BOORAGUL St Paul's High School (2012) - Catholic Schools Office ...
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<strong>2012</strong> Annual <strong>School</strong> Report<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>, Booragul<br />
Primrose <strong>St</strong>reet<br />
<strong>BOORAGUL</strong> NSW 2284<br />
www.brgl.mn.catholic.edu.au
Messages from Key <strong>School</strong> Bodies<br />
Principal<br />
This is the ninth annual report for <strong>St</strong> Paul’s which seeks to provide all in our community, in fact, any who desire to know, of the<br />
continued growth and well-being of <strong>St</strong> Paul’s. Founded in 1984, <strong>St</strong> Paul’s serves the community of Lake Macquarie and has a<br />
proud reputation in our local community of providing a high quality education that ensures our campus is highly sought after. <strong>St</strong><br />
Paul’s represents a vibrant and innovative school community in which learning outcomes of excellence are clearly recognised. The<br />
school focuses on providing a secure and comfortable environment that ensures students feel very much at home and can develop<br />
their varied capacities and skills in a calm and accepting context. Over its twenty nine years the school has grown considerably in<br />
size and has had to appropriately enhance its staffing size, capital works and educational resources and is now an extremely well<br />
established facility.<br />
Of significance in <strong>2012</strong>, is the need to address the demand for places in the school, while also maintaining the strong commitment<br />
to a moderate size that allows for personal aims while sustaining a strong curriculum. In <strong>2012</strong>, <strong>St</strong> Paul’s stands as a very well<br />
respected <strong>Catholic</strong> Secondary <strong>School</strong>.<br />
Anthony <strong>St</strong>evens<br />
Principal<br />
P & F<br />
The P&F is a means through which a happy working relationship can be encouraged between parents, staff and the school<br />
Principal.<br />
As such, the advantage to parents who attend the meetings is invaluable. At meetings, information is shared about the school and<br />
student activities. Issues and events can be explored and discussed in advance, in a non-threatening and relaxed environment.<br />
The meetings allow parents to have a hands-on involvement with the school.<br />
In taking such an active role, parents feel empowered and involved in the school processes. The opinions of parents are sought<br />
and encouraged in order that families feel a valued part of the <strong>St</strong> Paul’s school community. The focus is on working as a team to<br />
support the school, the students, their families, and the staff. A partnership between the parents and the school is strongly evident<br />
in the discussions that eventuate following the presentation of valuable information by the Principal Mr Anthony <strong>St</strong>evens.<br />
Fundraising is vital to the provision of a superior environment at <strong>St</strong> Paul’s. The yearly chocolate drive, various raffles and Trivia<br />
Night are the main vehicles through which major funds are raised. In <strong>2012</strong>, the P&F contributed significantly to the installation of<br />
more water coolers and to improve the Audio Visual facilities in the hall. Ideas and input are sought from parents in order to make<br />
fundraising events viable and successful.<br />
Trivia nights are popular and provide the opportunity for staff, students and parents to socialise. Another opportunity for meet and<br />
greet is the P&F B-B-Q provided for the parents and students of the feeder schools at the Year 7Information Night. It not only<br />
provides a welcome and hospitality, but is a clear indication to new comers, that there is a strong and enthusiastic parent<br />
involvement at the school.<br />
Mr Phil Enderby<br />
P&F President <strong>2012</strong><br />
<strong>St</strong>udent Leaders/SRC<br />
The formal leadership structure of <strong>St</strong> Paul’s is a team of four school captains from Year 12, two of each gender. An election<br />
process is held each year to fill these positions consisting of nominations, staff and student voting, and a final round of interviews.<br />
The school captains are a highly visible part of school life, running weekly assemblies and participating in many other ceremonial<br />
and leadership activities.<br />
Opportunity for student leadership is an important part of life at <strong>St</strong> Paul’s. In addition to the <strong>School</strong> Captains, there are two formal<br />
student leadership groups comprised of students from each year group. Each Tutor Group elects a Tutor Group Representative for<br />
the school year, who is responsible for daily administration tasks and is involved in organising Tutor Group activities. Two students<br />
A N N U A L S C H O O L R E P O R T 2 0 1 2 2
