Billabong High School
Annual School Report
2012
8503
Our school at a glance
 Lap Top Program
Students
 Linkages and Transition through the Morgan
Country Profession Learning Community
Enrolments for 2012 were 349 students. This
included 241 junior students and 108 senior
students.
 Involvement in Anzac Day, Harmony Day and
Remembrance Day.
Eighty eight percent of students attended school
on average each day. This is similar to the
attendance figures for the previous year.
 Multicultural Education
Staff
 Red Cross Mobile Blood Van
The school had 32.8 teaching positions allocated
in 2012. This included seven executive staff, 3.5
specialist teachers and 22.3 classroom teachers.
In addition we had 0.4 Counsellor time allocated.
 Respect and Responsibilities
All teaching staff met the professional
requirement for teaching in NSW Public Schools.
 Vocational Education
 Livestock Program
 Programs and support for students with
Additional Education Needs
 School to Work
 Student Welfare
 Volunteering.
The teaching staff are supported by ten
administration and support staff, including School
Learning and Support Officers.
Student achievement in 2012
The highlight of 2012 was the success of our HSC
students. Their achievements included:
Significant programs and initiatives
 Eleven Band 6 results
The school ran a number of programs to give
students extra educational support and
opportunities throughout 2012. These included:
 Nine different subjects had a student gain a
Band 6
 Aboriginal Education
 Seven different students received a Band 6
 Debating and Public Speaking
 Thirteen subjects or 50% of subjects offered
were at or above state average
 Duke of Edinburgh Program
 40% of marks gained were at a Band 5 or 6
level.
 Excursions (subject based and whole year
groups)
1
External test results in NAPLAN and ESSA were
sound compared to the state average. Students
were eligible to receive the R.O.S.A for the first
time on leaving school at the end of Year 10.
 Carrington Melbourne received a NSW
Premiers Volunteering Program Educational
Scholarship. She was also accepted into the
Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program at
the University of Melbourne.
Messages
 Alyssa Savill represented NSW CHS Tennis
and was also a member of the NSW All
Schools Team that won the National
Championship.
Principal’s message
The school is proud of the achievements of our
students during 2012. Students have excelled in
academic, cultural and sporting endeavours.
Again, we have competed against the larger
schools with a great deal of success.
 Matthew Klemke was selected in the NSW All
Schools Under 15 AFL Team.
 The Morgan Country Professional Community
of Schools continued to develop meaningful
relationships between Billabong High School
and partner primary schools.
As a school we take great pride in knowing that
our students are very well prepared for the next
stage of their journey after they leave school. We
offer a diverse and challenging curriculum which
endeavours to meet the needs of all students,
along with a supportive welfare system that
recognizes achievement and encourages all
students to do their very best.
 Two long serving members of staff, Mr
Graham Dade and Mr Stephen Trickett,
retired after many wonderful years of service
to Public Education and in particular to
Billabong High School.
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.
2012 was another successful year for the school.
There are many highlights identified in this report
and I would just like to mention a few.
 The HSC results were outstanding.
 The Show Team enjoyed outstanding success
at the Royal Melbourne Show.
Phil Carroll
2
P & C and/or School Council message
supported the P & C in our ongoing endeavours
to support Billabong High School.
The Billabong High School P & C Meetings were
held twice a term during the 2012 school year.
Meetings were held in weeks three and nine of
each term. Attendance was consistent with an
average of ten people attending the meetings.
The committed members worked tirelessly to
maintain an active P & C.
Mr Mark Leov, President
Billabong High School P & C Association.
Student representative’s message
2012 has been an active year for Billabong High
School’s SRC, with 35 enthusiastic students
working as a group and with the student body
and staff at Billabong High School to undertake
activities which were to create benefits within
and out of the school community. Led by
President Georgia Pitson, Secretary Laura Kane
and Treasurer Stuart Nelson the SRC continued in
its traditional style with three successful discos,
footy colours day and the continued sponsorship
of a child from Uganda.
A major focus of the year was the school canteen.
Mrs Landman became the supervisor and worked
in conjunction with the P & C Canteen Committee
to review policies and procedures. The
committee has met on a very regular basis to
formulate new guidelines.
The P & C was also involved in supporting the
catering at the Henty Field Days. Parents and
