Dimensions of Learning
One key to developing our students’ love of learning is Harristown State High School’s Dimensions of Learning Framework. Developed from educational research, this school wide program encourages students and staff to develop and share a common language and understanding of the learning process.
Underpinning the framework is our Student Code of Conduct which gives students the understanding of how better behaviour enhances their learning and their enjoyment of learning.
A Caring and Supportive School
All students at Harristown State High School belong to a form class which meets briefly with their form teacher each morning for roll marking, sharing student notices, passing on individual messages and pastoral care. Subject Teachers are the first contact for students with inquiries regarding their studies. Students also have the option of speaking with their Year Coordinators, Head of Department, Positive Behaviour Coach or House Deputy Principal.
To provide extra assistance or advice when needed, Harristown State High has a range of personnel available for students, including a Positive Behaviour Coach, a Guidance Officer, a Community Education Counsellor, a School Chaplain, a School-based Youth Health Nurse, a Police Liaison Officer, dedicated Special Education Program staff and Youth Support Coordinators.
Harristown successfully balances the benefits of being a large school with our aim of personalising each student’s learning experience by having four mini-schools (or houses) each with its own Positive Behaviour Coach and Deputy Principal. Students remain with their house for the years they are at Harristown State High, and house activities form an important part of school life.
Diversity of Cultures
Our school takes pride in including students and teachers from more than 40 countries; a diversity of cultures which enriches the school community and students’ experiences in their learning years.
Unique Mini School Structure
Our four houses are likened to family groups, and carry the names Balkuin, Barang, Bonda and Dherwain.
Students are allocated to a house based on the inital letter of their surname and once in a house, students remain in that house until they graduate.
As a family group, each house has a Deputy Principal and Positive Behaviour Coach, as well as a group of form teachers who build close working relationships with our students and their families. These relationships grow and develop over the course of students' secondary schooling here at Harristown.