One of Victoria’s oldest established secondary schools, serving the outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne for more than 90 years, Lilydale High School emphasises a curriculum that promotes student achievement in all academic, sporting and cultural activities. Students’ achievements and contributions to school and general community life are recognised through school leadership positions, including school, sports, year-level, house and music captains, a variety of scholarship awards and commendation certificates. School uniform is compulsory for all students. VCE students have a separate uniform.
Facilities: These are extensive and include many computer rooms with full network access, library/resource centre, performing arts centre for music and drama, VCE centre with study hall, an indoor four-court community basketball stadium, school hall, two sports ovals, external tennis courts, Years 7 and 8 playground, outdoor basketball courts, technology centre, exercise gymnasium (including weights), a student centre and separate locker rooms for all year levels. A new school wing was opened in 2008. In addition, a new performing arts centre is due to be opened in September 2015.
Curriculum: A comprehensive sequential curriculum is designed to provide students with a balanced general education. A substantial selection of VCE units is available. As specific preparation for VCE, all Year 10 students complete two VCE units. The school also offers an extensive range of VET programs. There is a Select Entry Accelerated Learning (SEAL) Program that caters for gifted and talented students. Selection is via an accredited testing program. LilydaleHigh School offers an iPad program for Years 7-8 and a BYOD program for Years 9-12.
Sport: Sport includes inter-and intra-school sports including basketball, soccer, netball, baseball, softball, golf, football, cricket, tennis, squash, badminton, swimming, diving, athletics, volleyball, lawn bowls and lunchtime sport competitions. There is also a VCE Excellence in Sport program for AFL, netball, basketball and tennis players.
Extra-curricular activities: Include concert bands, stage band, instrumental music groups, ensembles and choir. Outdoor education activities include bushwalking, camping, kayaking and rock climbing. This includes the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards Scheme and Advance programs. Also available are debating, equestrian team, computer club, art and crafts, photography, drama and music productions (including an annual school production) and school magazine.
Student welfare programs: A firm, fair and caring approach to discipline and welfare is emphasised. Regular homework and study are expected. There are two student welfare teachers, a team of co-ordinators for each year level and sub-school co-ordinators for Junior, Middle and Senior sub-schools. Two careers and pathways teachers, careers night, work experience and study support groups assist students in finding and qualifying for chosen careers. There is an extensive transition program and frequent information nights are held for parents and guardians.