Tempe High, with its international reputation for work in literacy, aims to deliver an excellent comprehensive education in all areas. The school provides a stimulating learning environment focused on student needs. Academic excellence is highly promoted and the school is committed to encouraging students to participate and excel in a broad range of learning activities including cultural, sporting and social. The school has been declared a centre of excellence in multicultural education, and has also received the Director General’s State Award for School Achievement in 1994 and 2000. In 1996 the school was named by the Department of School Education as one of the top 25 schools in NSW.
Facilities: Four dedicated computer rooms, modern computerised library, film production facilities, sports field, basketball courts, gymnasium/assembly hall, student study centre, state-of-the-art student cafeteria, specialist rooms for languages, CAD, graphics, hospitality, design and technology.
Electives Years 7 to 10: The school offers a uniquely broad and flexible curriculum in all the Key Learning Areas. Also, a wide range of elective courses provide the students with enriching and diverse learning opportunities.
Electives Years 11 and 12: The curriculum offers a large range of subjects leading to further academic study, TAFE study and employment in the workplace. There is a wide choice of subjects within the Key Learning Areas, as well as a range of Vocational Education Training courses in the Computing, and Hospitality areas. TVET Courses at TAFE, distance education, and Saturday School are also offered.
A full range of languages is offered in the Senior School. Quality learning for students is emphasised through the constant refinement of best practice in classroom teaching, integration of effective teaching through use of technology and excellent teaching programs developed by experienced and dedicated teachers.
Sport: Grade sport is available for Years 7 and 8, providing the opportunity for students to compete with other schools. Also, in Years 9, 10 and 11 an integrated sports program ensures that all students receive quality skill development and training.
Extracurricular activities: Regular student-run assemblies provide a forum for public speaking, music and dance performances. The school also offers debating, dramatic or musical production, video, computing, annual talent quest concerts, and a multicultural day.
Welfare and personal development: With strong parent and community support, the school has developed a dress code that offers students a range of clothing that may be worn to provide an attractive school uniform. A comprehensive discipline and welfare policy works in conjunction with an extensive support network. Peer support, an active student council, gifted and talented programs, assistance for students with learning difficulties, and support for students from non-English-speaking backgrounds are offered.
Special features: There is high academic success and students are regularly placed in HSC merit lists. Other features include the vitality of the diverse student population, multicultural highlights throughout the year, a community responsibility program featuring community work and strong links, and special programs with a range of primary schools.
Famous ex-students: Col Joye and Bobby Simpson.