 4 we saw the
refurbishment of the resource
centre with new equipment for the
students to use. We are hoping to
have more parents come in and see
the centre in 2012, as the students
always enjoy coming in to catch up
or ask for assistance with their
work.
Academically, we saw achievements
by Aboriginal students in all years
and it was great to see the students
successfully complete their HSC
and School Certificate.
Overall 2011 was a challenging yet exciting year - we look forward to what 2012 brings us.
Student Representative Council
30
Under the leadership of our President Daniel Laird, and with the assistance of our secretary
Isobella Revell, the SRC has helped to develop leadership opportunities for a diverse range of
students. Daniel and Isobella have been supported by Matthew Nott as Vice President, as well as
the other executive members.
The major aim of the Student Representative Council is to allow elected students to represent the
views and ideas of the students of the year that they represent. The SRC at Narrabri High School
allows students to work within a fair and democratic framework to ensure that students have a
voice in some decision making processes within the school as well as at regional and state level. This
year, our role in regional and state activities has again been quite active. Matthew Nott was a
member of the State Conference Action Team (SCAT) and he played an integral part in the
planning, preparation and the running of the State SRC Conference. Daniel Laird and Matthew Nott
acted as regional representatives at the State SRC Conference in August. Daniel and Matthew had
an amazing time, interacting with students from all over NSW and participating in many varied
activities and workshops about issues relevant to young people in our schools.
A number of students attended the Regional SRC Camp in September, which was held at Lake
Keepit. At this camp students participated in workshops and activities that were presented by the
students who had attended the State Conference. This gave these students the opportunity to see
first hand the type of positive, pro-active actions in which students can participate. This also
develops their awareness of the impact that they, as students, can have on the students within our
schools.
As a result of the enlightening experiences at the camp, one of our students recently nominated as
a candidate for the position of New England Regional SRC President, with elections held at the
Regional AGM. Mathew Nott presented a high quality speech to a captive audience about his desire
31
to run for the position of President. He was successful in being elected to this position, and
Matthew will be a fine leader of a group of empowered students in the New England region. He is to
be congratulated for his election from a very strong field of 4 candidates.
Over the past year the SRC has also completed some fundraising activities that have benefited the
school. The SRC also organized Jeans for Genes Day this year and successfully raised approximately
$400 for this worthy cause. Further to this, the SRC held a “Football Colours” out of uniform day,
to help raise funds to contribute to the concreting of the gravel area in the playground. Narrabri
High School students and staff donated $350 for this beautification project within the school. The
SRC does urge the year groups to more actively pursue fundraising for specific charities.
This year we have again had representatives from the Aboriginal student body participate in the
SRC. There are two senior and two junior representatives and their input is valued. They provide an
important link between the SRC and the Aboriginal students. These students were Amanda
Wheeler, Tianne Parker, Brianna King and Bianca Booby.
We have continued our paper recycling program
and this has seen a significant amount of paper
recycled due to the efforts of roll call
representatives who have done a good job of
collecting the material for recycling within the
school. It is a positive step that our school
continues to take in protecting our environment.
The SRC have represented the school at a variety
of events throughout the year and these include
duties such as chairing the weekly assembly and
attending a fortnightly year meeting where they
are required to address their peers on issues
raised in the SRC that may affect that particular
group. Each week a representative visits roll call groups to seek suggestions and ideas for the SRC.
The SRC and other school students have participated in the Legacy Appeal and the Red Shield
Appeal.