are elected from each year group to the <strong>St</strong>udent Representative Council (SRC) through a student election process. The council<br />
meets twice per term to discuss activities and issues relevant to the students of <strong>St</strong> Paul’s.<br />
Through these groups, students have ample opportunities to have their views heard. It was the initiative of the SRC in <strong>2012</strong> to<br />
pursue a concern regarding school bubbler water that resulted in the installation of new water fountains in the school playground.<br />
There are many additional opportunities to be involved in student-organised charity fundraising activities, for example: Shave for a<br />
Cure Day, Bandana Day, <strong>St</strong> Paul’s Day Celebrations, Caritas (<strong>Catholic</strong> Overseas Missions), and community focused activities such<br />
as Blood Bank donations, and the Environmental Action Team.<br />
The Environmental Action Team continued to have a positive impact in <strong>2012</strong>. The school was presented with the <strong>School</strong><br />
Environment Award by Lake Macquarie Council. Their efforts included the planting of grasses and shrubs to enhance the<br />
environment and prevent erosion, the maintenance of school gardens, and the continuation of recycling programs for paper in<br />
classrooms, reading glasses and mobile phones.<br />
The <strong>St</strong> Paul’s community tries to be responsive to student concerns, encouraging them to act on their beliefs – letting students<br />
know they have ‘a voice’ and encouraging them to accept responsibility for their community and the wider world.<br />
Religious Dimension and Culture of <strong>School</strong> Life<br />
<strong>Catholic</strong> Identity<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s is proudly and vibrantly a <strong>Catholic</strong> school. Our mission is to strive to acknowledge the self-worth and dignity of all of our<br />
community members – students, staff, parents, clergy and the wider community. The incorporation of spiritual formation, religion<br />
classes, prayer life, the celebration of Eucharist, liturgical celebrations, school retreats and reflection days all help shape our reality<br />
as a <strong>Catholic</strong> school. Our strong links with Parish communities and our constant reflection on our <strong>Catholic</strong> identity are essential to<br />
this reality. The challenge is to sustain the spiritual call to all in our community and to ensure we truly reflect a relevant Gospel<br />
message. In the recent school surveys of staff, students and parents, <strong>Catholic</strong> Identity was rated as one of the highest rated items<br />
of parent satisfaction.<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s is committed to the development of the whole person – physically, spiritually, academically, emotionally and<br />
psychologically. Both in school and through many extra-curricular activities our foundation and centre in Christ and the values<br />
inherent in the Gospel are evident.<br />
The <strong>School</strong> as part of Pari sh and Diocesan Life<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s enrols students from the parishes of Morisset, Toronto, Glendale, Edgeworth, Cardiff and Boolaroo/Warners Bay. As well,<br />
there are some students from other parishes outside of the feeder schools.<br />
<strong>St</strong>udents from <strong>St</strong> Paul’s are involved in each of their Parish churches as readers, altar servers and in Youth groups.<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s has a <strong>St</strong> Vincent de Paul group within the school. Run by a member of the teaching <strong>St</strong>aff, the group meets regularly and<br />
involves the members in a number of activities including food collections for the needy and raising funds through activities such as<br />
out-of-uniform days, cake stalls and sausage sizzles to assist students within the diocese who need assistance.<br />
The <strong>St</strong> Paul’s community is also actively involved in charity and outreach through involvement in major fundraising events such as<br />
Project Compassion as well as involvement in community care activities including the care of the aged and assistance at a variety<br />
of special primary schools in the area.<br />
Every year the Principal meets with the Bishop, Director of <strong>School</strong>s and Priests of the Cluster to discuss matters relevant to the<br />
operation of the school and its support for the Church in the wider community.<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s Ministry Coordinator organises Prayers, Liturgies, Masses, Reflection Days and Retreats. Contact with the Parish Priests<br />
is via involvement in meetings during the year and in these days. Some staff members are Special Ministers, Readers and<br />
Commentators in their local churches.<br />
Once again, the school was a very active participant in the Way of the Cross at <strong>St</strong> Joseph’s, Kilaben Bay, during Easter.<br />
A N N U A L S C H O O L R E P O R T 2 0 1 2 3
