News

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 20:19:38 AEDT

The department is working with the Ministry of Health to monitor and respond to the unfolding international novel coronavirus situation.

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to novel coronavirus.

Are you #Ready2020?

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 15:40:30 AEDT

Hints, tips and resources to make a great start to the new school year – whether it’s your first day of high school or you’ve been here a while.

We work hard to make sure every student is known, valued and cared for – even before they walk into the classroom on Day 1, Term 1.

We’ve got great advice and resources for high school, no matter what year you’re heading into...

For families of students starting Year 7:

download our Getting ready for high school booklet
read our top tips for a smooth transition.

For families of returning students:

visit the back to school checklist to make a hassle-free start to the year
download the 2020 calendar to stay organised all year
check out our hints for setting up a study space.

Video – #Ready2020: First day at high school

Duration – 1:00

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 17:01:33 AEDT

Many schools are responding to the catastrophic fire rating that is affecting communities across the state this week.

We are continuously updating the School safety page with a list of government and non-government schools, as well as TAFE NSW campuses that are currently non-operational.

While some schools are temporarily non-operational due to localised fires, many others in high-risk areas are non-operational as a precautionary measure.

Schools in some areas are being used as emergency evacuation centres at the direction of the Rural Fire Service.

For schools that are currently operational, school pickups and dropoffs will continue as usual. If your school is currently non-operational, it will likely remain so tomorrow.

Large scale distressing events affect our school communities in many ways. Headspace’s mental health support resource (PDF 100.52KB) is available to help students, teachers and school staff respond to the bushfires.

Visit the School safety page for updates. The department’s Facebook and Twitter accounts will also provide updates during this period.

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 17:21:20 AEDT

Will you be joining us at Schools Spectacular 2019? Tickets are on sale now. Experience our live show featuring a cast of thousands of public school students from across metropolitan, rural and remote regions of NSW.

Students from different ages, cultures and backgrounds will share the spotlight as they dance, play and sing for you. Choose from one of our four massive performances at Qudos Bank Arena on Friday 22 November and Saturday 23 November.

This year's events will feature:

more than 380 schools
5,500 performers
a 3000-strong choir
2,300 dancers
an 80-piece symphony orchestra
a world-class stage band.

Group bookings

Need to make a group booking for over 10 people? Complete the Schools Preview Order Form 2019 (PDF 110KB) to attend the discounted 11am Friday matinee. The Friday matinee is discounted for school students and accompanying teachers.

If you’d like to grab a spot at one of the other three remaining shows complete the Group Booking Form 2019 (PDF 110KB).

Tickets for you and your family and friends

Save you and your family a spot online or by phone on 132 849.

Video – Schools Spectacular 2019

Duration: 0:26

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 12:12:44 AEST

This Australian Reading Hour, encourage your child to discover or rekindle their love of a good book. Take the time to learn, escape and relax on Thursday 19 September and read for one hour.

Reading has been shown to reduce stress by 68% more than listening to music, going for a walk, or having a cup of tea.

Take the Book Swap Challenge

We all have favourite books that we come back to again and again.

To help celebrate Reading Hour take our Book Swap Challenge. We want students, teachers, staff and parents to try reading something new on the day. To get involved, simply pair up with someone and swap your favourite books.

Take a photo and tag it with #ReadingHour so we can see how you got involved.

Video – Ben Law asks students about their favourite author

Duration: 1:18

Author and #ReadingHour ambassador Benjamin Law talks with some of our students about their favourite books.

How to be smart and safe on social media

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:28:01 AEST

Use our new Digital Citizenship toolkit to empower your child to understand how their online behaviour affects themselves and others.

You and your child can find information on:

how to ‘be positive’ by understanding online behaviour and its effect
'be smart’ by thinking critically and being digitally aware
'be safe’ by protecting your security, privacy and wellbeing.

A toolkit to empower you and your child

You can find articles and videos to equip and empower your child to minimise the risks and maximise the opportunities in our digital future.

We’ve partnered with leading researchers to produce a curated toolkit – aligned to the curriculum – which teachers and you can share with the young people in your lives.

Guide your child through important concepts such as:

managing privacy settings in social media
collaborating online
avoiding scams and hoaxes
understanding the law when it comes to online speech
Internet banking, shopping online and much more.

Keep your child safe and happy online

Visit and bookmark the Digital Citizenship website. We’ll continue to add articles and resources to ensure the best possible tools are available to help you guide your child to be positive, smart and safe online.

What’s next after high school?

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 11:26:25 AEST

Is your child in Year 9 to 12 curious about their career choices? Now they can use LifeLauncher, a free online tool to explore and simplify their career choices.

Your child can explore courses and careers in-depth, at their own pace, anytime, anywhere and on any device. The tool includes 4,000 careers and 1,500 course options, all in one place.

How does it work?

