Cape Naturaliste College will vie for the title of WA Secondary School of the Year.
Education and Training minister Sue Ellery announced the finalists for the state’s premier awards for teachers, principals, school support staff and public schools on August 6.
It is the first time the school has been a finalist in the awards.
Cape Naturaliste College has grown from a middle school with 92 students in 2008 to a senior high school with state-of-the-art specialist facilities being built.
The school now has 775 students from Year 7 to Year 12.
Cape Naturaliste College principal Mark Gillett said the award was recognition of the time and effort given by the staff, community and businesses to enhance student learning.
In 2017 the college was named as a top 50 median ATAR school.
The school boasts a 100 per cent Vocational Education and Training achievement and has extension clubs for its students including debating, coding, mathematics and writing.
Cape Naturaliste College is also involved in collaborations with other Busselton schools.
They partnered with Busselton Senior High School and primary schools to create Geographe Bay Music and are also part of the Busselton Trade Training Centre consortium.
Cape Naturaliste College board chair Christine Kershaw said the college’s emphasis on inclusive and a holistic learning meant students would grow into valued community members.
“The board believes that the unique culture of the partnership between students and staff gives our students the best opportunity for future success,” she said.
“This partnership recognises the individuality and diversity of each student.”
Ms Ellery said the WA Education Awards were an opportunity to acknowledge successful WA public schools.
“I think every one of us can remember a stand-out teacher or other staff from our school days -and today’s group of educators is being rightly acknowledged for the mark they are making on students’ lives,” she said.
“Providing a high-quality education and equipping students for their futures are truly valuable endeavours, and I’m proud to recognise our finalists for their expertise and innovation.”
Vasse MLA Libby Mettam congratulated the college community and said the school was very deserving of the nod.
“At each years end of year presentation night, it is evident how committed the teaching staff are to each student at the college,” she said.
“It’s clear the college inspires students to reach their full potential within a positive and supportive environment with leadership from their principal, Mark Gillett.”
Bunbury’s Manea Senior College and Newton Moore Education Support Centre were also named as finalists in WA Secondary School of the Year, along with Perth’s Lynwood Senior High School.
The winner will be announced in November 26. Winners and finalist share in more than $300,000 in prizes.