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Annual School Report 2009 - Kellyville High School · Classrooms had to fit a strict set of guidelines and the site chosen was the open ... 2009 has been centred around ... Kellyville

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  • NSW Department of Education & Training

    8477

    2009 Annual School Report Kellyville High School

    A dynamic academic environment where the teachers care about the students learning and about them as individuals

    NSW Public Schools Leading the way

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    Our school at a glance

    Students

    The enrolment figures for 2009 stand at a total of 1166 students. Of that enrolment, 803 students were in Years 7-10; 321 in Years 11 and 12 with 42 students in the Support Unit. Our ratio of boys to girls is weighted in the boys favour at 54%.

    Staff

    All teaching staff meet the professional requirements for teaching in NSW public schools. In Term 1, our Head Teacher Teaching and Learning was appointed and Mr Warren Stanley joined the staff in Term 2 to take up his role. In Term 4 we farewelled our English Head Teacher, Mrs Rodd who has taken a position outside the public system. A new Head Teacher English will be appointed in Term 1 2010.

    Significant programs and initiatives

    Values

    Once again in 2009, Values were an integral part of life at our school. Those values, as expressed in the acronym FoRRLIFE summarise the expectations and hopes that staff have for all of our students. Friendship, Respect, Responsibility, Learning, Integrity, Fairness, Excellence.

    Students are exposed to these values in a myriad of ways; The vertical roll call program, when representing their houses at sporting carnivals; participating in whole school events such as Soap Box Derby, Blood Bus Visit or Shave for the Cure, in assemblies. There was considerable focus on explicit teaching of these values in roll calls and during class., Often, however, students learn and express these values most effectively when involved in corporate activities; the various charity days the SEC coordinates, the NSW Premiers Volunteering Program or the Talent Show.

    The culmination of the Values at KHS was the Balloon release day. A group of students inflated 350 balloons, of seven different colours, each colour representing a school value. These biodegradable balloons were distributed; seven to each of the 48 roll calls on the main quadrangle. The quad was a mass of helium filled balloons. On the count of three, all the balloons were released into the air, each with a message saying that the balloon represented KHS spreading the school values into the wider community.

    It was a spectacular site and became a touchstone for Kellyville students and staff to reflect upon the role they have in being corporate, concerned, compassionate members of the world community.

    Connected Classroom

    Funding was provided by the DET to incorporate a Connected Classroom in all schools in 2009. Classrooms had to fit a strict set of guidelines and the site chosen was the open space in Maths upstairs in C Block. It now houses an Electronic Whiteboard and Video-conferencing hardware that gives our school and students access to participate in online learning conferences and lessons taking place in other schools. The resource has been an outstanding success and is often used by Western Sydney Region as a staff training venue. It is widely regarded as the best facility in the region. Students use it every day and staff welcomed the opportunity to present lessons that are stimulating and engaging for students across the KLAs. All staff in the school participated in training in 2009 giving them access to this useful resource in the school.

    Digital Education Revolution

    Two hundred and eight students in Year 9 were issued with commissioned Laptops in September at a parent evening designed specifically to address the responsibilities associated with the care and use of the Lenovo Laptops. A significant proportion of our staff professional learning in 2009 has been centred around the burgeoning role of technology in teaching and learning. In 2009, a high degree of support was given to teachers of Year 9 students in accommodating the use of Laptops in classrooms. The school welcomed the assistance of the newly appointed Technology Assistant, Mr Nicholas Parkes who is ably managed by our Head Teacher Teaching and Learning, Mr Warren Stanley.

    Learning Centre

    In 2009, the Learning Support Team were struggling with a way to support the 190 students requiring Literacy or Numeracy support within the school. With an allocation of only half a Support Teacher Learning Difficulties, the school has had difficulty stretching its resources to keep up with the number of students requiring assistance, as the school has grown. Some research into setting up a Learning Centre was conducted, a funding grant applied for and in 2009 we opened the doors to a very effective resource in the school. Under the guidance of Kathryn Dobb, Relieving Head Teacher Special Needs and the STLA, Miss Taysha Fogwill the Learning Centre continued to grow in its support to students throughout the year. Students began to self refer and as teachers experienced improvement in the classroom, more students were referred for assistance. Funding grants enabled the employment of young university students as tutors who made a great connection with the students.

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    Volunteering Program

    In 2009 the school joined the Premiers Volunteering Pilot Program. Mr Humphreys and Mrs Mina devised a program to assist Coonamble High School in the Western Region. Seven year 9 students joined ranks with students from Glenwood Park High School and their teachers, to secure funding and tools that would be the impetus to build a Values Garden and a mathematics grid at Coonamble High School. The drive out to Coonamble and the stay there cemented a camaraderie between the three schools that really crystallised what the whole program was about; volunteering, helping others making friends along the way. The students involved in the program were Liam Bristow, Victoria Alexander, Kaitlyn Bridcutt, Brittany Fowler, Nelson Innis, Kyu Ri Lee, Jordon Turner, Philippa Whittle. All students were awarded with a Gold Certificate in the Volunteering Challenge which indicates 60 hours or more dedicated to volunteering programs.

    Student achievement in 2009

    Students across the year groups performed exceedingly well in 2009. Their achievements are outlined further in this report.

    Abbey Roach Year 12 was Highly Commended for Excellence in Student Achievement in The Western Sydney Regional Directors Awards. Joshua Groth Year 12 received a Regional Directors Award for Excellence in Leadership by an Individual Student. Emmanuel Adeyinfa, Morgan Wearne and Chantelle Chong were recognised for their Leadership and Teamwork by the Australian Defence Force.

    Students participated in a number of external competitions beyond the curriculum.

    The National Geography Competition drew 90,000 students across Australia. Nine students from Kellyville were awarded High Distinctions Chris Glendenning, Jonathon Perry, Aashish Varsani, Ravi Shivakumar, Nathan Lasker, Michael Adeyinfa, Sohraab Bains, Yasmeena Osman, Fiaz Awan. Seven students received Distinctions and 14 received Credits. An excellent achievement for the school.

    The Maths competition drew 454 students from Year 8, 9 and 10. Our results included 26 Distinctions and 2 High Distinctions for Casey Green and Anton Kyrltsov.

    Twenty-eight students won awards from the NSW University of NSW in the ICAS Science Competition.

    Three students Prabhdeep Singh, Adam Holding and Daniel Matotek were finalists in

    the Engineering Studies Competition with the University of NSW. They each received $50.00 vouchers.

    Caitlin Baldock came third in the Transcribe 2009 Young Writers Competition in the 12-15 years categories. Over 47 high schools participated with 223 entries. An excellent achievement.

    The Hills Excellence in Youth Awards All students entered were finalists in their respective categories: Kendelle Murphy Leadership, Catilin Cockburn Sport, Sabrina Charters, Camilla Turnbull, Catilin Gaffney Performing Arts.

    Messages

    Principal's message

    Kellyville High School has seen significant changes since its opening in 2003. This is not only reflected in the growth of the total number of students, but in their character. The increasing demographic diversity and the urbanisation of the area is reflected in the backgrounds of our students.

    This has presented challenges to the school in terms of responding to very diverse needs including English as a Second Language and students with learning difficulties. This resulted, for example, in the opening of the schools learning centre and tutor program aimed at helping students with difficulties. The ESL centre increased it operation in 2009.

    Student wellbeing and a positive learning environment and culture continue to be primary outcomes. The values project started in 2008 is the foundation platform for both academic and welfare provision in the school.

