Students Eliza Weir, Selma van der Berg and Ano Maunganidze recently reflected on what they value most about their time at the school, with all three pointing to the welcoming environment and strong sense of community.
For Year 10 student Eliza, the people make all the difference.
"I love the environment really, making the friendships that I have through school and the relationships I have with teachers and SSOs (student support officers). It's all very welcoming."
Year 7 student Selma agreed, saying the connections she has built with fellow students and staff have made school a positive experience.
"I know most of the people here, and all the teachers.
“They're really nice too, and they're really like helpful with stuff when you do schoolwork."
Beyond the classroom, the students say Deniliquin High School offers a range of opportunities that allow them to explore their interests and develop new skills.
Ano has immersed himself in science and technology activities throughout his schooling, participating in STEM workshops, robotics programs and a quantum science camp.
"A group of my friends and I went to a quantum camp where we learned about quantum mechanics and stuff. That was fun."
Eliza said the school's willingness to cater for different interests has encouraged students to get involved.
"I love everyone has their own interests, and now school caters for everyone.
“I am up to my silver in Duke of Edinburgh, I already completed my bronze, and I’ve also been able to go on the Great Vic (Bike Ride).
“In sport, there's a lot of girls' teams on offer, and it's been amazing.
“Just anything really, I put my hand up for a lot of it”
For Selma, being part of the girls cricket program was a highlight, as was the recent Pulse Deniliquin creative workshops.
"It was good fun too because we got to meet new people from different schools,“ she said.
And what do the students say they’re gained from the encouraging school environment for staff and students?
“Confidence in my work ethic, and knowledge. Teachers have definitely focused on helping me with that, to be able to communicate that way,’ Eliza said.
“Friendship skills; you might get friends from different schools and learn their interest. And confidence as well,” Selma added.
“For me,, I think, skills like leadership and public speaking. Those are skills that I think will definitely be useful to me in the future,” Ano chimed in.
“And from teachers, I think I've learnt how to balance having fun in the classroom while also being able to do work,” he continued.
Their experiences reflect what they say is one of Deniliquin High School's greatest strengths - providing students with the support, confidence and opportunities to discover where their future may lead.
• You can help Deniliquin High School reach its growth goal by becoming a Towards 501 DHS Community Champion. The program aims to build a network of businesses, organisations and individual committed to supporting the growth and future of the school. Go to https://bit.ly/DHS_CommunityChampions to pledge your support.
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