Encourage your child to jump online and complete the 5-minute personality and subject quizzes to be matched to a range of career options that suit their passions and strengths.

If they take both quizzes, they’ll get more refined suggestions. They can even create free online pinboards to shortlist the courses and jobs that interest them.

When your child creates an account, they can save their searches and build a real understanding of the opportunities and pathways open to them.

What can your child learn about their career options?

Your child can explore the weekly salary of the career options they’re interested in. They’ll also find the employment and growth rates of those careers and the number of workers currently in those fields in Australia.

Each career option shows them the education they need as well as other related careers. They can follow links to other sites to find out more about a course to help them find the best provider for them.

Launch into the future today

Use this tool to chat with your child about their post-school options in a meaningful way.

Inspire your child to find their career match today at LifeLauncher.nsw.gov.au.

Happy School

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 10:14:20 AEST

How It Works

We value our staff and believe that the work we do is important. Staff morale and well-being have a HUGE impact on student achievement, relationships within our school and the successful implementation of change. High stress levels have a negative impact and increase staff absence. A happier staff leads to better results!

As members of the Happy School program each week we receive a ready-to-use one page article to share with staff. The articles provide professional development and practical strategies to improve staff well-being, reduce stress, cope better with change, work effectively with others and engage our students. The articles are written by experts, especially for staff in schools.

The articles provide staff with…

strategies to improve well-being and reduce stress
skills to better use their time
develop a more positive attitude
work better with others; and
improve their work-life balance.

Over 600 schools across Australia, New Zealand and internationally are members of the Happy School program.

My Community Project

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 09:03:02 AEST

We only have a few days left to vote for our Community Project 'Kids in the Kitchen'
VOTE #1 LHS, most votes wins.
Anyone 16 years and older are able to vote, ask your family and friends, we have the numbers, lets make it happen!

https://mycommunityproject.service.nsw.gov.au/project…
Please take 5 minutes to vote for our “Kids in the Kitchen” upgrade, help us to transform our outdated kitchens into a fabulous new learning space where we can offer Hospitality onsite as part of our curriculum.

We have tried to get funding for this project numerous times with no success, we need your votes.

HSC Display Evening

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 10:30:21 AEST

Our annual HSC Major Work Display evening will be Thursday 5th September from 4.00pm-6.00pm in the school Hall.
Please come along to this wonderful display night and enjoy the talents of our Creative Arts and TAS students.

This is an open invitation for LHS parents/carers and the Lithgow Community to view the 2019 HSC Major Works.
Hope to see you there!

LHS Careers Expo

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 11:04:54 AEST

LHS CAREERS EXPO - Thursday 12th September
The Lithgow High Careers Expo aims to provide the students in the Lithgow and surrounding community an opportunity to access information from a wide range of organisations. These organisations and the information will assist students with planning their transition from school, in their subject selections and in developing their aspirations for the future.

There are a large number of universities and tertiary study providers attending who will provide information about the courses offered, application process, scholarships and life at university. We also have a significant number of apprenticeship providers and employment organisations who will have information on the accessing apprenticeships, trades and industry based jobs.

UAC (Universities Admissions Centre) are attending and will be presenting and information session for Year 10 students about subject selection, they will be also presenting a session to Year 12 students about the university application process, early entry and other schemes that are available.

Parents and community are invited to attend the Expo and information sessions throughout the day.

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 12:54:41 AEST

We are celebrating our students and their powerful voices this Education Week Monday 5 August to Friday 9 August. Every year Education Week celebrates the achievements of public schools, our students and the value of public education.

This year, the theme is Every student, every voice.

Join us for #EdWeek19 as we celebrate our students and their power to shape the world.

Video – #EdWeek19 – Every student, every voice

Duration: 0:34

Grease - School Musical Production

Fri, 21 Jun 2019 13:36:10 AEST

Grease is the Word and it’s coming to Lithgow High! This is a classic musical with iconic characters and music that will make you want to get out of your seat and dance.

Don’t miss out on this musical spectacular! Students at concession prices, book now!

Tickets - Adults $20, Children and Concession $10. Family tickets $50

Purchase tickets online https://www.trybooking.com/BCLTC or at the door

Creative and Active Kids vouchers now available

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:28:24 AEST

Creative kids can now put a $100 voucher towards extra-curricular creative activities outside of school.

Together with Active Kids, this program aims to encourage more NSW children to participate in a range of extra-curricular activities such as coding, languages, circus, performing arts and visual arts.

Parents can apply for one $100 voucher for each child enrolled in school on the Creative Kids website and use it towards the cost of registration, participation or tuition. You just redeem the voucher with a registered provider in your area when making your payment.

This is a great opportunity for your child to become involved in a range of activities that will build on their education, growth and development.

Service NSW is working with industry bodies to deliver the program.

For more information, contact Service NSW on 137 788 or creativekids@service.nsw.gov.au.