    It was my pleasure to be able to congratulate Mrs Dagg, our hardworking P&C Secretary with the honour of being recognised by the DET for Western Sydney Regions Public Schools Parent of the Year Award. Relieving School Education Director,Graham Hodgkins presented Mrs Dagg with this prestigious award at a morning tea ceremony in the Library with family and school personnel. Mrs Dagg has been an integral member of the P&C since the school opened.

    Overall, the school, despite the variable nature of students and differing needs, has been successful.

    Specific information on key academic, sporting and cultural areas is supplied in the main section of this Annual School Report.

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    I certify that the information in this report is the result of a rigorous school self-evaluation process and is a balanced and genuine account of the school's achievements and areas for development.

    G. Gee

    P&C message

    Kellyville High School has a great P&C association. We are a small, but dedicated group aspiring to make a difference. Our aim is to support and provide help for the dedicated students and staff that are within the school.

    The P&C held another Trivia night in 2009 and it was a great success, raising funds to put back into the school. The support from families and friends within our community was wonderful and all those who attended had a great time.

    In 2009 the P&C introduced a book fair for senior students in November, helping year 12 to shed their second hand books to students at a reduced cost. Approximately twenty-five students benefitted from this initiative. We also offered low cost stationery packs at the 2009 Year 6 Orientation Day and many parents took the opportunity to purchase packs and order them for 2010.

    The P&C is appreciative of the uniforms that are donated for re-sale to families at a very low cost. This has helped to raise funds for the school. During the year the P&C purchased two LCD screens, one for the school foyer and a larger one for the Library.

    We would like to have more people involved in the P&C. It is only one night a month for the meetings and the meetings are always informative. I know people are busy with their lives, but if just a little time is given we can help support the school to make it an even better place for our children to learn.

    M Gray

    P&C President

    Student representative's message Organisation of the Student Executive Council The 2009/10 Student Executive members were nominated by their peers. School Captains, Vice Captains, House Captains and year representatives were then elected by their House groups and inducted into office in June, 2009. The Induction Ceremony including the student body, teachers and parents was held in the school hall where the SEC received their badges and Captains and Vice Captains were announced.

    The SEC of 2009/10 consisted of:

    9 Year 11 Students (in Year 12 2010) 3 Year 10 students 2 Year 9 students 6 Year 8 students 4 Year 7 students

    School Captains for 2009/10 were Michelle Anfield (Clarke House Captain) and Farzan Pestonji (Pryce) The Vice Captains were Lauren Killey (Manning) and Navin Bajwa (Manning). SEC Representatives were Tegan Haller(Pryce House Captain), Patrick Ham (Clarke House Captain), Jacob Fahmy (Evans House Captain), Hayley Clarke (Manning), Kendelle Murphy (Manning House Captain), Nicole Chamberlain (Manning), Chantelle Chong (Evans), Ryan Edwards (Manning), Jessica Bracken (Manning), Samantha Elmer (Manning), Rachel Jones (Pryce), Emily Wood (Clarke), Conor Spillane (Pryce), Vincent Russo (Pryce), Jack Easton (Clarke), Maddison Gordon (Evans), Jessica Facey (Evans), Aimee Chong (Evans), Akile Numan (Pryce) and Matt Campbell (Clarke).

    Nominations, Election and Induction To be elected to the SEC, students were required to:

    Present a short written application form with their nomination form

    Attend an interview conducted by member of staff (Mrs Kenna or Ms Preketes) to discuss reasons for their application and what they could offer the school and student body

    Present a speech to their House group outlining why their peers should elect them as a member of the SEC.

    Senior students who had the highest number of votes were then asked to present a speech to the SEC, the Principal and Deputy Principals outlining their reasons why they should be elected to the position of School Captain. The SEC, Principal and Deputy Principals voted for the Captains and Vice Captain positions.

    An Induction Ceremony was held and parents were invited through letters and phone calls. The SEC members were inducted and pledged an oath to uphold their responsibilities. The Captaincy, Vice Captaincy and House Captaincy positions

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    were kept secret and announced at the Induction ceremony where the whole student body, parents and teachers found out for the first time.

    Training Day Following the induction the SEC participated in a training day, once again facilitated by Rising Generations. Students were able to bond and discuss plans for the coming year. Issues and events discussed on the training day included:

    The scheduling of SEC weekly meetings The election of an SEC secretary Promoting school pride and values Leadership tomorrows leaders SEC roles & presence Running of school and year assemblies Charities

    Achievements Students met weekly and planned the following:

    An SEC entry for the Talent Quest where the students performed Whats that strange ticking noise a tribute to the Harry Potter genre. This promoted the SEC leadership and presence within the school.

    Held Talent Quest auditions for 2 weeks (with the help of Mrs Higham)

    Soap Box Derby Super Fun day where students dressed in House colours or multicultural dress. The purpose was to promote a sense of community and friendship. A giant jumping castle slide was one of the main attractions for students to use. A sausage sizzle was also held.

    Organised and presented the Talent Quest where Michelle Anfield, Jacob Fahmy and Tegan Haller were M.Cs for the event. A teacher act was also part of the performance along with many performances from talented KHS students who sang, entertained us with musical instruments, danced and presented humorous items.

    SEC members represented the school in: Presentation Evening Year assemblies Facilitating Year 6 to 7 information evenings Year 6 Orientation day School assemblies Navin Bajwa and Lauren Killey attended the

    University of Sydney Womens College for a Leadership program for girls and young women.

    Jessica Bracken And Patrick Ham were selected from online applications by Baulkham Hills Council to attend the YAPA Conference on youth ideas on public transport in our area

    Rachel Jones and Emily Wood attended the Young Womens Day on leadership

    Michelle Anfield and Farzon Pestonji will attend the Secondary School Student Leadership Program for School Captains at NSW Parliament House where they will have the opportunity to meet the NSW Governor in 2010.

    Term 2, 2010 will see another charity event where the school will go pink All proceeds will go to the Breast Cancer Foundation.

    Chantelle Chong and Nicole Chamberlin will be attending the Young Womens Leadership Seminar held at NSW Parliament

    Jessica Bracken, Conor Spillane, Samantha Elmer and Vincent Russo will be attending the Hills Youth Forum to have their say on issues affecting our area eg road safety; communication & cyber safety; and Sport & Recreation.

    The SEC of 2009/10 have had a successful year. SEC Secretaries Maddison Gordon, Tegan Haller Kendelle Murphy

    School context

    Student information

    It is a requirement that the reporting of information for all students must be consistent with privacy and personal information policies.

    Student enrolment profile

    The total student population in 2009 was 1166. Once again, the demand for enrolment from out of area students was high reflecting a confidence in the school and an acknowledgement of its broad curriculum.

    As indicated previously, there was an increase in the demographic diversity of the student population, particularly from non-English speaking backgrounds.

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    Student attendance profile

    Student attendance in 2009 was once again above both state and regional levels.

    Management of non-attendance

    The school addresses student non-attendance through:

    SMS to inform parents of absences and lateness to school

    Monitoring by Head Teacher Administration Students

    use of the Home School Liaison Officer (HSLO) to intervene in cases of protracted non-attendance

    Retention to Year 12

    Retention rates, as presented in the statistics, indicate the proportion of Kellyville High School Year 10 students in 2007 that completed the HSC at this school in 2009. However, it does not take into consideration the number of new students to the school that enrolled in year 11. It also does not take into account those students who left in year 10 but were still engaged in education either at other school or TAFE. A number of students entered apprenticeships. Their learning pathway did not include the HSC.

