Norwood Secondary College, established in 1958, strongly supports traditional values, a well-developed work ethic and an expectation of politeness and good behaviour. Staff members interact with students in an environment of mutual respect and courtesy. Classes are well organised, purposeful and effectively conducted by committed, experienced and professional staff. The college offers a caring and supportive environment in which effective learning can take place. The curricular activities are designed to meet the individual needs and abilities of the students. Uniform is compulsory.
Facilities: The college is well equipped for the teaching of specialist subjects as well as traditional subjects. There are four classrooms of computers and the college has implemented a laptop computer program for students from Year 7 to 11. The school’s 35 electronic whiteboards enhance teaching and student engagement. Specialist facilities are provided for science, electronics, food technology, art, woodwork, metalwork and photography. Year 9 students have a specialist area for their studies. Sporting facilities include multi-purpose courts, an oval and gymnasium facilities. A performing arts wing has facilities for drama and music.
Curriculum: With the aim of developing successful learners, confident and creative individuals and active and informed citizens, a comprehensive 7 to 10 AusVELs curriculum is offered covering domains including: Mathematics, Science, English, History, Physical Education, LOTE, Music, Information Technology, Material Technology, Arts, and Physical Education. The college offers a select entry enrichment program from Year 7 to 10 and a core and elective program within the Year 9 and 10 Curriculum. Year 9 students enjoy a range of off campus activities including a City Project and Summit Camp. Year 10 students can undertake a VCE or VET course and VCAL programs are available to students in Years 11 and 12. To support personal development, a mentoring program operates in Year Level groups from Years 7 to 9, whilst the Senior Years, 10 to 12 program operates across Year Levels.
Sport: A full range of sports is offered and students are encouraged to participate in inter-school competitions.
Extra-curricular activities: Extra-curricular and enrichment programs are offered to engage students in areas such as leadership, peer support, debating, school productions and an enthusiastic music program. Active school captains and prefects operate a range of committees, and many other leadership opportunities are offered to the student leaders from each Year Level. Students can participate in school camps, excursions, and competitions, as well as enjoy the benefits of homework club.
Student welfare programs: Welfare is given a strong emphasis at Norwood, with formal structures including year-level managers and corrdinators, Assistant Principals overseeing our two sub-schools (Junior and Senior) , careers counsellor, student welfare co-ordinator, a chaplain and a first aid officer. A Staff Mentor is allocated to each student and the mentor is responsible for Individual needs of all students are acknowledged and addressed. Student leadership is encouraged through a prefect system, Student Representative Council, a house system, sporting teams and the peer support program. Student contributions and achievements are valued and acknowledged, as is parent involvement.