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 11:42:33 AEST

It’s not too late to become a Game Changer with applications for the Education Week challenge due by 7 June.

The Game Changer Challenge brings 16 teams from public schools across NSW – eight from primary and eight from secondary – to Sydney during Education Week in August for a three-day, intensive design-thinking workshop.

The Game Changer workshops, which start on Tuesday 6 August, includes teacher training in the use of design thinking as a teaching methodology and its application for school planning.

It also includes a team competition where schools will work under the guidance of experts from industry and academia to develop a solution to this year’s critical question: How might we humanise technology?

Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott has encouraged students and teachers to get behind the event as it highlights the critical thinking students will need to develop to succeed in the future.

“The Game Changer Challenge is an exciting initiative that helps educate and inform our students and teachers on how to integrate the problem-solving methodology of design thinking into the classroom,” Mr Scott says.

“It embraces the 21^st century skills our students will need to thrive in a globalised world such as collaboration, creative thinking and communication.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our students at all levels to be involved in discussing and addressing a real-world issue that will affect their future lives. I encourage every school to get involved.”

The challenge is designed to make strong learning and teaching connections to the NSW syllabus specifically in the area of developing general capabilities such as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, communication and problem-solving.

The challenge also provides teachers with an opportunity to gain exposure to the design thinking process and includes teacher resources to introduce this creative problem-solving methodology into the classroom.

Finalists will be selected based on a 60-second video that showcases your team’s vision around the question of humanising technology.

For more information email edweek@det.nsw.edu.au or visit the Game Changer Challenge page.

Parent Information Evening for student starting High School in 2020

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:08:48 AEST

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:58:03 AEST

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a point in time assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. The tests assess the foundational skills in reading, writing, spelling and numeracy that are essential for every child to progress through school and life.

This year NAPLAN takes place between 14 and 16 May for paper tests and between 14 and 24 May for schools participating in NAPLAN Online.

NAPLAN data is used to help monitor student progress over time against a national measure and to identify areas of strength and improvement. It is used in combination with other school assessments to guide and support student learning.

Watch students ask an expert the tough questions about NAPLAN.

Apply now for My Community Project funding

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:12:39 AEST

Do you have a great idea to improve your area?

My Community Project is a new NSW Government funding program that is all about local ideas, local projects and local decisions.

You can apply now for grants from $20,000 - $200,000 for projects that will make a difference to your community. Projects could include new playground equipment, sports facilities, paths or ramps to improve access, public art or a community service.

The local community can vote for their favourite projects in July and successful projects will be announced in September.

Project applications close 15 May 2019.

Apply for My Community Project funding

Bring back memories, not measles

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 14:24:49 AEST

With school holidays just around the corner, it’s time to visit your doctor to check that you and your family are fully protected against measles, before you travel overseas.

Measles is a serious, highly contagious, viral illness that is easily spread through the air when an infectious person coughs, sneezes or breathes. If you and your family are not fully vaccinated, or have never been vaccinated, you are at risk of contracting measles.

Not sure if you’re fully protected?

In Australia, the measles vaccine (MMR) consists of 2 doses. If you’re not sure whether you’ve had 2 doses of the measles vaccine, visit your doctor. It’s safe to receive another dose.

Children born in Australia

If your children were born in Australia, they may have received the measles vaccine at 12 months old and the second dose at 18 months, in accordance with the National Immunisation Program.
If you have a baby under 12 months old, consult your doctor about getting their measles vaccination.

Adults born in Australia

Born before 1966 – you were most likely exposed to measles as a child and are generally considered to be immune. If in doubt, ask your GP.
Born between 1966 and 1994 – you may not have received 2 doses. Talk to your doctor about the free vaccine if you’re unsure.
Born after 1994 – the National Immunisation Program offers 2 doses, and you can check your vaccination status using the Australian Immunisation Register.

For more information about the measles vaccination, visit NSW Health or consult your local doctor.

Follow your heart, not the herd

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:31:31 AEDT

We spoke with a group of Kindergarten students to find out what they had to say about going against the herd. They had some wise words for us on how we can care, respect and support each other in our schools.

Let’s start the year off right and prevent student bullying happening in our playgrounds, classrooms and online. If a group of 5-year-olds know the difference between right and wrong, shouldn’t everyone?

Video – Wise at 5

Duration – 1:08

Year 7 Welcome BBQ

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 10:52:23 AEDT

On Tuesday 12th Februray, we will be hosting a Welcome BBQ for Parents/Caregivers and family members to meet key LHS Staff members.

Time: 5.30pm-6.30pm

Back to school

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 15:22:05 AEDT

The first day of high school and the return to school in the new year are busy times for your child – and for the entire family. To help you and your child get organised and enjoy the experience we've compiled some useful tips for each year group.

We want every student to be known, valued and cared for in our schools.

