NSW Department of Education & Training
2010 Annual School Report
Holsworthy High School
NSW Public Schools – Leading the way
8564
2010 was an outstanding year for Holworthy in
more ways than one. As well as academic success
the school achieved a number of milestones in
sport and other extra curricula activities.
Our school at a glance
Students
There were 738 students enrolled at the
beginning of 2009. This was an increase from the
previous year due to an increased demand from
in-area enrolments. Enrolment census data
shows the number as 717.
HSC results were an improvement on the
previous year but lower than the middle of the
decade. Two students received ATAR’s in the
nineties with the highest being 95.60.
School Certificate results were an improvement
from previous years maintaining an upward
trend.
The gender balance has changed from a decade
ago when the ratio of boys to girls was 50/50. It
is now 55.4% boys and 44.6% girls which is more
the
norm
for
urban
co-educational
comprehensive high schools.
NAPLAN results were varied. Year 7 results were
better whilst Year 9 results were worse than
previous years. The school does train students
how to do the tests as they are diagnostic tests
and the validity would be compromised if
students were trained to perform just for these
tests.
However the number of students attending the
school from the local community continues to
grow and this meant that very few students were
accepted into Year 7 from outside the drawing
area, and most of these students had siblings
already enrolled at the school.
The school reached sporting heights with many
exemplary individual and team performances.
Whereas only a few years ago the school would
get “knocked out” early in the many state sport
competitions, we now proceed far farther and a
number of our teams have become regional
champions.
This impacts on the proportion of students doing
the HSC who have also completed the School
Certificate at Holsworthy. This proportion is
volatile and varies from 45% to 65%. In 2010 the
proportion of the HSC candidature was only 49%
which was much less than for the whole of NSW.
This success is attributed to the student’s belief in
themselves and willingness to train as well as the
enthusiasm and dedication of staff who take on
the roles of coach and manager.
Approximately 20% of the students come from
non-English speaking backgrounds. However
nearly all these students are fluent in the English
language. Thirteen of our students identified
themselves as being of aboriginal background at
the beginning of the year.
As always there are some brilliant individual
performances. Most of these students also
participate in a number of sporting teams as well
as pursuing their own areas of excellence.
Staff
Debating and public speaking is now an accepted
part of the Holsworthy culture with all teams
performing consistently well. The highlight this
year was being runners-up in NSW Karl Cramp
Debating Trophy and having our names alongside
all the selective schools on the trophy.
Holsworthy has a staffing entitlement of 52.6
teaching staff. This figure includes the principal,
two deputy principals, eight head teachers as
well as a careers adviser, librarian, learning
support teacher and 0.4 ESL teacher. In additions
the school has 0.6 counsellor support.
Our ADF students add a special perspective to life
at Holsworthy. The whole school benefits from
the activities which these students and our ADF
aide have organised.
All teaching staff meet the professional
requirements for teaching in NSW public schools.
Student achievement in 2010
1
public recognition for the extra hours they put
into their job. The success mentioned above is
only due to staff members giving freely of their
own time and energy.
Messages
Principal’s message
Over the past year Holsworthy High has enjoyed
fantastic success in cultural, academic, arts and
sporting activities. You will read about these in
this report and I hope, like me you will be amazed
by the diversity of our achievements as well as
the level of the success we achieved. We are
Regional Champions in a range of competitions
and reached the final of the Senior Debating
competition where we were narrowly beaten by
Sydney Boy’s High. However more than this I am
proud of the improvement shown in our School
and Higher School Certificate results.
Finally, I need to thank you the parents and
citizens. I would like to publically acknowledge
those members of the P&C School Council who
provide so much advice, encouragement and
financial support on your behalf. I consider
myself most privileged to be just one part of this
great Public, Comprehensive, and Local 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.
The school has a proud tradition of providing
quality and comprehensive educational programs
to cater for the full range of students in our area.
The consistent claim that we value all students
and their talents equally is validated by their
performances in such a diverse range of
challenges.
John Frew
The school has achieved this whole child
approach to learning without any compromise to
excellence and our DUX of the year was less the
five marks short of a perfect score in their
university entry score (ATAR).
The success we enjoy is primarily due to the
strong relationships between the students and
their teachers. We read a lot about the youth of
today, and there are some who display damaging,
anti-social behaviours. However, the
overwhelming majority of our kids are fantastic.
Time and time again I receive glowing reports
about their behaviour when on excursion or
representing the school. They are a credit to us
and of course you can be very proud of them.
I am lucky, as the students are to have such a