community members from all our communities
helped in this important event.
The P & C again provided financial support for our
School Captains to attend the Secondary School
Student Leadership Program for School Captains
in Sydney. to the Year 11 VET Construction class
to help with costs associated with cementing
under the seat benches in the Year 7 area.
Major events which aimed to benefit the student
body began with Enviro Inspiro Day, an initiative
which aimed to increase environmental
awareness within the school, through
encouraging all students to wear green for the
day. The students then undertook a recycling
challenge which required them to make a
I would like to thank all the members who
attended during the year and to everyone who
3
Cinderella costume for the Ball using only
newspaper.
Georgia Pitson (year 11) undertook the role of
purple group leader at the camp.
This was followed by the highly successful String
Movement, an anti-bullying campaign which was
undertaken as a response to the growing trend of
bullying in high schools. The campaign involved
students and staff tying a piece of string around
their wrists to show that they do not condone
bullying.
The SRC for 2012 was also actively involved in the
District SRC through representatives Georgia
Pitson and Laura Kane. Georgia Pitson was
elected to the State SRC. This involved many trips
to Sydney to assist in the planning and running of
the State SRC Conference. The experience not
only allowed Georgia to grow as a leader, but also
facilitated many new ideas to be bought back to
the Billabong High School SRC.
In 2012 the SRC also supported Red Nose Day,
Operation Christmas Child (contributing 17 shoe
boxes for those less fortunate), White Balloon
Day and supported Pink Ribbon Day in style by
combining it with Melbourne Cup Day to create
very pink fashions on the field.
On behalf of the Billabong High School SRC for
2012 I would like to thank all students and staff
for their involvement in what has been a very
successful year and hope that next year is just as
fantastic.
The BHS SRC in 2012 was also fortunate to be
offered many opportunities to extend their
leadership abilities with 10 students attending
the GRIP Leadership Conference and two
students attending District SRC Camp, where
Julie Colley, SRC Co-ordinator
4
School context
Student attendance profile
Student information
School
It is a requirement that the reporting of
information for all students must be consistent
with privacy and personal information policies.
Gender
Male
Female
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
213
205
197
181
160
184
181
184
186
170
Region
Student enrolment profile
Enrolments
State DEC
Students
500
0
2008
2009 2010 2011
Year
Male
Female
2012
5
Year
7
8
9
10
11
12
Total
7
8
9
10
11
12
Total
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
92.3
93.6
91.7
91.9
90.0
89.3
88.7
88.6
91.1
89.2
90.6
86.9
89.0
89.9
89.4
90.1
90.8
90.4
90.6
84.4
87.3
87.6
92.3
88.7
86.9
83.1
90.2
90.1
88.5
89.9
91.2
88.9
88.3
88.3
88.7
88.6
88.9
91.5
89.0
87.7
87.9
88.2
89.8
89.0
91.2
88.8
86.8
85.1
85.4
88.7
87.6
90.8
88.4
86.8
84.7
85.0
88.0
87.3
7
92.3
92.6
92.5
92.4
8
9
10
11
12
Total
90.0
88.8
88.7
89.4
89.4
89.7
90.5
89.1
88.3
89.1
89.8
89.9
90.1
88.8
87.1
87.6
89.2
89.2
90.1
88.7
87.0
87.6
89.3
89.1
89.9
 Unexplained absence reminders sent home
to parents on a regular basis.
Student attendance rates
 Phone calls home.
Attendance rate
100
 Parental/Carer interviews.
75
Post-school destinations
50
The Destination Survey for Year 12 concludes:
25
 University/TAFE Entry 57%
0
2008
2009
School
 Traineeships/Apprenticeships 10%
2010 2011 2012
Year
Region
State DEC
 Employment 17%
 Seeking Employment/Destination Unknown
17%.
Management of non-attendance
Billabong has a range of strategies in place to
handle non-attendance by students. These
include:
Year 12 students undertaking vocational or
trade training
Forty percent of Year 12 students undertook
vocational or trade training courses during the
year. Areas of training included: Animal Studies,
Automotive, Beauty, Construction, Electrotechnology, Hairdressing, Hospitality, Human
Services, Primary Industries.
 Follow up of absences by roll call teachers.
 Intervention by the Year Advisers and Senior
Executive.
 Weekly visits and intervention by the HSLO.
 Formal attendance plans put in place.
Year 12 students attaining HSC or equivalent
vocational educational qualification
 Regular messages about attendance in
information going home to parents, for
instance, the school newsletter.
One hundred percent of the students
undertaking Vocational or Trade Training Courses
attained a HSC or equivalent Vocational
Educational qualification.
 Reminders given on assemblies.
6
Staff information
Staff retention
It is a requirement that the reporting of
information for all staff must be consistent with
privacy and personal information policies.
One hundred percent of staff were retained from
2011. Staff reductions were achieved through
staff retirements.