Uniform Shop 2019 Opening Times

Wed, 12 Dec 2018 13:10:58 AEDT

Our School Uniform Shop will close over the shcool holidays and repoen on the following days

January Opening Hours

Thursday      17^th January - 8.30am - 1.00pm
Friday            18^th January - 8.30am - 1.00pm
Tuesday        22^nd January - 8.30am - 11.00am
Wednesday 23^rd January - 8.00am - 10.00am
Thursday      24^th January – 8.00am - 10.00am

Tuesday 29^th January - 8.30am - 10.00am

All online orders are dispatched form the shop, any orders placed over the holidays will be processed and posted from: Thursday 17th Janurary.

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 12:00:44 AEDT

Like all NSW public schools, this week we will receive a School Budget Allocation Report with our funding for 2019. The report will help us manage our total budget delivered through the Resource Allocation Model (RAM).

The RAM supports schools through needs-based funding to ensure a fair, efficient and transparent allocation of funds. Our school has the flexibility to make local decisions based on the specific needs of our students.

We will use our 2019 funding to support students and improve educational outcomes. The school executive will continue to work with the school community as we implement the school plan using this needs-based funding.

Learn more about the 2019 RAM funding.

Mental Health First Aid Course for Parents

Fri, 02 Nov 2018 13:14:21 AEDT

Mental Health First Aid

Recognising suicide risk and learning how to support

Last term we surveyed parents during the Parent Teacher evening about our school conducting a MHFA (Mental Health First Aid) for parents supporting children at home, the survey indicated many parents were interested in attending the course.

On Tuesday 20th November - 5.30pm - 9.30pm in the school Library, Lithgow High School will be hosting a 4-hour MHFA course - Recognising suicide risk and learning how to support training for parents, which gives parents/carers the skills they need to recognise and help with mental health problems and crises.

Contact: Sam Luchetti – Community Liaison Officer on 63 521422, Bookings essential. RSVP: Monday 12th November

Good luck to our Under 15's Boys Basketball Team

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 11:51:01 AEDT

Our Under 15 Boys Basketball Team will travel to Terrigal this week to play the top 8 State Finals in the CHS Knockout Competition.

The boys have won all of their round games to place them in the top 8 in the state. This is the first time our boys have qualified for the state titles.

We wish them good luck in Terrigal on Thursday and Friday, you are all wonderful ambassadors of our school community.

White Ribbon

Fri, 26 Oct 2018 10:31:43 AEDT

Huge donation to an important cause

Lithgow Workies Club Motel very generously donated a large quantity of towels, blankets and boxes of toiletries to the Migay Yindyamarra Aboriginal Girls’ group today. The girls have become passionate supporters of women and children who have to flee their homes due to domestic violence. They have been busy sewing bags and canvassing for essential items to fill them. They originally wrote to the Lithgow Workies Club asking for children’s activity packs to put in the children’s bags and were overwhelmed with the incredible response of the much needed blankets, towels and toiletries. Thank you Chantelle Hull who delivered and presented them, Julie Rushworth the Motel manager and Geoff Wheeler the General manager who made it all possible.
If any one would like to donate to this important cause, we are still in need of long life food items, clothes detergent, small toys, books and games, hair brushes, oral hygiene products etc....
The bags will be donated to the Women’s Crisis Centre manager and Sargent Darryl Goodwin the White Ribbon Ambassador at the White Ribbon Assembly atLithgow High School in November.
Please ring Lithgow High School on 63521422 if you would like to help our cause in any way.

Premier highlights the value of public education

Tue, 28 Aug 2018 18:45:29 AEST

Public education can be the springboard to the top job in New South Wales.

That was the message from the Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, as she launched Education Week celebrations today at Parramatta and Kiama public schools.

"I know that all schools across the state today are highlighting and celebrating what we all value in public education – where someone like me who couldn't speak a word of English when she started school has somehow ended up being the Premier of NSW," she said.

Ms Berejiklian said she had met many possible future leaders during her visit to Parramatta Public School and "couldn't be prouder, as your Premier, to witness the outstanding achievements of all the students across the state".

The dual school launch, linked via a live simulcast, focused on the theme of Education Week, Today's schools – creating tomorrow's world, which highlights how NSW public schools are equipping young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

For the first time the launch was hosted entirely by primary school students and featured student performances from Eastwood Public School violinist Justine Zhang, Bossley Park High School soloist Ezra Loau and dancers from Hoxton Park Public School.

Year 8 students from Kiama High School – Alira Morgan, Jannali Morgan and Olivia Talbott – opened the celebration with an Acknowledgement of Country performed in language.

Keynote speeches were delivered from Kiama by Terara Public School Year 6 student Lucy Boundy, Molly Chapman, a Year 8 student at Dapto High School, and Nowra East Public School instructional leader Vishanti Govender.

Lucy told the launch that education was about opportunity: "Opportunity to learn, opportunity to improve and opportunity to make a difference."