Our senior students have held a number of major positions within the SRC this year and these
include:
Daniel Laird – President
Matthew Nott – Vice President
Isobella Revell – Secretary
Mathew Hall – Treasurer
Dylan Gale and
Linton Grumley – Correspondence and Publicity Officers
Jack Tame and
Joshua Wilson – Noticeboard and Suggestion Box Coordinators
These students performed their duties well and are to be congratulated on the smooth operation of
the SRC this year. Student Council Representatives for this year were:
32
Year 12:
Jessica Baxter, Phoebe Stanford, Ben Duncan, Ben Rumsby
Year 11:
Shelley Higgins, Isobella Revell, Kodey Stanford, Joshua Wilson, Jack Tame, Daniel Laird
Year 10:
Emily Baxter, Clare Campbell, Kirsty Nairn, Dylan Gale, Matthew Nott, Linton Grumley
Year 9:
Rekkia Packer, Gena Pattison, Tenayah Woodward, Mitchell Barnes, Corey Gold, Jeremy Smith
Year 8:
Julia Boaden, Jessica Kennedy, Eliza Tame, Izac Finn, Mathew Hall, Dylan Phillips
Year 7:
Courtney Boyd, Isabelle Madden, Gwendil Stanford, Will Brooks, Jake Goodhew, Mitchell Nairn
The Year 12 Prefect body now operates as a separate entity within the school and they have taken
on important representative duties at school and within the community. They have chaired the
Special Assemblies. Our Captains, Thomas Vaessen and Katie Brooks, participated in the formal part
of the ANZAC Day Service. Daniel Laird and Isobella Revell attended the Victory in the Pacific
Ceremony at the RSL. Our Captains elect, Jack Tame and Isobella Revell, were asked to present a
narrative on Remembrance Day at the official ceremony at the RSL.
After many years leading the SRC Mrs Julie Roy
stood down from the position of SRC Co-ordinator at
the end of Term 2, 2011. Mrs Roy has been an
integral part of the functional running of the SRC
and her contributions have left a positive legacy.
Without her input, organisational skills and caring
nature the SRC would not have been the outstanding
group it is today. Mrs Jo Brazaitis has taken the role
as SRC Co-ordinator, working with Mr John Russell.
She is still learning the ropes but is eager and willing
to guide the students of the SRC to be the leaders
of our future.
It has been a pleasure for Mr John Russell and Mrs
Jo Brazaitis to be the SRC Co-ordinators within the
school. Their job has been made easier by the
commitment and efforts of the students, who take their responsibilities very seriously. The
students and staff involved with the SRC also thank Mr Myers and Mr Knight and the staff for
their continuing support of the initiatives of the students at Narrabri High School.
Student Welfare Report
33
Year 12 – Mrs Lanie Rainger
Year 12 2011 are to be congratulated for their
achievements as their secondary learning
concludes. Students worked tirelessly
increasing their depth of understanding and
skill to achieve their potential. Major works
were completed to an outstanding quality of
craftsmanship and creativity. The final year was
challenging and demanding of students‟ time,
motivation and energy, but all the hard-work
was worth it in leading to opportunities for
their life careers and futures.
To further their academic success Year 12 students and parents acting as support people continued
to attended Senior Success workshops throughout the year and became exceptionally well
organised and informed as to the demands of the senior school. Year 12 students would like to
express their thanks to Ms Doust for sharing her expertise within the senior school through
facilitating the Senior Success program. The students who have attended this program have learnt
many new skills that will assist them with coping with the pressures of the senior school.
Year 12 farewelled Takuto Miwa, a Rotary exchange student from the island of Hokkaido, Japan, in
June. He has become a part of the year group and has shared many of the differences between
attending school in Australia and in Japan. We wish him every success in the future.
34
Amongst curriculum demands, Year 12
celebrated milestones and thoroughly
enjoyed the privileges and events of
their final year. Slave Day saw many
students return to junior classes with
their purchasers and it was a massive
success with record-breaking auction
bids. The funds raised went towards the
gift Year 12 presented to the school as
part of their farewell. A new sign now
adorns the front entrance of the school
and shows the school‟s traditional and
new values. Subject days and HSC seminar days provided a new forum and chance to mix business
with socialising. Our Activity Day with jumping castle, water pistols and a BBQ provided a whole
group fun day to end official classes. It is important to mention once again that we won the annual
Year 12 versus staff touch football game. The Graduation and Formal Dinner was an incredible night
of feasting and dancing to celebrate the end of school. A memorable year has ended.
It has been an honour and a privilege to have worked with this year group from the beginning of
their high school careers until they completed high school. I wish them every success in the future.