Staff establishment
Position
Principal
Deputy Principal
Head Teachers
Careers Teacher
Classroom Teachers
Counsellor
Outreach Teacher Special Education
Support Teacher Learning
Teacher Librarian
School Administrative & Support Staff
School Learning Support Officers
Total
Number
1
1
5
1
22.3
1
1
0.5
1
6.482
2.8
Teacher qualifications
All teaching staff meet the professional
requirements for teaching in NSW public schools.
Qualifications
Degree or Diploma
Postgraduate
43.082
There is one member of staff with an Indigenous
background. Mr Tony Nelson is the Head Teacher
of TAS, PDHPE and Computing Studies.
7
% of staff
100%
20%
A full copy of the school’s 2012 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.
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
Income
Balance brought forward
Global funds
Tied funds
School & community sources
Interest
Trust receipts
Canteen
Total income
Expenditure
Teaching & learning
Key learning areas
Excursions
Extracurricular dissections
Library
Training & development
Tied funds
Casual relief teachers
Administration & office
School-operated canteen
Utilities
Maintenance
Trust accounts
Capital programs
Total expenditure
Balance carried forward
School performance 2012
30/11/2012
Achievements
$
239367.53
282051.69
322139.75
162623.51
13425.44
40678.40
0.00
1060286.32
Arts
 As part of their preparation for the Year 12
HSC Drama Performance Examination, the
2012 class travelled to Sydney to view a
selection of ‘Best Year 12 HSC Individual and
Group Performances’ at OnStage at the
Seymour Centre, Sydney. On the same trip,
they were able to watch an outstanding
example of Verbatim Theatre at Belvoir with
the awe inspiring ‘I’m Your Man’.
74939.38
76107.04
20343.87
11393.10
5617.04
262588.79
73278.27
89601.23
0.00
83757.94
35789.58
24951.51
36944.89
795312.64
264973.68
 Over the course of the year, Drama students
were fortunate to see performances of
‘Moth’ and ‘I Love You Bro’ at The Hothouse
Theatre as well as attend a play building
workshop facilitated by Version 1.0 Theatre
Company.
 In addition, enthusiastic senior Drama
students took part in our enrichment days
with Holbrook and Henty Public Schools,
introducing the incoming Year 7 cohort for
2013 to Drama during our Transition Days.
8
 The activities, excursions and workshops
ensure the prominent position of Creative
Arts for all students at Billabong High School.
 The following students
Representatives in 2012:
were
Riverina
 Jordan Andrews – Athletics, Swimming.
 Emily Jones and Mikaela Webster were part
of the Riverina Central Choir. They performed
widely, including at the Schools Spectacular.
 Jeremy Finlayson – Lawn Bowls.
 Rachel Hensel – Lawn Bowls.
 The school debating teams were very
successful.
 William Heriot – Cricket.
 Students were involved in Public Speaking
Competitions.
 Harrison Macreadie – Swimming.
 Students participated in the Lions Youth of
the Year Competition.
 Elise Merkel – Netball, Swimming.
 Matthew Klemke – Australian Rules Football.
 Bree-Amber McIntyre – Swimming.
 Students were involved in a Dance Program
at the school.
 Samuel Murray – Australian Rules Football.
 Music students performed at
assemblies and Creative Arts Nights.
 Alyssa Savill – Athletics, Cross Country,
Individual Tennis, Team Tennis.
 Emma Parker – Swimming.
major
 Nakita Singe – Athletics, Swimming.
 Hayden Webb – Golf.
Creative Arts Week 2012
 Andrew Yates – Cross Country.
Once again the sold out audiences and
community response to this year’s show titled
‘Billabong High’s Got Talent’ was a resounding
YES! Two nights that showcased the classroom
work of Drama, Music and Dance, as well as
Higher School Certificate Performances from our
Year 12 students.
 Andrew Yates won the Stephen Webb
Memorial Award for Sportsmanship and
Sporting Excellence in Years 7 – 8.
 Matthew Klemke won the David Bourke
Memorial Award for Sportsmanship and
Sporting Excellence in Years 9 – 10.
 Hayden Webb won the Sportsman of the
Year. Alyssa Savill won the Sportswoman of
the Year.
With over 150 enthusiastic students involved in
all aspects of performance, lighting, sound, set,
stage, front and back of house, promotion and
publicity, Billabong High School successfully met
the challenge with a resounding ‘Who’s got
talent? We Do!’
 Alyssa Savill received the 2012 Pierre de
Coubertin Award.
 Zone Age Champions were:
Brieanna Galvin – 15 years Athletics
Harrison Macreadie – 14 years Swimming
Sport
Alyssa Savill – 17 + years Athletics and
Cross Country.
 Alyssa Savill represented NSW CHS in Tennis.
She also represented NSW All Schools and
won a gold medal with this team at the
Australian All Schools Pizzey Cup Team
Championships. Alyssa has also represented
Riverina in all six years of high school.
 Toni Butler was Triple Age Champion at
school in Athletics, Cross Country and
Swimming.
 Matthew Klemke represented NSW All
Schools Under 15’s in Australian Rules
Football.
9
 Emma Parker was Triple Age Champion at
school in Athletics, Cross Country and
Swimming.


