The Jannali High School

## 1. Overview Jannali High School is a public, co-educational high school operating within the NSW Department of Education. It serves students in Years 7–12 and aims to provide a supportive, inclusive learning environment that helps students progress to work, further study, or other pathways beyond secondary schooling. The school is medium-to-large in size, with a diverse student body and a clear focus on student wellbeing, academic achievement, and community involvement. Class sizes are typically in the low to mid 20s, contributing to a learning atmosphere that is approachable and collaborative. The culture is described as inclusive and nurturing, with emphasis on personal growth, responsibility, and opportunities to participate in a range of academic, sporting, and extracurricular activities. ## 2. Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: English and Mathematics are core strengths, with solid programs across Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The school supports literacy and numeracy development and provides pathways across faculties to suit different interests and career goals, including accelerated subjects where available and opportunities to engage in leadership and STEAM-focused learning. - Special programs: The school offers the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) pathway for Years 11–12, with a broad range of elective subjects. There are opportunities for extension or enrichment within various subject areas and pathways designed to meet diverse learner needs. - NAPLAN trends: NSW schools track NAPLAN progress over time; at Jannali High School, trends typically show steady performance with targeted improvements in literacy and numeracy through school-wide intervention and support programs. - Student-teacher ratios: Class sizes generally sit in the low-to-mid 20s, with student-teacher ratios commonly around 1:20 to 1:25, depending on subject and year level. - Support for diverse learners: Strong support structures exist for EAL/D students and for students with additional learning needs (SEN), including targeted interventions, inclusive teaching approaches, and access to support staff within a dedicated student services framework. ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: A range of sports typical for NSW high schools, including soccer, rugby league, rugby union, cricket, netball, basketball, volleyball, athletics, and swimming, with opportunities to participate in inter-school competitions. - Strong teams or achievements: Active student involvement in district and inter-school events, with opportunities for representative teams and participation in local championships. - Music, arts, drama programs: A structured music program with ensembles and opportunities to participate in performances; theatre and drama activities are available, along with visual arts electives and showcases. - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other clubs support a broad interests roster and provide pathways to develop skills outside the classroom. - Partnerships: Partnerships with local clubs, community organizations, and regional competitions enhance opportunities in sport, technology, and the arts. ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: The school adopts a whole-school wellbeing and anti-bullying framework, including clear policies, proactive education, and restorative approaches to resolving concerns. - House system: A house-based structure supports belonging and healthy competition, with House activities and events that foster community across year levels. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors and wellbeing staff to support students with social, emotional, and mental health needs. - Transition support for new students: Structured transition programs, including buddy systems and orientation activities, help new students settle in and build connections quickly. ## 5. Facilities - Sports grounds: On-site sporting facilities suitable for a range of codes and training requirements. - Libraries: A library that supports study, reading, and research across subjects. - Science labs: Modern science laboratories equipped for practical experiments. - Music/performing arts centers: Dedicated spaces for music, drama, and performances. - Tech/innovation labs: Technology and innovation spaces to support coding, design, and STEM activities. - Cafeteria: On-site canteen providing everyday lunch options. - Updated playgrounds: Well-maintained outdoor spaces and play areas for breaks and recreation. ## 6. School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: A clear focus on respect, responsibility, inclusion, and achievement, with an emphasis on student growth and responsible citizenship. - Leadership style: Collaborative leadership that includes student voice through committees and representative structures, supported by teaching and wellbeing staff. - Behaviour expectations: A consistent code of conduct emphasizing respect, safety, and positive relationships; approach includes restorative practices where needed. - Community reputation: A welcoming school community with strong ties to families and local partners, focused on inclusive education and student success. - Diversity & inclusion: Active commitment to diversity and inclusive practices, with support for students from varied backgrounds and language groups. ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Typical day runs from morning start to early afternoon, with standard school-day routines and timetables. - Before/after school care: OSHC or other after-school care arrangements are commonly available through community providers; check with the school for current offerings. - Uniform requirements: Uniforms are required, with school-approved attire for everyday wear and sport; details provided by the school. - Transport (train/bus routes): Access via local bus routes and public transport; families should consult Transport NSW and school updates for current routes and timing. - Canteen availability: On-site canteen or snack options available during breaks. - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): For NSW public high schools, tuition is not charged; there are voluntary contributions and costs for excursions, activities, and some materials, generally in the low-to-moderate range. ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Enrolment is managed through the NSW Department of Education. For Year 7 entry, families typically apply through the school or the central enrolment process, with notification of placement decisions following the standard admissions timeline. Offers are usually communicated in the months leading up to the new school year. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - If the school has more applicants than available places, a waiting list may operate. Places are allocated based on factors such as catchment eligibility and availability, with positions filled as spaces become open. Families on the waiting list are contacted if a place becomes available. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - For most Year 7 admissions to a NSW public high school, there are no entrance tests or competitive interviews. Proof of residency, immunisation records, and documentation required by the Department of Education are typically needed. Some specialised programs or elective pathways may have additional considerations, but the school is not a selective entry school. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers are possible if there is space and appropriate documentation. Availability depends on current cohorts, subject enrolments, and capacity. Families should contact the school promptly to discuss options and required paperwork. ## 9. Frequently Ask Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - What type of student thrives at this school? - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - How does the school communicate with parents? - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - What support is available for academic challenges? - How does the school communicate with parents? - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - What transport and accessibility options are available? - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Public, inclusive environment with broad academic and co-curricular options - Strong support for diverse learners and well-being - Range of facilities supporting science, arts, and technology - Active student engagement through clubs, sports, and leadership opportunities - Cons - As a medium-to-large public school, some classes may be busier and less personalised in very large cohorts - Specific programs or pathways may have limited capacity or require careful planning to access - Uniforms and extra costs for trips and activities can add to overall expenses (despite low-to-moderate base fees)