    Retention to Year 12

    SC04-HSC06

    SC05- HSC07

    SC06- HSC08

    SC07 - HSC09

    School 0.0 67.8 69.9 70.3 SEG 70.9 75.0 73.3 74.9 State 61.1 60.8 60.3 61.0

    Post-school destinations

    The destinations of the Year 12 students who completed the HSC in 2009 are as follows: 51% were offered places at University, largely

    from the University of Western Sydney and Macquarie University

    14% are studying at TAFE

    1% are studying with a Private Tertiary Provider.

    29% are employed. This includes full-time and casual/part-time employment, as well as apprenticeships/traineeships.

    5% unknown

    Year 12 students undertaking vocational or trade training In 2009 Kellyville High School had a total of 16% of Year 12 completing a VET/TVET course: 7.5% were enrolled in a school delivered VET

    course 8.5% were enrolled in a VET course delivered

    by TAFE

    In 2009 Kellyville offered the Metal and Engineering Vocational Education and Training (VET) Course to our senior students. To further broaden our curriculum Kellyville assisted 40 Year 11 and 12 students to access TAFE delivered Vocational Education and Training Courses (TVET) offered at Western Sydney Institute of TAFE.

    Kellyville High School VET students were recognised for outstanding workplace performance during 2009 and received formal recognition for excellence - Emily Yates in Hospitality, as well as Jay Akroyd, Kalvin Abel Harris and Jac Mudge in Metal and Engineering.

    Jarrad Evans Year 11 and Daniel Carulli Year 12 received the Hills Schools Industry Partnership Award for Outstanding Achievement in Vocational Learning 2009.

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    In Term 2, 60 year 12 students completed a Certificate for Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA). This credential was offered at low cost in partnership with The Hills Shire Council.

    Year 12 students attaining HSC or equivalent vocational educational qualification

    All year 12 students at Kellyville High School in 2009 attained the Higher School Certificate credential.

    Staff information

    It is a requirement that the reporting of information for all staff must be consistent with privacy and personal information policies.

    Staff establishment

    Position Number

    Principal 1 Deputy Principal(s) 2 Assistant Principal(s) 0 Head Teachers 13.5 Classroom Teachers 55 Teacher of Emotional Disabilities 2 Teacher of Mild Intellectual Disabilities 4 Teacher of Reading Recovery 0 Support Teacher Learning Assistance 0.5 Teacher Librarian 1 Teacher of ESL 1.2 Counsellor 1 School Administrative & Support Staff (SASS)

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    Total 93.2

    Of the staff employed at Kellyville High School none have indicated an indigenous background.

    Teacher qualifications

    All teaching staff meet the professional requirements for teaching in NSW public schools.

    Qualifications % of staff Degree or Diploma 79 Postgraduate 21

    Financial summary

    This summary covers funds for operating costs and does not involve expenditure areas such as permanent salaries, building and major maintenance.

    Date of financial summary: 30/11/2009

    Income $

    Balance brought forward 528 320.59Global funds 495 212.66Tied funds 427 351.16School & community sources 521 345.99Interest 27 678.21Trust receipts 75 191.78Canteen 0.00Total income 2 075 100.39

    ExpenditureTeaching & learning Key learning areas 213 243.44 Excursions 141 130.02 Extracurricular dissections 148 906.11Library 40 164.93Training & development 6 581.94Tied funds 227 153.87Casual relief teachers 105 881.97Administration & office 189 613.06School-operated canteen 0.00Utilities 103 403.61Maintenance 87 334.67Trust accounts 73 429.58Capital programs 6 539.00Total expenditure 1 343 382.20Balance carried forward 731 718.19

    Tied funds are to be used for specific

    purposes, as designated by the Department of Education and Training. It includes funding support for students with learning difficulties and teacher professional development.

    Casual relief is paid to casual teachers who are employed when regular teaching staff are absent.

    Utilities covers power, water, gas, phone and postage.

    Maintenance refers to the upkeep of grounds, buildings and the computer network.

    A full copy of the school's 2009 financial statement is tabled at the annual general meetings of the School Council and/or the parent body. Further details concerning the statement can be obtained by contacting the school.

    School performance 2009

    Achievements

    Arts The Alice Project

    In 2009, the CAPA faculty hosted the highly successful Alice Project. It is the first time Kellyville has produced a whole school

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    performance and it was a credible effort by the directors, actors, set and costume designers, ticket sellers and refreshment bar. Performances were held over two nights to packed audiences in the movement studio. The students also held a matinee performance for our local primary schools.

    Circus Solaris continued its afternoon workshops on street performance throughout the year. In September, 8 students once again attended the Bathurst Catapault Festival. The focus this year was on train the trainer so we now have students trained to teach others their skills.

    Camilla Turnbull our talented young drama student made the semi finals of Raw Comedy Stand Up, an adult competition held at Sydneys Comedy Store. As a result she was flown to Melbourne to perform in Class Clowns a teenage comedy gala for Australian comedians under 20 as part of the Comedy Festival.

    Dance

    The Dance troupe performed in a number of festivals throughout the year including the Hills Performing Arts Festival and Celebrating the Arts, Sydney West Dance Festival. Thank you to the girls, their teacher Miss Fischer and to Mrs Murphy for the great costumes.

    Sabrina Chartres was selected to join the NSW PULSE (Performing Arts Understanding and Learning by Showcasing Excellence) Dance group to tour China in October.

    Pulse

    Once again in 2009, our school choir representatives joined the Sydney West Choir to perform at PULSE. The representatives led by Mrs Smith were Alannah Oldfield, Jessica Facey, Caitlin Burges, Minar Acar and Slade Rudloff.

    Other Arts Programs and Student Achievements

    Andrew Martinelli was a semi finalist in the 2009 Moran Photographic competition-out of 13,000 entries

    Navin Bajwa and Lauren Killey attended the University of Sydney Leadership in Digital Age conference

    TVET student Emily Yates was awarded the TAFE Colleges HillsSIP work placement award for a Year 12 student

    The following students participated in the Formula One Technology Challenge, Lizelle Jacobs Rachel McRae, Maleen Malik, Tia Akroyd, Patrick Ham, Melissa Jack, Sarah Kitto.

    During Education Week, Kendelle Murphy was chosen to become a School Education Director for the day. This initiative offered Kendelle the opportunity to experience work at a managerial level in the education system.

    Coffee at KHS

    After some negotiation with HillsSip the school acquired the lease of a Barista machine in 2009. Year 12 students: Brodie Thornberry, Leah Sefton, Tarsha Burnett, Stephen Passam, Jason Cheung, Natalie Toohey, Aimee Head, Catilin Cockburn and Laura Coleman participated in a training course and honed their skills during the year at various school and community events. A further 18 Year 11 students were also trained. Students gained VET certification as part of their School to Work program. Staff and parents really enjoyed the

    Sports

    A significant achievement in sport this year has been the exceptional performances of our Futsal Girls and Boys Teams. Both teams are the Australasian Club Champions (1200 teams competing initially) and will tour Brazil and England in 2010. They have defeated the very best Australia and New Zealand have to offer against the odds. Congratulations to the students and their coach Mr Fabio Caprarelli.

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    Girls team

    Angela Mokhtar, Sarah Mokhtar, Sheridan Kuiper, Rebecca Perry, Shayna Killey, Kaitlyn Bridcutt, Alix Bullivant

    Boys Team

    Sameer Mokhtar, Ali Saganci, Mitchell Sutton, Shameem Hussein, Jacob Rose, Kwame Dwomoh, Zac Caruana

    Coach Fabio Caprarelli

    Grade Competition

    This was to be our last year in the very competitive Hills Zone. In 2010 the school joins the Macquarie Zone and will compete against different schools in the Zone carnivals and for Grade competitions.

