Dungog High School is a regional comprehensive high school located near the Barrington Ranges, within 50 kilometres of a regional city. The school provides education for students drawn from the town of Dungog, its surrounding villages and rural areas. DHS is a partner school in the Dungog and District Learning Community, ensuring continuity of education for our students from their earliest education in primary school to the completion of their Higher School Certificate. DHS has a history of academic, cultural and sporting achievement. This success is supported by the high expectations of our students in the local community. The core values of the school reflect the community it serves. The school community selected the values of Respect, Responsibility and Personal Best, encapsulating our expectations of self management and achievement for all students. An outstanding feature of our school is our social development and leadership program. Students are taught in a safe and disciplined environment through programs such as Peer Support, Peer Mentoring and Community Volunteering, building confidence and self-esteem. This is enhanced by programs that engage students directly in their community, such as Rural Fire Cadets, the Dungog Film Festival, assistance at our local aged care facility and participation in CWA and Shire Council activities. The curriculum offered at DHS is reflective of the needs and interests of its students. Traditional academic subjects are combined with creative arts and vocational courses, giving students opportunities to select a pattern that suits their individual needs. The school's co-curricular program reflects the wide range of student interests, and includes activities such as choir, sports coaching and cattle-judging. Staff at DHS are experienced and well-supported in their subject areas. Students with learning needs are assisted by specific learning-support personnel in mainstream classes and in a purpose-built Special Education unit. A strong network of staff assists students in..