Hedland Senior High School Flying High

Hedland Senior High School is a secondary school of approximately 600 students, of which 200 are of indigenous background. This is the second largest aboriginal school population in Western Australia. Principal, Carolyn Cook, is in her 4^th year at the school. In that time the achievements of the school and its students and the community perception of the school has improved enormously. Some years ago, the school was performing well below its potential and the community perception of the school was low. BHP was planning to build their own private school to lure employees with families to the region. Following Carolyn Cook’s appointment, the introduction of a range of learning initiatives and success by the students, BHP has shelved it plans and now offers significant financial support to the school.

One of Carolyn’s first priorities was to raise the expectations of the staff and students. High expectations of presentation, behaviour, attendance and learning outcomes were introduced. Students attend school in correct school uniform. A condition of entry to the school for EVERONE – staff, students and visitors – is enclosed footwear. This caused some concern to our group who had bought very few covered in shoes. Since Carolyn’s appointment, the graduation rate for Year 12 students has risen from72% to 97%.

Carolyn Cook has negotiated a agreement with BHP that offers important support to the school and its programs. This funding includes:

Follow the Dream Program – 80 students with high potential are offered additional high support, after school homework classes and transition visits to tertiary institutions in Perth. A huge challenge faced by aboriginal children is that of moving away from small communities and living independently in the city. Recently, four of these students commenced university courses.

Aspire – a program for Year 9 students to visit the University of WA where university graduates act as mentors. 50% of participating students are of indigenous background.

Sister School Program – Hedland SHS enjoys a Sister School relationship with Mt. Lawley SHS in Perth. Through this relationship, year 10 students attend Mt. Lawley and are introduced to university attendance. Teachers from the two schools participate in moderation activities by video conferencing to ensure high expectations are maintained.

Year 12 Revision Week – In the middle of the year, Year 12 students are taken to Perth for a week of intensive revision. Students are accommodated in the university colleges during mid semester break. Tutorials and lectures are provided by uni. Tutors and authors of the textbooks the students have been using.

Drama Teacher and production – Addressing a high community interest, BHP funding provides for the employment of a drama teacher and the cost of presenting a school production in the school’s excellent theatre. This program is integrated across the curriculum and supports the school’s reputation as a “School of Special Arts”. Showcase performances are also presented to provide an avenue for students to display their talents.

Secondary School Scholarships – BHP fund Excellence Scholarships for high performing students to support continuing education.

Vocational Education and Training – Hedland SHS offers a wonderful, engaging VET program for students interested in gaining Certificate 1 in Automotive and / or Metal Engineering. Students work with the local TAFE to build “Quarter Midget” racing cars. The students then race their cars at speedways around the area. The school now has 8 cars that compete. This is a hugely engaging program for students ….. and the staff. Carolyn Cook’s eyes lit up as she spoke of the school’s involvement in this program. I don’t blame her ….. I would love to have a go myself!

The staff at Hedland SHS undertakes extensive professional learning. The recent program has focussed on Classroom Management Strategies and the next series will be on Instructional Strategies. Attracting and maintaining a high quality workforce can be a difficulty in these remote areas. In 2006, Hedlands SHS commenced the school year lacking 22 teaching staff as the school was not seen as an attractive working location. With the developments in recent years, the school is now a school of choice for many teachers.

Our visit to Hedland Senior High School was inspirational. Carolyn Cook is a dynamic educationalist whose drive and motivation is immediately obvious. We felt privileged to have this opportunity.