Springwood High School was built in 1967 to relieve overcrowding at Katoomba High and Nepean High schools. Springwood High School’s original six building plan was constructed in three stages at a cost of A$1.2 million. The first classes for the 124 students and nine teachers were held at Penrith in February 1967. The school was ready for occupation in September 1967. The school's population swelled to more than 1600 students before Blaxland High School opened in 1977.[1]
Campus description
The school is made up of four blocks, named Jackson, Chapman, Martin and Moore. They are named after four local historic figures. There is also a canteen, and a hall which is often used by other parts of the community.
The school has two ovals and a grassy slope, an upper oval for soccer and football, and a lower oval for general use as well as for field hockey. Nathan Bracken opened the new cricket nets in 2009.
School colours
The school colours are green, black and white for juniors (Years 7–10) and grey, black and white for seniors (Years 11 and 12). The PE and Sport uniform is a dark green shirt with the school logo and black shorts. The uniform, which is more of a dress code, allows students to express themselves in different ways while still adhering to the form and practicality that is the black and white. This allows students to maintain an identity while still creating identifiable attire.
School administration
Springwood High School's principal, Stewart Harvey (B.Ed) The school's Deputy Principal (Years 8, 10 and Senior Year 2) is Susan Fisher, (B.Ed.) The school's other Deputy Principal (Years 7, 9 and Senior Year 1) is Linda Driscoll, (B.Ed.)
School events
Highlights of the school calendar include annual Swimming, Athletics and Cross Country carnivals and an Expo Day for Year 6 students. The Art Show is an annual fundraiser organised by the P&C which attracts many people each year to view and purchase local artworks.
The arts
The school has a theatre company, composed of past and present students (SHSTC), which performs plays each year. However, complications from the COVID-19 pandemic have led to delays with several of the company's operations.
Accolades
The school's main outlet of recognition for achievements, academic or otherwise, is the annual presentation night. An award is handed out each year at the annual presentation night called the "Decade Award", to recognise the achievements of alumni.
In the 2004 NSW High School Certificate (HSC), 24 Springwood High School students were distinguished achievers (reached Band 6 standard by achieving a mark for 90 or more for a course.) This was compared to only 16 from nearby Winmalee High School, and 13 from Blaxland High School.
Springwood High received the 'Director-General's School Achievement Award' in 2002 in recognition of its achievements over its 14-year history. It was labelled "a symbol of the achievements of quality public education".