wonderful staff right across the school. The
grounds are well kept, the administration runs
smoothly and the teacher produce some amazing
results for all our students. It is easy to be critical
but I feel my staff members are never given the
2
Message from P&C Council Involvement and Participation
important aspects of student life and academic
expectations.
Holsworthy High School Parents and Citizens
Council in 2010 saw the realisation of a long
awaited capital works project. This project was
the construction of a performance unit. Funds
were raised through the sale of adjoining lands to
the neighbouring Catholic School.
Alison Mortimer –Hon. Secretary
The P&C Council is looking forward to a
successful 2011 and will continue to invite and
welcome new members to its ranks.
Student representative’s message
During 2010 the SRC painted the toilets, hosted a
talent show called Holsworthy Has Talent and
raised awareness of child sexual assault through
White Balloon Day, as well as hosting four
successful mufti days.
The $400,000 realised through the sale had been
set aside since settlement in 2006. The building
works associated with the stimulus funding
provided by the Federal Government threatened
to derail this project. Fortunately, and with
reference to the fact that Holsworthy High School
was not greatly benefiting from Federal funds,
the stalling of this project ended and it has now
been delivered for the benefit of the school
community. The P&C will fund the installation of
air conditioners in the Performance Unit to
complete the works.
Painting the toilets was a big success that
involved most of the bathrooms around the
school being painted in bright, vibrant colours
and the end result was quite pleasing to the eye.
The talent show brought to light many talented
students; We found we had many singers,
dancers and even a teachers band. It was a good
fundraiser and the winners were Denis Wu and
Alex Richmond, who won with their quirky
comedy act.
The Holsworthy High School Canteen continues
to be a leading example of a healthy canteen. In
2010 some refurbishment of the canteen was
undertaken by Public Works and the P&C
provided new equipment including a commercial
dish washer for the canteen. The investment has
been beneficial and $18,000 profits from the
Canteen have been transferred as a result to the
P&C account.
White Balloon day was a great success; the SRC
got to school early so we could blow up white
balloon and put them around the school which
we thought was a good way to raise awareness of
white balloon day(child sexual assault).
As well as this the SRC held four Muftis/BBQs
which were very exciting involving the whole of
the SRC. With Mark Helou on the BBQ we were
unstoppable and raised quite a bit of money as
well.
The P&C in 2010 determined in consultation with
the Student Representative Council that hats
would be made available for purchase as part of
the school uniform provisions. The design was
approved and these can now be purchased by
students.
Breanna Dunn and Matthew Mortimer
The year marked another successful “Christmas in
July” celebration which is a feature of the
Holsworthy High School P&C calendar. This
function enables senior hospitality students to
hone their skills through the preparation and
service of a formal dinner for the members of the
P&C.
An important item at Holsworthy High School
P&C meetings is the presentations by faculty staff
on the programs delivered at the school. This
ensures that topics of interest to the parent
community are identified and communicated.
These presentations are well received and inform
3
Parents of students who have regular or
extended absences are contacted by letter
and/or telephone to ascertain reasons.
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.
Students who refuse to attend school are
referred to the HSLO (Home School Liaison
Officer) who works with the school to get these
students to attend regularly.
Student enrolment profile
Structure of classes
The majority of students reside locally and the
school was unable to offer many out of area
placements despite continual requests to do so.
Classes in Years 7 and 8 are organised as unstreamed mixed ability classes.
Maths classes are the exception and are graded
after all students have been tested.
The composition of the gender balance is boys:
girls 56:44. This trend is in line with other
comprehensive co-educational schools in the
Sydney metropolitan area.
In Year 7 classes are composed of groups of up to
eight students from each of our community
primary schools.
School Enrolments
To facilitate smaller classes for Technics, Art and
Music each year is divided into two groups, one
of three core classes and one of two. These core
class groups are then split into four smaller
classes for Technics, art and music.
800
Students
600
400
200
In Year 9 and 10 classes may or may not be
streamed depending upon the philosophy of each
KLA faculty group.
0
2006
2007
Male
2008
2009
2010
Female
In Years 11 and 12 only English and Mathematics
offer different strands. Consequently all other
“electives” are un-streamed.
Student attendance profile
Improving student attendance has been a target
in recent years. The school has slightly better
attendance than both Met Southwest Region and
NSW.
Retention to Year 12
Holsworthy has an extremely mobile population
due in part to our servicing military families. In
2010 126 students (18%) of our students were
from ADF families.
School Attendance Yr 7-12
92
Hence retention from the School Certificate in
2008 to HSC in 2010 was only 49% compared to
the NSW average of 63%.
91
90
Even in Year 12 students leave to work or
interstate - of the 83 students who completed
Year 11 in 2009 only 63 sat for the HSC in 2010.
89
88
2007
