St Helena Secondary College was established in 1984 in response to enrolment projections for the area and on the back of significant community support and political pressure. It was to be a new breed of secondary school combining the best of the high and tech school systems.
Foundation principal, Ken Cunningham, developed the vision for a comprehensive curriculum that would cater for all students. He planned for the development of a rapidly expanding school, which was just as well because within a few short years it was the largest in the district. It boasted modern facilities and equipment, designed to enhance the contemporary learning experience. Careful design meant that students with additional physical needs were also easily accommodated on the site.
The original relocatable complex was hastily constructed on the Caledonia Drive corner of the site in just three months following the purchase of 9.5 hectares of land by the Education Department on 2 November 1983.
The school opened its doors (one day late) in 1984, with 185 students and 18 teachers (appointed from 250 applications). Form groups of 20 were accommodated in 8 general purpose classrooms, 2 Science rooms, 1 Art/Craft room, 1 Woodwork room, administration and staff areas, the canteen and a toilet block. The Metalcraft room arrived later.
St Helena Secondary College is a co-educational state secondary school located in Eltham North, approximately 28 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD. The school’s commitment to fostering the growth and development of the whole child is led by principal, Karen Terry, her team of four assistant principals and nine leading teachers/learning specialist.
The population of approximately 1,500 students is organised into three mini schools: Junior (Year 7), Middle (Years 8-9) and Senior (Years 10-12). In these traditional, yet stimulating and nurturing environments, skilled professionals provide personalised learning experiences that maximise progress and inspire potential. Daring to be excellent positively influences the learning process and the ultimate outcome of being a learner in our community: accomplished, resilient and principled graduates who are equipped to succeed and contribute effectively as members of the global community in the digital age.
Student engagement is maximised through a broad range of programs including our large Music and Performing Arts programs, an extensive Camps program, House and student leadership involvement opportunities, community service, elite sporting pathways programs, and a range of clubs, all of which facilitate learning on every level.
Our College community thrives on a culture of connectedness – a key pre-condition for learning. This sense of belonging extends beyond students and staff to parents, community volunteers and alumni. It reflects the values perpetuated over the school’s rich 40-year history.