Teaching of Religion<br />
The teaching of Religion at <strong>St</strong> Paul’s is covered by three specific courses. In <strong>St</strong>ages 4 and 5, K – 12 Diocesan Religion Syllabus is<br />
followed. This programme is regularly updated to suit the current needs and these needs are then discerned by Religious <strong>St</strong>udies<br />
Coordinators, Religion teachers and staff involved in Religious Education at the <strong>Catholic</strong> <strong>School</strong>s <strong>Office</strong>. The <strong>St</strong>age 5 course is a<br />
Content Endorsed Course of 200 hours and focuses on the history and development of religion with a specific focus on <strong>Catholic</strong>ity.<br />
In <strong>St</strong>age 6, we are currently entering our eleventh HSC, with many <strong>St</strong>age 6 students choosing either the 1 unit or 2 unit Board of<br />
<strong>St</strong>udies course, <strong>St</strong>udies of Religion. At the commencement of 2006, the <strong>Catholic</strong> <strong>St</strong>udies course, which is a Board Endorsed<br />
Course, was implemented as a more viable option for students who were not attempting to gain an ATAR, or who have a large<br />
number of units and do not need the Board Course for their ATAR. Enrolments in the 2 unit course continue to grow and our HSC<br />
results have been very solid. In the <strong>2012</strong> HSC, our 1U and 2U results were above state average.<br />
The teachers in the Religious <strong>St</strong>udies faculty have specific qualifications in the teaching of Religion and continue to grow in<br />
knowledge through the many professional development courses on offer.<br />
Retreats and Faith Development Programs<br />
A development programme of spiritual formation across Years 7-12 engages our students on many levels.<br />
<strong>St</strong>udents from Years 7-9 and 11 participate in Reflection Days that aim to explore significant issues of human development in the<br />
light of the Gospel values. Each Reflection Day also involves students in the practice of specific skills of spiritual formation.<br />
In Year 10, students attend a three-day camp titled, ‘Challenge and Reflection’, where they are challenged both physically and<br />
spiritually.<br />
The pinnacle component of the Spiritual Formation programme is the Year 12 Retreat, which for students is one of the most<br />
significant experiences of school life.<br />
Surrounding these specific events and activities lays the prayer and liturgical life of the school where such occasions as the<br />
Opening and Graduation Masses and the feast of <strong>St</strong> Paul, allow the community the opportunity to celebrate and express the ethos<br />
and values of the school.<br />
For our staff, development days have been devoted to spiritual formation and to the consideration of their role as <strong>Catholic</strong><br />
educators.<br />
Each week staff are provided the opportunity to gather for 10 minutes of guided reflection and prayer at the beginning of the day.<br />
This small gathering entitled “Damascus Time” is a small but significant renewal moment in their week.<br />
<strong>St</strong>aff are invited to Retreat opportunities held at Fingal Bay over the course of a Sunday - Monday. These are fully booked up quite<br />
quickly, and afforded an invaluable time away together reflecting upon their journey of life.<br />
Values (including Social Justice Initiati ves)<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s annually targets Vinnies, Caritas Australia, Project Compassion, <strong>Catholic</strong> Mission, the Blood Bank and CanTeen as the<br />
focus of our student based fundraising. <strong>St</strong> Paul’s is a very generous community. Vinnies is a target for our Christmas appeal. We<br />
substantially fundraise for Caritas and Project Compassion during Lent, while the work of <strong>Catholic</strong> Mission is highlighted. In the<br />
later part of the year through awareness and fundraising campaigns we also generously support CanTeen through Bandana Day.<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s is also involved in a program of visits to local Aged Care Facilities. <strong>St</strong>udents visit these centres weekly and spend time<br />
talking and playing games with elderly residents. This promotes great respect between young and old alike.<br />
A N N U A L S C H O O L R E P O R T 2 0 1 2 4
Policies<br />
Enrolment Policy<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s follows the guidelines provided by the <strong>Catholic</strong> <strong>School</strong>s <strong>Office</strong> Policy Enrolment (Amended 2008). The Policy has been<br />
devised to accommodate, as far as is possible, the needs of families seeking a <strong>Catholic</strong> education. In situations where enrolments<br />
have to be restricted because of limitations on capacity, preference may need to be given to children of <strong>Catholic</strong> families, as<br />