 McKay won the 2012 House Competition.


Other












School Captains, Laura Parker and Jake
Bourke participated in the Secondary Schools
Leadership Program in Sydney.
Georgia Pitson was a member of the State
SRC Committee.
SRC members participated in the Impact
Leadership Conference.
Students spent three days at the Henty Field
Days as models in the Country Lifestyle
Parade. Others were involved in the Lawn
Mower Pulling Event and in exhibiting our
stud sheep.
Duke of Edinburgh Program.
Solar Car Challenge.
Hospitality catering at school and in the
community.
Umpiring Courses.
Supporting Primary Partner Schools with their
Gala Days
Emily Jones and Mikaela Webster were
members of the Riverina Central Choir that
performed widely.
Connor Cook and Alexander Gibson had their
work considered for the InTech Display in
Sydney.
Hayden Davenport (Sydney) and Tanay
Buckley (Wagga Wagga) participated in the
Director General for a Day Program.
Students were involved in various academic
competitions.
The Baby Think It Over Program ran.
A successful transition program with our
partner schools continued.
Carrington Melbourne won a NSW Premiers
Education Scholarship.
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 these assessments.
Year 7: from Band 4 (lowest) to Band 9 (highest
for Year 7)
Year 9: from Band 5 (lowest) to Band 10 (highest
for Year 9)
and/or
In the Higher School Certificate the performance
of students is reported in performance bands
ranging from Performance Band 1 (lowest) to
Performance Band 6 (highest).
10
Reading – NAPLAN Year 7
Numeracy – NAPLAN Year 7
Percentage in bands:
Year 7 Reading
Percentage in bands:
Year 7 Numeracy
100
Percentage of students
Percentage of students
100
80
60
40
20
80
60
40
20
0
0
4
5
6
Bands
7
8
9
4
5
Percentage in Bands
School Average 2008-2012
SSG % in Band 2012
State DEC % in Band 2012
Band
8
9
Numeracy – NAPLAN Year 7
School
SSG
State DEC
522.7
523.2
535.2
Average score, 2012
Skill Band
Distribution
Number in
Band
Percentage in
Bands
School
Average
2008-2012
SSG % in
Band 2012
State DEC %
in Band 2012
7
Percentage in Bands
School Average 2008-2012
SSG % in Band 2012
State DEC % in Band 2012
Year 7 NAPLAN Reading
Average score, 2012
6
Bands
School
SSG
State DEC
515.3
515.1
536.3
Skill Band
Distribution
4
5
6
7
8
9
Band
4
5
6
7
8
9
0
16
18
10
5
5
Number in Band
5
14
14
11
7
3
9.3
25.9
25.9
20.4
13.0
5.6
5.7
18.2
24.8
24.8
17.6
8.8
6.2
24.7
32.3
20.9
10.8
5.1
6.3
21.2
26.5
20.2
12.2
13.5
0.0
29.6
33.3
18.5
9.3
9.3
3.7
19.8
27.6
28.2
13.9
6.8
7.4
18.4
27.3
26.2
15.6
5.1
7.1
16.3
23.6
24.5
18.7
9.8
Percentage in
Bands
School Average
2008-2012
SSG % in Band
2012
State DEC % in
Band 2012
11
Reading – NAPLAN Year 9
Numeracy – NAPLAN Year 9
Percentage in bands:
Year 9 Reading
Percentage in bands:
Year 9 Numeracy
100
Percentage of students
Percentage of students
100
80
60
40
20
80
60
40
20
0
0
5
6
7
Bands
8
9
5
10
6
Percentage in Bands
School Average 2008-2012
SSG % in Band 2012
State DEC % in Band 2012
7
Bands
8
9
10
Percentage in Bands
School Average 2008-2012
SSG % in Band 2012
State DEC % in Band 2012
Year 9 NAPLAN Numeracy
School
Average
score, 2012
Year 9 NAPLAN Reading
School
Average score,
2012
562.7
SSG
State DEC
557.5
568.5
573.7
SSG
State DEC
567.7
585.4
Skill Band
Distribution
Skill Band
Distribution
Band
5
6
7
8
9
10
Number in Band
Percentage in
Bands
School Average
2008-2012
SSG % in Band
2012
State DEC % in
Band 2012
6
12
18
14
8
10.0
20.0
30.0
23.3
13.3
7.9
22.1
24.4
27.2
14.2
10.6
22.6
31.0
21.7
10.6
9.8
20.5
26.9
22.3
14.0
2
3.
3
4.
2
3.
6
6.
5
Band
Number in
Band
Percentage in
Bands
School
Average 20082012
SSG % in Band
2012
State DEC % in
Band 2012
12
5
6
7
8
9
10
1
15
23
11
6
4
1.7
25.0
38.3
18.3
10.0
6.7
3.7
24.0
28.5
23.4
15.0
5.4
5.5
27.9
30.6
20.2
10.8
5.0
5.6
25.5
26.1
18.5
11.7
12.7
 Fleur Thompson’s Viva Voce was marked as
exemplary by the HSC Music Examinaters.
The My School website provides detailed
information and data for national literacy and
numeracy testing (NAPLAN).
 Connor Cook and Alexander Gibson had their
Year 12 Industrial Technology Major Projects
short listed for the State InTech Exhibition.
Click on the link http://www.myschool.edu.au and
enter the school name in the Find a school and
select GO.
Higher School Certificate
As mentioned earlier in this report, the HSC
cohort of students did exceptionally well in the
examinations. The graphs following are only
available for the larger candidature subjects.
The 2012 HSC results were again outstanding.
Some of the highlights include:
 The school was above state average in the
following
subjects:
Biology,
English
(Standard), English (Advanced), English
(Extension 1 and 2), Industrial Technology,
General Mathematics, Modern History,
History Extension, Senior Science, Society and
Culture, Textiles and Design and Primary
Industries Examination.
 There were three ATAR scores of over 90.
HSC: Course Summary Table
School
2012
School
Average
20082012
SSG
2012
State
DEC
2012
Biology
Business
