Wentworth Point High School, Sydney’s newest public high school, boasts state-of-the-art facilities including a dance studio, commercial kitchens, and a music room with a baby grand piano. The school, which cost $160 million to build, will also potentially have sheds for rowing in the future, offering a unique opportunity for students that is not typically found in public schools. Founding principal Melissa Johnston is focused on meeting the desires and needs of the community, with a strong emphasis on outdoor physical activity and sports.
Located on a peninsula on the Parramatta River in the densely populated suburb of Wentworth Point, the six-storey vertical high school will eventually house around 1500 students. In an area dominated by apartments, the school will play a crucial role in providing students with opportunities for physical activity. The community has expressed a clear desire for sport to be a priority at the school, leading to plans for a school hall and a public park next to the facility that will include additional playing fields. In the meantime, students will have access to a privately owned park near a shopping center for sports activities on Tuesday afternoons.
With five flights of stairs and a dedicated lift for students, the school’s design reflects a focus on functionality and efficient movement throughout the building. During a tour of the school, students were seen preparing for the upcoming term, visiting the uniform shop and familiarizing themselves with the new environment. Principal Johnston emphasizes the importance of providing students with a range of opportunities, including access to high-quality facilities and programs that cater to their interests and needs. The school’s location and unique features make it a valuable addition to the community, offering students a diverse and enriching educational experience.
Despite being a public school, Wentworth Point High School is setting the bar high with its ambitious vision for the future, aiming to create a well-rounded educational environment that rivals private schools in terms of facilities and opportunities. Johnston’s dedication to meeting the needs of the community and providing students with a holistic education that includes sports, outdoor activities, and access to specialized facilities demonstrates a commitment to excellence. As the school continues to grow and develop, it will likely become a hub for students to explore their interests, develop their talents, and reach their full potential in a supportive and engaging learning environment.
The high school’s proximity to the Parramatta River provides a unique setting for outdoor activities and water sports, further enhancing the range of opportunities available to students. The potential addition of sheds for rowing illustrates the school’s commitment to offering students a diverse and engaging range of extracurricular activities that promote physical fitness, teamwork, and skill development. By embracing innovation and creativity in its approach to education, Wentworth Point High School is positioned to become a leader in providing students with a well-rounded and enriching educational experience that prepares them for future success.
Overall, Wentworth Point High School represents a significant investment in public education, offering students access to high-quality facilities, specialized programs, and a supportive community that values the importance of physical activity and sports. With a focus on meeting the needs of the local community and providing students with a comprehensive and engaging educational experience, the school is well positioned to become a beacon of excellence in public education. As students prepare to embark on their academic journey at the new school, they will have the opportunity to explore their interests, develop their skills, and thrive in a dynamic and stimulating learning environment that fosters growth, creativity, and success.
