Denison College of Secondary Education - Bathurst

## 1. Overview Denison College Bathurst Campus is a public, co-educational secondary school that serves students in the Bathurst region as part of the Denison College network. The campus focuses on providing broad pathways that support both academic achievement and practical development, with a strong emphasis on preparing students for post-school options, including university, vocational training, and workplace opportunities. The school is a medium-sized community with a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. Class sizes are designed to be manageable and conducive to student engagement, typically in the mid-20s per class. The culture balances academic efforts with sport, arts, and leadership opportunities, creating an environment where students are encouraged to participate, collaborate, and grow. ⸻ ## 2. Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: STEM and English are core strengths, with dedicated opportunities for leadership development and participation in language studies as part of the broader curriculum. - Special programs: Gifted and Talented programs and accelerated learning pathways are available, along with Vocational Education and Training (VET) options to suit different interests and post-school goals. - NAPLAN / trends: Over recent years, NAPLAN literacy and numeracy trends have shown steady progress, with consistent performance improvements across key year levels. - Student-teacher ratios: Class size and student-teacher ratios are typical of NSW public secondary schools, generally fostering a supportive learning environment with opportunities for individual attention. - Support for diverse learners: Strong support structures exist for diverse learners, including EAL/D assistance, SEN support, and a dedicated learning support team to help students access the curriculum effectively. ⸻ ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: A broad range of sports typical for NSW regional high schools, including team and individual options such as soccer, rugby codes, basketball, netball, cricket, athletics, and swimming. - Strong teams or achievements: Students participate in regional and inter-school competitions, with established team pathways and notable participation in local championships. - Music, arts, drama programs: Active music and performing arts programs, regular concerts, and school productions contribute to a vibrant arts culture. - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other specialty clubs provide enrichment and opportunities for skill development outside the classroom. - Partnerships: Connections with local community groups and regional competitions enhance opportunities in sport, tech, and creative pursuits. ⸻ ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: A clear anti-bullying policy and proactive wellbeing programs support a safe school climate. - House system: A house-based pastoral care framework helps build belonging, teamwork, and positive competition. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: On-site counsellors or wellbeing staff provide mental health and welfare support. - Transition support for new students: Structured orientation and transition programs assist new students to settle in smoothly and build social connections. ⸻ ## 5. Facilities - Sports grounds: Dedicated sports facilities and fields support a range of physical education and team sports. - Libraries: Well-equipped libraries provide study spaces and access to resources. - Science labs: Modern science laboratories support practical inquiry across biology, chemistry, and physics. - Music/performing arts centers: Areas for music, drama, and performances support the arts program. - Tech/innovation labs: Technology and digital learning spaces enable coding, design, and STEM projects. - Cafeteria: On-site canteen or dining facilities for student meals and snacks. - Updated playgrounds: Modern, safe outdoor spaces for breaks and recreation. ⸻ ## 6. School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: A focus on respect, responsibility, resilience, and inclusion underpins daily life and student development. - Leadership style: A collaborative leadership approach with opportunities for student voice and leadership responsibilities. - Behaviour expectations: Positive behaviour for learning is emphasized, with clear expectations and consistent routines. - Community reputation: The school maintains a constructive reputation as a friendly, engaged community that supports diverse learners. - Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to an inclusive environment that welcomes students from different backgrounds and abilities. ⸻ ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Standard NSW secondary school hours, typically starting mid-morning and finishing in the mid-to-late afternoon. - Before/after school care: Some supervision and activity options may be available beyond core hours, depending on arrangements. - Uniform requirements: A school uniform is required, with details provided by the college regarding proper attire and acceptable items. - Transport (train/bus routes): Students use local bus services and other transport options available in the Bathurst area; school transport advice is provided on request. - Canteen availability: An on-site canteen or food facilities are available for students. - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): As a NSW public school, there are standard resource and activity fees that are typically in the low-to-medium range, with additional costs for elective programs or activities as applicable. ⸻ ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Enrolment generally starts with submitting the official NSW Department of Education enrolment form, along with proof of identity and residence. The school confirms placement based on the current capacity and catchment requirements. Timelines vary by intake year (e.g., Year 7) and seat availability; families are advised to start the process early and follow the school’s deadlines. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - There can be a waiting list for non-catchment or out-of-area enrolments when spaces are limited. Applications are usually processed in order of receipt and priority is given to students within the catchment, with consideration given to space and program availability. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - For general enrolment, there are typically no selective entrance tests. Some disclosures or meetings may occur for out-of-area applications or to discuss specific needs, pathways, or program placements. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers can be possible subject to space, suitability, and the standard NSW enrolment procedures. Families should contact the school promptly to discuss availability and required documentation. ⸻ ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions - “Why Parents Choose This School?” - Parents often cite a balanced focus on academics, wellbeing, and real-world pathways, combined with inclusive community culture and active student participation in sport and the arts. - “What type of student thrives at this school?” - Students who engage across a range of subjects, participate in clubs and teams, and value a supportive, collaborative learning environment tend to thrive here. - “What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?” - Opportunities include STEM/English programs, Gifted & Talented pathways, VET options, competitive sport, music and drama programs, and a variety of clubs (robotics, coding, debating, etc.). - “How does the school communicate with parents?” - Communication typically includes regular notices, newsletters, parent-teacher meetings, and digital platforms to share progress, events, and policies. - “What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?” - The school emphasizes a combination of high-quality instruction, differentiated support, collaborative projects, and pathways that connect classroom learning to real-world applications. - “How does the school support students who need extra academic help?” - Targeted learning support, EAL/D assistance, SEN services, and a dedicated learning support team help students access and succeed in the curriculum. - “What support is available for academic challenges?” - Additional tutoring, small-group intervention, and tailored learning plans are available to assist students facing difficulties. - “How does the school communicate with parents?” - See above: routine updates through newsletters, dashboards or portals, and scheduled meetings. - “What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?” - Class sizes are typically in the mid-20s, with additional opportunities for individual support through teachers, learning support staff, and targeted programs. - “What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?” - A wide range of sports, arts, music, and clubs such as robotics, coding, chess, and debating are available to cater to diverse interests. - “What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?” - Facilities include sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, and a canteen. - “What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?” - Emphasis on digital learning, up-to-date ICT facilities, and programs that integrate technology across subjects to prepare students for modern workplaces. - “What transport and accessibility options are available?” - Public transport, school bus routes, and other local transport options cover accessibility in the Bathurst area; details are provided by the school. - “What are the typical school fees or additional costs?” - Public high schools in NSW have standard resource and activity fees; additional costs may apply for certain electives, excursions, or programs. ⸻ ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Public, inclusive education offering broad pathways (academic, VET, leadership). - Moderate class sizes conducive to engagement and support. - Strong wellbeing, pastoral care, and a house-based culture. - Comprehensive facilities for science, arts, and technology. - Wide range of clubs, sports, and extracurricular opportunities. - Cons - As a regional public school, some advanced program seats may have wait times during peak years. - Transport options may require coordination for families living outside core Bathurst routes. - Like many schools, costs for elective activities or trips can add to out-of-pocket expenses.