defined in the Policy. Copies of the Policy are available from the school, or from the <strong>Catholic</strong> <strong>School</strong>s <strong>Office</strong> website (cf end of<br />
Report). Parents concerned about school fees should ensure they make contact with the school. Diocesan provisions (including<br />
standard discounts for those with a Health Card) exist to help in this area, and the Principal can also exercise discretion where<br />
genuine need exists.<br />
The enrolment period commenced during <strong>Catholic</strong> <strong>School</strong>s Week at the beginning of Term 2, in <strong>2012</strong> and usually lasts for about<br />
six weeks. Enrolment forms can be obtained from the school or from the CSO.<br />
<strong>St</strong>udent Welfa re<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s has a Pastoral Care Policy, which incorporates the issue of <strong>St</strong>udent Welfare. It is essential that procedural fairness<br />
prevails in all dealings with students. The Principles of this policy are printed in the <strong>St</strong>udent Diary. <strong>St</strong> Paul’s is a community that<br />
follows Restorative Justice Principles.<br />
The school has a Welfare Policy that is focused on the inherent value of each and every student in our community. The policy is<br />
shaped by our core principles of cooperation and respect. The fundamental purpose of such a policy is to ensure that all can coexist<br />
with calmness, security and happiness. We seek to build and develop young lives of value, self-confidence and purpose. We<br />
firmly recognise that behaviours and attitudes contrary to the community standards are challenged and addressed.<br />
Discipline<br />
The disciplinary procedures are in the Pastoral Care Policy. The various sanctions are clearly stated. As well, the different stages<br />
of Discipline are listed, with examples of behaviour that relate to different stages. This policy is available to parents on request.<br />
Complaints and Grievances<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s has adopted the Draft Complaints Management Policy from the <strong>Catholic</strong> <strong>School</strong>s <strong>Office</strong>. This Policy can be obtained<br />
from the CSO website or by contacting the <strong>School</strong>. A copy of the Policy is displayed in the Front <strong>Office</strong> and made freely available.<br />
Parents have a number of other ways these can be addressed. The normal procedure is: go through the Class Teacher. If the<br />
matter concerns a Curriculum issue, then more serious concerns go to the relevant <strong>St</strong>udies Coordinator. If it is a behavioural or<br />
disciplinary matter parents are advised to contact the relevant <strong>St</strong>udent Coordinator.<br />
Special Provisions (Secondary <strong>School</strong>s Only)<br />
The school has in place policies and procedures for special provisions examinations (NAPLAN and HSC). This is administered by<br />
the Learning Support (L.S.) Unit at the school. This unit consists of a L.S. Coordinator, L.S. Teacher and Teacher Aides. We also<br />
have a staff member working with ESL students.<br />
<strong>St</strong>udent Achievements<br />
Academic Achievements<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s exhibits an environment in which students across all ranges of abilities can develop strongly. Our NAPLAN and HSC<br />
results confirm the outstanding position the school is in. As a staff we have been working on improving our academic results.<br />
It is pleasing that our <strong>2012</strong> HSC results, once again, continued our success of ensuring all students reach their full<br />
potential. Each year we recognise not only the quality of academically high results but also the depth of performance. <strong>St</strong>udents at<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s can clearly perform among the very best in the state, while students who are in need of support are indicating<br />
performance that is highly positive about their progress. Indicators from our <strong>2012</strong> NAPLAN and HSC results clearly demonstrate<br />
the strength of our performance.<br />
The results have only reinforced the academic standing of the school. We can almost take for granted high performance, but we<br />
need to recognise that the culture of the school constantly extols the attainment of achievement.<br />
A N N U A L S C H O O L R E P O R T 2 0 1 2 5
The school has a Gifted and Talented Coordinator who promotes and organises activities that enrich and extend the students e.g.<br />
Mock Trials; various Writing, Maths and Science competitions; Public Speaking, Lions Youth of the Year, MUNA, etc.<br />
Performance in National Testing<br />
Band 9 and<br />
Above<br />
Band 8<br />
Band 7<br />
Band 6<br />
Band 5<br />
Band 4 and<br />
below<br />
NAPLAN Program <strong>2012</strong> - Year 7<br />
Percentage in Skill Band<br />
Reading Spelling<br />
Grammar &<br />
Punctuation Writing Numeracy<br />