    The Grade commitment consisted of summer and winter competitions. Students who chose not to take place in Grade teams were offered a selection of school sport and/or recreation activities that are held here at school, Bernie Mullane oval and various venues in the Hills district.

    In the winter competition Kellyville were Zone Premiers in Boys Open Soccer, Open Oz Tag and Open Hockey, and girls 15A Basketball. In summer the boys took out Premierships in Open Basketball B, 15s Basketball A, 15s Touch A.

    Carnivals

    In February 2009, Kellyville High School held a very wet Swimming Carnival at Baulkham Hills Pool. It continued to rain causing the cancellation of our School Athletics carnival in May and the decision to move to an all weather venue for 2010. However we did manage to find a dry day to run our School Cross Country Carnival.

    Swimming

    Champion House was Manning and despite the cold and wet weather, student participation remained high posting some very credible performances. Dominating the age groups were the following Age Champions.

    Emily Murphy, Ashlea Fahmy, Jessica Bracken and Jessica Davis were part of the 14 years relay team that represent Sydney West Region at the State Carnival. Congratulations Girls.

    Michael Francia and Kristy Pond were also selected to compete at the CHS Swimming Championships.

    School Swimming Age Champions

    Boys Age Girls

    Connor Davis 12 Jessica Renton

    Thomas Roberts 13 Jasmine Akroyd

    Harry Easton 14 Jessica Bracken

    Ben Fishburn 15 Victoria Alexander

    Dominic Claxton 16 Rhiannon Purrer

    Jamie Haeata 17 Kendelle Murphy

    Lachlan Bristow 18+ Sarah Foster

    Swimming Zone Age Champions in their respective groups were as follows Ben Fishburn 1st 15 years boys, Dominic Claxton 2nd 16 years boys, Harry Easton 3rd 14 years boys Jamie Haeata 4th 17 years boys, Jessica Bracken 3rd 14 years girls, Victoria Alexander 3rd 15 years girls, Kendelle Murphy 4th 17 years girls.

    Cross Country

    The School Cross country was held at the school on a sunny March afternoon. Pryce House was successful in gaining the most points on the day.

    Cross Country School Age Champions

    Boys Age Girls

    Jake Wells 12 Casey Green

    Matt Thomas 13 Mari Deland

    Tyler Cassel 14 Angela Mokhtar

    Brendan Robey 15 Sheridan Kuiper

    Jonathan Perry 16 Rhiannon Purrer

    Ben Smith 17 Chelsea Killey

    Brendan Walsh 18+ Caitlin Cockburn

    The Champion House for 2009 was Pryce and this award was accepted at the Annual Presentation Night by the House Captains Tegan Haller and Farzan Pestonji. The Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year were also presented on that night and they went to Dominic Claxton and Chelsea Killey. Chelsea also took out the prestigious Pierre de Coubertin Award, capping off a wonderful year of achievement in sport for her.

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    Zone Cross Country Age Champions Jonathon Perry 1st 16 years boys, Marie Deland 2nd 13 years girls, Caroleena George 2nd 15 years girls, Matthew Perry 4th 13 years boys.

    Athletics

    Zone Age Champions were Dominic Claxton 1st 16 years boys, Matthew Anderson 4th 16 years boys, Anthony Baddock 2nd 17 years boys, Naomi Sefton 2nd 15 years girls, Chelsea Killey 1st 17 years girls.

    Sydney West Representatives

    Athletics Kristy Pond, James Douglas, Adam McMillan, Jordon Green, Katherine Manassa, Angela Mokhtar, Anthony Baddock, Matthew Anderson, Dominic Claxton, Jonathan Perry, Brendon Robey, Ben Cotton, Mitchell Claxton, James Leishman, Alexander Van Vliet, Mateo Knezvic, Chelsea Killey, Caroleena George, Naomi Sefton, Shayna Killey

    Cricket Sarah Kitto

    Golf Jane Peters, Nathan Peters

    Lawn Bowls

    Ben Morgan, Tristan Foo, Dominic Claxton. Ben was named joint Player of the CHS Carnival

    Rugby League u/15s

    L-B Matthew

    Swimming Ben Fishburn, Emily Murphy, Ashley Fahmy, Jessica Bracken and Jessica Davis, Kristy Pond, Dominic Claxton, Yasmine Aksoy, Victoria Alexander, Ben Cotton, Michael Francia

    Tennis Carly Truran, Nern Logan, Jack Easton, Harry Easton

    Volleyball Brandon Karude, Catilin Cockburn

    Water Polo Ben Fishburn

    CHS reps

    Athletics Anthony Baddock, Brendon Robey, Jonathan Perry,

    Chelsea Killey, Kristy Pond, Dominic Claxton, James Douglas, Matthew Anderson

    Cricket Sarah Kitto

    Swimming Emily Murphy, Ashley Fahmy, Jessica Bracken and Jessica Davis

    Rugby Union Joshua Calcagno

    Lawn Bowls

    Ben Morgan

    Volleyball Caitlin Cockburn

    Triathlon Nicholas Savage, Jonathan Perry, Dominic Claxton

    National Representatives

    Athletics Kristy Pond, Taylor Doyle

    Futsal Angela Mokhtar, Sarah Mokhtar, Sheridan Kuiper, Rebecca Perry, Shayna Killey, Kaitlyn Bridcutt, Alix Bullivant Sameer Mokhtar, Ali Saganci, Mitchell Sutton, Shameem Hussein, Jacob Rose, Kwaime Dwomoh, Zac Caruana

    Volleyball Caitlin Cockburn

    Hills Cup

    In Term 2 2009, Kellyville High School entered three teams in the Hill Cup, an open Rugby League Competition for the Hills District Public and Private schools. The Junior (Yr 7 & 8) team made the semi finals. The Intermediate (Yr 9 & 10) and Senior (Yr 11 & 12) made the Grand Final in their divisions. The seniors were victorious in the Grand Final against Model Farms and subsequently crowned Hills Cup Champions. The teams were coached by Mr Lloyd and Mr Gee.

    Parramatta Knock Out (Seven-a-side)

    We entered six teams; four junior (Yr 7&8) and two intermediate (Yr 9 & 10). The competition was played as a gala day. Our Intermediate team finished on top of their pool and defeated Merrylands High School in the final. They hold the title of 2009 Parramatta All Schools Seven-a-Side Champions. The team; Ahmed Akl, Daniel Marlow, Sam Pickles, Josh Hudson, Tyler Cassel, Kodi Akroyd, Alieu Sesay, Sonny Tauhinu, Blake Nichols, Sean Dollery.

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    16 Boys Touch Sydney West Knockout Champions made the final of 16 of the state. Coached by Anthony Depalo, Ben Cotton was name Best and Fairest with Brendan Robey taking out the Coachs Award.

    Other

    Gifted and Talented

    The school operates a Gifted and Talented program through structured classes in Years 7 and 8 and the streaming of Core classes in Years 9 and 10. This program was supported in 2009 when the team arranged for our students and staff to work with expert Miriam Wride. Miriam ran staff professional learning sessions on our school development days and smaller sessions for the teachers of Year 7 and 8. The focus of these sessions was on providing rich tasks and developing Intellectual quality using a variety of methods including Blooms Taxonomy. Miriam also worked with the GAT team on two enrichment days that involved Kellyville playing host to a number of other high schools, including Girraween Selective, Model Farms and Crestwood Year 7 students. Year 6 students from Kellyville Public and Jasper Road also attended.The feedback from students was excellent and they really enjoyed the opportunity to meet other gifted and talented students.

