Our principal and staff

Our college team is committed to every student’s learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging. In the classroom, office or playground, we work together to create a supportive, inclusive college where every child is set up for success.

We offer extension courses in several subjects and offer a variety of Vocational Education courses that allow students to obtain school–based and Australian Framework Certification opportunities. Transition to work programs and Vocational Education Training (VET) courses are a significant part of our curriculum. Our Trade Training Centres in Hospitality and Metals Engineering continue to play an important role in our Stage 6 Pathways approach. There are a variety of programs and activities open to Aboriginal students including the Clontarf Academy for boys and Sista Connections for girls. Hastings Secondary College achieves excellent academic results. We have a variety of creative and performing arts programs including choirs, bands, and a dance performance team. Our Public Speaking, Tournament of the Minds and Debating teams consistently compete to a high standard. The College has a well–structured student wellbeing program that caters to the needs of individuals.

A comprehensive situational analysis has been conducted which led to development of the 2021-2025 Strategic Improvement Plan, both of which involved genuine consultation with students, staff, parents and the local AECG. Through our situational analysis, we have identified a need to use the majority of the school's equity funding to support a range of initiatives, particularly focused on literacy, attendance, PBL and data skills and use.

There will also be a focus on Higher School Certificate performance including staff professional learning around deeper analysis and use of data to develop both individual and group support programs. Each faculty will develop ways of deepening the knowledge base of their students.

We are One College.

We do this by providing:

• a safe, happy, caring and cooperative learning environment
• a relevant, challenging and flexible curriculum
• relationships based on mutual respect and honesty
• a partnership between students, staff, parents and the community
• by modelling excellence and challenging every student to perform their personal best.

We will:

• pursue excellence in all spheres
• focus on literacy, numeracy and the development of technology skills
• better prepare students for employment
• expand our commitment to physical fitness for all students
• expand programs in the creative and performing arts
• maintain the focus on good discipline and effective learning
• promote civic responsibility and community values in our students
• challenge our students to be the best version of themselves and achieve their personal best.
• develop environmental awareness, understanding, and action in students
• improve the campus experiences of students with special education needs
• advance Aboriginal education and reconciliation programs
• provide opportunities to students in a range of extra-curricula activities

Meaghan Cook
Principal - Hastings Secondary College

Our college leaders

Our college leaders, including our principal, guide teachers and students with a focus on safety, community and family partnerships. They help create a college culture where every child is supported to grow and thrive.

Get to know our school staff. We're all here to help.

Our professional, university-educated teachers encourage students to develop a love of learning and a desire to succeed. They maintain the highest integrity and concern for your child’s wellbeing.

The principal is responsible for the educational leadership and management of our school. If you would like to speak to the principal, please contact us to make an appointment.

Our school administrative staff can answer inquiries or direct you to the appropriate staff member for help.

• Senior Executive team (PDF 1.02 MB)
• Head of Faculty (PDF 1.04 MB)

Teaching and learning

The promotion of learning is, naturally, at the heart of the school’s ethos; pride and enjoyment in learning is promoted not just as part of schooling but as a lifelong pursuit. The cultivation of excellent teaching and learning is a fundamental part of the way the College and its Campuses is led.

Inspirational Teachers

Some of the most inspirational real-life teachers have managed to instil in their students the desire to achieve, often in unique ways. Our teachers are without question dedicated, passionate professionals who put aside their own lives to better the lives of others.

Our outstanding teachers at Hastings Secondary College are passionate about teaching students and demonstrate in-depth knowledge and understanding of their subjects, making learning fun, as exciting, engaging lessons are pivotal to students learning.

Inspiring our students is integral to ensuring their success and encouraging them to fulfill their potential.

Our teachers are the trusted source of advice for students helping students to pursue higher education, explore career opportunities and compete in events that might otherwise not thought themselves able to.

Staff Professional Learning

At Hastings Secondary College, we are dedicated to fostering equity and excellence, ensuring every student is well-prepared for the next stage of their education.

Recognising the rapidly evolving knowledge and skills required for students to thrive in a future-focused world, we are committed to continuous professional learning for our staff. Our current focus is on High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE), aiming to enhance our educators' abilities to support students across four key domains: intellectual, physical, creative, and social-emotional.

Embracing Change and Learning

As student learning needs evolve alongside advancements in technology and societal shifts, our educators engage in targeted professional development to address these changes effectively. By deepening our understanding of HPGE, we can identify and nurture high potential and gifted students, providing them with tailored opportunities to develop their talents. ​

Commitment to Excellence

Our professional learning initiatives are designed to build upon the existing expertise of our exceptional teaching staff. By focusing on HPGE, we aim to create optimal learning environments that challenge and engage students, fostering their growth and achievement across all domains of potential. ​

Through this commitment to ongoing professional development, Hastings Secondary College strives to support the diverse talents and abilities of our students, preparing them for success in their future endeavours.​

Year Advisors

Our Year Advisors are teaching staff who build relationships with and support students throughout high school. They are often the first point of contact for both parents and students.

Each year group has its own Year Advisor.

Parents and students can contact Year Advisors about things going on inside or outside of school that might affect learning. They are ready to address concerns and have open conversations.

Everyone learns differently. Our Year Advisors are here to support each student as they go through their individual school journey.

• Year Advisers (PDF 833 KB)

Port Macquarie Campus Year Advisors

Westport Campus Year Advisors

Our teachers make the difference

Your child’s college experience is shaped by the people around them. Our teachers bring experience, care and a passion for learning to every lesson. With a focus on success, they help every child reach their full potential.

We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where students thrive academically, culturally, athletically, and within the community. Our dedicated campus staff provide personalised assistance to ensure every student reaches their full potential.

Students benefit from a range of support services available across our campuses. This includes guidance from the Head Teacher of Wellbeing, the Learning and Support Team (LAST), Year Advisors, and Pastoral Care Teachers. Additionally, our campuses are equipped with trained Counsellors who offer confidential counselling and support to students and their families.

Hastings Secondary College is proud to have an Aboriginal Education Officer (AEO) who supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, organising cultural activities and providing essential assistance throughout the academic year.

Celebrating student success is integral to our ethos, with achievements recognised through our 'Learning Expectations' framework and merit and reward systems. Our discipline system emphasises the importance of a positive learning environment while providing robust welfare support for students.

Wellbeing and learning support specialists

Our campus support services

Campus counsellors

Our trained campus counsellors provide individual and family counselling, as well as specialised assistance to students, parents, and staff. Referrals can be made by students, parents, or campus staff members.

Supervisor of Girls

Our campus Supervisor of Girls offers guidance and support for female students facing personal or academic challenges.

Head Teacher Wellbeing

Providing guidance and counselling, the Head Teacher Wellbeing works closely with Year Advisers and Deputy Principals to offer additional support and referrals to external agencies when needed.

Learning and Support Teacher (LAST)

Our LASTs offer tailored support to students requiring assistance with their learning. They can recommend life skills courses and organise provisions for exams and assessment tasks.

School Learning Support Officers (SLSO)

Working under the guidance of classroom teachers, SLSOs provide invaluable assistance to students with disabilities and additional learning needs, ensuring they can fully participate in school life.

Aboriginal Education Officer

Supporting Aboriginal students, families, teachers, and the wider College community, our AEO plays a vital role in fostering inclusivity and understanding.

Administration and operations

Our administration and operations staff keep our college running smoothly. They are the friendly first point of contact for families at our college office and help with enrolments, information and daily assistance.