<strong>St</strong> Pauls <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 6.9% 3.7% 10.2% 3.2% 3.8%<br />
National Performance 8.5% 9.2% 9.6% 5.7% 10.2%<br />
<strong>St</strong> Pauls <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 26.6% 25.7% 20.9% 12.3% 22.0%<br />
National Performance 19.1% 19.4% 19.4% 12.6% 15.1%<br />
<strong>St</strong> Pauls <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 30.9% 30.5% 28.3% 20.3% 26.9%<br />
National Performance 28.3% 29.5% 29.2% 23.7% 25.3%<br />
<strong>St</strong> Pauls <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 21.8% 23.0% 29.9% 25.1% 25.8%<br />
National Performance 24.8% 23.7% 24.8% 29.4% 27.0%<br />
<strong>St</strong> Pauls <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 11.7% 9.6% 9.1% 33.7% 17.7%<br />
National Performance 13.4% 11.4% 12.1% 18.5% 16.2%<br />
<strong>St</strong> Pauls <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 2.1% 7.5% 1.6% 5.3% 3.8%<br />
National Performance 4.3% 5.3% 3.3% 8.5% 4.6%<br />
Band 10<br />
Band 9<br />
Band 8<br />
Band 7<br />
Band 6<br />
Band 5 and<br />
below<br />
NAPLAN Program <strong>2012</strong> - Year 9<br />
Percentage in Skill Band<br />
Reading Spelling<br />
Grammar &<br />
Punctuation Writing Numeracy<br />
<strong>St</strong> Pauls <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 7.1% 6.4% 5.8% 3.2% 6.5%<br />
National Performance 4.9% 5.9% 5.6% 5.7% 9.0%<br />
<strong>St</strong> Pauls <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 22.1% 17.3% 17.3% 11.6% 15.6%<br />
National Performance 13.5% 15.4% 13.3% 11.1% 13.8%<br />
<strong>St</strong> Pauls <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 26.6% 35.9% 34.0% 25.2% 32.5%<br />
National Performance 26.4% 26.4% 24.7% 19.5% 24.0%<br />
<strong>St</strong> Pauls <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 27.3% 19.9% 24.4% 30.3% 29.9%<br />
National Performance 28.8% 26.0% 28.1% 23.9% 28.5%<br />
<strong>St</strong> Pauls <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 11.7% 12.2% 12.8% 17.4% 11.7%<br />
National Performance 17.8% 16.0% 18.5% 21.4% 18.5%<br />
<strong>St</strong> Pauls <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 5.2% 8.3% 5.8% 12.3% 3.9%<br />
National Performance 7.0% 8.8% 8.2% 16.8% 4.7%<br />
A N N U A L S C H O O L R E P O R T 2 0 1 2 6
<strong>High</strong>er <strong>School</strong> Certificate Results <strong>2012</strong><br />
SUBJECT<br />
AVERAGE<br />
PERCENTAGE<br />
Bands 4, 5 & 6<br />
<strong>St</strong>udies of Religion l<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s<br />
<strong>St</strong>ate<br />
38.51<br />
37.19<br />
81.48<br />
72.37<br />
<strong>St</strong>udies of Religion ll<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s<br />
<strong>St</strong>ate<br />
82.76<br />
74.38<br />
100<br />
71.82<br />
<strong>St</strong>andard English<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s<br />
<strong>St</strong>ate<br />
73.93<br />
68.27<br />
71.15<br />
51.70<br />
Advanced English<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s<br />
<strong>St</strong>ate<br />
79.04<br />
79.56<br />
92.85<br />
88.84<br />
General<br />
Mathematics<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s<br />
<strong>St</strong>ate<br />
70.35<br />
69.20<br />
61.44<br />
51.39<br />
Mathematics<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s<br />
<strong>St</strong>ate<br />
76.39<br />
77.64<br />
95.83<br />
79.26<br />
Biology<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s<br />
<strong>St</strong>ate<br />
72.90<br />
72.46<br />
69.44<br />
63.13<br />
Chemistry<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s<br />
<strong>St</strong>ate<br />
73.72<br />
75.51<br />
90.00<br />
71.08<br />
Physics<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s<br />
<strong>St</strong>ate<br />
66.98<br />
78.82<br />
30.00<br />
67.38<br />
Cultural Achievements<br />
The cultural fabric of <strong>St</strong> Paul’s <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> is alive, rich and diverse. To complement the student centred learning opportunities<br />
already offered in the classroom, many extra curricula incentives are in place and are indeed part of the traditions that are defining<br />
the character of the school.<br />
In the area of the Visual Arts, two major Art Shows are held. One encompassing all medias from the two courses offered, that is<br />
Visual Arts and Visual Design and the second continuing the established tradition of the <strong>School</strong>’s portrait prize ‘The Archipaul’. Our<br />
students also have met with success at local art shows. ICT has further improved with the expansion of the Art Computer Lab and<br />
the integration of Digital Media across all years.<br />
In the music area <strong>St</strong> Paul’s continues its excellence in HSC performances and also has enjoyed continuing success with the<br />
<strong>School</strong> Concert Band, established and growing over its sixteen year history. The school was also part of the Diocesan wide<br />