Year 11 Report – Mrs Hamilton
Year 11, 2011, are to be congratulated on their fine
efforts both in and out of the classroom. We began
the year as senior students at Narrabri High School
helping with the organisation of the Year 7 Welcome
BBQ. Congratulations to those students who gave up
their own time to assist our younger students and
their families.
To further their academic success Year 11 and their
support person participated in our Senior Success
program which gives senior students invaluable advice on how to tackle the rigours of their
Preliminary year. Thank you to Mrs Rainger for her excellent presentations and remember that this
program continues into Year 12.
Congratulations to all the Year 11 students who participated in our Twilight Swimming and Athletics
carnivals.
This year our SRC representatives were Daniel Laird, Isobella Revell, Jack Tame and Kodey
Stanford, Shellie Higgins and Joshua Wilson. Congratulations to them for doing an excellent job.
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Year 11 participated in the Rotary Youth Driver Awareness (RYDA) program and were shown many
elements to consider when you are a beginner driver. The presentations were extremely thought
provoking and the students conducted themselves admirably. Well done.
We have welcomed Noemie Lambert to our year as well. Noemie is a Rotary Youth Exchange student
from Belgium. We hope that Noemie enjoys her year at Narrabri High School and being a part of
our year group.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish all of Year 11 success in their final year of school and
well done on a great year.
Year 10 – Ms Johnson
During 2011 Year 10 has participated in many programs including the Science and Engineering
Challenge, Australian Mathematics Competition, ICAS Mathematics and Science competitions as
well as the steer competitions.
Our ski trip to Thredbo was a great success, with all students who participated making a great
effort with learning to ski and snowboard.
Each person conducted
themselves admirably and was a
fine ambassador for Narrabri
High School. It was pleasing to
come away from the trip with no
injuries and only a few battle
stories!
The Science and Engineering
excursion to Newcastle was, as
usual, a wonderful learning tool
for all the students involved.
The students participated
brilliantly and worked
consistently for the whole day,
bringing much credit to
themselves and the school.
This year our Student Representative Council students - Emily Baxter, Clare Campbell, Kirsty Nairn,
Linton Grumley, Dylan Gale and Matthew Nott have done a wonderful job representing the year and
all the hard work they put in is much appreciated.
With the hard work before and during the School Certificate now complete, I would like to take
this opportunity to say well done Year 10 and all the best for 2012.
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Year 9 Report – Mrs Walters
2011 has been a busy year for Year 9. We saw most of our smiling faces return at the beginning of
the year as well as the addition of some new ones as the year has progressed. All Year 9 students
received their laptops which have been used in many lessons to allow learning to take place
interactively. Students are able access to the internet, improve their typing skills and engage in new
and exciting ways of receiving the curriculum in the classroom environment.
Throughout the year many Year 9 students have
successfully participated in extra-curricular activities.
Some of these include: the SES Cadets program, “Love
Bites”, Swimming and Athletics carnivals, the Vegemite
Cup, Narrabri Show, Narrabri Eisteddfod, and
Narrabri High School Concert Band, various music
workshops, helpers for the primary school intensive
swimming, primary touch gala day and Year 7 transition
day at Yarrie Lake.
This year saw Year 9 complete their NAPLAN testing
with many students demonstrating an improvement in their knowledge. All students are to be
congratulated on their excellent behaviour during the NAPLAN examination period.
Year 9 have not only performed well in academic adventures this year with many credit and
distinction awards presented for Mathematics, English, Science and Geography competitions. They
have also excelled in the sporting arena with many students representing at a district level and Year
9 providing the 15 years boys relay team which won gold medals at the NSW State Championships.
Congratulations to everyone involved.
We are all eagerly awaiting everything that Year 10 has in store for us. Congratulations on
completing another year of schooling Year 9, let the
adventures begin next year!
Year 8 Report – Mr Symons
2011 has been a productive year with academic, sporting and
personal achievements. Academically, Year 8 has had success in
a various state and national competitions in Mathematics and
Science with a number of credits and distinctions being
received.
A number of year 8 girls have been lucky to be involved in a
positive and very worthwhile initiative “Girls with a Purpose”. This course has been developed to provide a relevant life skills
program to help improve self-esteem, engagement at school
and healthy relationships with others.
