Dongara District High School is a proud Independent Public School in the Mid-West Education Region.
We provide a very high standard of academic programs delivered by skilful and motivated staff. We also offer our students the opportunity to participate in extension programs using on line learning through SIDE for years 11-12 and PEAC in Geraldton for years 4-6. All of these programs are on invitation and based on testing outcomes. Year 6 students are provided with a comprehensive transition program in readiness for entering secondary school. We have a partnership with tertiary institutions through the ASPIRE program which supports our academic year 9 and 11 students to identify university pathways. Programs with a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) focus are features of our curriculum initiatives. We have partnerships with local industry, the petroleum industry and the CSIRO. We operate a comprehensive on site Vocational Education Program for years 9-12.
All non ATAR year 11 and 12 students study a general program and most are enrolled in Certificate II either onsite through a Hospitality Cert II or at Central Regional TAFE. A school horticulture centre has been established for year K-12 and we are a Stephanie Alexander School Garden School. A small number of year 11 and 12 students are enrolled in a mixed mode delivery including studying through SIDE enabling them to follow an ATAR pathway, with additional support provide by our qualified secondary teachers.
We have 35 teaching staff and 28 support staff. Our administrative team is composed of a Level 5 Principal, two Level 3 Primary Deputy Principals, a Level 3 Program Coordinator-Curriculum Development, Level 4 Manager Corporate Services, three Level 3 Classroom Teachers and 21 Senior Teachers. Teacher team leaders of the K-2, 4-6, and 7-12 groups have additional curriculum leadership responsibilities.
Our students have access to state of the art facilities including interactive whiteboards in every primary classroom and specialist facilities in the secondary school and at the end of 2012 saw the completion of a $30 million facilities upgrade. We have over 250 computers/iPads for student use. We have a vibrant cultural program and have participated very successfully in the YOH Festival. Our students are strong athletes and achieve well locally and at interschool level.
There is a high level of parent involvement in the school. Regular P & C meetings are made up of a core of enthusiastic and committed parents. A pro-active unincorporated School Board plays a vital role in the formulation of the school vision, goals, policies and monitors the operation and outcomes of the School Business Plan.
Parents are welcomed as partners at Dongara DHS and we have a very positive relationship with the wider community.
