FAQs FAQs
Coffs Harbour Senior College shares the Coffs Harbour Education Campus in partnership with Southern Cross University and North Coast Institute (TAFE). Each organisation is an equal partner in the Campus, delivering many advantages to our students.
These advantages include the excellent facilities available to students, cooperation and sharing of knowledge between staff of the different organisations, collaboration opportunities and a mature, adult learning environment.
However, the unique nature of the Campus has led to some misconceptions about how the Senior College operates. Below, you will find responses to some of the commonly held misconceptions.
If you have any questions about the College and how it can benefit you or your child, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Myth: The campus is so large, you don't receive any support
Class sizes are regulated not to exceed the DET requirement. There is excellent teacher / student cooperation, teacher tutorials and assistance, easy access by phone, e-mail and personal contact. Support includes Student Mentors, Year Coordinators, Careers Adviser, Counseling Centre, Assistant Director, Welfare Committee, Special Programs, Learning Assistance, fully staffed after hour's tutorial and study centers. The environment lets students be individuals and they comment on the absence of bullying on campus.
Myth: Attendance is not as high as other schools, you can miss lessons
The college has an expectation of 100% attendance at all classes and scheduled official events. Rolls are marked each session and teachers contact caregivers if students begin to miss lessons. Attendance rates are above regional and state rates.
Myth: The college only cares about the top few students
Each student is treated as an individual and use academic and welfare support as desired. Each student has a mentor and has access to the considerable support network offered including group and one-on-one tutorials.
Myth: Teaching is by University Lectures
Normal classes are conducted in a typical classroom setting, working with a teacher in a cooperative, non-disrupted environment.
Special lectures are sometimes scheduled to provide additional assistance, introduce special guest speakers and provide extension work in some subjects.
Myth: The college is only for people who intend to go to university
College students have achieved excellent academic outcomes; however, the curriculum choice is wide. TAFE courses integrate with the line structures and a range of pathways options for students completing the HSC are available. Statistical analysis of past results indicates the college provides excellent 'value adding' to the achievements for students of all ability levels.
Myth: The college is like TAFE so you do not receive an ATAR score
The majority of students receive an ATAR. It is the student's choice as to whether they wish to receive one or not. Students have achieved ATARs in the past that are in the top band in the state, e.g. 99.95.
Myth: Two-hour Classes are Too Long
Ongoing student surveys indicate the session length is one of the most popular features of the college – students usually have a break on the hour and teachers typically use a variety of teaching / learning in any session.
When students and staff are not on class the two hours provides a great opportunity for tutoring, student assistance and mentoring activities.
Myth: Classes don't end until 4.00pm so you have to organise your own transport
College core hours are from 9am to 4pm. Some days have sessions running until 6pm. Students on early buses leave according to the school bus timetable. Most buses leave at around 4pm and there is little disruption to classes.