2008
School
2009
Region
2010
Post-school destinations
State
18 students (26%) have enrolled at university in
2011, mostly at University of Western Sydney.
Management of non-attendance
Year 12 students undertaking vocational or
trade training
Parents are notified daily of absence or lateness
via SMS messaging system. This has improved
attendance slightly. Another major benefit has
been a reduction in the number of unexplained
absences
27 students undertook VET courses. Most of
these (26) studied Hospitality at school whilst the
other attended TAFE for Beauty Therapy course.
4
Year 12 students attaining HSC or equivalent
vocational educational qualification
Financial summary
This summary covers funds for operating costs
and does not involve expenditure areas such as
permanent salaries, building and major
maintenance.
Only two students failed to qualify for the HSC.
This means 97% of students attained the HSC.
Staff information
It is a requirement that the reporting of
information for all staff must be consistent with
privacy and personal information policies
Date of financial summary:
Income
School staffing is calculated on a formula based
on the student enrolment. In 2010 the school was
entitled to 52.6 teaching and 9.6 SASS staff.
Balance brought forward
Global funds
Tied funds
School & community sources
Interest
Trust receipts
There are no teachers who are aboriginal but one
SASS staff member is.
Counsellors are 0.6 (three days per week) but are
counted as 2 as they are based at Holsworthy.
Total income
Staff establishment
Position
Principal
Deputy Principal(s)
Head Teachers
Classroom Teachers
Support Teacher Learning Assistance
Teacher Librarian
Teacher of ESL
Counsellor
School Administrative & Support Staff
Total
30/11/2010
$
314840.24
360575.51
257966.84
252339.63
18540.68
98511.59
1302774.4
9
Expenditure
Teaching & learning
Number
1
2
8
37.2
1
1
0.4
2
9.6
62.2
Key learning areas
Excursions
Extracurricular dissections
Library
Training & development
Tied funds
Casual relief teachers
Administration & office
Utilities
Maintenance
Trust accounts
Capital programs
Total expenditure
Balance carried forward
Staff retention
Only one full-time staff member left the school as a transfer to a school much closer to her
home.
106539.63
64490.78
87238.49
17268.53
646.80
236616.19
77974.29
132908.78
82741.27
34154.41
101813.28
34994.75
977387.20
325387.29
Teacher qualifications
A full copy of the school’s 2010 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.
All teaching staff meet the professional
requirements for teaching in NSW public schools.
Enter text here
Qualifications
Degree or Diploma
Postgraduate
% of staff
100
8
5
Rakiya Thomas, Casey Smith, Kelly Bowden,
Brandon and Jordan Grochala all went on to
represent the region at NSW Combined High
Schools Swimming Championships.
School performance 2010
2010 was an outstanding year of individual and
group performance and achievements.
At CHS Rakiya won 2x gold (50m back and 50m
breast), 3x silver (50m and 100m freestyle, and
diving) and a bronze medal (50m butterfly).
Achievements
Arts
Brandon won 5x gold medals (50m, 100m and
200m freestyle, 100m back and 100m butterfly)
and was declared CHS u.15 Boys Champion.
Dance students participated in the Regional
Dance Festival and Schools Spectacular held at
the Entertainment Centre. Carly Rusten was
selected as a featured artist in the tap ensemble.
Carly, Abbi Delaney and Scott Cook were also
selected for NSW Dance Camp with the Sydney
Dance Company.
Rakiya and her sister Braida also
represented the region at CHS Diving.
both
Nineteen students made the zone cross-country
team.
24 students made the zone athletics team.
Keiffer Dotti (800m) and Mitchell Holdsworth
(3,000m walk) went on to represent the region at
the CHS Championships.
Mitchell also represented the region for Water
Polo
Rhys Brown (Girls Volleyball) and Trent Smith
(Basketball) were selected as CHS referees in
their respective sports.
Tegan Lamond represented in regional Hockey.
Fifteen other students represented in Hume Zone
sports teams: Monica Lane, Tyler Peachey, Peter
Petrowski, Paul Rawson Stuart and Trent Smith
(Basketball), Ashley, Joanna and Sheree Lamond
(all sisters of Tegan) plus Leann Molloy and
Ashley McKay (Hockey), Brian Devries and Johnni
Bedford (Rugby League) and Keifer Dotti (Soccer).
Our Year 11 debating team was selected perform
at 2010 Southwest Sydney Region Director’s
Choice after being State runners-up for the Karl
Kramp Cup for senior debating.
Alex Richmond, Rhys Brown, Denis Wu and Mark
Helou put on an outstanding performance with a
clever and witty interpretation of how a debate is
run as a celebration of their achievement and
success for both the SSW region and the school.
Open Boys Rugby League smashed Moorebank
High 36- 0 in our annual match for the Allan
Fallah Shield.
Sport
U/16 Boys Rugby League were CanterburyBankstown Regional Champions and went on to
compete in the State Cup where they finished 3rd.
This is the highest placing that our Region has
ever been placed in this age group.
Braida Thomas represented Australia in U.15
trampoline at the Indo-Pacific Trampoline Sports
Championships in Japan winning the bronze
medal. She then went on to represent again in
France.
Boys Baseball won their first three games then
lost to Westfields Sports High in the regional
final.
Rhiannon Dotti was selected for NSW Indigenous
Netball team.
Our 2011 Open Volleyball Team has been
together for four years competing at a school,
State and National level. As this was the last year
of the team together as a whole it stands to
Twenty-four students represented Hume Zone at
Sydney
Southwest
Regional
Swimming
Championships.
6
summarise their achievements over the last four
years.