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One of our students was selected to attend Stewart House in Sydney. Each year we have the
opportunity to nominate students who would benefit from a two week, all expenses paid, break by
the beach. As well as having educational and social benefits, students get health checks on their
hearing, sight and general well-being. The students visit places such as the zoo, the aquarium,
Powerhouse Museum and the beach.
On the sporting field a number of students have excelled in numerous areas with particular success
in girls‟ cricket, swimming and boys Rugby Union.
Year 8 have also been given a small taste of what to expect in Year 9 with a choice of two electives
for Mandatory Technology, with each elective being undertaken for a period of two terms.
Year 7 Report – Ms McKinstry
What a big year it‟s been for Year 7, 2011! What a
long way we‟ve come from those shy students who,
on day one, were worried about what class they were
in, who they would be friends with, and how to get
around the school without getting lost.
The Year 7 Welcome BBQ in Term one (what a long
time ago it seems) was a chance for students,
parents and teachers to get to know each other in an
informal setting, while feasting on the barbecuing
talents of Year 11 students.
The Year 7 Bush to Beach Camp, a mere couple of weeks later, was a fantastic opportunity for
students to make new friends, develop their team-work abilities and step outside their comfort
zones with a number of activities even the teachers balked at! Many thanks to Ms Bell, Mr Hamilton
and Mr Partridge for accompanying us on the trip.
Thankfully the pace slowed down a little in the
following terms with students busy showing
their school spirit and academic endeavours
through participation in the school‟s Twilight
Swimming Carnival and Athletics Carnival, local
and regional sports, Vegemite Cup, Narrabri
Show, Narrabri Eisteddfod, High School Band,
music workshops, Science investigation days and
academic competitions while still finding the
time to complete their own class work. Student‟s
efforts have not gone unrewarded, with a
number of students receiving Medals, Gold, Silver and Bronze certificates.
Next year we enter the unchartered waters of Year 8. Goodbye 2011, bring on 2012.
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Technology Report
2011 has seen a number of exciting technological developments at Narrabri High School.
The Federal Government‟s Digital Education Revolution has been enthusiastically received by the
NSW Department of Education. Year 9 students received their own laptops in Term 1. Teachers
also received laptops and like the students have been busy learning the capabilities and uses of the
devices. We are continuing the long process of adapting what works in the classroom to suit the
emerging technologies. It is envisaged that the current Year 8 cohort will receive their laptops
early in 2012. This is the last year of the current project and it is unclear if, or how, it might be
extended. To enhance the use of the laptops in
the school all teaching spaces are now
wirelessly enabled. Nicole Bell has continued to
work hard in her position as Technology
Support Officer (TSO) as a dedicated
supporter of this initiative.
A new classroom was added to the School as
part of the Federal Government‟s Building
Education Revolution. An interactive white
board is located in the both the room itself
and the seminar annex and the room is equipped with video-conference facilities.
The school has invested in a new video delivery service called “Clickview”. There are 12,000
educational videos available to be used in any classroom via the school network. This also means that
students with the DER laptops can individually watch videos and complete activities at their own
pace. An additional benefit is that students who were absent are able to view the video used in class
at home, if they have internet access.
In November, thirteen interactive
whiteboards with ultra short throw
projectors were installed. Narrabri High
School has put significant money and
resources into creating classrooms for 21st
century students. There are now a total of
25 interactive whiteboards in the school
along with 15 data projectors. Staff are
learning how to use this technology to
improve their teaching to enhance the
students‟ learning environment. Narrabri
High School is planning to install at least
three more interactive whiteboards and data
projectors in the next twelve months.
Narrabri High School continues its commitment to avail its students with ample access to modern
technology to give them every opportunity to excel in an ever-increasingly technological world.
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Vocational Education and Training (VET) Report
Narrabri High School continues to promote Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses as an
important element in students‟ senior educational options. The school has increased the number of
VET courses available to students with the use of outside partners, particularly the successful
partnership with the Narrabri TAFE. These courses have allowed our students to test and pursue
career options while at school.
