High School
Academic Depth, Independence and Purpose
High School at Orana Steiner School provides a structured and academically rigorous education for students in Years 7-10. Guided by the educational philosophy of Dr Rudolf Steiner and aligned with the Australian Curriculum, students deepen their knowledge across a broad range of subjects while developing independence, critical thinking and the confidence to navigate an increasingly complex world.
Rather than simply preparing students for examinations, our approach develops capable learners who can think deeply, communicate effectively, solve problems and apply their knowledge with purpose. Students are encouraged to take increasing responsibility for their learning while being supported academically, socially and personally during these important adolescent years.
What Makes High School at Orana Unique?
Students benefit from an engaging and balanced education that includes:
- Australian Curriculum delivered by specialist subject teachers
- Extended Main Lesson blocks that encourage deep understanding and sustained focus
- Every student is known and supported
- Dedicated Teacher Guardians providing personalised academic and wellbeing support
- Specialist learning across sciences, humanities, mathematics, languages, IT, PE, health, music, visual arts and practical arts
- Outdoor education, camps and experiential learning
- School-wide sporting traditions including Swimming, Athletics and Cross Country Carnivals
- A balanced approach to technology that supports learning while encouraging focus, creativity and meaningful human connection
Learning in Action
Students engage in a broad and challenging curriculum designed to prepare them for Senior College and beyond. Learning includes:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Languages
- IT
- Music
- Visual Arts
- Design and Practical Arts
- Physical Education
- Health
- Food Technology
- Outdoor Education, Camps, excursions and field studies
Students are encouraged to investigate ideas, ask thoughtful questions, collaborate with others and develop confidence in communicating their thinking. Learning is purposeful, engaging and increasingly specialised as students progress through High School.
Growing Independent Learners
Adolescence is a time of significant growth, responsibility and self-discovery.
At Orana, students gradually develop the habits and skills that prepare them for future success while continuing to feel supported and known as individuals.
Students learn to:
- Think critically and solve problems
- Develop organisation and effective study habits
- Work independently and collaboratively
- Communicate confidently through discussion, presentations and written work
- Reflect on their learning and set personal goals
- Build resilience, responsibility and self-confidence
Assessment includes written assignments, research projects, practical investigations, creative tasks, presentations and formal assessments where appropriate, preparing students for the expectations of Senior College.
Preparing for Senior College
By the end of Year 10, students have developed the academic foundations, study habits and personal confidence needed to transition successfully into Senior College.
Students leave High School with:
- Strong academic foundations across the Australian Curriculum
- Critical and creative thinking skills
- Confidence in communication and collaboration
- Increasing independence and self-management
- Leadership experience and resilience
- A genuine curiosity and lifelong love of learning
We warmly invite families to visit our High School and experience the difference of a Steiner Education.
Further Information
High School at a Glance
✔ Australian Curriculum aligned
✔ Specialist teachers across all learning areas
✔ Strong NAPLAN performance
✔ Smaller class sizes where students are not just a number
✔ Dedicated Teacher Guardian throughout Years 7–12
✔ Outdoor education, camps and experiential learning
✔ Comprehensive music, visual arts and practical workshop learning program
✔ Strong pathway into Senior College
✔ Part of an independent whole school community from Early Childhood to Year 12
NAPLAN Results
National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) results provide one measure of student achievement and academic progress. At Orana, recent results have consistently demonstrated strong above average outcomes. Students regularly achieve at or above the Australian averages across literacy and numeracy domains.
We believe academic success is built through high expectations, personalised support and a genuine love of learning. Helping prepare students with the confidence and skills they need for Senior College and beyond.
The Main Lesson
The Main Lesson is a distinctive feature of Steiner education and remains an important part of Steiner schooling.
Each morning begins with an extended learning block where students explore significant academic concepts in depth over several weeks. Rather than moving rapidly between multiple subjects, students have the time to investigate ideas thoroughly, make meaningful connections and develop a deeper understanding of complex topics.
Combined with specialist subject teaching throughout the day, this approach strengthens conceptual understanding, analytical thinking and long-term retention of knowledge.
Teacher Guardians
Every student in Years 7–12 is supported by a dedicated Teacher Guardian who provides continuity of care, guidance and encouragement throughout their High School and Senior College journey.
The Guardian develops a strong relationship with each student and serves as the primary link between school and home, working closely with families, teachers and Leadership to support each student's academic progress, wellbeing and personal development.
The Guardian Program helps students to thrive by providing:
- A trusted adult who knows each student
- Regular academic and wellbeing check-ins and support
- Guidance with organisation, study skills and goal setting
- Early identification of learning or wellbeing concerns
- Strong partnerships between home and school
- Opportunities to develop leadership, resilience and responsibility
- A sense of belonging within the school community
The Guardian Program reflects Orana's commitment to ensuring every student feels known, valued and academically supported throughout their education.
High School Curriculum
Read more on the High School Curriculum we follow via Steiner Education Australia
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Education extends well beyond the classroom.
Throughout High School, students participate in camps, outdoor education, field studies, excursions and community experiences that strengthen resilience, leadership and teamwork.
Physical activity is an important part of school life. Students participate in regular Physical Education and whole-school traditions including the Swimming Carnival, Athletics Carnival and Cross Country Carnival, building confidence, perseverance and school spirit.
Lunchbox + School Canteen
Lunchbox - Families provide their child’s morning tea and lunch each day. To support the health and wellbeing of all children, families are encouraged to pack nutritious foods that consider allergies and dietary requirements within the class.
Canteen - A school canteen is available Tuesday to Friday.