In detailing her early struggles with learning, Molly said a more hands-on approach to study at her high school had a huge impact on her.

"I learn more effectively by seeing and doing things because it gets in my head more easily and pictures are worth a thousand words. Thanks to school, I'm exceeding in almost everything I touch," she said.

Education Minister Rob Stokes highlighted the "incredible legacy" of public schools on society, a role contemporary education and educators would play in the future.

"We are in a period of vast technological, social and economic change, and with that the role of education becomes more important, even bigger, and the challenge for teachers and students becomes more complex," he said.

"We need to provide training in those skills that recognise the future is uncertain and to train and encourage young people not just to be ready for the change that is coming but to be excited by it."

Education Week 2018 - Today's schools creating tomorrow's world

Tue, 28 Aug 2018 18:45:29 AEST

The future of education will be showcased in NSW public schools from August 6 – 10 as students, teachers and parents across the state celebrate Education Week 2018.

Education Week kicks off on Monday, August 6, with a simultaneous launch at Parramatta and Kiama public schools livestreamed on YouTube so all government schools and their communities can join in.

This year's theme, Today's schools – creating tomorrow's world, highlights how NSW public schools are equipping young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

For the first time the Education Week launch will be hosted by primary school students and will feature a dancing robot, student performances and a film highlighting how schools are working with their communities to solve real-world problems.

A highlight of the week is the Game Changer Challenge, in which 16 teams of students from schools across NSW will compete in a three-day design program, working alongside leading industry professionals to create the school of the future.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said today's students were learning at a time of great change.

"From the far west to our metropolitan hubs and everywhere in between, our state's schools will celebrate not only what we've achieved, but the future we are creating," Ms Berejiklian said.

"We are living in a time when the traditional walls of the classroom are opening up to new worlds of learning, paving the way for students to connect and collaborate with their peers regionally and globally."

Education Minister Rob Stokes said there had never been a more exciting time to be involved in schools with technology reshaping the way students learn and billions of dollars being invested in new school infrastructure.

"The NSW Department of Education is continually striving for improvement and innovation so that the young people in our care learn in a world-class education system," Mr Stokes said.

"The NSW Government is supporting that vision through a record $6 billion in funding to build the classrooms and schools of the future."

The Secretary of the Department of Education Mark Scott said ensuring today's students had the skills they would need to "not just survive, but thrive" in the future underpinned the department's evidence-based approach to learning.

"I am incredibly proud of the innovative teaching and learning that is being done across our State's public schools to ensure that every student can perform to their full potential," Mr Scott said.

"We don't know what the future will hold, but we do know that we are focused on equipping today's students with the skills and knowledge they will need to lead fulfilling lives in the future."

More new classrooms, preschool places and teachers in $17.3 billion education budget

Tue, 28 Aug 2018 18:45:29 AEST

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet, Education Minister Rob Stokes and Early Childhood Minister Sarah Mitchell outlined a range of new initiatives funded by the $17.3 billion education budget in 2018 to 2019.

The government will be investing $6 billion over the next four years to deliver more than 170 new and upgraded schools, including planning for more than 20 new projects.

"We are proud to be making this unprecedented investment into the future of our children," Mr Perrottet said.

"This year's NSW Budget takes our already record school building program to another level – a massive 170 schools new and upgraded schools over the next four years.

"That brings our total schools building program to 230 new and upgraded schools since 2011."

"The NSW Liberals and Nationals Government's strong financial management has allowed us to invest so heavily in our schools and education system."

Mr Stokes said communities right across NSW will benefit from this record investment into education.

"NSW is experiencing an increase in school enrolments and we have in place an unprecedented program of investment in new and upgraded schools to meet this demand," Mr Stokes said.

A staged investment of $500 million is being allocated to provide cooling for schools, while improving the indoor environmental quality, through the installation of smart and sustainable air conditioning systems powered by solar energy.

In another landmark initiative, NSW will become the first Australian state to provide universal access to community preschool for 3 year olds under a $197.8 million program.

"Because of this historic investment, average daily fees will decrease significantly and the savings will go directly back into the pockets of hard working families," Mrs Mitchell said.

This brings total spending on early childhood education to $474.3 million in 2018 to 2019.

Other education investment in the 2018 to 2019 NSW budget includes:

$160 million to be spent in 2018-19 to continue its blitz on planned school maintenance, part of a record $747 million investment over four years.
$71.8 million to implement the literacy and numeracy strategy in NSW schools.
$50 million in additional flexible funding will be provided to government schools to implement the school leadership strategy - freeing up principals and school leaders from administrative work.
$3 million for the first comprehensive review of the entire school curriculum since 1989.
$2.8 million to encourage the preservation and study of Aboriginal languages.
$30 million to continue to deliver greater access to green space and sports facilities in public school playgrounds through the 'share our space' program.
Funding for around 900 extra full-time equivalent teaching positions in NSW government schools.

