A culture of high expectations has helped Trangie Central School increase enrolments and seen students successfully complete the HSC, with nine students from last year’s cohort now studying at university.

Eleven years ago no students were studying for the HSC and enrolments across the school were half of what they are now.

Anne Holden, principal at Trangie Central School, spoke with Secretary Mark Scott on the What works best podcast about their values-driven approach to high expectations for all students.

“Our expectations for every student are the same – they are equally high,” Ms Holden said.

Additional supports for students are increased where needed to ensure that every student feels equal because “the expectation is equal”.

“It’s important because students have a right to a good education. If we don’t expect a lot of them, then they don’t expect a lot of themselves,” Ms Holden said.

School staff work as a team to clearly communicate expectations, underpinned by the values of integrity, acceptance and kindness, to students, parents and carers building trust within the small community.

Year 12 student Stacey said the school prepares students for future success, with teachers constantly encouraging them to do their best and students rewarded with extracurricular activities for their focus and effort.

The school uses an ACE score (Attitude, Commitment and Effort) to motivate and challenge students to increase their score which is calculated twice a term.

“Trangie Central is more than just a school. It has so many different things to offer each individual,” Stacey said.

“It’s easy to stay focused because I’m surrounded by teachers who have a passion for what they are doing and I have the tools to succeed.”

Listen to the full conversation with Trangie Central School on the What works best podcast from CESE.

Resources are available online for teachers to explore the What works best themes in more detail.