## Overview
Latrobe High School is a public, coeducational high school serving the Latrobe area in Tasmania. The school tends to be described as a medium-sized, community-focused campus that offers a broad curriculum for Years 7–12. Expect an inclusive atmosphere with a balance of academic emphasis and opportunities in sport, arts, and extra-curricular activities. The school aims to support students’ personal growth in a welcoming, respectful environment.
- School type: Public
- School size: Medium
- Class size: Typically in the low-to-mid 20s (varying by year and program)
- Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, supportive, academically focused with active sports and community spirit
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## Academics & Learning
Latrobe High School provides a core secondary curriculum with opportunities to tailor learning to student strengths and interests.
- Academic strengths: Strong emphasis on English, mathematics, science, and humanities, with pathways and programs to support STEM, leadership development, and language learning.
- Special programs: Gifted and Talented opportunities, accelerated or enhanced learning options where available, and Vocational Education and Training (VET) pathways linked to post-school options.
- NAPLAN/ trends: Historical performance has shown stable to improving trends in key literacy and numeracy areas; trends vary year to year. The school publishes annual reports that detail year-over-year progress.
- Student-teacher ratios: Class sizes and ratios are typical of public Tasmanian high schools, with a focus on manageable groups to support learning in core subjects.
- Support for diverse learners: Dedicated support for EAL learners and students with special education needs (SEN), plus access to learning support staff and targeted interventions where needed.
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## Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
A strong area for many Australian and UK families, Latrobe High School offers a range of sports and clubs along with arts initiatives.
- Sports offered: Basketball, netball, football (soccer and AFL-style options), cricket, rugby, tennis, athletics, swimming, and other school-based teams.
- Strong teams or achievements: Regular participation in regional competitions and inter-school events; school pride driven by student involvement and school-wide performance.
- Music, arts, drama programs: Active music program, choirs, bands, drama productions, and arts-related events throughout the year.
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other student-led or advisor-supported clubs.
- Partnerships: Local community partnerships and participation in regional competitions and events to broaden opportunities beyond the campus.
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## Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing and pastoral support are central to helping students feel secure and capable.
- Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policies and inclusive school culture with ongoing education and reporting mechanisms.
- House system: House-based activities and competitions to foster belonging and school spirit.
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors or wellbeing staff to support emotional, social, and academic needs.
- Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and targeted onboarding to help new students settle in quickly.
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## Facilities
Latrobe High School provides a range of facilities designed to support learning, well-being, and creativity.
- Sports grounds
- Libraries
- Science labs
- Music/performing arts centers
- Tech/innovation labs
- Canteen
- Updated playgrounds
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## School Values & Community Culture
Families often look for a school’s core culture and values when choosing a place to learn.
- School values / mission: Emphasis on respect, resilience, responsibility, and teamwork; commitment to student development and community engagement.
- Leadership style: Student voice and leadership opportunities are encouraged within a supportive staff framework.
- Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct aligned with school values; consistent expectations across the school community.
- Community reputation: Recognised for a welcoming, collaborative environment and solid ties with local families and organizations.
- Diversity & inclusion: Active focus on inclusion, cultural respect, and ensuring all students feel valued.
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## School Logistics & Daily Operations
Important day-to-day details help families plan.
- School hours: Schooling typically runs through a standard daytime schedule with morning and afternoon sessions.
- Before/after school care: Availability of supervised options may vary; inquire with the school for current programs.
- Uniform requirements: School uniform policy in place, with guidance on appropriate attire and purchasing.
- Transport (bus routes): Public transport and school bus routes serve the area; check route specifics with transport providers.
- Canteen availability: On-site canteen or meals program available on school days.
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Public schools generally have low to moderate costs for uniforms, materials, and excursions; exact amounts vary by year and activities.
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## Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Check eligibility and catchment rules, then submit an enrolment application through the school or education department. Complete required documents (birth certificate, immunisation records, proof of residency, etc.). There is often an intake period at the start of the school year, with notification of offers following review. Processing times can vary; begin the process early to secure placement.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- There can be a waiting list when the school is at capacity or during high-demand intake periods. Priority typically goes to students within the designated catchment area, with space becoming available as enrolments are confirmed or transfer requests are managed.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Public high schools in Tasmania usually do not require entrance tests. Some schools may conduct an information session or informal interview to understand student needs and ensure the placement fits the program, but this varies by year and the school’s intake.
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Yes, mid-year transfers are typically possible subject to space and the school’s transfer procedures. Families should contact the school’s enrolment desk as soon as a transfer is contemplated to align documentation and timelines.
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## Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A welcoming community, balanced academics with strong extracurriculars, supportive teachers, and clear wellbeing and student services.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who are curious, engaged, collaborative, and interested in both academics and a range of co-curricular activities (sport, arts, clubs).
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Access to STEM and language programs, leadership opportunities, VET pathways, sports teams, music and drama ensembles, robotics, coding, debating, and other clubs.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Through newsletters, emails, parent portals, and notices; regular updates from teachers and the school leadership, plus information evenings and parent-teacher meetings.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Student-centered learning with a mix of direct instruction, collaborative projects, and ICT-enabled learning; emphasis on developing literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted learning support, access to SEN staff, EAL assistance, tutoring or small-group interventions, and appropriate referrals where needed.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Additional time, modified tasks, tutoring options, and ongoing monitoring by teaching and support staff.
- How does the school communicate with parents? (Note: this question appears twice)
- See above: newsletters, portals, and direct communication from teachers and administration.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes are moderate, with a focus on providing opportunities for teacher feedback and small-group support where needed.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A broad program including team sports (basketball, netball, soccer, AFL-style options, cricket, rugby, tennis, etc.), music and drama, and clubs like robotics, chess, coding, and debating.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Comprehensive facilities across sports grounds, libraries, science labs, performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, and a canteen.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integration of digital tools across subjects, with ICT resources, and opportunities to develop digital literacy and coding skills.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local bus routes and public transport options; school may offer bus services to support student travel and accessibility.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Public schools generally have low to moderate costs for uniforms, materials, and excursions; some activities or trips may carry additional costs.
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## Short Pros & Cons list
Pros
- Public, community-focused school with a balanced curriculum
- Strong support for wellbeing, inclusion, and student safety
- Wide range of extracurriculars, including sports, arts, and clubs
- Good facilities across science, arts, and technology
- Clear pathways to further study and VET opportunities
Cons
- As a medium-sized public school, some programs or facilities may have less breadth than larger urban schools
- Class sizes, while typical for the region, can vary by year and subject
- Availability of mid-year transfers depends on space and enrolment conditions
If you’d like, I can tailor this content further to reflect any specific programs or achievements the Latrobe High School is currently highlighting, or adjust language for a particular audience.