The NSW Government will also invest $1.3 billion on non-government schools, an increase of 7.5% on 2017 to 2018. This includes a $32 million increase in the building grants assistance scheme over four years for capital works projects to support enrolment growth in non-government schools.

The record $17.3 billion investment in education allocates $15.7 billion for recurrent expenses and $1.6 billion for capital investment in 2018 to 2019.

Senior Study

Thu, 07 Jun 2018 11:33:14 AEST

We are excited to provide additional study assistance in every Key Learning Area for our Senior Students iall day every day unitl 5.00pm Monday-Thursday.

Parent Survey

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:23 AEST

This Term, our school will be participating in the Partners in Learning parent survey, another part of the Tell Them From Me suite of surveys (student, teacher and parent surveys) on student engagement. The survey asks parents and carers questions about different factors that are known to impact on student wellbeing and engagement.

Running this survey will help our school understand parents' and carers' perspectives on their child's experience at school. These include: communication between parents/carers and staff, activities and practices at home and parent/carer views on the school's support of learning and behaviour. This valuable feedback will help our school make practical improvements.

The survey is conducted entirely online on smartphones, iPads, tablets, laptops or computers. The survey will typically take 10 minutes or less to complete and is completely confidential. The parent survey will be conducted between 21 August and 13 October. Although participating in the survey is entirely voluntary, your responses are very much appreciated.

More information about the survey is available at: http://surveys.cese.nsw.gov.au. To access the survey for our school go to:

https://nsw.tellthemfromme.com/9s983

Ann Caro

Principal

Information for Parents on Bushfire season 2016/17

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:22 AEST

Parent Teacher - Postponed Monday 27th June

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:23 AEST

Due to the weather conditions, we have decided to postpone the Parent Teacher evening that was scheduled for tonight. At this stage Wednesday's Parent Teacher is still on.
We will run another PT night early next term.

New Lithgow High School Careers Page

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:23 AEST

Lithgow High Careers Page

Our aim is to provide you with all the latest information that will help you make decisions about your future career and your life beyond school.

You can use this site to locate University, TAFE and any other type of course across Australia, get information about the HSC, search for job vacancies and much more. Feel free to drop into the Careers Office if you have any questions.

Year 6 into Year 7 Information Evening

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:24 AEST

We warmly invite Year 6 Parents/caregivers to an Information Evening on Thursday 2nd June, 2016 at 6.00pm in the school library.

Our school in addition to the Information Evening will be conducting a series of school tours with key staff members. You are welcome to join in on the following Mondays at 9.15am - Bookings with Sam Luchetti are essential.

Dates are as follows: 6th June, 20th July, 1st August, 23rd August, 8th September and 7th November.

Orientation Day - Tuesday 6th December, 2016

Parent Information packages have distributed to Year 6 students during the primary school visits.

Wheelers Online Library

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:24 AEST

Wheelers Online Library is a recent addition to our School Library, it offers an opportunity for students to borrow books from any PC, laptop, iPhone, iPad, android device etc.

We currently have 600+ titles ready to be borrowed with more to come very shortly. Every day we make advances in technology and finally reading has been made easy and free to access for students of Lithgow High School. For those students that do not like to come into the library and borrow physical books they now are available on a platform that most students possess.

To log on to Lithgow High School online library all you need is to either find the link on the email that Mrs Cross has sent you, or simply search up Wheelers Log in using your DET username and student for your password.

Books such as ‘Will Grayson, and many more familiar titles are now available to read. So if you are reluctant to visit our library in person, log on and please enjoy reading! For further information see Mrs Cross in the library.

https://lhs.wheelers.co

BYOD - 2016 Information for Parents

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:20 AEST

Year 7 2016 will continue with BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) please find links below to fact sheets on BYOD 2016.

BYOD - 2016 - FAQ (pdf 325 KB)
BYOD - 2016 (pdf 261 KB)

LHS Uniform Shop Opening Hours for January 2016

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:22 AEST

Updated School Uniform Policy

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:24 AEST

Updated School Uniform Policy - 2015

School Uniform Policy 2015 (pdf 209 KB)

HSC Assessment Schedule

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:21 AEST

This week we have hosted our 2016 HSC Parent Information Assessment Evening.

Please find the link to the Assessment Schedule below:

2016 HSCAssessment Schedule (pdf 1142 KB)

Important notice to parents regarding bushfire season

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:22 AEST

Bushfire notice for parents (pdf 136 KB)

Notice on bushfire season (pdf 128 KB)

HSC Major Works Display Evening

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:21 AEST

Term 3 Parent Teacher Evening

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:24 AEST

Term 3 Parent Teacher Evening has been re-scheculed to Wednesday 16th September, bookings will be open for the Millennium booking system Wednesday 2nd September.

If you require assistance please contact Sam Luchetti on the school number 63521422.

