Finding the right High School (southside)

[Omamum]

Hi. I am the mother of a wonderful 12 year old daughter who has some learning difficulties. I am about to embark on the harrowing journey in finding her the appropriate high school next year. She struggles with Maths and some English tasks, but is very interested and gifted in drama and one day wants to act professionally. I need to find a school that is going to give her the learning support that she needs as well as allow her to develop and gain confidence in herself. She is very sensitive and needs a supportive and non-bullying and would also wish for an environment that has a great performing arts area. Long list, but I really need some help here?

Any suggestions from mums who already have teens at high school - thanks in advance.

omamum :confused:

[Elfin]

I am not completely sure but I think that maybe Kelvin Grove State High or College might be big into drama and music. I would give them a call and ask. They might even have an open day coming up as a lot of schools are having them at the moment. I actually don't have teens myself or know anyone at the school but it might be worth a try.

Good luck and hope you find a great school.

[Nickster]

Hi Omamum,
As a qualified speech and drama teacher, I can assure you that MacGregor State High School on the southside has a specialty speech and drama program for gifted children, very worthwhile checking out. They are also known for their academic curriculae in the mainstream subject areas. It is a large school with a big multicultural base. They get a lot of applicants because of their reputation, but I would contact the Department of Education and speak to somebody there (or even individual schools) , they will send you out information packages on as many schools as you want. From memory, Shailer Park is also very good.
If you're interested in Southside private schools, John Paul College at Daisy Hill has probably the best speech and drama program in that sector, and have a wonderful supportive learning environment that focuses a lot on the individual, but the fees can be a little steep - I think they're somewhere between $2000 - $6000 per year.
If she wants to be a professional actor, I would recommend a private tutor for English as analysing scripts (especially if she ends up studying for the Bachelor of Arts in Drama - Acting at QUT) and writing assignments are a requirement.
A love of the English language and of Drama also naturally go hand in hand. Good luck with your daughter, I wish her the best in following her dreams. :D

[suziebear]

Hi,
I can personally recommend Moreton Bay College at Manly. I went there til year 12 and still have alot of cotact with the school. They have alot of tutoring on offer for students who need it and also set up buddy systems etc. They are also big in Speach and Drama and have a great Hall & Auditorioum. Speach & Drama is a subject on offer and they have always put on yearly plays and shows to a very high standard. They have a web site that you can look at or just call the school and make an appointment and you can take your daughter along and they will show you through the school.

I also studied Speach & Drama outside school as well.

Good luck