Newcastle Senior School is a government co-ed school in Waratah that specialises in supporting students with specific learning and wellbeing needs.
Newcastle Senior School is a government co-ed school in Waratah that specialises in supporting students with specific learning and wellbeing needs. It combines life skills and independence development with high potential and gifted education, offering tailored learning plans co-designed with families. The school features a hydrotherapy pool, accessible trampolines, and a liberty swing, backed by dedicated learning and wellbeing support teams. Strong pastoral care and a structured approach suit families seeking focused, practical support alongside academic challenge.
Newcastle Senior School is also known as NSS Waratah.
Newcastle Senior School is a very small government special school with approximately 37 students. As a government school, enrolment is generally available to students living within the school's designated catchment zone. Families outside the zone may apply for out-of-area placement subject to availability.
Newcastle Senior School is a government school, so there are no tuition fees. Families may be asked to contribute to voluntary school fees covering materials, excursions, and activities.
Newcastle Senior School has a student-to-teacher ratio of 3.3:1. This is well below the national average of approximately 14:1, meaning students generally receive more individual attention. Support staff make up 46% of the workforce, providing additional learning assistance and pastoral care. The student attendance rate is 80%, which is below average.
Newcastle Senior School is located in Waratah, NSW, in a major city. Its ICSEA is 960 (29th percentile; the national average is 1,000). ICSEA measures the advantage of a school's community, from its parents' education and occupation, not the school's quality. A school with a lower ICSEA and strong academic results may be teaching particularly effectively.