## 1. Overview
Gilgandra High School is a public high school serving Gilgandra and the surrounding district in New South Wales. It offers comprehensive secondary education for years 7–12 with a focus on developing capable, well-rounded students who are prepared for life beyond school. The school operates as a medium-sized community where teachers know students’ names and families are encouraged to be involved in school life.
- School type: Public (government)
- School size: Medium
- Class size: Typically around 20–25 students
- Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, nurturing, with a balanced emphasis on academics and sport
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## 2. Academics & Learning
Gilgandra High School emphasises strong core learning while also offering pathways for leadership and personal growth.
- Academic strengths: English and literacy, STEM subjects, leadership development, and languages.
- Special programs: Gifted and Talented Education opportunities; accelerated learning pathways where appropriate; preparation for senior study (HSC-style pathways).
- NAPLAN trends: Gradual year-to-year improvements in reading and writing with stable numeracy performance; the school tracks trends to target support where needed.
- Student-teacher ratios: Approximately 12–15:1, aiding accessible teacher support.
- Support for diverse learners: EAL and inclusive education supports; dedicated learning support and access to teacher aides for students with additional needs.
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## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
A strong focus on sport and well-rounded participation, with a range of clubs and activities.
- Sports offered: Rugby league, cricket, netball, soccer, basketball, athletics, swimming, tennis (plus other summer sports as opportunities arise).
- Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in district/regional competitions with regular opportunities for inter-school fixtures.
- Music, arts, drama programs: School music ensembles and drama/performing arts opportunities linked to school productions.
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other interest-based clubs.
- Partnerships: Local community clubs and regional competitions that provide additional opportunities for involvement and competition.
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## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing and pastoral support are central to school life, helping students feel safe and capable.
- Anti-bullying approach: Clear policies with proactive programs, student education, and staff oversight to maintain a respectful environment.
- House system: House-based activities and events to foster belonging, resilience, and friendly competition.
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors and wellbeing staff for student support.
- Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and targeted supports to help new students settle in.
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## 5. Facilities
Facilities are designed to support learning, wellbeing, and student engagement.
- Sports grounds
- Libraries
- Science labs
- Music/performing arts centers
- Tech/innovation labs
- Cafeteria
- Updated playgrounds
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## 6. School Values & Community Culture
The school aims to shape responsible, respectful, and engaged young people.
- School values / mission: Core values such as respect, integrity, resilience, and inclusion guide daily life and learning.
- Leadership style: Student voice is encouraged; opportunities to lead via student councils, committees, and peer mentoring.
- Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct with emphasis on respectful relationships and restorative approaches.
- Community reputation: Positive relationships with families and local communities, rooted in support and collaboration.
- Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to inclusive practices and welcoming students from diverse backgrounds.
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## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
Practical information to help families plan around school life.
- School hours: Typically 9:00 am–3:15 pm (subject to calendar; check term times each year)
- Before/after school care: Some before/after activities coordinated with community providers; after-school supervision and activities offered where available
- Uniform requirements: School uniform is required; details provided by the school to families
- Transport (train/bus routes): NSW Department of Education transport options and local bus routes are available; check catchment and bus timetables
- Canteen availability: On-site canteen or snack facilities offering healthy options
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Public school fees are mostly minimal with compulsory charges for certain activities; additional costs may apply for excursions and optional programs
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## 8. Enrolment & Admissions
8 key points about enrolling and joining Gilgandra High School.
11) What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Check catchment eligibility and submit an enrolment application through the NSW Department of Education process. Provide required documentation (proof of residence, immunisation records, previous school reports as needed). Enrolment timelines typically align with NSW school year cycles; offers and placements are communicated by the school/department.
12) Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Waiting lists may apply if vacancies arise. Priority generally follows catchment eligibility and vacancy availability; families may be offered placement as spaces become available.
13) Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- NSW public high schools typically do not require entrance exams. There may be administrative checks (eligibility, immunisation) and, in some cases, a short discussion for students entering specialized programs. Formal interviews are not standard for general enrolment.
14) Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Yes, mid-year transfers can be accommodated subject to vacancies and timetabling constraints. Transfer requires submitting up-to-date student records and clearance from the current school.
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## 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A supportive, inclusive community with strong wellbeing support, solid academics, and diverse extracurricular options that help students thrive.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who are engaged, cooperative, value balanced academics and sport, and benefit from strong pastoral care and a collaborative learning environment.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Opportunities across STEM and English strengths, leadership pathways, gifted/talented options, extended discussions in the senior years, diverse sport teams, arts and music programs, and clubs like robotics, coding, and debating.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Through newsletters, emails, the school portal, and phone calls; regular updates from teachers and the leadership team.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Differentiated instruction, evidence-based teaching, literacy and numeracy focus, and inquiry-based learning to foster critical thinking and resilience.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Learning support teams, targeted interventions, tutoring opportunities, EAL and SEN support.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Access to teachers, learning support staff, and personalised plans to help students catch up or extend their learning.
- How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeated)
- See above: newsletters, portal, email, phone.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes are typically around 20–25 students, with a student-teacher ratio of roughly 12–15:1, enabling accessible teacher support.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A broad range of sports (including major team sports), music and drama, robotics, chess, coding, and debating clubs, plus regional competitions and partnerships.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts facilities, tech/innovation labs, a canteen, and updated play areas.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Emphasis on digital literacy and learning tools, with interactive classroom technologies and a Bring Your Own Device or school devices approach as appropriate.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local bus routes and school transport options; accessible facilities and consideration of students with mobility needs.
- What are typical school fees or additional costs?
- Public schooling involves minimal compulsory fees; additional costs may apply for excursions, optional programs, and activities.
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## 10. Short Pros & Cons
- Pros
- Public, supportive community with strong wellbeing and inclusive learning
- Balanced focus on academics, sport, and the arts
- Accessible teacher support and practical student-teacher ratios
- Wide range of extracurriculars and local partnerships
- Modern facilities and a positive school culture
- Cons
- Rural location may mean longer travel for some families
- As a medium-size school, subject choice may be more limited than in larger urban settings
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