The College opened on its present site in 1955 and is nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by rolling red gum hills. The Glenelg River meanders through the township. Casterton is 353km. west of Melbourne and is approximately 70 km. from Hamilton and Mt. Gambier. Casterton Secondary College services the needs and provides opportunities for the people of Strathdownie, Dergholm, Coleraine, Merino and Casterton.
Enrolment and Demographics
Casterton Secondary College is a single campus, Year 7 - 12 school. The 2024 projected enrolment is 111 students. Our students come predominantly from rural or related backgrounds; there are low levels of students born overseas and very few students of Koori background.
We currently have 13 teaching staff (including the Principal Class), with part-time staff this equates to 12 effective fulltime positions. There are 10 non-teaching staff including Integration Aides and we have a school doctor and nurse.
Educational
Students at Years 7 to 10 study a core curriculum of English, Maths, Humanities, Science, PE/Health, Science, Agriculture/Horticulture, Technologies and Art.
Year 11 and 12 students select individual pathways.
The College makes every effort to provide a broad range of choices at VCE level, including access to subjects via the Virtual School. In addition to a large offering of VCE subjects, VCE Vocational Major and Victorian Pathways Certificate also operate. Additionally, we have an SBA and SWL student stream.
Students benefit from the educational experiences on the adjacent 16-hectare school farm which runs sheep and cattle. They also participate in applied learning programs such as oenology, aquaculture, viticulture, and produce both glasshouse and hydroponically grown vegetables and herbs. Information can be sourced from our website www.castertonsc.vic.edu.au
The College offers a wide range of extension and enrichment programs including an instrumental music program and sport. Students participate in a range of competitions including subject competitions.
Technology
The College has two rooms of computers and a ratio of one computer to one student which includes a combination of three trolleys of netbooks, i-pads and desk top computers. The school Intranet provides storage and pick up facilities for all students and staff. Wireless connectivity enables all staff to access the network and the internet from anywhere in the school. Smart Televisions are installed in all classrooms.
Environmental- grounds and facilities
The College grounds are extensive and well maintained providing an inviting environment to the College community and visitors. Sporting facilities include a multipurpose stadium, ovals, a covered passive recreation area and cricket nets.
Students also have access to outdoor gym equipment (five stations) as part of a soon to be developed walking trail.
State-of-the arts technology facilities and equipment (including a drone, plasma cutter etc.) supports students to study a wide range of subjects including Product Design Technology in Wood and Metal and Food Technology.
The music centre allows students to gain one on one, and small group instruction in a range of instruments.