2007 - 12th All Schools
Championships in Melbourne

2008 - 5th at National Championships

2009 - 2nd at National Championships in
Melbourne receiving Silver Medal plus
gold and two silver Medals at NSW State
Schools Cup.

2010 - 11nd at National Championships
and silver medal at the State Schools Cup.
Six students from this team were selected for
NSW teams: Stephanie Miller and Holly
McPherson (u.19) and Ashleigh Danielson, Hayley
Dean, Biljana Ristanceva and Keisha Waite for
u.16 team.
National
During these four years a number of the students
were asked to play for the Regional and State
volleyball teams where they played with pride.
As a consequence of this successes the school
was nominated as a ‘Centre of Excellence for
volleyball” in 2010.
Dylan Zgrajewski was selected to train with the
Australian Youth volleyball squad.
79 students took up the Premier’s Sporting
Challenge and recorded their daily exercise each
day for ten weeks. Seventeen were awarded
diamond awards for exercising for more than an
average of 80 minutes per day.
Tyler Peachey was selected for the regional
volleyball team.
Congratulations to all members of the senior
team and the entire squad including players,
coaches, managers and parents who have all
supported the teams throughout their
endeavours. Thanks for memories – G. Pavone
Other
PUBLIC SPEAKING
Junior Volleyball team have also trained together
since 2008 developing their skills. In 2010 they
won the silver medal at NSW All-Schools
Championship and placed 7th in Australian AllSchools Championship
Denis Wu was runner-up in the Quota Club NSW
Youth of the Year winning and then representing
Liverpool at the state final held in Batemans Bay.
Denis put on an excellent performance with both
his prepared speech and impromptu.
Open Cricket season is played over the summer
2010-11. The team continued their good form
from previous years and won all their matches to
become Sydney SW Regional Champions and
making it to the final sixteen in NSW.
Alex Richmond was selected to be MC for the
presentation ceremony of Director-General’s and
Minister of Education’s Awards held in the
Department of Education’s Bridge Street
headquarters. He was nominated by the Speaking
Competitions Coordinator from The Arts Unit,
DET who was impressed by Alex’s speaking
manner when our Year 11 debating team won
their semi-final debate.
Opens Basketball easily won their early rounds
with 40 point wins over the oppositions and
making it to the regional final eight. There they
lost by one goal in a tight game in which the lead
see-sawed.
Our school hosted a Legacy Junior Public
Speaking Competition heat for the region.
Matthew Mortimer (Yr 8) and Emily Stewart (Yr 7)
represented our school; they both presented
insightful prepared speeches and did well in the
impromptu section against older students from
other schools. Both were highly commended by
u.14 Futsal were regional champions.
u.19 were runners-up in the region and went to
the CHS making it into the semi-finals and placing
equal 3rd.
7
the adjudicator given that they were the
youngest speakers in this heat.
to Prairiewood High.
This was a fantastic
achievement with 14 zones and 54 school teams
competing.
Breanna Dunn (Yr 9), Matthew Mortimer (Yr 8)
and Emily Stewart (Yr 7) entered the United
Nations Youth Association Public Speaking
Competition, and were praised by the judges for
their persuasive delivery and manner.
The Year 11 team (Alex Richmond, Rhys Brown,
Denis Wu and Mark Helou) continued theyr
success of previous years becoming runners-up to
XXX High for the Karl Kramp Cup (NSW) for senior
debating.
LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS IN WIDER COMMUNITY
Nikole Vamarasi and Mark Helou were selected
as Liverpool Council Youth Representatives. Both
will be involved in this leadership program for the
next two years; an outstanding promotion of the
excellent youth and role models in our school.
Breanna Dunn was selected to represent Sydney
Southwest Region in the YMCA NSW Youth
Parliament.
Mark Helou was runner-up in the senior section
of NSW Rotary’s Recognition of Youth Award.
GEOGRAPHY
Five students (Daniel Gomes, Lauren Hanley,
Corey Hume, Jordan Poole and Nina Zhang)
achieved a distinction in the Australian
National Geography Competition.
CHESS
Junior Chess achieved the best result of any chess
team at Holsworthy so far by becoming Regional
Champions.
VET
Cleveland Garven and Sam Robinson were
awarded regional Hospitality VET awards.
Cleveland was also selected as the region’s
representative at the NSW VET Awards.
SCHOLARSHIP
DEBATING
Chris Mortimer won Honeywell Engineering
Scholarship
Five teams entered the Premier’s Debating
Challenge.
PREMIER’S VOLUNTEERING AWARDS.
The Years 9, 10 and 12 teams performed well and
won some of their debates .
45 students are involved in the Volunteers
program developing community connections to
the R.S.L., Legacy, War Widows and local charity
groups.
The Years 7/8 junior debating team (Matthew
Mortimer, Andrew Woods, Emily Stewart and