    Debating

    Mrs Dunesky coordinated debating in 2009 and the teams participated in workshops and gala days, and the Premiers Debating Challenge. The skills learned at the workshops proved invaluable to our success in Year 7 & 8. We won all debates at the Gala Day at Glenwood in Term 2. Four students were then chosen for the next level of competition where we were defeated in the quarter finals by Cambridge Park. James Booth, Kate Taylor, Pouneh Heidarishahi, Issabelle Peacey, Harmanjort Kaur, Akile Numan, Alex

    Roberts, Nadine Shankar, Diya Ahluwahlia, Rachel Jones, Monique Madden and Nathan Doumit were our representatives. We made the third round of the Premiers Debating Challenge where we were narrowly defeated by the team from Cumberland High School.

    The Year 9/10 was a newly formed team consisting of Jessica Bracken, Caroleena George, Emily Baldock, Madeleine Noll and Madeleine Thornton. They developed some great skills along the way winning two debates against Mitchell High and Rooty Hill High Schools.

    Tournament of the Minds

    Ben Bowring, Danielle Colombo, Conor Davis, Jess Davis, Monique Madden-Nichols, Alex McGarrity and Michaela McGarrity participated in TOM in 2009. To prepare for TOM students met during the school holidays and two afternoons and at lunch times creating solutions to the challenges that had to be performed at UWS. Mrs Wakefield and Mrs Simpson coordinated the training and are to be thanked for their continued involvement in this program.

    Welfare

    Welfare at Kellyville High School, once again played a major focus in assisting the Academic platform of the school. Under the leadership of Mr Humphreys and the Year Advisers, the Welfare team meets regularly to support the needs of all of our students. We recognise the strong need to support the academic environment of the school with a balance of activities that promote the social skills and resilience of the individual. The Year 7 Resilience program underpins the transition from primary to high school and provides a unique experience in a class environment to build relationships and skills in dealing with the significant changes in students lives.

    In 2009, we have continued the Roll call welfare program which develops student leadership and builds cohesiveness within the roll group. Antidrug forums in the form of drama performances The Teenage Alchemist were held for all year groups.

    The Year 7 Camp held at Tea Gardens was well attended and students enjoyed the activities provided for them over the three days. The Year 9 camp provided a different focus to past camps, where they camped outdoors in tents on the South Coast. They came back very tired though admitted they had been challenged by the Optimum Experiences Team. The Year 11 Camp which forms the basis for the Crossroads course was held at Morriset.

    The vaccination program continued in 2009 for Year 7 and 10 students. Year 11 and 12 students and some staff donated blood during the Red Cross Blood Bus visit.

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    In 2009, the welfare team introduced Stage Assemblies in Terms 1 and 2. These were designed to promote opportunities for student led and chaired assemblies, promotion of the Merit scheme, guest speakers, presentations and performances. They proved to be a success and will continue in 2010.

    The Merit Scheme continues to be promoted with the introduction of a major prize at the end of each term. Names are drawn from the barrel at school assemblies each Monday for movie tickets and prizes.

    Student Leadership is promoted through the SEC election and induction and there was increased involvement from all year groups in 2009.

    The Welfare program supports community projects and our students participated in raising money for Legacy, the Red Shield Appeal and the Food for the World Charity collection. Perhaps its biggest contribution was joining the Pilot program for the Premiers Volunteering Program which included a visit by 7 year 9 students to Coonamble High School.

    Peer Tutoring

    In 2009, Mrs Simpson, our librarian continued the very successful Peer Tutoring Program Voluntary Literacy Tutoring in Schools. Each year students from year 10, 11 and 12 are chosen to work with year 7 and 8 students during roll call, who have identified literacy needs. The tutors are trained by Blacktown TAFE and subsequently gain a Tutor Certificate as a result of the hours spent working with students throughout the year. Students who volunteered their time in the program in 2009 are as follows: Year 10 Elissa Atkins, Nicole Chamberlin, Matyn Darbani, Stephanie DePaoli, Argee Galang, James Gill, Shameem Husain, Angus Turnbull, Patricia Kelly, Katie Lee, Rohan Muscat, Jonathan Perry, Katelyn Roberts, Melanie Sefton, Souad Saada, Tina Tsoukalos; Year 11 Janae Brady, Brittany

    Coy, Scarlette Finney; Year12 Robert Douglas, Abbey Roach, Jana Suico.

    Duke of Edinburgh

    Twenty-nine students participated in Duke Of Edinburgh in 2009. Their voluntary work consisted of involvement in Clean Up Australia Day in March and their various activities leading towards their Bronze, Silver and Gold levels in the program. Ten students participated in a ten day camp run by Lithgow TAFE. Their participation led towards a Certificate 2 in Outdoor Recreation. Students participated in Canyoning, Kayaking and Rock Climbing. Students were challenged beyond their expectations.

    Soapbox Derby

    The welfare program at Kellyville High School once again hosted the Annual Soap Box Derby. Roll classes worked in teams to build their soap box and then competed against one another in a lap of the oval. Prizes were awarded for creativity, teamwork and entertainment value.

    Japanese Cultural Visits

    In March, the LOTE department some of our familes hosted visiting students from Japan. Over the course of three days our visitors were buddied up with Kellvyille High School students and experienced classes and lessons in our school, participated in an Aussie barbecue, went ice skating. This was a great experience for our students to converse and communicate with students that had limited English. We look forward to hosting more schools in the future.

    Gidday USA

    In January 2009, 10 students accompanied by Mrs Derley joined a tour with other NSW High school students and visited the USA. Students were hosted by families whilst on tour. They visited Los Angeles and its surrounding famous

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    tourist sites, spent ten days in Palm Springs with host families and attended school there which provided a unique cultural experience. They returned to Australia via San Francisco. It was a great opportunity for students, firm friendships were formed and happy memories created.

    Carbon Kids

    Carbon Kids is a national educational program developed by CSIRO Education. Carbon Kids aims to provide a range of resources for primary and secondary school students for environmental science, understanding climate change and to encourage positive actions to help school communities become more sustainable. In 2009, there were 26 schools piloting the program in ACT, NSW and WA. Kellyville High School and James Ruse Agricultural High School were the only secondary schools in NSW to be invited to be part of the program.

    The focus of the program is to involve schools in protecting and conserving our environment. Students develop an understanding of: Changing climate and its impact on society and the environment; greenhouse emissions; how to reduce gas emissions and adopt a sustainable lifestyle; the role of forest biodiversity and biosequestration in addressing climate change. Students involved included Year 7 GAT Science, Year 8 GAT HSIE, the support unit, peer tutoring and literacy group. Resources were adapted to present key concepts and outcomes mapped from the relevant syllabus programs to be incorporated into the curriculum. The Peer Tutor group devised an introductory unit on climate with an emphasis on literacy. The Support Unit will continue the Carbon Kids program integrating this into existing initiatives such as recycling, vegetable garden and composting. Students participated in a CSIRO led workshop that enabled students to experience hands on activities based on understanding the background to climate change, reinforcing scientific methodology.

    Kellyville High School will continue the program in 2010.

