School organisation and structure
The organisation of Wakefield School is based on a middle school model catering for students in Years 5 to 10 range. The total full time enrolment of the school is 35 students.
The school has five classes. Two of these classes are for our juniors (Years 5 - 6) and three of these classes are for our seniors (Years 7 - 10). All Year 6 students will exit Wakefield and begin Year 7 in their home school. Students in Years 7 - 10 may return to their home school but also have the opportunity to become work ready and move to TAFE, other educational facilities or into the workplace.
Our junior students attend Wakefield School for 4 days per week and their home school for 1 day per week, increasing days at their home school as the year progresses. Most of our senior students have a 5 day program but some also attend their home school. Wakefield School commences classes at 9:00am and finishes at 2:00pm.
Actual days of attendance are negotiated between the home school, parents and Wakefield School dependant upon the needs of the child and existing vacancies.
Each class will aim to support students to continue their regular studies whilst creating a focus on literacy, numeracy and social skills outcomes.
Key learning areas
Curriculum Areas for years 5 to 10:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science & Technology
- Human Society & Its Environment
- Creative & Practical Arts
- Personal Development, Health & Physical Education
- Social Skills
- Music
Classes
Wakefield school is organised into classes, two junior class and three senior classes. Each class receives support by an allocation of SLSO time. All students are provided with intensive behavioural support in a structured and supportive classroom environment. Programs focus on KLA's with particular emphasis on literacy, mathematics, living and social skill development.
Individual transition programs are developed for students when returning to their home school and those transitioning from Year 6 to 7.
School times and breaks
- Students arrive at school - 9am
- Morning assembly - 9:10am to 9:20am
- Session 1 - 9:20am to 11am
- Recess 1 - 11am to 11:30am
- Session 2 - 11:30am to 12:45am
- Recess 2 - 12:45am to 1:15pm
- Session 3 - 1:15am to 2pm
- Home - 2pm
*As many of our students are on taxi transport and travel some distance to school from throughout the Hunter Region, school finishes each day at 2.00pm in order to allow these students to be home by regular school finishing time of 3.00pm.
Student Progress and Achievement
- Reporting to Parents - Written reports are sent home at the end of Semester 1 and 2. These reports provide an indication of student achievement as assessed and noted by class teachers. Students will also receive a report from their home school.
- Communication - Wakefield School prides itself on effective communication wih all stakeholders. Teachers strive to contact parent/carers, home schools and other relevant personnel at least weekly to advise on student progress. This is usually done either by phone, fax, email or mail.