Georgia Exton) were successful in winning against
Hurlstone and Liverpool Boys to become Zone
Champions.
Five students achieved the Diamond Award (100
hours volunteering) in 2010 in only six months of
the program operating.
They continued their success to reach the
Regional Finals where they lost in a split decision
8
SPACE CAMP
LEAPS
Ten students and two teachers from Holsworthy
High School in association with LAZSTA embarked
on an enrichment program to participate in Space
Camp in Huntsville, Alabama in September 2010.
“Lawyers Encouraging and Assisting Promising
Students” is a mentor program where young
lawyers give their time to mentor selected Year 9
students with the aim of developing selfconfidence in the students.
This was a once in a lifetime opportunity for
students in years 9 - 11. During Space Camp 2010,
students were provided with opportunities for
science
enrichment
and
leadership
development and were supported with visits to
science centres, schools and universities.
Twenty-three students were selected for LEAPS in
2010. They travelled into the city each fortnight
to meet with their mentors at the law firms of
Allens Arthur Robinson and Ebsworth Lawyers.
There they discussed personal goals, setbacks
and worldwide issues.
The 6-day Advanced Space Academy program
was exhilarating and was a most challenging
experience of mental, emotional and physical
astronaut training for our students.
The mentors are there to encourage the students
“to be the very best that they can be”. All
students worked well together and as a team
took on new and exciting experiences. For some
it was conquering their fear of jet boating (Matt
and Rebecca); for others it was appreciating and
learning to enjoy and perfect the skill of public
speaking (Nathan and Sam); and for all it was
about accepting who they are and being
confident and happy to stand on their own two
feet .
The space travellers from Holsworthy were
Mitchell Wurr, Monica Domm, Lauren Hanley,
Daniel Hollands, Callum Whitley, Michael
Whitlock, Nathan Wood, and Brenden Wurr
captained by Mr. Spy and Ms Deo (teachers).
Although there were some tough times, all of the
students learnt some important life lessons which
they continue to put into practice today. I am so
proud and thankful to have been a part of such a
wonderful program. - Ms A. Erdmann
9
Academic
Percentage of students in bands:
Year 7 spelling
National Assessment Program Language and
Numeracy (NAPLAN) results across the Years 3, 5,
7 and 9 literacy and numeracy assessments are
reported on a scale from Band 1 to Band 10.
40
35
Percentage of students
30
The achievement scale represents increasing
levels of skills and understandings demonstrated
in the assessments.
Year 7: from Bands 4 to 9
Year 9: from Bands 5 to 10
25
20
15
10
5
0
4
5
6
7
Band
These tests were conducted in early May.
8
9
Percentage in band 2010
School average 2008 - 2010
State average 2010
Literacy – NAPLAN Year 7
Percentage of students in bands:
Year 7 grammar and punctuation
Percentage of students in bands:
Year 7 reading
40
40
35
Percentage of students
Percentage of students
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
4
5
6
7
8
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
4
5
6
9
7
8
9
Band
Band
Percentage in band 2010
Percentage in band 2010
School average 2008 - 2010
School average 2008 - 2010
State average 2010
State average 2010
Numeracy – NAPLAN Year 7
Percentage of students in bands:
Year 7 numeracy
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
40
35
Percentage of students
Percentage of students
Percentage of students in bands:
Year 7 writing
4
5
6
7
Band
8
9
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
4
5
6
7
8
Band
Percentage in band 2010
School average 2008 - 2010
Percentage in band 2010
State average 2010
School average 2008 - 2010
State average 2010
10
9
Literacy – NAPLAN Year 9
Percentage of students in bands:
Year 9 grammar and punctuation
Percentage of students in bands:
Year 9 reading
Percentage of students
40
35
Percentage of students
30
25
20
15
10
5
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
5
6
7
8
9
10
Band
0
5
6
7
8
9
10
Percentage in band 2010
Band
State average 2010
Percentage in band 2010
School average 2008 - 2010
Numeracy – NAPLAN Year 9
State average 2010
Percentage of students in bands:
Year 9 numeracy
Percentage of students in bands:
Year 9 writing
40
35
30
Percentage of students
Percentage of students
25
20
15
10
5
0
5
6
7
8
9
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
5
6
7
8
9
10
Band
10
Band
Percentage in band 2010
Percentage in band 2010
State average 2010
State average 2010
Progress in literacy
Cohorts cannot be directly compared. However
year 7 results are significantly better than
previous cohorts whilst the opposite is true in
year 9.
Percentage of students in bands:
Year 9 spelling
35
Percentage of students
30
25
Progress in numeracy
20
Numeracy results are similar with year 7
achieving better results than previous cohorts