    Best Buddies

    In 2009, the Best Buddies program was once again significant in our school. Twenty-eight students from the Support Unit were paired with mainstream mates to make Kellyville one of the highest participating schools in the NSW program. Sarah Kitto, Emily West and Mathew Boyd the Chapter Committee did a great job promoting the program and helping the teachers to organise activities. They attended the Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference developing their confidence and offering opportunities to see how Best Buddies works in other schools. In 2009 Year 12 students, Michael Wormleaton and Joshua Groth were targeted to promote the state wide program appearing on National television twice during the year to assist the organisation to secure funding to keep the program alive. They were invited to the Best Buddies Strategic Planning Day and asked to talk about the program with Senator Ursula Stevens on social inclusion and the effect the program has had on their lives. They then appeared as guest speakers at the Annual State Secondary Schools Principals conference to promote the program. The year culminated with a camp at Jamberoo in November and a visit to Luna Park to top off a great year for the buddies. Thank you to Mrs Childs and Mrs Oliver for overseeing the program.

    Academic

    In the National Assessment Program, the results across the Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 literacy and numeracy assessments are reported on a scale from Band 1 to Band 10.

    The achievement scale represents increasing levels of skills and understandings demonstrated in the assessments.

    Yr 7: from Band 4 (lowest) to Band 9 (highest for Year 7)

    Yr 9: from Band 5 (lowest) to Band 10 (highest for Year 9)

    In the School Certificate the performance of students is reported in performance bands ranging from Performance Band 1 (lowest) to Performance Band 6 (highest).

    Dux Awards 2009

    Year Group Student Dux

    7 Akile Numan

    8 Harry Easton

    9 Erin Kummerow

    10 Elissa Atkins

    11 Vilaasini Jeyasothy

    12 Megan Allison

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    Matyn Darbani and Angus Turnbull received High Commendation Awards at the Year 10 Presentation for achieving Band 6 in all of their subjects. An excellent achievement for both students.

    Literacy NAPLAN Year 7

    The general literacy performance of students across the four areas of Reading, Writing, Spelling and Punctuation and Grammar was good. Greater than 90% of all year 7 students achieved above the minimum national standard. There was also a marked improvement in reading from 2008 to 2009.

    An area that needs attention is writing. Although 91.9% achieved above the minimum standard, it was the weakest area for the 2009 year 7 students.

    Overall, the year 7 performance continues to be above state average in all areas of literacy.

    Numeracy NAPLAN Year 7

    In 2009, 96.9% of year 7 students achieved above the set national standard for numeracy. There was, however, a decline in the number of students in the top band compared to previous year 7 groups. The school was above the state averages.

    Overall, the year 7 results indicate the increasing diversity of skill level entering the school. Certainly the data indicates a closer examination of the year 7 students abilities to determine the programing needs from year 7 to year 9.

    Literacy NAPLAN Year 9

    The general literacy results for year 9 maintained at above state average. However, Reading and Punctuation and Grammar are areas for concern. This is disappointing although there is no trend data available to look at comparisons over time. The focus for staff is to identify the reasons for the result and develop programs to improve student performance.

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    Numeracy NAPLAN Year 9

    In 2009, 98.5% of all year 9 achieved above the set national minimum standard. The key issue for the school is to increase the number of students in the top bands (9 and 10) compared to the state.

    School Certificate In 2009, 196 students presented for the school certificate across the five subjects that were externally tested. The tests are standards referenced and the state percentage for each band can vary significantly.

    In addition to the external exam results, there is school based assessment of all courses, both mandatory and elective courses. This is based on the achievement of outcomes and is measured against a series of descriptors. Results are reported A to E with A being the highest. These results are not shown in the Annual School Report. The results in this report are only for those subjects which had external state examinations.

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    Very solid results by students in all courses have been a positive in reporting the schools performance. The average mark in each course was above state average for each course. Improvements were made in English and Australian History compared to previous years and in comparison to the Local School Group (LSG).

    School Certificate relative performance comparison to Year 5 (value-adding)

    Value added refers to the improvement the school has made in student performance in comparison to their Year 5 results. All KLAs except English have improved the relative growth of students from Year 5 and have improved on the school average value added for 2005-2009. This is a very good achievement and reflective of the work of the staff.

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    Higher School Certificate In 2009, 145 students presented for HSC across 32 subjects offered at school and five at TAFE. Each subject result in the HSC is a combination of school and external assessment. Results are recorded in bands with 1 being the lowest and 6, the highest. The 2009 results were very good with an increase in both Bands 6 and 5 results. The majority of subjects recorded results at or better than state average marks, particularly in the extension subjects; English 1 and 2 and Mathematics 1. This reflects a deliberate strategy of ensuring that only those students capable of doing these subjects actually set for them. In the past this has not been the case. Twenty-nine students were on the state distinction list in 2009 and the top ATAR (formerly UAI) was 98.45 achieved by Megan Allison. Seventy-four students were offered places at university representing 51% of the cohort.

    Higher School Certificate relative performance comparison to School Certificate (value-adding)

    For this comparison the low performance group includes students in Bands 1, 2,3 in the School Certificate. By definition state averages value added is zero. Students in the low range in the School Certificate had significant value added improvement compared to previous years. This was the same for the middle group students in Band 4 in the School Certificate.

    Minimum standards

    The Commonwealth Government sets minimum standards for reading, writing, grammar and punctuation, spelling and numeracy for years 3, 5, 7 and 9.

    The performance of the students in our school in the National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy is compared to these minimum standards. The percentages of our students achieving at or above these standards are reported below.

    Percentage of Year 7 students in our school achieving at or above the minimum standard in 2009

    Percentage of Year 7 students achieving at and above minimum standard

    Reading 96.9 Writing

    91.9

    Spelling

    96.5 Punctuation and grammar 96.5 Numeracy 96.9

    Percentage of Year 9 students in our school achieving at or above the minimum standard in 2009

    Percentage of Year 9 students achieving at and above minimum standard

    Reading 92.6 Writing

    93.6

    Spelling

    96.1 Punctuation and grammar 89.7 Numeracy 98.5

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    Significant programs and initiatives

    Aboriginal education

    Every KLA has addressed the Aboriginal Education Policy through its programs. Aboriginal Education is embedded in the Stage 4 and 5 curriculum and in Stage 6 where it is a syllabus requirement in the subject. Aboriginal Education is addressed in a number of assessment tasks across the curriculum. In addition the school acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land at all formal assemblies and in the acknowledgement of Reconciliation week. The Executive Conference in March 2009 held a session on Aboriginal Education called Building It In Not Bolting It On. This was led by the Deputy Principal and English Head Teacher. Head Teachers examined the work being done in their KLAs and explored further strategies for implementation at faculty level.

    Respect and responsibility

    Respect and responsibility is reflected in our Values Program and is embedded within our welfare structures and discipline policy.

    Progress on 2009 targets

    These targets are set to operate over two years and the process of working towards them is ongoing.

    Target 1

    Creation of a positive learning culture within the school and the local community

    There was great and ongoing success with programs that supported targeted students. The schools Learning Centre opened with the Support Teacher Learning Assistance coordinating programs designed to help students who were having difficulties. The school employed tutors for small groups maximising access and help for these students. In 2009, 191 students were targeted.

    Formal merit assemblies emphasised not only academic achievement but recognition of school values. In the 2009 annual Presentation Evening, values awards were presented to students. Incorporating regular values education in each class is an area of continued focus in 2010.

    Our achievements include:

    Establishment of the schools Learning Centre that targeted students with special learning needs and increased opportunities for students to self refer.