Studies
74.1
69.7
69.5
71.0
68.8
69.1
69.6
Drama
English
(Advanced)
English
(Standard)
General
Mathematics
75.3
77.9
74.1
83.5
79.8
75.1
75.5
67.3
65.5
72.7
69.9
65.0
Course
71.3
75.6
79.0
66.4
66.2
HSC: Relative performance from Year 10
(value-added)
Performance
Low Middle
High
Band
 There were eleven Band 6 results (or
equivalent) across the following subjects:
Automotive, Ancient History, Biology,
Chemistry, English (Advanced), English
(Extension 1), Industrial Technology, Legal
Studies, Society and Culture.
School 2012
School Average
2008-2012
 Fifty seven percent of the students were
continuing with their education at University
or TAFE.
-3.0
2.5
3.3
-0.4
0.3
-1.3
SSG Average 2012
-0.6
-0.6
-3.2
Note: By definition, the State average relative
performance is zero
 Forty percent of marks were Band 5 or 6 (a
mark over 80).
13
School 2012
School Average 2008-2012
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Significant programs and initiatives
Billabong High School is an inclusive learning
environment that celebrates cultural diversity in
the school community. We recognise the long
and rich cultural history of the Wiradjuri who
have lived on the lands adjoining the Billabong
Creek and its tributaries for many thousands of
years. It is important for our whole school
community to learn about this history and for our
Indigenous students to maximise the learning
opportunities available.
General Mathematics
English (Standard)
English (Advanced)
Drama
Business Studies
Biology
Aboriginal education
The Billabong High School Aboriginal Education
Committee has been strategic in the
development and implementation of the related
components of the School Management Plan. The
team comprised of Peter Schneider (Chair),
Wendy Murdoch (NORTA NORTA Coordinator),
Tony Nelson (teacher and parent), Sue Anquetil
and Stephen Trickett (teachers). The ‘Dare to
Lead’ school evaluation was a significant event as
it helped the school clarify our direction in the
key area of Indigenous Education.
Relative performance
HSC: Relative performance from Year 10
(value-added)
4
2
0
-2
-4
Low
Middle
High
School 2012
School Average 2008-2012
SSG Average 2012
14
The school continued to be represented at Local
Aboriginal and Education Consultative Group
(AECG) meetings in Albury and participated in
regional initiatives, such as the ‘Proud and
Deadly’ Awards. Recipients this year were Stuart
Nelson (Academic), Jeremy Finlayson (Sport),
Bryony Doughty (Encouragement) and Chelsea
Walkerden (Leadership).
Years 9 – 12 now have been issued with their
Learning Devices. Mrs Janet Paech continued in
her role as Technical Support Officer (TSO) and
staff were able to access Professional
Development Funds under this program. The
program will not run beyond 2013.
The school also spent significant funds on the
technology infrastructure around the school.
Volunteering
Our NORTA NORTA program continues to be a
key component of the support network that we
provide for Indigenous students. Wendy
Murdoch’s excellent rapport with Aboriginal
students and their families enables her to tailor
support to meet the needs of individual students.
Volunteering numbers were down in 2012 from
previous years, with fewer Years 9’s electing to
participate. (Most were doing the Duke of
Edinburgh Program). The Year 10 students
however, excelled gaining numerous high awards
in The Premier’s Volunteering Award Scheme.
Gemma Wall, Carrington Melbourne and Jessikah
McCarthy all gained a Black Opal Certificate
which is awarded after performing 150
volunteering hours. Of the ten state-wide
scholarships of $2000 awarded, Jessikah
McCarthy was awarded it in 2012 following
Carrington Melbourne who actually was awarded
hers in 2011 but was awarded it in 2012.
Multicultural education
Harmony Day was again celebrated at Billabong
High School. A number of activities were
organized for the day and it was well supported
by the student body. A small grant was awarded
to the school to help with costs.
The role of Anti-Racism Contact Officer (ARCO)
continues to be promoted within the school. Mrs
Anquetil has been the ARCO for a number of
years now and is highly respected in this position.
In school volunteering opportunities were again
provided for Year 9 and 10 during the sport
afternoon and in-class opportunities were
provided for the Year 10’s within their Hospitality
Course.
Teaching Programs have been developed to
promote cross cultural understanding and skills.
The School to Work Program
The school continues to support an overseas
sponsor child.
Information and Communication Technology
At Billabong High School, the School to Work
Program is co-ordinated by the Careers Adviser,
overseen by the Head Teacher, Social Science and
implemented across the curriculum through
inclusion in the teaching programs of all faculties.
The Digital Education Revolution continued at
Billabong High School during 2012. The program
has been running for four years now. Students in