whilst Year 9 performed worse.
15
10
5
0
5
6
7
Band
8
9
10
Percentage in band 2010
School average 2008 - 2010
State average 2010
11
However there was a decline in the ICT test
(Information and Communication Technologies)
which students sit for online. In 2010 only 40% of
students were graded “Highly Competent”
scoring over 80% on the test (52% in 2009).
School Certificate
141 students sat for the School Certificate in
2010. Results were better than previous years
with improvement in all subjects
The distribution of bands (%) is shown below, and
shows that 2010 (in red) has the highest number
of Bands 4, 5 and 6.
50
ICT 2006-10
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Band Distribution 2006-10
%
40
2oo6
30
2oo7
20
2oo8
10
2oo9
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
CND
Competent
Highly
Competent
2oo6 2oo7 2oo8 2oo9 2o1o
There were seven Band 6 results, which was
“average”, and only two Band 1 results.
2o1o
Band
Daniel Oud received two Band 6 results
This can also be shown in the average band
attained over the past five years (below) with
2010 having the highest result over the past five
years.
Jeremy Krause was the top student with 523 (out
of 600)
Average Bands 2006-10
School Certificate
The concept of “value-added” aims to predict
how students will go in the School Certificate
exams based on their performance in the Basic
Skills Test (BST) done in Year 5.
3.8
3.6
3.4
3.2
3
2.8
School Certificate relative performance
comparison to Year 5 (value-adding)
All subjects were within 2¼ marks with History
exceeding expectations. This was better than
previous years.
Average
2oo6 2oo7 2oo8 2oo9 2o10
1.0
Nearly all subjects achieved higher results than
the previous year (exception is Geography)
shown in the graph below:
School Certificate: Relative growth from
Year 5 (value-added)
0.5
Relative growth
0.0
-0.5
-1.0
Average Band by Subject 2008-10
-1.5
6
-2.5
School 2010
12
Computer skills
0
AGC&C
AHC&C
2o1o
Science
2oo0
2
Mathematics
2oo8
English
4
-2.0
Higher School Certificate
Average HSC Relative Performance
from Year 10 (value-added)
63 students sat for the HSC in 2010 (compared to
82 in 2009). Results were better than the
previous year but average compare to the past
ten years. This is shown in the graph below
0.0
-0.5
-1.0
-1.5
-2.0
-2.5
-3.0
-3.5
-4.0
-4.5
-5.0
HSC - Average Band 2001-10
3.60
3.40
3.20
3.00
Low
Middle
High
2.80
2oo1
2oo3
2oo5
2oo7
2oo9
School, 2010
School Average 2006 - 2010
Some individual students performed very well
achieving six Band 6 results: Advanced English,
Mathematics, Ancient History, PDHPE and Society
& Culture (2).
Minimum standards
Extension English was above the state average
mark for the exam (there were no subjects in
2009)
The Commonwealth Government sets minimum
standards for reading, writing, grammar and
punctuation, spelling and numeracy for years 3,
5, 7 and 9.
Alicia Dunajcik was dux with the top ATAR
(Australian Tertiary Assessment Rank) of 95.60.
Alicia received three Band 6 and two Band 5 plus
Extension Maths and English.
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.
Crystal Pietikainen received an ATAR of 92.25.
She achieved two Band 6 and three Band 5’s.
Higher School Certificate relative performance
comparison to School Certificate (value-adding)
Percentage of Year 7 students in our school
achieving at or above the minimum standard in
2010
HSC value-added tries to predict how students
will perform in the HSC based on their School
Certificate results.
Reading
Writing
Spelling
Punctuation and grammar
Numeracy
Student performance relies as much on effort as
on ability.
The Low students are those achieving Bands 1-3
in the School Certificate. They have achieved the
same gain as similar students in the rest of NSW.
The Middle students achieved Band 4 in the
School Certificate. They are about 2¼ marks
below similar students in the rest of the state.
95.2
92.1
93.7
87.3
96.0
Percentage of Year 9 students in our school
achieving at or above the minimum standard in
2010
The High students achieved Band 5 or 6 in the
school Certificate. They are about 1¾ below
similar students in the rest of the state.
Reading
Writing
Spelling
Punctuation and grammar
Numeracy
All groups have done better than the average of
previous years.
13
82.9
77.2
82.1
81.3
90.9
Significant programs and initiatives
Other programs
Aboriginal education
CAREERS
ATSI students comprise less about 2% of the
school population (13 students).
All year 9 and 10 student have a careers lesson
each fortnight to develop career pathways
through study and assignments of career options
in order that they are prepared to enter the
workforce or further study after leaving school.
A committee of volunteer teaching, support and
SAS staff continued to implement strategies
designed to increase educational outcomes for
our Aboriginal students and to improve links with
our Aboriginal community.
Years 11 and 12 also undertake career
counselling so that they are aware of their
options post-HSC
These strategies included:


