Founded in 1907 as Ballarat Agricultural College, Ballarat High School has a long tradition of pursuing and recognising excellence under our long standing motto of ‘Duty Always’. Our vision is that Ballarat High School is a learning community where every person is valued, respected and challenged as a learner. Our ethos is further supported through our core values of Pride, Respect & Responsibility.

Ballarat High School is a 7-12 educational community with a strong focus on quality outcomes for all students. We have conducted significant research which tells us that students teacher relationships are critical to success. This has led to the development of structures which allow teachers longer blocks of time with students.

At year 7-8 students work with only two core staff with extended time allocations to deliver English, Humanities, Mathematics and Science. This allows staff to truly get to know their students and include personal learning as part of their core curriculum. Students also undertake Japanese or German and a range of Technology and Arts electives including our award winning classroom music program.

In year 9 students undertake the ARCH program in our purpose built facility which is focused on building Active, Resilient, Connected and Happy students.

In years 10, 11 and 12, a wide choice of elective subjects are offered each semester. Students receive individual guidance in selecting their subjects for years 9 to 12. The School has the resources to offer a wide choice of subjects in either the VCE or VCE Vocational Major Certificate, including Vocational Education and Training. Year 10 students are able to access VCE subjects on application.

Since 1996, the School has been a Specialist Sport School. In addition, the School is a participating member of the Ballarat Associated Schools (independent) and this provides opportunities for students to participate in a wide range of after school and weekend sporting opportunities. The outstanding quality of the program has led to high level recognition for the School and individual students through regional and state sporting awards. The School offers Instrumental Music, both as a classroom and extra-curricular activity, and there are Year 7, Year 8, Intermediate, Senior and two Stage Bands. The school has a strong debating and public speaking program, competing at regional and state levels.

The School has sister schools in Germany and Japan and exchanges of students take place each year, with students having the opportunity to join a 3 week Study Tour of either Japan or Germany. Study tours alternate between years.

The care of students to support high learning outcomes is our priority. Team Leaders and teachers take a personal interest in the progress of their students. We also have a range of educational support staff dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of our students. The Student Wellbeing Team consists of the Student Wellbeing Leader, Mental Health Practitioner, Adolescent Health Nurse and Youth Counsellors. Students also have access to a School Nurse, Managed Individual Pathways /Careers personnel. Our Inclusion team support a range of students in our care. Students are made aware of the School’s ethos and values upon commencement and these guide the whole school community.

Parents are encouraged to become actively involved in the support of the School’s development and their child’s learning. This is facilitated through contact with teachers, Team Leaders, Sub School Leaders and Assistant Principals. The School Council, Curriculum Committee, Ballarat High School Parent Support Group, Boat Club and Music Support Group are all opportunities for parent participation and input into the School.