The Central Coast Steiner School secondary program (Years 7-10) prepares students to find their connection to the world and to flourish. Central to the design and focus of all that we do in Years 7-10 is to awaken the potential of our students. Within each individual, there is the potential to create a future filled with meaning and purpose. Our students respond positively to inspiring ideals that provide them with inner sustenance for their life’s journey.

A consistent observation about our graduating students is that they are confident and creative young adults, with a genuine love for learning. Our approach to teaching and learning challenges the students to actively engage with the Australian Curriculum for NSW. The lessons are shaped to incorporate key 21st century skills such as collaboration, communication, problem-solving and critical thinking.

At the same time, an integrated artistic approach to study enlivens the learning content and brings human connection to all subjects. It is not unusual to find our students meticulously creating beautiful mathematical drawings to prove a law, or using drama to bring their historical understandings to life.

Central Coast Steiner School’s secondary school teachers are committed partners in the learning paths of our students. They balance high expectations of every emerging adult with the support and guidance needed in Years 7-10. The personalised structure of our high school allows teachers to really get to know the students – their strengths and challenges. A holistic understanding of the adolescent and how best to meet their needs is fundamental in our approach to teaching.

Within our beautiful, natural high school grounds we have purpose-built facilities including a laboratory, art studio, sports hall, teaching kitchen, performance stage, a well-resourced library, as well as adaptive classrooms. Our new development, completed in 2022, includes three additional flexible learning spaces and an auditorium to seat 180 people.

Students engage in all mandatory curriculum subjects in Stage 4 (Years 7-8) to develop a broad and solid basis for their future choices. The ‘Tobias Project’ in Year 8 is an opportunity for our students to apply their learning in areas they are passionate about to real world contexts, with the support of a personal mentor. Elective subjects in Stage 5 include artistic subjects such as Drama, Visual Arts and Music. Technology electives include Marine and Aquaculture Technology, Photographic and Digital Media and Food Technology.

Great importance is placed on nurturing student wellbeing. Recess and lunch times are technology-free so that students can be physically active and enjoy each other’s company. We incorporate vertical ‘house’ structures into our high school so that a sense of community and connection across Years 7-10 is in place. Students are supported in caring relationships and experience a sense of real belonging. We encourage students to be their authentic selves, take responsibility for their future and to step up to a range of leadership opportunities. Scholarship opportunities are offered each year for students entering Year 7.

An important component of our students’ journey at our school is our ‘service learning’ opportunities. We seek opportunities where our students can contribute to others and make a positive impact. This may include environmental initiatives, such as river clean-up or bush regeneration. Our Year 9 students have received exceptional feedback from their work with people with disabilities. In the past, our Year 10 program has included a trip to Cambodia. This has been a profoundly formative experience that has enhanced a sense of compassion and deep gratitude. Recent years have seen us move to experiences within Australia. Our high school offers students an optimistic worldview so that they can be active contributors to a more just, sustainable future.