musical production at the Civic Theatre. ‘Diosounds’, in its second year, was a great success and widely acclaimed for its high<br />
quality. In <strong>2012</strong> ‘Music Night’ and the ‘Year 12 Swan Song Soiree’ showcased the range and diversity of the Musical talent at the<br />
school. <strong>St</strong>udents from the school were also involved in ASPIRE. This is a Diocesan run event that identifies students at the upper<br />
level of ability in the areas of music, drama, dance and singing.<br />
In the area of Drama we also enjoyed a Drama Night showcasing the work of Year 12 students.<br />
The Language department also offers students many and varied cultural experiences with involvement in Japanese cultural<br />
festivals, extension Japanese classes and students studying through the Open <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> programme. Our Japanese Exchange<br />
with Kurimoto <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> continued in <strong>2012</strong>. There was also a Tour of Paris, and an Ancient History trip to Italy.<br />
A N N U A L S C H O O L R E P O R T 2 0 1 2 7
Sporting Achievements<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s has an excellent tradition in our sporting ventures. We continually strive to develop camaraderie and school spirit whilst<br />
excelling on the sporting field.<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s provides many opportunities and experiences with regards to sporting activities, both at a school and at representative<br />
level. Our Friday afternoon programme offers over 20 different activities for students to choose from. These range from surfing to<br />
walking, as well as most of the traditional sports.<br />
In <strong>2012</strong>, <strong>St</strong> Paul’s gained many accolades through our representative sport programme competing in all age group of the Knights<br />
Knockout Rugby League as well as numerous students qualifying for Diocesan and NSW CCC teams in swimming, AFL, athletics,<br />
cross country, netball, touch football, basketball and rugby league. Our first ever team competed in the Arrive Alive Cup, a National<br />
Rugby League competition.<br />
During the Friday rep sport programme, <strong>St</strong> Paul’s was very competitive against the other <strong>Catholic</strong> regional high schools,<br />
demonstrating high levels of skill and sportsmanship.<br />
<strong>St</strong>udents at <strong>St</strong> Paul’s take enormous pride in representing their school and value the experiences and opportunities that are<br />
available to them.<br />
<strong>St</strong>aff<br />
<strong>St</strong>aff Qualifications<br />
Qualifications and Experience<br />
Number of <strong>St</strong>aff<br />
I. Teachers with teaching qualifications from a higher education institution within Australia or as<br />
recognised by National <strong>Office</strong> of Overseas Skills Recognition (NOOSR). 71<br />
II. Teachers with qualifications from a higher education institution within Australia or as<br />
recognised by NOOSR but lacking formal teaching qualifications<br />
III. (a) Teachers not having qualifications as described in I or II above but having relevant<br />
successful teaching experience or appropriate knowledge relevant to the teaching context<br />
III. (b) Of these which are New Scheme Teachers.<br />
(a)<br />
(b)<br />
For <strong>2012</strong> there was a total of 62 full time teachers and 9 job share teachers. All staff members are appropriately qualified. Apart<br />
from basic qualifications, there is a significant range of post-graduate qualifications, including one PhD, which is a rarity in a school<br />
context.<br />
It is an imperative that all teaching staff members are suitably qualified. The staff members are very well supported by a highly<br />
competent, committed and professional ancillary staff. These cover clerical and support roles in administration, as well as library,<br />
book hire, science preparation, hospitality, assistance with special needs students and reading programmes, maintenance,<br />
workshop support and grounds staff.<br />
Professional Learning Undertaken<br />
Child Protection Training New <strong>St</strong>aff<br />
Child Protection update for all <strong>St</strong>aff<br />
Orientation Day for New Teachers<br />
Principal Retreat<br />
Principals Association Meetings<br />
Faith Education Accreditation of <strong>St</strong>aff<br />
Secondary Ministry Coordinators<br />
The <strong>Catholic</strong> <strong>School</strong> (Faith Accreditation to teach)<br />
Learning Support Assistants’ Day<br />
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Secondary Assistant Principals meetings<br />
Secondary <strong>St</strong>udent Coordinators meetings<br />
Voluntary <strong>St</strong>aff Retreat<br />
SKLAN Meeting Computing <strong>St</strong>udies<br />
SKLAN Meeting Drama<br />
SKLAN Meeting English<br />
