Karoonda Area School, the first area school in South Australia, prides itself on its positive ethos. They believe all students have the right to gain a broad and balanced education that encourages personal development and prepares them for participation in society. As a school they seek to strive for excellence, enact principles of social justice, provide a secure setting, foster cooperation and involve the community.
The school values of Respect, Honesty and Success are promoted and upheld by all members of the school community. Students from Reception-Year 7 study eight curriculum areas with Indonesian being taught from Reception-Year 10. Secondary students have access to a wide-ranging curriculum. Programs are tailored to suit the needs of individual students, and include vocational and educational training, school-based apprenticeships, University and TAFE pathways.
Lessons are delivered through face-to-face teaching, Open Access and ICT. The school’s farm supports the agriculture program that involves sheep, poultry, cropping and fruit growing on a small scale. Other specialist areas are Home Economics, Technical Studies, Art and Physical Education.
Facilities: Grounds committee, reverse cycle split system heating and cooling units, indoor sporting fixtures, school/community library, swimming pool, Little Athletics programme, Community Education, canteen.
Subjects/Electives Years 7 to 10: Home Economics and Agriculture.
Electives Years 11 and 12: SACE subjects, VET courses, Australian School Based Apprenticeships, Open Access.
Sport: Swimming and athletics, SAPSASA and SSSSA competitions. These include swimming, cricket, football, softball, golf, tennis, netball, basketball.
Extracurricular activities: Special Karoonda Farm, Arts Showcase, Presentation Night.
Welfare and personal development: Pastoral Care Class career, counselling and general student counselling.
Special features: Early Intervention and an Independent Learning Program.