About our school

Hopetown is a School for Specific Purposes, supporting the needs of students (Yr 3-12) with mental health disorders and often other diagnoses, who are at risk of disengaging from school. Established in 1986, Hopetown acknowledges and respects the Darkinjung people who are the traditional owner of the rich wetlands and beautiful natural bush on which the school stands. We pay respect to the elders both past and present and actively support our emerging leaders of today.

The maximum student population is 56 students, this fluctuates through the year depending on placement panel offers. There are 11 teaching staff ranging from new graduates to more experienced staff, with 15 ancillary and support staff working as a team to provide students with an engaging, relevant and authentic individual educational programs. Emotional literacy is actively promoted and sits alongside mainstream and life skill curricula. We put students at the centre of our decision making, we are collaborative, empathetic and committed to ongoing improvement in our practice to ensure successful outcomes for all our students.

Classes have a maximum of 7 students, each with a teacher and School Learning Support Officer.

Hopetown provides a safe, structured and inclusive learning environment where every student is recognised and supported to achieve their full potential.

We work with families, carers and support staff to make a learning and wellbeing plan for each student. This means all students can learn in a way that suits them best.

Alongside our curriculum, students take part in programs that build skills in:

Our classrooms are set up to meet each student’s needs. We make sure students feel safe, respected and ready to learn in a way that suits them. Our staff are caring and are skilled to help students feel confident, connected and proud of who they are.

Aboriginal Education

The Department of Education’s partnership agreement with the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group, the “Walking Together, Working Together” 2020-2030, is acknowledged through the integration of Aboriginal Education across teaching and learning programs, extracurricular activities, ensuring that all students develop a sense of cultural awareness and working together.

We provide cultural leadership opportunities, camps and excursions, encourage our students to celebrate their heritage. All students who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander have a collaboratively developed Personalised Learning Pathway and families are encouraged to work closely with us on educational and cultural goals and outcomes. Hopetown is an active member of the Ngara AECG and works collaboratively with local supports and agencies for improved outcomes for our students.

Our school uses a placement process. Enrolment occurs through a formal referral. Families and schools can contact us if they think our school might be right for their child. To learn more, visit our enrolment enquiries page.