In 2011, senior students accessed VET frameworks in
Hospitality, Metals and Engineering, Primary Industries
and Construction. These courses are competency based
and delivered by trained staff at Narrabri High School.
TAFE teachers from Narrabri and Tamworth also
delivered courses in Automotive Studies, Animal Care-
Animal Attending, Beauty Therapy and Children‟s
Services at the Narrabri TAFE campus. Other Narrabri
High School students were able to access online courses
through the Tamworth and Armidale TAFE as part of
their School-Based Part-time Apprenticeship or
Traineeship.
Narrabri High has continued to promote School-Based
Traineeships and Apprenticeships (SBAT‟s). This is a
program in which students work one day a week in a local
business while still satisfying the requirements for a
HSC during the rest of the week. There have been very
encouraging signs of support for this program from local
business houses in recent years. In 2007 Narrabri had 2 SBAT‟s. This number has grown to 10 in
2011 with students undertaking training in such diverse areas as auto electrics, light vehicle
mechanics, banking, motel reception, pharmacy assistance, retail and, for the first time this year,
health services assistance (nursing). The off-the-job training component for these SBAT‟s counts
towards each student‟s HSC and is delivered in a variety of ways. McDonald‟s Australia also
conducts its own HSC approved course for one of our trainees.
The WorldSkills Australia competition promotes trade and skill excellence across Australia and
internationally for those who want to be the best in their field. This year the Construction section
of the competition was held in Moree. Joshua Wilson and Jack Davenport represented Narrabri
High, with Joshua eventually achieving a gold medal. Matthew Wall and Elijah Barnes also travelled
to Moree to contest the Metals and Engineering
section, Matthew coming away with a silver medal.
Mr Kris Symons is to be congratulated upon being
selected as head judge for the Metals competition.
Jordan Katrib performed creditably in the
Hospitality competition which was held in the
Narrabri High School kitchen. Particular thanks
40
must go to Mrs Barden who volunteered to organise the day and whose valuable assistance assured
its success. Mrs Roy must also be congratulated on her successful nomination to judge this year‟s
competition.
The increasing number of students studying VET courses has meant a large influx of students with
a need to gain experience in the workforce. Work Placement is a mandatory component of
framework courses with students being required to complete 70 hours in industry over the two HSC
years. The support of local industry is therefore, a vital ingredient in these courses. The school‟s
Work Placement Co-ordinator Mrs Sue Duncan has done a fantastic job placing approximately 100
students (in both Year 11 and Year 12). Her efforts, and the willing support of local industry, are
very much appreciated by both the staff and students. The school looks forward to forging even
stronger ties with local business houses in 2012.
An increasingly popular career pathway option available in the senior school is the “Career-Link”
program. This is designed for students who are not seeking immediate entry to university upon the
completion of Year 12. It was trialled for the first time in 2010 and owing to its popularity has
gained momentum to the extent that over 28% of the current Year 10 cohort has elected this
option for their Preliminary HSC in 2012. The program involves studying a relatively fixed pattern
of subjects over 7 days a fortnight at Narrabri High School with students undertaking a TAFE
course one day each fortnight and then spending one day each week undertaking work experience
with local businesses as part of their 2 Unit Work Studies course.
Junior students at Narrabri High School also undertake a number of workplace and career oriented
activities that allow for an easier progression into senior VET courses, the Career-Link program and
eventual employment.
A timetabled program of Careers lessons gives students a basic grounding in what to consider when
choosing a career path and in the practical aspects of how to find and apply for work. The Year 10
Work Experience program and Rotary Mock Interview day complement this course providing the
opportunity for practical implementation of the skills learned in class. During work experience
students spend a week in the workplace, giving them a trial run of possible career options and for
some an induction into the general expectations, conventions and practices of the workplace. These
skills are further developed in VET courses and Work Studies should they elect to take these
subjects in Years 11 and 12.
This year students in Years 10, 11 and 12 have also variously participated in the Tamworth Careers
Market, Combined Universities Showcase, the HNEAHS Careers in Health Day, the Passmore
College Motivational Seminar, Defence Force Recruiting Presentation and Narrabri Try a Trade Day
(Year 10). Year 10 students have also had the opportunity to compete in apprenticeship selection
tests and interviews for Ashton Resources and Whitehaven Mines.
