Berengarra School was established in 1976 by the same group of educators that founded The Currajong School and offers a holistic approach in catering for students of normal intelligence who are underachieving in mainstream schools. The students present with the following issues: ADHD, Aspergers Syndrome, post traumatic stress, anxiety, depression and school refusal. The school’s educational programs cater for students with social and emotional problems in a small and safe environment. This enables them to regain lost ground, break the cycle of failure, improve weaknesses and build on strengths. The aim of the school is to integrate the students back into mainstream education, TAFE or work. Admission takes place after an interview and there is a four-week trial period. There is no uniform.
Curriculum: The curriculum is divided into core subjects and elective subjects. The core subjects are Mathematics, Language, Health Education, Information Technology, Materials Technology, Science, Art, Food Technology and Physical Education. Students ballot for four electives each term. Some of the electives on offer are Drama, Sculpture, Wood-turning, Community Involvement, Robotics, Advanced Computers, Metalwork, Music, Sailing, Outdoor Education, Farming, Advanced Writing and Specialised Catering. Special emphasis is placed on individual literacy and numeracy goals with classes adapted to suit learning styles. All units emphasise “action” learning as an important factor in maintaining high interest. An underlining feature in all curriculum areas is meeting social and emotional as well as academic needs. Class sizes are no more than 10 students. Since 2010 the school has offered a Pathways to VCAL program. This combines TAFE studies, work education and 3 days/week of classroom study. The program is suitable for students who are considering vocational studies but are not ready or skilled enough to be successful at a TAFE college.
Student welfare programs: Discipline is firm but fair and understood, and includes hearings and contracts. Parents are involved in an educational support group. Students receive weekly and term reports. There are regular information nights for parents.