Ongoing in-service training for staff about
the 2004 NSW Government Review of
Aboriginal
Education
and
the
requirements of the 2008 Aboriginal
Education and Training Policy
All year 9 and 10 students participated in the
schools various S.T.W. programs.
Working with the SWSR Aboriginal
Education Team

Ensuring contact with ATSI students and
their families through a community BBQ

Providing all aboriginal students with the
opportunity to choose a teacher mentor.
All students did.

Devising Personal Learning Plans for each
student in collaboration with the student
and their parents

Ensuring students were given access to
relevant
educational
and
career
information

Extending links with a local Aboriginal
organisation, Kari, particularly through
their Year 11 and 12 Scholarship Program

Three senior students took part in the
UWS Aboriginal Mentoring Program

Recognised “Sorry Day”, Reconciliation
Week and NAIDOC Week at a whole
school level with guest speakers from the
local community

SCHOOL TO WORK
‘Skills for life’ fortnight FOR year 10 IN Term 4 is
run by all faculties of the school. Included are
seminars assisting students to plan for their
career pathways, visiting guest speakers,
interview skills and realistic mock interviews .
S.T.W. projects include cohort subsidised off
campus training (white card, etc.)and campus
based projects.
A student survey showed that Holsworthy was
above state average for both year 9 and 10
students effectively engaging in and using career
information and having confidence in their career
plans and awareness of outside influences on
their career plan.
YEAR 7 LEARNING CENTRE PROJECT
Throughout Terms 2, 3 and 4 all Year 7 students
took part in a research project in the Learning
Centre.
The aim of the project was to assist students to
enhance their questioning and ICT skills. The
project also developed their collaborative and
independent learning skills.
This involved
developing questions, researching to find
answers and finally presenting their project to an
audience in ICT format.
As part of the
programme they worked and negotiated with
teachers and other students.
Provided opportunities for the students
to work together and develop their
leadership skills
14
The topics chosen revealed a huge range
interests including Australian icons, music, sports,
art, skateboarding, different cultures, chocolate
production and human rights issues.
All students approached their projects in a
mature manner developed their confidence in
speaking before an audience.
Many
enthusiastically completed extra work at home.
Anne Croker
VET
The school has a dedication to VET and offers
Hospitality, where students study this course for
the HSC and can also obtain a Certificate 11 or
Statement of Attainment. They learn job skills,
industry
knowledge,
team
work
and
communication skills in preparation for a career.
DEFENCE TRANSITION AIDE
In 2010 Hospitality students were able to study
either Commercial Cookery or Multi Skilling. All
VET students completed a mandatory 70 hours
work placement. H.H.S. would like to thank
employers such as Pasticceria Cavallaro, De
France, Liana’s Focaccia Bar and Michels’
Patisserie - Wattle Grove, for their support in
allowing students to use their facilities. All VET
students needed complete the Work Ready
Course (offered at the end of Year 10) before
they attended work placement.
In April the cadets conducted our ANZAC School
Ceremony in the presence of VIP guests this
term. We were delighted to have members from
the Liverpool RSL Sub Branch and full time
members from
Headquarters 5th Brigade present on the day. Our
VIP guests were impressed by the behaviour of all
students on assembly and the professionalism of
the cadets’ catafalque party.
Year 12 catered for many events during the year
such as ‘Christmas in July’ for the P&C and
School Council with a sit down four course meal,
Year 9 LEAPS Introductory Meeting with the
students and their mentors and provided cocktail
food and drink service. Year 11 completed the
catering tasks with finger food and drinks for the
LEAPS Graduation Evening. Year 12 attended a
Barista Course at the Coffee School and were
awarded a certificate in ‘Prepare Espresso
Coffee’.
Congratulations to Year 12 student Cleveland
Garvin who was awarded the South West Sydney
Regional VET Student Award for Hospitality.
15
Progress on 2010 targets
In May all students were fortunate to watch two
Kiowa helicopters from 6
Target 1
Aviation Regiment land on the back oval. Once
the helicopters had landed, the ground crew and
pilots allowed students to approach the air craft
for a closer look and some students were lucky
enough to jump in. (no sorry – there were no joy
flights on offer)
This target was changed from grades to bands in
2010. Band 4 is roughly equivalent to Grade C.
In 2009 49.1%% of bands were above Band 4.
Increase the number of students achieving Band
4 (or higher) in the School Certificate by 2%.
Our achievements include:
The staff from 6 AVN Regt mingled with the
senior students and answered questions on
careers within the Defence before a spectacular
departure.

