The heart and soul of a school are its people—a place where the staff’s dedication transforms the educational experience into something truly exceptional. Educational institutes are not defined by grand buildings but by the boundless energy of their staff. Every teacher, youth support coordinator and year-level coach approaches their role with a mission—to harness student potential. It’s a place where students are inspired, nurtured and challenged to become the best versions of themselves.
At William Ross State High School, this philosophy is brought to life through the remarkable commitment and professionalism of its staff. From the welcoming front office personnel to the meticulous grounds staff, dedicated teacher aides and insightful guidance officers, every member of the team is passionate, creative and professional. They are the driving force behind the school’s unique environment.
In a domain where all schools offer extracurricular activities and adhere to Curriculum Guidelines, William Ross SHS distinguishes itself through its people. The staff’s dedication ensures that working together to ‘Make a Difference’ is not just a motto but a lived reality. This collective commitment provides unparalleled support and guidance to students, making the school an enriching place for education.
Recognized as a high honour Independent Public School, William Ross SHS exemplifies how a committed team can elevate the learning experience. Here, the strength and professionalism of the staff create an unmatched educational community, where every student is given the opportunity to thrive.
Putting Students First
At William Ross SHS, students are the heart of everything they do, particularly evident in the innovative HUB. This multi-disciplinary space integrates library resources, classrooms, the Flexi-Space, and the Year Level Coaches (YLCs) alongside the Student Support Service Team (SSST).
- Versatile and Collaborative Space: It serves a variety of purposes, from social interactions to planned appointments, ensuring students have access to the resources and support they need throughout the day.
- Strengths-based Approach: The school’s commitment to a strengths-based Functional Approach to Behaviour Support has been instrumental in their success. Regular reviews and a collaborative effort with the SSST ensure students receive personalized support when they need it.
- Supportive Community: Every student has access to a network of support champions and a ‘village’ of caring professionals dedicated to their success. This approach ensures that each student feels supported and valued in their educational journey.
Excellence in Education
At William Ross SHS, the Leading Learner Program focuses on core subjects (English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities), nurturing advanced cognitive abilities and higher-order thinking skills.
Classes are designed to challenge students with rigorous, enriching content, fostering academic excellence and independent study skills. The program prepares students to meet the demands of higher education and beyond, emphasizing exceptional educational outcomes within a structured, supportive environment.
Unleashing Musical Potential
At William Ross SHS, the Instrumental Music programs are a cornerstone of artistic development, offering students diverse opportunities to explore and expand their musical talents. From exclusive workshops to instrumental tuition and a variety of performances, students are immersed in a rich musical environment that aims to inspire and transform lives.
Nurturing Musical Passion
Whether a beginner or advanced musician, students benefit from dedicated teachers who nurture their passion and guide them towards achieving their full potential. The school offers a wide array of instruments and programs including Keyboard, Strings, Brass, Woodwind, Percussion, Guitar, and Vocal, ensuring that every student finds their musical niche.
Ensemble Excellence
Led by qualified music staff, students participate in ensembles such as Strings Orchestra, Concert Band, Marching Band, Jazz Band, Rock Band, Guitar Ensemble, and Choir, exploring a diverse repertoire. They showcase their talents at events like Creative Generation Fanfare, Eisteddfod, School Productions, and other school-based events. William Ross SHS invites students to embark on a musical journey that enhances their abilities and fosters a lifelong love for music.
Support for Diverse Learning Needs
William Ross SHS is dedicated to inclusive education, ensuring that every student, regardless of their needs, receives a high-quality education tailored to their strengths and interests. The school prides itself on building strong relationships with students and implementing targeted strategies to engage and motivate them throughout their schooling.
Comprehensive Support Framework
The school’s inclusive ethos is supported by a highly skilled team of inclusion teachers who coordinate support for students with additional needs. These teachers work closely with families, department support personnel and external providers to ensure that necessary adjustments are made for every student to achieve success. A large team of quality teacher aides supports teachers and students in classrooms, fostering a collegial environment where information and strategies are shared regularly to better support students.
