High schools to merge

Umina High School and Woy Woy High School will become the one school or "collegiate" with different campuses for different academic years, according to plans announced by the Minister for Education.

A three-month consultation period was also announced to resolve the details of the arrangement.

It is anticipated that one campus will cater for Years 7 to 10, while the other will cater for Years 11 and 12.

The new arrangement will be phased in so that only students currently in Year 6 or Year 10 will be affected next year.

Umina High School principal Mr Pat Lewis has been appointed project officer for the consultation.

Woy Woy High School principal Ms Carolyn Carter said: "Any change brings sadness for what is lost. It also brings new opportunities and excitement for what is gained.

"It is up to all of us to work together to create a new school which brings with it the opportunity to establish an educational institution that will provide a top-class education that better meets the needs of each student at each phase of his or her development."

Empire Bay Public School principal Mr Gordon Fraser said the next three months consultation period would be an important time for everyone to become involved.

"This is an exciting time for all concerned and more opportunities will be opened for students going into high school," Mr Fraser said.

Principal's report, Woy Woy High School