The evening will commence at 4.00pm and conclude at 8.00pm

Subject Selection Booklets

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:24 AEST

Subject Selection Evening Wednesday 29th, July

Year 8 into Year 9, 2016 - 6.00pm- 6.45pm

Year 10 into Year 11, 2016 - 7.00pm-8.30pm

Follow links below for subject selection booklets

Stage 4 Subject Selection (pdf 687 KB)
Stage 5 Subject Selection (pdf 940 KB)

HSC Trials, Week 5 timetable and rules

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:22 AEST

UWS Parent Info Evenings

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:24 AEST

University of Western Sydney are hosting Parent Information Evenings.

The UWS college at the Lithgow Campus evenings is scheduled for Tuesday 18th August, commencing at 6.00pm.

If students are thinking about going to University, this evening is the perfect opportunity for parents and their children to join Univeristy staff of Western Sydney campus to receive information about university courses and to ask questions.

Subject Selection Evening

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:24 AEST

HSC Trial Exams - Organisation/rules

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:22 AEST

Year 12 Trial HSC exams begin the first day back of Term 3, 14th July 2015. Please find below the organisation and rules for these exams.

Gawaymbanha Ngurambang Garden ABC interview

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:21 AEST

5 June, 2015 10:49AM AEST

Birdsong, bees and bushland helping Indigenous teenagers learn from the grass roots

By Melanie Pearce Multiplatform Reporter

With tree stumps for chairs and a backdrop of bushland and towering hills, this classroom for high school students at a country New South Wales school is a place where learning is literally from the grass roots up.

The recess buzz of teenagers talking, laughing and jostling fades into the background and birdsong takes over as you enter the Gawaymbanha Ngurambang garden at Lithgow High School.

It's been raining, so the Year 7 girls who arrive for their class have to balance their way along a wooden plank that's been placed over the boggy grass at the garden gate.

They head over to a circle of sand dotted with tree stumps and throw their bags down and start chatting.

As the girls run the sand through their fingers, they talk to their teachers and the Indigenous community members who come into the school to provide hands-on education as part of the SistaSpeak program.

"[It's] a yarning circle because in Aboriginal culture learning usually happens in a circle, not like your original classrooms," teacher Rosie Galloway said.

Ms Galloway helped establish the Aboriginal Culture and Sustainability Garden.

She said it was designed to teach new cross-curriculum priorities but through activities such as gardening, cooking and dancing, it also helps to engage students, particularly the 10 per cent at Lithgow High who identify as Aboriginal.

"We find a lot of our disengaged students love being outside, they love the hands-on activity and they love growing things and eating them."

The garden is a large plot of land at the back of the school that also includes a dance circle, bush foods and medicine garden and a bee hotel, which is being created and maintained by the gifted and talented student group.

The insect accommodation consists of a frame made of native hardwood, drilled with holes for the bees and then stacked with bundles of plant material and dried clay packed into besser blocks.

It is being used to teach students about the importance of pollination and some will help monitor and document bee activity in the warmer months.

The garden plot is also home to an old tennis court, the wall of which is now being transformed into a mural.

The mural's background is in soft greens and pinks and the girls jump about and giggle as they use paint rollers to cover the old wall with paint.

The artwork is designed to help teach the girls about the importance of protecting the endangered butterfly which lives in the bushland just near the school.

"The butterfly is the totem for our garden so we look after the totem and we hope the butterfly will look after us," Ms Galloway said.

But the beauty of the butterfly mural and its pastel background also has purpose according to Indigenous artist Nyree Reynolds who is guiding the girls.

"We want it soft and we want it feminine and we're going to have a big bronze-winged butterfly and then smaller ones and then we're going to draw the girls dancing ... in and out of the butterfly."

Ms Reynolds said the mural will also add to the sense of calm the garden provides.

"Because every time I come down here I feel peaceful and we wanted to create something that feels that peace too."

That sentiment is echoed among the girls who all agree they prefer their outdoor classes to any other.

"We're surrounded by nice trees and birds ... being surrounded by it calms you down a lot," said one of the Year 7 girls, Maddison.

Rosie Galloway said the garden and its associated programs benefits students like Maddison who are now proud of their Indigenous heritage.

She said the school's percentage of students identifying as Aboriginal has risen in recent years, in part due to the programs such as SistaSpeak and BroSpeak for the boys.

"We encourage Aboriginal people to come in from the community and share their culture and share their stories and through that the kids find they identify with a wonderful culture they didn't really know a lot about."

Click on the link above to listen to the ABC interview

Year 7-12 Parent Teacher Evening

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:25 AEST

https://www.millenniumschools.net.au/portal/ link

Our Year 7 - 12 Parent/Teacher evening is scheduled for Tuesday 23rd June, 2015 from 4.00pm to 8.00pm. Semester One Reports will be available for pick up on the night. The Millennium online booking system is now open for parents to login to the parent portal to book their own appointments with teachers. If assistance is required please contact Sam Luchetti on the school number.