Professional Development and Leadership
Staff members attend regular professional development sessions to enhance their capabilities in working with students with disabilities. The supportive leadership team provides resources and professional learning opportunities to ensure a collaborative approach in meeting student needs. The school’s facilities are designed to be accessible to all students, accommodating their physical needs.
Specialized Support for Diverse Needs
In addition to teacher aides, the school employs Educational Interpreters and Auslan Language Modellers to support students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH). Staff members are also undertaking AUSLAN Language courses to improve communication with these students.
Personalized Learning Plans
William Ross SHS implements Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and Personalized Learning Plans (PLPs) to cater to students with diverse needs, ensuring significant differentiation and personalized support in their learning journey.
Proactive Approach
The school takes a proactive stance in building relationships with students and employing targeted strategies to ensure each student receives a high-quality education that meets their individual needs. William Ross SHS is committed to providing a supportive and enriching environment where all students can thrive and succeed.
Fostering Physical and Social Development
The RHINOS Sports Academy at William Ross SHS offers students opportunities in Rugby League, Netball and Touch Football.
In addition to physical conditioning and sport-specific training, the program enhances social and emotional skills such as self-regulation and interpersonal relationships. These skills contribute positively to student behaviour and attentiveness in the classroom, making the academy a holistic approach to student development.
21st Century Learning
The STEAM Academy at William Ross SHS is a visionary 21st-century initiative aimed at equipping students with the skills to collaboratively, creatively and critically solve real-world problems. More than a school initiative, STEAM education is a national imperative, preparing students for the future ahead.
Aligned with the Australian Curriculum, the academy integrates Science, Mathematics, Technologies, Engineering, and The Arts. Students engage in masterclasses that cultivate their ability to creatively tackle authentic, real-life challenges. This holistic approach ensures students are prepared to thrive in ever-changing fields, making the STEAM Academy a cornerstone of modern education at William Ross SHS.
Comprehensive Tertiary Entrance Support
At William Ross SHS, supporting students aiming for tertiary entrance is a priority. From Year 7 to 12, students participate in Academic Reviews where they discuss their results, identify barriers to success and develop strategies for improvement. This process aligns with SET Planning in Year 10, where students choose subjects for Years 11 and 12 based on their career pathway.
Sustained Academic Support
In Year 10, students attend the Townsville Career Expo to meet university representatives and gather information on degrees, ATAR requirements and preferred subjects. They also attend subject information evenings to speak with specialists about subject offerings and how these contribute to tertiary entrance.
Throughout Years 11 and 12, students receive continued support through academic reviews and tutorials offered by General subject teachers. Mock exams in Term 3 of Year 12 simulate external exams, providing valuable feedback to better prepare students for final assessments.
Preparing for the Future
Students gain real-world experience through Work Experience in their chosen field and attend University Open Days. They are also supported in applying for residential programs offered by universities to gain insight into university life.
William Ross SHS’s comprehensive support systems ensure that students are well-equipped to achieve their academic goals and successfully gain tertiary entrance, preparing them for their future endeavors.
Vocational Pathways
William Ross SHS offers a variety of vocational education and training (VET) options for students interested in pursuing a vocational pathway.
Senior VET Programs
In Year 10, students can enrol in the Certificate I in Automotive Technology, an entry-level qualification exploring the automotive sector. Students are also supported to apply for the Try a Trade Program by Queensland TAFE, offering a six-week introduction to various trades.
Senior VET Courses
Senior students can choose specialized VET courses that provide industry pathways, delivered by expert facilitators who maintain industry currency. Courses include:
- Certificate II in Hospitality
- Certificate I and II in Construction Pathways
- Certificate II in Engineering Pathways
- Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
- Certificate III in Business
- Certificate II in Health Support Services and Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
Some courses are delivered in collaboration with external providers, ensuring students receive qualifications enabling entry into the workforce upon completing Year 12.
TAFE at School Program
Students in Year 11 and 12 can apply for the TAFE at School program, attending TAFE one day a week to complete additional certificates not offered at the school.