53.6% of grades were Band 4 or above

85.7% of English grades were Band 4, 5 and 6

All subjects (except Geography) improved
So this target is achieved.
Target 2
Increase number of students achieving at least
three Band 4 results in the HSC by 2%.
In 2009 23 (out of 82) of students achieved at
least three Band 4 results. This was 28% of the
cohort.
Our achievements include:
26 (out of 60) or 43% of the 2010 cohort achieved
at least three Band 4 results.
In September we held a Legacy High Tea for 25
war widows and legatees attended a delightful
high tea in our library. Our Legacy and War
Widow’s Guild representatives were impressed
by the service and entertainment that was
provided by the students. Thanks to all
volunteers for a sterling effort.
This is a large increase so this target has easily
been achieved.
Target 3
Increase retention rate of students from Year 11
to Year 12 by 2%
82 students sat for the HSC in 2009 out of 98 who
completed Year 11. This is 84% retention rate.
Then in Oct 10, we were fortunate to have Pte
Damien Thomlinson visit our formal assembly to
deliver a motivational speech and promote the
Commando Welfare Trust Fund. Students from
Year 7 Gateway wanted to choose a charity that
assisted our Defence Personnel of today and this
was their choice. Damien was severely injured
whilst on active service
Our achievements include:
63 students sat for the HSC in 2010 out of 83 who
completed Year 11. This is 76% retention rate.
This target has not been achieved.
Target 4
To increase the skill level and use of technology
in teaching across the school
All year 9 and 10 students now have laptops. Year
9 received theirs at the end of Term 1. 15 laptops
were available for staff loan and were issued.
Our achievements include:
16
30% of teachers have been trained in either
laptop or Smart-board technology by external
providers.
School development 2009 – 2011
Targets for 2011
50% of teachers were trained in sessions on Staff
Development day in “Smart-board” and video
conferencing technology
Targets are ongoing for the duration of the
current three year plan.
Target 1
Five “Smart-boards” have been purchased with
assistance from the P&C.
Increase the number of students achieving Band
4 (or higher) in the School Certificate by 2%.
A “Connected Classroom” has been installed in
what was previously Lab 2.
Strategies to achieve this target include:
Another classroom has been equipped with a
data projector.

Review of assessment strategies

Research into the causes for high rates noncompliance with assessment policy, and
consequent high numbers of “N” warning
letters.
After a full year of use of laptops by Year 10 an
evaluation revealed:
that after the initial novelty wore off students
resisted using laptops for note-keeping (Onenote)
Our success will be measured by:
many students left their laptops at home or did
not collect them after a repair had been carried
out
teachers felt that the pace of learning was slower
using laptops and that the syllabus was
compromised

Review completed and recommendations
tabled

Reduction in number of “N” warning letters
Target 2
Increase number of students achieving at least
three Band 4 results in the HSC by 2%.

Review of assessment strategies

Research into the causes for high rates noncompliance with assessment policy, and
consequent high numbers of “N” warning
letters.
Our success will be measured by:

Review completed and recommendations
tabled

Reduction in number of “N” warning letters
Target 3
Increase retention rate of students from Year 11
to Year 12 by 2%
There are many factors which impact on
retention to Year 12 from year to year. With the
increase in the school leaving age to 17 years
from the beginning of 2011 it is expected to
retain more students from Year 10 and postpone
leaving until during Year 11.
Strategies to achieve this target include:

17
Continued strategies for students to
choose an appropriate study program


Establishment of an Enrichment Class to
support students who are at risk of failing
due to their diligence or behaviour
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.
Improve learning environment of
students by removing the negative
impacts of disruptive behaviours
Our success will be measured by:

Quieter, more productive
working environments

Low attrition of Year 12 students once
they have reached the HSC program of
study
Year
11
School contact information
Andrew Eaton – Deputy Principal
Holsworthy High School
Target 4
Huon Crescent, Holsworthy. 2173
To increase the skill level and use of technology
in teaching across the school
Ph: 9825 2888
Fax: 9825 1082
Laptop roll out continues for Year 9 students.
Teachers have now had a full year to familiarise
themselves with the technology and to
experiment and adapt their pedagogy to engage
students and make learning more meaningful and
effective.
Email: holsworthy-h.school@.nsw.edu.au
Web:
www.holsworthy-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au
School Code: 8564
Strategies to achieve this target include:

Teachers will be supported to upgrade
their technical skills through training
both within the school and with external
providers.

Teachers will be encouraged to share
their expertise and resources to enhance
student learning outcomes
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
Our success will be measured by:

Survey of teachers regarding their
comfort and expertise in using new
laptops

Results obtained by students in School
Certificate ICT tests
18