SKLAN Meeting Food Technology / Textiles<br />
SKLAN Meeting HSIE<br />
SKLAN Meeting Learning Technologies<br />
SKLAN Meeting LOTE<br />
SKLAN Meeting Mathematics<br />
SKLAN Meeting Music<br />
SKLAN Meeting PD/H/PE<br />
SKLAN Meeting Religious <strong>St</strong>udies<br />
SKLAN Meeting Science<br />
SKLAN Meeting Special Education<br />
SKLAN Meeting TAS<br />
SKLAN Meeting Visual Arts<br />
Laboratory Technician In-Service<br />
Curriculum Validation for SEVDEV<br />
SKLAN Meeting Library<br />
SKLAN Meeting ESL<br />
Learning Technology in the 21 st Century<br />
HSC Marker days for all KLAs<br />
Teacher Attendance<br />
The average teacher attendance rate for this school is 95.<br />
Teacher Retention<br />
The teacher retention rate from 2011 to <strong>2012</strong> was 96%.<br />
Enrolments<br />
Actual Enrolments 201 2<br />
Scholastic Year Number of <strong>St</strong>udents Attendance Rate %<br />
Year 7 191 94.28<br />
Year 8 152 91.97<br />
Year 9 162 91.39<br />
Year 10 171 91.47<br />
Year 11 141 95.59<br />
Year 12 118 94.73<br />
TOTAL 935 93.14<br />
We primarily enrol at a Year 6 intake from our six feeder primary schools; <strong>St</strong> John Vianney Morisset, <strong>St</strong> Joseph’s Kilaben Bay, <strong>St</strong><br />
Benedict’s Edgeworth, <strong>St</strong> Kevin’s Cardiff, Holy Cross Glendale and <strong>St</strong> Mary’s Warners Bay. However, we also enrol students from<br />
the local Government Primary <strong>School</strong>s.<br />
As a general rule, each year of the school is full. Apart from the Year 6/7 intake, we enrol based on available places and suitable<br />
applicants. We have in place an extensive orientation phase at both a Year 6/7 and Year 10/11 point, which allows for positive<br />
progression in the school.<br />
Enrolment at the school is most readily obtained by contacting the school for an enrolment form by phone, fax or email.<br />
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<strong>St</strong>udent Attendance (Secondary)<br />
The average student attendance rate for students at this school during <strong>2012</strong> was 93.14%.<br />
The actual retention rate for students completing Year 12 in <strong>2012</strong> was 72.54%.<br />
Post <strong>School</strong> Destinations(<strong>St</strong>udents aged < 17)<br />
Number of <strong>St</strong>udents<br />
<strong>School</strong> Priorities<br />
Education (TAFE/apprenticeship) 24<br />
Education (university) 59<br />
Work force 25<br />
Travel -<br />
Unknown 10<br />
Other -<br />
TOTAL 118<br />
Achievement of <strong>School</strong> Priorities<br />
Priorities for <strong>2012</strong> included:<br />
Professional Development to enable staff to improve even further the academic performance of students<br />
the beautification of certain areas of the school grounds<br />
classroom furniture<br />
increase the number of smartboards in classrooms and have data projectors in all rooms<br />
complete the final stage of Federal Government Computer roll out<br />
begin the development of the <strong>School</strong> Master Plan.<br />
Facilities<br />
The campus of <strong>St</strong> Paul’s is expansive, fresh and extremely well resourced. Over the past twelve years, due to significant<br />
Commonwealth and <strong>St</strong>ate Government funding, <strong>St</strong> Paul’s has been able to add to the school plant two new classroom wings<br />
comprising ten general classrooms, four seminar rooms, a computer room, a science laboratory, two specialist music rooms plus<br />
music storage and computer facilities, in addition to a new canteen. There has been an addition to staff facilities, significant<br />
expansion of the schools administration facilities and doubling of the library floor space. With Government and parent funding, we<br />
have also built our wonderful <strong>St</strong> Paul’s Hall, which provides a myriad of opportunities for the community.<br />
Also significant is the development of technology resources that ensure each and every room in the school has access to the most<br />
advanced facilities available. We want <strong>St</strong> Paul’s to lead schools into the 21 st century in terms of facilities, resources and associated<br />
pedagogy.<br />
The National Pride in Our <strong>School</strong>s Program Grant enabled the school to install security fencing around 75% (now 100% due to<br />
school finances) of the school.<br />
The school successfully applied for a grant under the Trade Training Centre (TTC) component of the BER. This was completed by<br />
the end of 2011, and has been functional throughout <strong>2012</strong>.<br />
Community Satisfaction<br />
<strong>2012</strong>, as in the past, has been a year with a high degree of community satisfaction. This is noted on a regular basis from<br />
comments at monthly Parents and Friends Meetings, letters of commendation from numerous outside agencies and parent<br />
comments from the evaluations of all our Information Evenings and Extra Curricular Activities.<br />