    Establishment of a homework centre for year 7 students. Thirty-one students took advantage of this service throughout 2009

    Increased numbers of parents attending subject selection and information evenings provided by the school

    Increased use of community business and facilities to support work education for Support Unit students

    Increased student involvement in assemblies to promote values program

    Target 2

    Improved numeracy outcomes

    In 2009 a revitalised whole school numeracy team was established with a prime focus of improving numeracy outcomes. This is a broad area and the team looked at measurement provided in external testing Naplan, School and Higher School Certificate results and working mathematically by showing the links in numeracy between different subject areas. One strategy in this was the evaluation and classification of numeracy aspects in the different subject syllabus and teaching/learning programs. With support from the Regional consultant, visual numeracy was identified as a specific area for action as was the decrease of students in the top bands in external testing.

    Our achievements include:

    A significant improvement in the value added for students in the Year 10 School Certificate

    All staff were engaged in professional learning about visual numeracy. The impact and effectiveness of this strategy has not been measured but will be a focus over 2010

    Involvement in the Macquarie University numeracy development project which will continue to provide professional learning for staff to assist in numeracy development in 2010

    Evaluation of the junior mathematics program which now include differentiated outcomes from stage 3 to stage 5

    Introduction of before and after school maths tutorial workshops.

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    Target 3

    Improved literacy outcomes

    The school literacy team underwent a number of staff changes throughout 2009 and thus the timeline and action plan need revisiting for 2010.

    Our achievements include:

    Standardisation of student work developed at the 2009 Executive Conference for implementation in 2010

    Literacy outcomes embedded in junior programs across KLAs

    Reporting outcomes include at least one literacy based outcome across KLAs

    Learning Centre targeted students with special literacy needs and assisted with Special Provisions in the SC and HSC trials and exams

    Early Start Tutor program was completed for 14 students that fell under the national benchmark levels in 2008.

    Target 4

    Technology is accessible to KHS community and used as a tool for effective achievement of educational and administrative objectives

    While the school has continued to develop its own programs, much of the effort in 2009 was concentrated on the implementation of two DET initiatives the setting up of the Connected Classroom and the rollout of the DER laptops to all year 9 students. Both initiatives have involved substantial professional learning by staff, particularly as both introduced a significant amount of new software.

    The continuing school programs have included the installation of interactive whiteboards in two classrooms in the Independent Education Faculty.

    Our achievements include:

    All Year 9 teachers provided with professional learning in use of DER laptops

    Increased use of Connected Classroom as a learning resource for both students and staff

    ICT embedded in teaching and learning programs across the KLAs

    Target 5

    Create and promote a positive image to the wider school community through a variety of mediums

    Our achievements include:

    Scholarship programs from other schools investigated by the parent and community team

    School website was upgraded and is used as a tool by parents for calendar and assessment information

    Community and staff involvement in P&C Trivia Night

    P&C the vehicle for promotion of second hand text books, uniforms and stationery packs for the 2010 school year

    School Production Alice Project

    Increased numbers at Information/Open Night

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    Key evaluations

    It is a requirement for all NSW public schools to conduct at least two annual evaluations one related to educational and management practice and the other related to curriculum. In 2009 our school carried out evaluations of the school discipline policy, student quality of life and subject to our curriculum evaluation cycle the CAPA and English faculties

    In addition the school, through its links with the University of Western Sydney (UWS) joined in a longitudinal investigation and research to measure how different school settings (selective and comprehensive) impact upon academic achievement. This investigation is not complete and only an interim report will be presented

    Educational and management practice

    The School Discipline Policy Evaluation

    Background The background to this evaluation was the Values project. The aim was to build a values base within the school. The values would be the criteria for judging the appropriateness of behaviour. This had obvious implications for the operation of the merit scheme and the implementation of the discipline system in response to inappropriate behaviour. A committee was established to gather data and opinions about the discipline system. Findings

    Findings and conclusions Overall the discipline system worked well, however there were concerns about the: Quality of the communication of decisions from

    parents Consistency in application of and

    understanding of the system Providing of opportunities for students to

    improve behaviour before actions and or sanctions are imposed.

    The following changes were made: Values in behaviour replaced the code of

    behaviour (2004) as a basis of the system Modification of the steps in the discipline

    process:

    Step 1 Warning and discussion Step 2 - Time Out Desk and Contract signed

    by parents Step 3 Detentions communication of

    detentions to parents via slips in diary and or workbook

    Future directions The changes will be monitored during 2010 to gauge their effectiveness. Realising of Student Potential UWS Survey This is the title of the University of Western Sydney research project in which Kellyville High School in collaboration with other Western Sydney High Schools aims to measure how different school settings impact upon the academic achievement of students. This forms part of the schools focus on developing a positive learning culture within the schools. The school is committed to providing the most optimal education to students and any data or research is useful in developing informed opinion and positive future direction. The main focus is to identify the factors and influences that differentiate the impact of comprehensive and selective schools on student learning.

    Interim findings and conclusions The UWS report outlines the preliminary findings only from the first point of data collection. Future reports will provide more complex information. The basis of data collection was a series of tests and surveys from Yr 7-10 on Maths, spelling and sentence construction. Eight schools were part of the testing consisting of selective, comprehensive and some designated from lower socio-economic areas. Kellyvilles results in these areas were on average, on par with similar schools. Student surveys covered the following areas:

    Maths/Spelling/Sentence Construction Student wellbeing and self concept as

    positive self concept is linked to improved academic achievement

    Relationships with parents Mental health Pressure to achieve

    The survey criteria so far, indicate that the school performs well in terms of student achievement.

    Curriculum

    Creative and Performing Arts Faculty

    Background

    The school has begun a cyclical evaluation program. The CAPA faculty was chosen as it has a relatively new Head Teacher and it was felt that recommendations would help the faculty stabilise after a period of staff changeover. This evaluation took place in March 2009. Members of the evaluation team were Teresa Rodd (English HT), Anthony Depalo (CRT), Jo White (Retired HT

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    CAPA, Crestwood HS) and Melanie Groth (Team Leader and DP).

    Findings and conclusions The evaluation established that staff have a high level of commitment to their key learning area and their students. Students have acknowledged and value the expertise and knowledge of the staff. In order to further improve staff need to share their expertise and skills to promote best practice within the faculty and across the school. The production of a disc containing the HSC requirements is an indication of use of technology to assist students in their learning whilst also saving paper for the school. Teachers need to share their strengths and as a team develop confidence in each other to perform. Staff are advised to foster a team ideal and not always work alone. Making contributions and being given and accepting responsibility will promote a feeling of being valued. This process will increase faculty morale and promote achievement of Teaching and Learning Outcomes thereby encouraging students to elect CAPA subjects.

    Future directions

    An alignment of the whole school direction should be evident in faculty programming and promote emphasis on the school targets, incorporating technology, literacy, numeracy and student engagement. Student performance and displays are to be encouraged to further support the school image and promotion of the school in the wider community. Greater opportunities will be sought for staff to broaden their experience and develop their capacity for leadership in regional, whole school and faculty activities.

    Other evaluations

    English

    Background

    The English Evaluation took place in August 2009 and the team was led by Tim Lloyd (DP). Members of the team included Michelle Leman (HT Mathematics), Josh McGahen (DP Girraween HS), Sasha McHardy (CRT).