Key aspects of the program are Career Education
lessons including a continuous Work Experience
Program for all of Year 10, Year 11 and 12
Other programs
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students as required, Career Counselling,
attendance at Career’s Expos, Tertiary
Information Days and special events provided by
community groups, a Volunteering Program and
co-operating with our local TAFE College to
provide vocational opportunities for students
through their Participation Phase Program.
worked with five Year 9 students to build a solar
car using one solar panel and plenty of ingenuity.
This year’s car took a new design consisting of a
four wheeled, gear driven mean machine. A
faulty receiver on race day resulted in
complications. Once corrected, our car rocketed
to the finish line, achieving a creditable eighth
place.
In addition, Billabong encourages participation in
VET (Hospitality, Primary Industries and
Construction) and TVET courses at Riverina TAFE,
Albury Campus.
The students also had the opportunity to partake
in an industry visit to Matt’s workplace. The
highlight for the students was a train ride in their
diesel locomotive. Billabong High School is very
appreciative of the enthusiasm and effort Matt
devoted towards the program and to the
Ettamogah Rail Hub for mentoring to school.
The School to Work Program at Billabong is an
integral part of the wider curriculum and its
delivery is a shared responsibility of all staff.
Peer Support
The Peer Support Program continued to make a
valuable contribution to student welfare in 2012.
During first term our Year 7 students worked in
small groups with 23 Year 11 Peer Support
leaders to assist in their transition to high school.
Group work consisted of a variety activities that
allowed students to become familiar with the
daily routine of the school as well as addressing
issues such peer pressure, bullying and selfesteem.
Livestock Program 2012
Students from Years 7-12 continued to
participate successfully in the Livestock Program
throughout the year.
Shows and competitions attended include:
 Henty Show, Culcairn Show and Holbrook
Sheep and Wool Fair – Livestock were
exhibited and students participated
in
education programs.
Solar Car Challenge
2013 saw a change in mentors for this program.
Matt White, from the Ettamogah Rail Hub,
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 Canberra Royal Show – Steers were exhibited
in the Purebred Steer section and sheep in
the South Suffolk section. We were awarded
the Reserve Champion live steer, ram and
ewe. Students also worked with a number of
cattle studs.
supporting students experiencing barriers to
fluent reading skills. STLA, Mrs C Hendriks
(previously trained in MultiLit) inserviced our
SLSO’s to enable the delivery of the program to a
greater number of students. Lessons are for 30
minutes, 4 days a week during Reading.
 Sydney Royal Show – Steers were exhibited
and we won the Reserve Champion School
Steer Carcase competition.
The learning support staff are valuable members
of the school community. The team is comprised
of Mrs C Hendriks (STLA), Mrs N Morgan (STLA
Transition) and our experience and dedicated
group of School Learning Support Officers (Mrs A
Maher, Mrs J Wakefield, Mrs C Davenport, Mrs C
Davies and Mrs D Eady) who assist teachers in the
classroom with the development of modified
resources and behaviour management strategies.
Students are supported both individually and in
small groups. SLSO’s implement specialist
programs with particular support for students
following a Life Skills pattern of study
 National Junior Limousin Show – Students
participated in education programs and
competitions.
 Melbourne Royal Show – We exhibited steers
and sheep with great success. Major awards
achieved were Champion Heavy Domestic
steer (live), Reserve Champion School Steer,
Champion School Carcase and Grand
Champion Carcase.
The Learning Support Team
The STLA fulfils a variety of important roles
including the coordination of Special Provisions,
the assessment of students and the support of
staff in the classroom, modelling adjustments to
address individual student needs. Students can
be withdrawn for individual tutoring or group
work. For the first time in 2012 our STLA also
provided support for ESL students.
The staff of Billabong continue to be committed
to providing access to quality educational
opportunities for all students.
The Learning Support Team is comprised of
representatives from all school faculties, the
Principal, the Deputy Principal, the School
Counsellor, the STLA and an SLSO. The team is
coordinated by Ms S Taylor. This year we
purchased the MultiLit Program with the view to
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Job coach Mrs A Maher has coordinated the
Work Experience Program for Life Skills students.
We would like to thank the following businesses
for their ongoing support: Kiltearn House
(Culcairn), Culcairn Foodworks, Henty Community
Centre and the Henty IGA.

