Heaton Public School, in recognition of its excellent academic achievement and commitment to quality teaching, has been named as a Centre for Excellence in 2011 and 2012. As a Centre for Excellence the school is resourced and provided with additional staff to allow us to continue to develop innovative teaching and learning programs, provide professional development within the school and to partner primary schools, and to further build on the close links we have established with the University of Newcastle. Our school motto, 'Only the Best', ensures that the school aspires to high achievements in the extensive range of programs that are offered to students with a focus on literacy, numeracy, technology, the environment, the performing arts, gifted education and student welfare. Heaton Public School is an integral part of the Callaghan Pathways Learning Community as well as the Wallsend Community of Schools. This group of closely aligned public schools utilises its combined size and resources to afford their students valuable learning experiences that are not always possible or sustainable for individual schools. Such programs have included the Sportslink gala days, the NRMA Pushcart Challenge and student leadership development programs. The combined schools also work to provide highly effective and targeted programs to ensure a smooth transition of students from Year 6 to Year 7 in their local Callaghan Campus. Heaton Public School, with a population of about 170 students, provides a stimulating and secure environment for our students where our core values are clearly communicated and aspired to by all of our school community. Our close links with the University of Newcastle have seen us grow as a multicultural community and have allowed our students the privilege of being exposed to the rich cultures and traditions of our overseas families. Heaton Public School has a welcoming community who both supports and takes great pride in the school's achievements and endeavours.