Bourke High School

Bourke community has a long, proud and interesting history. At one stage the largest inland port in the nation from which wool was transported along the Darling and Murray rivers, it still has many qualities which make it a must see on the travels of anyone exploring our country. There are several important national parks in the area that contain much Aboriginal history and have strong relations to the Dream Time. Bourke High School plays an important role in the community. It is a learning organisation, focused on providing opportunities for students in an isolated community. This is an important and challenging task. The school has one of the lowest socio economic indices in the nation. A key focus for our school is on improving the quality of our teachers. Building the capacity of teachers to present interesting, relevant and culturally significant lessons combined with high expectations of students is the foundation of our drive towards quality teaching. The community is diverse. Our school has about 60% indigenous enrolment. Partnerships with the community are strong with organisations donating time, resources and opportunities to students. We believe that our diversity is a strength and that, through celebrating our differences, we become a stronger, more creative place. There is a broad VET (vocational education and training) strand to subject choices in the senior school in particular. Technology is an integral aspect of both lesson delivery by teachers and engagement with students through the use of their own laptops. The Digital Education Revolution has been a wonderful program of engagement for many of our students. Technology is a means by which our students can enhance communication, learning and quality of life. We believe strongly in the importance of working with the community to develop agreed ethical values. The effective development of our young people into high functioning adults in society hinges on the partnership we foster with parents in raising our children. Bourke High School has many programs which support our work with young people, the community and other organisations. I commend the school to you and invite you to provide feedback as appropriate. Philip Halpin Executive Principal May 2013