Reading and Numeracy levels in Year 9
NAPLAN are above other similar schools but
below the state average.

Year 9 writing in NAPLAN is well above other
similar schools and the state average.
Target 2
The school would like to acknowledge the
significant contribution of Ms Marian Bird
(Outreach Support Teacher – District Officer) for
her support of the students with high needs in
our school.
To improve attendance rates in Years 7 – 12 by
1% from 2011 levels.

Attendance rates improved in Years 7, 9 and
11.
The staff of Billabong High School has continued
to develop appropriate resources for students
with special needs accessing professional
development
opportunities
across
the
curriculum. This will ensure the highest quality of
support is given to every student across the
school.

The school Attendance Policy was updated.

The HSLO visited the school on a regular
basis.

The average attendance level was above the
Regional level but just below state average.
Our achievements include:
Target 3
To continue to develop an improved positive
study culture in Years 11 – 12.
Progress on 2012 targets
Target 1
Our achievements include:
Literacy and Numeracy levels to be at Regional
and State Benchmarks.
Our achievements include:

Reading and Numeracy levels in Year 7
NAPLAN are the same as other similar schools
but below the state average.
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
The senior study was fully operational.

The Year 12 Mentor Program run very
successfully.

Past students came back and shared their
experiences.

Students were interviewed prior to receiving
their reports.

Information letters were sent home.

