Cabramatta High School

School Population

Total number of students: 997

Average class size: 25 (less for ESL classes) Students from non-English speaking background: 97%

General School Introduction

Cabramatta High School is a

comprehensive, coeducational High

School set within a multicultural community. It attracts many students from outside the local area because of its safe environment, harmonious, multicultural community and excellent academic results. The school is known for its innovative programs and student support networks. This has been acknowledged in a Director-General of Education School Achievement Award for programs which support student learning. The school has experienced, dedicated staff who are sensitive to the individual needs of students. A number of teachers are on School Certificate and HSC examination committees. Often staff members are called on to in-service others on best practice. The purpose of the school is to provide each student with quality education, develop the talents and interests of all students, and help them to participate as responsible members of society.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs

· Cabramatta High School has an intensive English centre on site.

· Within the high school, ESL support is given through parallel classes and team teaching across all years.

· Targeted classes also provide support for ESL students across subjects.

· Group tutorials are provided free of charge for international students, and an after-school homework centre is also available at no additional cost.

Languages Taught

· Mandarin (Chinese), Vietnamese, Khmer (Cambodian), Serbian, French, and Beginner Japanese

· These languages are all taught within school hours up to Year 12

Special Programs

· Extensive leadership and participation

programs

· Gifted and talented students

· Choir and band

· Debating and public speaking

· Interschool sporting competitions

· TAFE accredited peer tutoring program

· Cooperation Day

Student Support Services and Programs

· Welfare management at each level by

year advisors and head teachers

· Learning support team

· Literacy support team

· School counsellor

· Careers advisor

· Student Representative Council

· Mentoring program

· Peer support

· Peer mediation

· Curriculum advisor

· International student coordinator

· A strong discipline policy

Special Facilities

· Hall and lecture theatre

· Six computer laboratories with Internet access, a well-equipped library with Internet access, tennis courts, fitness laboratory, peace garden, and a school bus

HSC Results and Year 12 UniversitylrAFE Placements

· Students have achieved outstanding results in the Higher School Certificate.

· In 2003, 23 students were offered places in university courses. These included economics-law, medical science, traditional Chinese medicine,

engineering, and communications. One student gained the highest band (i.e. band six) in the English/ESL course.

· Generally, 10% of students achieve a UAI of over 90.

Features of Local Area

· Cabramatta is located in south­western Sydney.

· The school is within walking distance of both major rail and bus networks.

· A diverse multicultural shopping area is near the school.

Other Information

· In 2004, Cabramatta High School students gained outstanding results at the National Chinese Eisteddfod. One student gained first place in

the 13 to 15 year old division; and another student second place in the 16 to 19 year old division. In the team event, the school was placed second nationally.

· In 2003, the school was runner-up in the Multicultural Marketing Awards.

· The school's strong values are recognised as significant at a national level.

· The peace garden has received national acclaim through Australian media.

Student Testimonial

Cabramatta High School has good teachers who are very helpful. I have made close friends while being here. Everyone is friendly and gets on well together.

Pornphan Phalakornkitti, Year 11, 2004, Thailand