Parents and Citizens Association Report
The Parents and Citizens Association (P&C) continues to work with the staff, students and local
community to promote the interests of the school and assist in providing facilities and equipment of
benefit to students.
41
The P&C meet on a regular basis (3rd Monday of the month) to allow a forum for discussion on
relevant issues concerning the school. As the representative body for the school‟s parents,
Narrabri High School P&C is a vital link between parents and the school.
Our P&C run canteen has again been a major source of funds for the P&C over the last twelve
months and without this contribution we could not have achieved what we have. Mention must be
made of our hardworking canteen staff led by Mrs Lynne Ward and Mrs Judy Gleeson and their
small but committed group of volunteers. Their efforts have been much appreciated and we feel
lucky to have them.
The P&C were again able to contribute a substantial amount of money to the school to enhance the
educational and teaching resources available. These purchases are funded by the profits raised in
our canteen and without this assistance the school would not be able to supply these valuable
resources. In 2011 the canteen donated $22 339 to the P&C, which has allowed the school to
purchase these items:
$5 000 - Bus for Year 7 excursion to Myall Lakes (Bush to Beach Excursion)
$2 500 - Presentation folders for student reports
$5 339 - Irrigation system for school oval and grounds
$900 - Sports tops for use by a range of sports
$7 100 - Automatic gate opening facility for double gates in Gibbons Street
$1 500 - HSC texts for Business Studies 2012
The P&C continues to be a great way for parents and community to get to know the school and staff
and feel involved in the day to day life of the school. As we strive to forge relationships with the
students, teachers and parents of the school and the wider community we can only be successful if
we continue to see the support for the P&C. We encourage parents to join in 2012 so that they can
have input into the school and broader community.
The P&C and indeed everyone associated with the school are very appreciative of the continued
support given to our school by the wider community.
We are also appreciative of the efforts and dedication of the teaching, administrative and support
staff of Narrabri High School. Thanks you for your commitment to our children.
(Stephen Maher - P&C President)
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Sport Report
Narrabri High School‟s sports programs have again ensured that all avenues are available for
individual and team sporting successes and have encouraged all students to participate to the best
of their ability.
Narrabri High School Sporting body consists of: Mr Brad Graham (Sports Organiser), Mrs Michelle
Carter (External Sport) and Mr David Galvin (Head Teacher - Sport).
Narrabri High School and the Narrabri community are fortunate to have the skills and dedication of
Stephen Duncan who has established our school oval and athletics track as an outstanding facility.
Many external sporting organisations have used this facility because of its high quality, with St
Xavier‟s Primary and Narrabri Public holding their Athletics carnivals at the school this year.
Narrabri High School sporting oval has been the envy of many visiting teams and guests.
Our curriculum based sport on Wednesdays has continued with students participating in a wide
range of sporting activities during the year. Both competitive and recreational interests of
students are catered for and, as they approach their adult life, the School demonstrates that it
supports and values regular physical activity.
Over 300 students represented the school during the year in knockout competitions which included:
Cricket, Golf, Cross Country, Rugby League, Rugby Union, Softball, Netball, Soccer, Lawn Bowls,
Touch, Hockey, Chess, Athletics, Swimming and AFL. We hosted successful Namoi Zone Winter
Trials sports involving Soccer, Golf, Netball and Rugby League.
43
Once again our Athletics and Twilight Swimming Carnivals were enjoyed by a huge number of
students and, in addition, a Cross Country and Tug-o-war event was added to the sporting calendar.
All three events were extremely enjoyable for everyone. This was largely thanks to the efforts of
the House Captains and House Patrons who encouraged healthy competition between the house
groups and it was very pleasing to see the continued high level of house spirit amongst students and
staff. Congratulations go to Currong house for coming out winners in all three events.
All staff at Narrabri High were once again accredited with skills in first aid and resuscitation. The
school also has six staff members accredited as resuscitation examiners.