A mantra of 20 hours study a week was
adopted.
Findings and conclusions
The findings of this address the need to review
Billabong’s
Aboriginal
Education
Policy
particularly Cultural Immersion Training which
needs to be systematic and ongoing. The local
AECG and Regional DEC Aboriginal Education
Officer should be included. We are also planning
to build a stronger focus and more explicit
Aboriginal perspective in our school culture.
Tangible things like an additional flag pole, “yarn
ups” and an Aboriginal component in transition
programs will be approached strategically as part
of the school’s ongoing evaluation and planning
process. Personalised Learning Plans are also a
key to providing successful Aboriginal Education.
School evaluation
NSW public schools conduct evaluation to
support the effective implementation of the
school plan. In 2012 our school carried out
evaluations of Aboriginal Education and Science
in line with our 2012-2014 School Plan.
Dare to Lead
Background
Dare To Lead is a project run by Principals
Australia Inc and funded by the Commonwealth
Department of Education, Employment and
Workplace Relations. The project provides
support for schools endeavouring to improve
outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islanders students and to improve curriculum,
addressing traditional and contemporary history
and culture.
Future directions
The visiting Principals were impressed with
the courteous students, approachable staff
and supportive families. Aboriginal Education
is one of the many facets of the planning for
Billabong High School and the Dare To Lead
Snapshot provided valuable direction for the
future. Plans are on the way to include
suggestions from the extensive analysis.
Two visiting principals interviewed students, staff
and parents over two days focusing on Aboriginal
Education at Billabong High School. After
analysing school data and the information gained
from the interviews, the Principals provided
“food for thought” for our planning in the area of
Indigenous education.
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 Ninety percent of students felt they had a
positive relationship with their class teacher
and could ask questions or seek help when
necessary. Ninety-four percent of parents
believed likewise, and felt confident to ask
about their child’s progress with the teacher.
 Eighty-six percent of students stated that
teachers used a range of strategies, activities
and assessment tasks to make Science
interesting. Technology (including computers,
Smartboards and scientific devices) was
recognised to be widely used in 89% of
classes and complemented other teaching
methods throughout the year. Several
students in Year 8 mentioned the use of the
school farm to grow vegetables as an activity
they particularly enjoy.
 Ninety-three percent of students enjoyed the
practical component of the subject and 96%
cited that working with others in practicals
and group tasks was enjoyable. Students
evidently discussed this with parents as 88%
of responses indicated that this was a
positive aspect of the subject.
 Most students (86%) felt they could cope
with the level of class work delivered. The
main group who were finding their subjects
more challenging were in Year 11 where the
pace and difficulty of work has been stepped
up.
 Eighty nine percent of students and 88% of
parents/caregivers stated that regular
homework was provided and checked.
Regular feedback was also given.
Science
Background
In 2012 a range of students in various levels from
Years 7 to 12, and their parents/ caregivers, were
surveyed to gain insight into the teaching,
relevance and enjoyment of Science at Billabong
High School.
The survey aimed to:
 determine student engagement in, and
enjoyment, of the subject
 investigate the development of new skills,
including those related to technology.
 find out whether lessons had relevance to
our students and were being targeted at a
suitable level
 investigate how well students were prepared,
and preparing, for assessment.
Findings and conclusions
 Eighty-five percent of students claimed to
enjoy Science and could make connection
with relevance to everyday life. All parents
surveyed supported this by indicating that
their child had a positive attitude towards
Science.
 Ninety-five percent of students surveyed
recognised studying Science developed useful
skills that could be applied to a range of study
areas. Parents again supported this with 94%
of responses recognising and valuing the skills
that Science develops.
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 While 83% of the students surveyed claim to
study for examinations, only 66% have a
regular study program. Parents supported
this data with 75% stating that their children
revised throughout the course each year.
 Teachers will continue to provide homework
exercises to consolidate learning, extend
students and to encourage regular revision.
 Staff will be available for consultation and
discussion with parents at parent/teacher
evenings. Contact with families, when
necessary, is also encouraged to ensure that
students are able to work to the best of their
ability.
Future directions
 Teaching programs and strategies will
continue to be reviewed and revised in order
to provide a range of information and
experiences that are interesting and relevant
to students. With preparation for
introduction of the National Curriculum in
Years 7 and 9 in 2014 underway new
experiences and additional content will
further challenge our children and
prepare them for a world of new ideas
and technologies.
 Technology applications will continue to
be explored within the classroom.
Students will continue to use school
computers and laptops for research,
presentations and other applications (eg
online practicals).
This is especially
relevant given the online ESSA test
completed by students in Year 8. The
incorporation of more data logging
experiences will be possible as more
dataloggers are purchased for student
use.
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Parent, student, and teacher
satisfaction
 Condition and appearance of school buildings
and grounds.
In 2012 the school sought the opinions of
parents, students and teachers about the
school.Their responses are presented below.
 The school canteen.
Parents expressed high levels of satisfaction in
the following areas and were very positive in
their feedback about the school.
Staff took part in a wide range of activities during
the course of the year. These included: School
Development Days, Teaching and Learning
Forums, Faculty Network Days and a very wide
range of other courses.
Professional learning
 The school encourages everyone to learn.
 The school values all students.
Professional Learning Funds were provided to the
school as a tied grant and were used in the
following areas:
 The students are the school’s main concern.
 The school praises and rewards individuals
who are successful.
Beginning Teachers
Students expressed high levels of satisfaction
with the school including:
Use of ICT
Literacy and Numeracy
 The range of activities available.
Quality Teaching and Learning
 The commitment of the staff.
Syllabus Implementation
 The ability to compete with larger high
schools across the region and state.
Career Development
Welfare
 The success of our students.
Digital Education Revolution Funds
The staff expressed high levels of satisfaction
with the school across a range of aspects
including:
VET Training.
 The expectations we have of our students.
 Support given to students with special needs.
 The Millennium Reporting System.
 Billabong Highlights – the home newsletter.
22
 ACARA/BOS information to be available.
 Professional Associations to provide support.
School planning 2012—2014
 Faculty planning sessions.
The school planning policy provides direction for
the preparation and implementation of school
plans including the identification of priority areas,
intended outcomes and targets that are
consistent with the NSW State Plan and the
Department’s planning documents.
 Staff to become familiar with syllabus
documents.
 Programs written for 2014.
School priority 1
Outcome for 2012–2014
School priority 2
Preparation and Implementation of the New
National Curriculum.
Outcome for 2012–2014
2013 Targets to achieve this outcome include:
Maintain a broad and diverse curriculum at
Billabong High School.
 Be prepared to implement the new National
Curriculum to Years 7 and 9 in 2013 in the
following subjects: English, Maths, Science,
History.
2013 Targets to achieve this outcome include:
 Introduce Stage 5 electives in 2013.
Strategies to achieve these targets include:
 Prepare and plan for the implementation of
the Senior College in 2014.
 Use of Professional Development Funds.
Strategies to achieve these targets include:
 School Development Days.
 One hundred hour modules introduced in
Stage 5 to allow greater choice.
23
 Research the Senior College in other
schools.Liaise and visit with other schools
who have adopted the model.
Tony Nelson, Head Teacher TAS
Peter Schneider, Head Teacher HSIE
Julie Colley, SRC Co-ordinator
 Hold a parent information session.
Mark Leov, President of P & C
 Prepare the Year 10 students for HSC studies.
 Promote the benefits of the senior College
widely.
 Have a timeline of organisational benchmarks
that have to be met.
School contact information
 Start the model on 11/11/2013.
Billabong High School
Gordon Street, Culcairn, NSW.2660
Phone: 02 6029 8377
About this report
Fax:
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.
02 6029 8833
Email: billabong-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au
Web:
www.billabong-h.schools.nsw.edu.au
School Code: 8503
Phil Carroll, Principal
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:
Julie Bowen, Deputy Principal
http://www.schools.nsw.edu.au/asr
Paul Velikans, Head Teacher English/History
Cathy Tooney, Head Teacher Mathematics
Michelle Godde, Head Teacher
Science/Agriculture
24