James Cook became a technology high school in 1990 and expanded its technological basis throughout the broad curriculum. It is set in spacious grounds adjacent to Moorefield Girls Technology High and St George TAFE. James Cook has been listed in The Australian’s Top 10 Schools in Australia.
Facilities: Four computer rooms, computerised music lab, modern library, multi-purpose hall, squash courts, basketball courts, tennis courts, extensive technological and applied science complex. Existing facilities are enhanced by the proximity to St George TAFE.
Electives Years 7 to 10: We have enhanced our elective choices in Years 9 and 10 by offering Extension English, Extension Maths, Extension Science and Extension History, which prepare students for the higher order HSC subjects. Design and Technology course is offered in Years 7 to 10. Other junior electives are History, Geography, Commerce, Visual Arts, Music, Modern Greek, German, Italian, Technical Drawing, Technics, Computing Studies, Drama, Sports Science, and Communication.
From 2005, the school has offered a gifted and talented class that looks at a very new and exciting curriculum including electives such as Aquaculture, Web Design, and Digital and Media Communications.
Electives Years 11 and 12: Years 11 and 12 has a wide elective choice. English, Mathematics, Business Studies, Business Services, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Science, Economics, Geography, Ancient History, Modern History, Visual Arts, Legal Studies, Music, Modern Greek, Engineering Science, Design and Technology, Information Processes and Technology, Information Technology, Software Design, Industry Studies (Metals), Construction, PD/Health/PE. A range of Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses are offered at the school and senior students have the opportunity to enrol in TVET courses and the new trade school.
Sport: The school has a reputation for outstanding sporting achievements and is particularly strong in rugby league. It is part of the St George District competition. More than a dozen leisure sports are offered.
Extracurricular activities: Drama, multi-cultural and rock bands, debating, computing, photography, chess, drawing.
Welfare and personal development: Welfare is taught in the school. Student advisers are appointed to each Year, and a peer support program and counselling service are in operation. An active student council widens student participation in the school. A full-time careers adviser and work experience blocks for Years 9 and 10 can be provided. ESL support and special education services are available. All students are required to wear school uniform and are encouraged to behave responsibly by a strong, but fair, discipline/welfare system. The school has forged close ties with local primary schools and the special needs of gifted children are catered for.
Famous ex-students: Mark Shulman, Jeff Hardy, Brad Mackay, David Niu, Ian Herron, Neville Hayes, Robin Woellner, Shaoquett Moselmane.