    Findings and conclusions The evaluation has established that English staff has a high level of commitment to their key learning area and students. Students have acknowledged and value the expertise and knowledge of the staff. In order to further improve, staff need to share their expertise and skills to

    promote best practice within the faculty and across the school. Faculty roles and responsibilities need to be defined via a collaborative process. Staff must respond to these roles by following guidelines and policy. This will also provide staff with professional learning opportunities, ensuring that all staffs strengths and expertise are being utilised. Staff are advised to foster a team ideal and not always work alone. Making contributions and being given and accepting responsibility will promote a feeling of being valued. This process will increase faculty morale and promote achievement of Teaching and Learning outcomes.

    Future directions An emphasis on thorough and detailed analysis of student outcomes, SMART data and RAPS packages will assist the English faculty to provide programs that are relevant to students needs for future success in external examinations.

    The development of explicit programs, scope and sequence and assessment schedules will assist the English Faculty in improving the alignment of curriculum, assessment and reporting. The follow on from this will promote cohesiveness within the KLA and formalising and reinforcing positive procedures already in place

    Parent, student, and teacher satisfaction

    In 2009 the school sought the opinions of parents, students and teachers about the school.

    Their responses are presented below. Quality of School Life Intellectual quality and significance survey This survey was developed by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER). It is used in NSW schools in recognition of the importance of the effective and social dimensions of learning. It forms part of the school focus on improving the culture of learning. The data collected is analysed and shared by staff to improve the learning environment for students.

    There are 57 items in the survey designed to assess student perceptions of the learning opportunities available in their classes. They cover a wide range of elements. The survey was not subject specific therefore students found it hard to make a judgement based on a general opinion. A random sample of students from Years 7-11 participated in the survey.

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    Forty students from each year groups 7-11 were surveyed to assess their attitudes to the school and learning. The results varied between the year groups in terms of their perceptions of the Intellectual Quality and Significance as related to them. The positive areas for Years 7, 8 and 9 included deep knowledge, higher order thinking and deep understanding. Areas where they perceived that improvement was needed was in narrative i.e. developing written explanation and expression of their ideas; and in knowledge integration i.e. how the different subjects relate to each other and how to apply ideas and processes between subjects. By Year 10, the concerns over narrative had declined. However, there were still issues with knowledge integration. It is interesting to note that issues with narrative arose again in Year 11. When questioned about this it became clear that the expectation of work output and degree of difficulty of senior work (compared to year 10) were great.

    A survey of parents regarding How the School Communicates with Parents was run on both Parent/Teacher nights in March and May. Over 70 parents responded to the survey. We were seeking feedback for the Newsletter on the website, if email was an option and whether SMS was a viable way of contact.

    45% of parents indicated they had accessed the newsletter through the school website.

    33% indicated they lacked time to do access the newsletter. 7% indicated they didnt know it could be accessed this way.

    80% of parents indicated they would prefer to receive the newsletter by email and 94% felt that the SMS system was helpful.

    Professional learning

    The school held four school development days throughout the year, where mandatory Child Protection and Student Health updates were addressed. A significant proportion of the time was allocated to professional learning in Technology to support the introduction of Laptops into Year 9, 2009 and further rollouts. The school Executive attended two Executive conferences dedicated to student engagement and technology and supporting the Management Plan. The Welfare Team attended a well planned Welfare conference led by Mr Humphreys (HT Welfare).

    The TPL team ran Monday afternoon sessions twice a term to support Technology in student learning focussing on Connected Classroom, Moodle, Wikis, Blogs and Data Bases. Other sessions included the BOS Liaison Officer who addressed assessment and information about the HSC.

    School development 2009 2011

    The School Plan will retain a focus on the targets set in 2009. Each target will be reviewed based on evaluations from the previous year to enhance the achievement of the outcomes.

    Targets for 2010

    Target 1

    Creation of a positive learning culture within the school and the local community

    Strategies to achieve this target include:

    Evaluation of extended roll call and resilience programs

    Evaluation of school anti-bullying policy and procedures

    Programs that support targeted students and engagement of outside agencies and alternative education settings for students at risk.

    Our success will be measured by:

    All staff consistently taking responsibility for establishing a positive learning environment

    Increased recognition of student achievement

    Increased early intervention for students at risk and those with special learning needs.

    Target 2

    Improved numeracy outcomes

    Strategies to achieve this target include:

    Introduction of Peer Numeracy Project

    Targeted numeracy tutorials in the Learning Centre

    Macquarie University numeracy development project

    Continued analysis of data and professional learning for staff in this area.

    Our success will be measured by:

    An increase in middle band scores to above CSG by 2011

    An increase in middle to higher bands of student performance in NAPLAN (Yr 9) School Certificate by 8% by 2011.

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    Target 3

    Improved literacy outcomes

    Strategies to achieve this target include:

    Implementation of a standardised formatting for presentation of work

    One assessment task per term to be handwritten with evidence of editing

    Improve the quality of feedback to students

    All staff to engage in data analysis and have a clear understanding of their students current literacy level

    Explicit and systematic teaching of literacy in all KLAs.

    Our success will be measured by:

    8% increase in middle and higher order bands in external testing in Year 9 and 10

    Increase value added in English 2010 School Certificate Examination.

    Target 4

    Technology is accessible to KHS community and used as a tool for effective achievement of educational and administrative objectives

    Strategies to achieve this target include:

    Increased staff professional learning in the use of DER laptops

    Student-focused tutorials on operation and use of laptops

    Redesign of school network to provide improved speed, storage and retrieval capabilities

    Resourcing each block with interactive whiteboards

    Improve quality of student reporting

    Implementation of WYNN and KAHOOTZ software to enhance student learning

    Continued implementation of GURU program with staff.

    Our success will be measured by:

    All teachers confident in the effective use of DER laptops as a teaching and learning tool

    Students are confident and able to use laptops to effectively retrieve information for study and improving their learning outcomes

    Whiteboards will be installed in each block in the school

    Staff effectively integrate software programs to enhance lessons and programs

    Teachers attend professional learning provided by the GURU program.

    Target 5

    Create and promote a positive image to the wider school community through a variety of mediums

    Strategies to achieve this target include:

    Create and expand current media links

    Promote school dress code

    Continued use of website as a communication tool

    Maintain and expand primary links program

    Implement parent programs at School Development Days

    Enhance role of P&C

    Ensure quality service management practices in communicating with parents and the public.

    Our success will be measured by:

    Continued high levels of student enrolment

    Reduced number of complaints relating to student behaviour and communication issues

    Continued number of positive news stories in local media.

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    About this report

    In preparing this report, the self-evaluation committee has gathered information from evaluations conducted during the year and analysed other information about the school's practices and student learning outcomes. The self-evaluation committee and school planning committee have determined targets for the school's future development.

    Gerry Gee, Principal

    Melanie Groth, Deputy Principal

    Tim Lloyd Deputy, Principal

    Wayne Humphreys, HT Welfare

    David Lumley, HT PDHPE

    Greg Martin, HT HSIE

    Marlene Wakefield, CRT

    Michael Adeyinfa, Student

    Jared Evans, Student

    Janae Brady, Student

    Rachel Colombo, Student

    Mercedes Manning, Student

    Kendelle Murphy, Student

    School contact information

    Kellyville High School

    PO Box 444, Kellyville, NSW 2155

    Ph: 8824 5955

    Fax: 8824 9755

    Email: [email protected]

    Web: www.kellyville-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

    School Code: 8477

    Parents can find out more information about Annual School Reports, how to interpret information in the reports and have the opportunity to provide feedback about these reports at:

    http://www.schools.nsw.edu.au/asr

    http://www.kellyville-h.schools.nsw.edu.au/http://www.schools.nsw.edu.au/asr

    OLE_LINK4OLE_LINK5