The NSW Premier‟s Sporting Challenge (NSWPSC) has provided Narrabri High an exciting
opportunity to be involved in new initiatives. The current “Girls in Sport” program is aimed at
improving the moderate to vigorous physical activity levels of teenage girls. The NSWPSC has also
provided the school with some funding to be spent on sporting equipment. It is envisaged that these
initiatives will not only have extremely positive benefits for sport at Narrabri High but most
importantly improve the health and well being of our students.
Narrabri High School students have enjoyed a huge amount of success this year in both internal and
external competitions including:
10 students selected in the North West Swim team
7 students selected in the North West Athletics team
Several North West representatives across another 7 different sports
Open Boys Cricket team becoming North West Regional finalists
The school‟s AFL team becoming North West Regional Champions
The school‟s Chess team becoming State semi-finalists
On an individual representative basis the school
was thrilled with the news of Thomas Vaessen
being once again selected in the NSWCHS Rugby
Union team and Shelley Higgins being selected in
the NSWCHS Girls Cricket team. This is the third
year running that Thomas has achieved this and as
a result he will receive a North West Blue award
at the NWSSA Awards Dinner in December.
Our most noteworthy team result was the
wonderful achievement of our 15‟s 4x100m relay
team at the NSWCHS Athletics Carnival at
Homebush. Mitchell Barnes, Dylan Gale, Guy
Gleeson and Justin Shaw all ran personal best
splits to win the gold medal. As a result of this
the boys will receive the President‟s Award at the
NWSSA Awards Dinner in December.
44
As a result of these outstanding sporting achievements, our major sports awards were hotly
contested. After careful deliberation the following three recipients have been selected:
Helen Griffith‟s Trophy for Sports Woman of the Year -Shelley Higgins
John Wightman Trophy for Sports Man of the Year - Dylan Gale
Narrabri Touch Association Award for Outstanding Sporting Achievement -Thomas Vaessen
The success that the school has achieved on the sporting field this year would not have been
possible without the support of the community. On behalf of the school we would like to thank all
parents, community members, referees, umpires and sport trainers for their contributions and
assistance in furthering the sporting endeavours of the students at Narrabri High.
The school extends a special thanks to Col Stanford for his continued dedication and commitment in
coaching our Athletics squad and to Dale Nixon whose exceptional knowledge and tireless efforts
are a valuable asset to both staff and students.
In closing, a huge thank you must go to the staff members who were involved in coaching our
students and ensuring they achieved great sporting success in 2011.
45
2010 HSC Results Narrabri High School students performed exceptionally well in the 2010 HSC. Band 6 is the highest
band awarded and is applied to students who score between 90% and 100% in a subject. Narrabri
High School had 18 results in this range, shared among 10 students across 9 subjects.
Students who achieved Band 6 results were:
Georgia Barden – Music, Physics, Mathematics Extension 1, Mathematics Extension 2
Nicole Charalambous – Biology, General Mathematics
Lauren Deane – Mathematics Extension 2
Stephanie Halbisch – Senior Science
Jemma Keast – Legal Studies, Music
Will McInnes – Industrial Technology
Todd Nichols – Industrial Technology
Lachlan Roy – Industrial Technology
Lauren Smart – Music
James Thomson – Business Studies, Legal Studies, General Mathematics
It was also pleasing that there were 50 results in the Band 5 range, and this highlighted the overall
solidity of the 2010 results. In fact, 30% of students achieved a result in Band 5 or 6.
Students in Industrial Technology, Legal Studies, Mathematics Extension 2, Music, Construction,
Metal and Engineering and Hospitality performed above the average for the State. Other subjects
whose overall results were almost on a par with the State were Biology, General Mathematics, 2
Unit Mathematics, Physics, Senior Science and Software Design and Development.
The outstanding individual performers for 2010 were Georgia Barden, Nicole Charalambous, Jemma
Keast and James Thomson. All received more than one Band 6 and a substantial number of Band 5
results.
Eighteen students received acknowledgement for coming in the top 20 positions of the New England
Region and some received multiple acknowledgements. Georgia Barden (Music and Physics) and
Stephanie Halbisch (Senior Science) received official commendations from the Regional Director
for achieving first place in the region.