About Ringwood Secondary College

Our motto, ‘Culture and Service’, symbolises the ethos of our college. Proud of its parent involvement and encouraged by the excitement of student achievement and innovation, Ringwood Secondary College values the contribution of dedicated staff, enquiring students and supportive families.

Learning at Ringwood

Ringwood Secondary College is a vibrant learning community that celebrates achievement and recognises the unique learning needs of each individual. Students are encouraged, challenged and inspired to achieve their personal best.

Staff engage in regular professional development and mentor many student teachers. Technology supports an effective learning curriculum and enquiry-based research.

We offer VCE, VET and VCAL studies to our senior students. From classical studies to journalism, French to textiles, auto to engineering, English language to English as an additional language (EAL), music studies to specialist mathematics — student needs are a priority. All students access mobile learning devices in the form of laptops and iPads to support their learning.

Learning beyond the classroom

Musical choices include 16 bands and ensembles, singing groups, orchestra, and junior and senior musical productions. Other options include aerobics, global and Victorian performing arts tours, drama, debating, Tournament of Minds, a bike tour, year level trips, overseas tours, the debutante ball, peer support, homework clubs and tutor groups, community service and artist/musician/ scientist-in-residence programs.

The college also accepts fee-paying and exchange students, with sister schools in England, France and Thailand.

Student leadership resides in the junior and senior Student Representative Council, ambassadors, year level leaders and prefects with portfolios. Student voice is nurtured through programs such as cybersafety and Model United Nations.

International — global learning

Every three years a group travels the world — to the USA, Canada, England, the Netherlands, France, the Czech Republic and Thailand. We visited Borneo, Greece and Italy in 2011 and depart again in 2013. Our International Program encompasses feepaying students and exchange visitors and students, and our Bridging Program caters for refugee students from Burma. We travel to and regularly host sister schools in France and Thailand.

Recognition and commitment

Year 9 key staff plan a cohesive program called CHALLEN9E that is directed to themes of courage, tolerance and respect.

Collaboration occurs each Wednesday, with guest speakers, activities and excursions. A three-day camp challenges student resilience and fosters team awareness. The City Project develops curiosity and research skills. This year’s program will embody our college values of courtesy, confidence, culture and character.

Recognition and participation also exist in the sports arena. Swimming and athletics see Ringwood at the forefront, as does cross country. We also delight in our equestrian and aerobic teams. Trips to Central Australia and Queensland foster positive relationships.

The annual bike tour provides an energetic event for the middle school and staff. Year 7 Transition networks families and provides an integrated range of events to build a community.

Parents and community

Parent forums encompass the College Council and its subcommittees: the Ladies Auxiliary, Heritage Group, PCTA, Music Association and Extra P’Arts. These groups support all facets of college life and assist with fundraising whilst providing links to the community.

Our Sporting Hall of Fame, Science Hall of Excellence and Arts Hall of Achievement are complemented by the Heritage Hall in recognising present and past student achievement. Our quilts, murals, sculpture and Ringwood Recalls reflect the school’s spirit. We also recognise staff who have given 20 years of service to the college.

Ringwood Secondary College believes in inclusion, works collaboratively and encourages students to think creatively, act compassionately and engage enthusiastically to achieve their personal best. We sincerely credit our staff for their loyalty and endeavours.

Season of Excellence

Our academic outcomes are sound and in recent years our students have been regularly selected for VCAA Top Arts, Top Screen, Top Designs and Top Acts. Their work is recognised as being among the best in the state.

Academic Scholarship

For entry into Year 7. Awarded for merit and potential to contribute to college life. Based on an interview.

Arts Scholarship

For entry into Years 7 to 12. Awarded for merit and potential to contribute to college life. Based on an interview.

Sport Scholarship

For entry into Year 7. Awarded for merit and potential to contribute to college life. Based on an interview.