The school is the only single-campus Years 7 to 12 government secondary college in northern Geelong. Students are provided with a supportive and challenging learning environment. The college operates a Year Level system, to ensure effective student management and promote student–school connectedness. The school motto of “Strive to achieve” and school values “Respect, Excellence, Achievement, Diversity” are pursued vigorously in all aspects of school life. North Geelong Secondary believes in its students and has high expectations from them, parents, staff and wider community. Uniform is compulsory.
Facilities: The school grounds are spacious and attractive, providing students with pleasant areas for recreation and activities. The school is host to the Victorian School of Languages, which operates on Saturday mornings. The Adult Multicultural Education Service operates within the school throughout the year.
Curriculum: The Later Years curriculum includes a full VCE program with access to a broad range of academic and vocational subjects. The VCAL Certificate provides students with opportunities for school-based apprenticeships and applied learning experiences. North Geelong SC is a member of the Geelong and Midlands Schools for Innovation and Excellence Middle Years cluster. Students who require additional learning support are placed in appropriate literacy and numeracy programs. English as a Second Language support is provided at all year levels. The Advance Youth Development program and the Caterer’s Tray work experience program are successful curriculum innovations.
Sport: The school is an active participant in a range of inter-school sports and teams have opportunities to progress through to zone- and state-level finals. The school has a successful record in soccer, volleyball and cross-country.
Extra-curricular activities: These include the annual school production, band, choir, presentation ball, surf lifesaving program, Years 7 and 9 camps, student leadership programs and multicultural celebrations.
Student welfare programs: The school has two student wellbeing staff members, a school Chaplain and a part-time health promotion nurse. Year Level Managers – Leading Teachers, Home Group Teachers and student mentors provide ongoing student support. The school has been involved in the implementation of restorative justice approaches to behaviour and relationship management. Other programs that support students include peer support, personal counselling, managed individual pathways and a comprehensive transition program.