One such event was Parents in the Classroom held in <strong>Catholic</strong> <strong>School</strong>s Week (Term 2). Parents of Year 7 students are invited to<br />
join their sons and daughters for lessons. This is then followed by a morning tea.<br />
Survey results from the parent in response to the Parents in the Classroom Day process were very affirming:<br />
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Enjoyed being in the classes with kids. They also enjoyed showing us their work.<br />
Keep up the good work, it worked well for us.<br />
The teachers were warm and welcoming and accommodating of the parents, in the classrooms despite the obvious<br />
inconvenience.<br />
All teachers should be congratulated.<br />
It was greatly appreciated and benefitted my family, in particular my daughter.<br />
It was great to see them so confident going from class to class. Also, how well they have adjusted to different groups in each<br />
class.<br />
Good to meet some teachers and see how my son is settling in class and what is expected of him.<br />
It was a great day. Eye opener. Now I know my child is coping and growing up.<br />
Teachers all seem very caring.<br />
Able to see my child in class being drawn into class discussion by his teacher as he is rather quiet.<br />
This gave me an insight into my child’s school environment/rhythm of the day/how organised the school is.<br />
Gave me an idea of how much my child participates in class and how the teachers involve all.<br />
All good. Thank you for the opportunity to be involved in a day at school again.<br />
I could watch how positively the teachers interact with the students.<br />
It was wonderful to see my daughter organised, engaged and motivated in class and to meet her classmates.<br />
Excellent opportunity to meet teachers and see modern class in action. Teachers were very welcoming, clearly enjoy this work<br />
and proud of it.<br />
Teachers and students not fazed by on-lookers and crowding.<br />
Gained valuable insight into how the school functions.<br />
Reinforces to parents that <strong>St</strong> Paul’s was and is an excellent choice for high school education.<br />
Loved it! Enjoyed meeting the teachers and seeing where and what the kids are doing.<br />
It was great to see how my child was settling into Year 7 and to meet the teachers.<br />
All teachers were lovely, friendly and very accepting of the disruption the parents created to their normal lesson.<br />
It’s not very often you get to join in and take part at ‘high school’. In fact, it’s very different to primary in that way.<br />
It gave me a peek into what my son is up to and seeing firsthand the things he had been talking about.<br />
I’ve told outside friends of this idea of Parents in the Classroom and they have all said “Isn’t that a fantastic idea.”<br />
Sitting back and watching the lesson. Well organised <strong>St</strong> Paul’s!<br />
The teachers made each lesson ‘hands-on’ where the parents got involved.<br />
It was great to see how our children have settled into <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />
Financial Information<br />
The following graphs represent the income and expenditure for <strong>St</strong> Paul’s <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>, Booragul for the school year ending 31<br />
January 2013 as aggregated from the annual returns to the Australian Government’s Department of Education, Science and<br />
Training.<br />
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Concluding <strong>St</strong>atement<br />
It is a pleasure to present to the school and wider community this <strong>School</strong> Report for <strong>2012</strong>. Once again my sincere thanks go to all<br />
members of the school community who continue to strive to make the <strong>St</strong> Paul’s community here on the western side of Lake<br />
Macquarie, the very best that it can be in all things. We continually remind ourselves that we as a staff are here to serve the<br />
community.<br />
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Report Access and Publication<br />
This report is available to members of the school and wider communities. Copies will be supplied to the <strong>Catholic</strong> <strong>School</strong>s <strong>Office</strong>,<br />
The Board of <strong>St</strong>udies, The Parents and Friends Association, the Parish Priest and to all parents.<br />
Copies of this school’s Annual <strong>School</strong> Report are available to the general public. Persons wishing to access a copy of the report<br />
should contact:<br />
Mr Anthony <strong>St</strong>evens<br />
Principal<br />
<strong>St</strong> Paul’s <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong><br />
Primrose <strong>St</strong>reet, (PO Box 194 Boolaroo)<br />
Booragul NSW 2284<br />
(02) 4958-6711<br />
For further information relating to the Diocesan Policy please refer to: http://mn.catholic.edu.au<br />
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