School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships
Students are encouraged to undertake school-based apprenticeships or traineeships alongside their senior subjects. Timetables are adjusted to accommodate traineeships, enabling students to complete theoretical certificate components.
The school supports students in exploring and preparing for their chosen vocational pathways, ensuring they are well-equipped for future career opportunities.
Aquaponics Integration
Aquaponics at William Ross SHS is more than just a system; it’s an integrated part of the curriculum that enriches students’ learning experiences and prepares them for future opportunities in the growing aquaculture industry.
Aquaculture is a rapidly growing sustainable food industry, with significant job growth predicted due to population increases. The Aquaculture facility, featuring multiple freshwater and saltwater systems, provides experiential learning opportunities aligned with industry standards. Students gain practical skills in system maintenance, water quality management and fish husbandry fostering critical thinking, problem-solving and collaboration.
Curriculum Objectives
Aligned with Year 11/12 Science and Aquatic Practices, students learn:
- Setup, maintenance and management of aquaculture and aquaponics systems.
- Operational strategies and workplace health and safety practices.
- Scientific investigations into fish and plant growth rates in various environments.
STEAM Integration
The facility also supports STEAM initiatives, inspiring students to undertake independent research projects focused on sustainability. Topics include coral health, water quality and bioremediation using seaweed. Through these projects, students engage in critical thinking and problem-solving linked to real-world sustainability issues.
Community and Career Connections
Students collaborate with community partners, potentially future employers, enhancing their understanding of industry practices and career pathways. This real-world engagement enriches their educational experience and prepares them for successful futures in aquaculture and related STEAM fields.
William Ross SHS’s Aquaponics program ensures students receive a comprehensive education that is both practical and aligned with industry standards, preparing them to excel in a rapidly growing and vital sector.
Opening Doors to Global Education
William Ross SHS, as an Internationally Accredited CRICOS school, ensures a world of opportunities for its educational community. This accreditation guarantees quality education for international students, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
By welcoming students from various cultural backgrounds, the school enriches its community with different perspectives and experiences, promoting cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.
CRICOS accreditation enhances the school’s global reputation and provides students access to a wide range of educational resources and programs. This prepares them for success in an interconnected world, broadening their horizons and nurturing their growth in a globally competitive environment.
Honors and Achievements
The commitment to excellence and innovation in education is reflected in the numerous accolades and awards we have garnered over the years.
- 2019 Peter Doherty Award: Recognized for outstanding contributions to the teaching of science.
- 2020 National Excellence in Teaching Awards – Shelley DeRuyter: Honoring exceptional teaching practices and commitment.
- 2020 Queensland Teachers’ Union Showcase Award for Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education: Celebrating excellence in education for Indigenous students.
- 2021 Queensland Pedal Prix Super Series – State Winners – Senior Girls: Demonstrating superior skills and teamwork in competitive cycling.
- 2021 Queensland Pedal Prix Super Series – State Winners – Senior Boys: Another testament to our prowess in the Pedal Prix competition.
- 2021 Regional Commendation The QSuper Showcase Award for Excellence in Secondary Years, North Queensland Beginning Teacher Program: Recognizing innovative programs for beginning teachers.
- 2022 ATSIAP Commercial Category Team Winners: Winning the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aspirations Program’s commercial category.
- 2022 ATSIAP Quiz Category First Runner Up: Securing a commendable position in the quiz category of the ATSIAP.
- 2022 Townsville Eisteddfod 3rd Concert Band B Grade: Showcasing our musical talent with a third-place finish.
- 2022 Townsville Science and Engineering Challenge Champion School: Demonstrating outstanding skills in science and engineering.
- 2022 Optiminds Regional Winners: Excelling in problem-solving and creative thinking.
- 2023 Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art – Regional Encouragement Award: Recognizing artistic talent and creativity among our students.
- 2023 Queensland Pedal Prix Super Series – State Winners – Senior Girls: Reaffirming our dominance in the Pedal Prix Super Series.
These achievements reflect the school’s vibrant culture of learning, creativity and competitive spirit. “We take immense pride in these accomplishments and remain committed to nurturing the talents and potential of all our students.”