Notes about the evening have been distributed to students Parent Teacher Evening (pdf 158 KB)

Year 7 2016 Enrichment class application timeline

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:25 AEST

Enrichment Class Application packages (doc 349 KB)here

Enrichment Class Timeline

28/4/15	Application documents available on the School Website or from the front office
24/6/15	Applications close, applications are due to the front office at Lithgow High School
23/7/15	Applicants complete a literacy and numeracy assessment at Lithgow High School
3/9/15	Applicant offers are posted to families
15/10/15	Acceptances for Enrichment Class are due to the front office
3/12/15	Orientation day at Lithgow High School

Year 7 2016, Parent Information Evening

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:25 AEST

We warmly invited Year 6 Parents to an Information Evening on Tuesday 26th May, 2015.

Dates are as follows: 15th June, 20th July, 31st August, 12th October and 9th November.

Orientation Day for 2015 - Thursday, 3rd December.

Information packages will be distributed to Year 6 students in the coming weeks during the Principal's secheduled primary school visits.

Please find attached the link for the Application for Entry into the Extension/Enrichment Year 7 class for 2016.

Enrichment Application (pdf 174 KB)

Preparing for Senior Studies

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:23 AEST

Preparing for Senior Study (pdf 70 KB)

It is never too late to reflect on your approach to school as a learner. What do you need to do or change or do differently to help you achieve your personal academic best in the senior years?

See attached doc above for further information on the study skills handbook, our school subscribes to the online version.

Year 12 Parent Teacher Evening

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:24 AEST

Year 12 Parent Teacher Evening, Tuesday 28th April 4.00pm - 7.00pm in the school hall. Book your appointments with teachers via the Millennium booking system. If you require assistance with bookings please contact Sam Luchetti on 63521422.

New School Plan 2015 -2017

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:23 AEST

Lithgow High School's 2015 -2017 School Plan can be found School Plan 2015-2017 (pdf 452 KB)

Assessment Schedules

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:20 AEST

Assessment Schedules for 2015 are available under the Quick links page.

Click on the blue tab quick links above, download assessment schedule:

Year 7 & 8 - Stage 4 ROSA Assessment

Year 9 & 10 - Stage 5 ROSA Assessment

Year 11 Assessment Schedule

HSC Assessment Schedule (pdf 1908 KB)

Compulsory School Attendance

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:21 AEST

Compulsory School Attendance - Important Information for all Parents:

Compulsory Attendance (pdf 129 KB)

Education Week 28/7 to 1/8/2014

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:21 AEST

Have a look at what is happening during Education Week at Lithgow High School! Education Week is from Monday 28/7/14 to Friday 1/8/14. Read the latest Newsletter - special edition (pdf 826 KB).

Parent Teacher Night - Tuesday 6th May

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:23 AEST

Letters went home with all students last week requesting family email addresses. Due to administrative difficulties and delays in the collection of parent email information, the School WILL NOT be using the on-line booking system for the Parent Teacher night on the 6th May, 2014. The booking form can be downloaded on the Quick links page. Students can then make bookings at school with the appropriate teachers before the Parent Teacher night.

1982 Radio Program on Lithgow During the Depression

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:20 AEST

In 1982 Lithgow High students completed a radio program on the local history of Lithgow. It was a study of Lithgow during the Depression. Does anyone out there know anything about this program as the ABC is interested in finding out more? You can listen to this radio program by clicking here .

2013 Annual School Report

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:20 AEST

The Lithgow High School Annual School Report is now available. Please go to the "Quick links" Page and you can download it.

Parent Teacher Meeting 6/5/2014

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:23 AEST

Our next Parent/Teacher Evening for students in Years 7-11 will be held on Tuesday, 6/5/14 from 4pm-6pm. A new booking system is being implemented and you need to send the school your current email address so you can get logon details. Please look at the following information sheet that was given to students to take home on 21/3/14. You can see a copy of this letter here (pdf 104 KB)

Application for Entry into the Extension/Enrichment Year 7 Class for 2015

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:20 AEST

Please find the form here (pdf 121 KB)

Lithgow High is now on Facebook.

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:23 AEST

Lithgow High now has a Facebook page. Follow us on Facebook

Parent Teacher Meeting 17/9/13

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:23 AEST

Lithgow High's Parent Teacher Meeting will be held on Tuesday 17/9/13 from 4pm to 8pm. Parents and Caregivers can book on-line for the first time. Click Parents and Caregivers.

Lithgow High School email

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:23 AEST

Lithgow High School's email has been not working for the past month. It is now working again.

New Web Site in development

Fri, 25 May 2018 12:30:23 AEST

Lithgow High School is developing this new Web Site which should make it easier to keep up to date and provide easy access to the Department of Education and Communities (DEC) information.