Why choose Chatham High School?
Every student known. Every strength given more room to grow.
Choosing a high school is about much more than choosing subjects. It is choosing the people who will notice your child’s strengths, the opportunities that will shape them and the community they will become part of.
Located on Biripi Country in the Manning Valley, Chatham High School is a comprehensive coeducational school for Years 7–12. We combine high expectations and genuine care with specialised programs, outstanding facilities and partnerships that extend learning far beyond the classroom.
At Chatham, students are encouraged to explore what interests them, challenge themselves and begin building a future that feels right for them.
"I belong here. There is something here for me. I can build a future from here."
Enrol today
Take the next step
Choosing a high school is a big decision, and we’re here to make the next step easy. Apply online or visit us in person, we’d love to show you around and welcome your family to Chatham High School.
Picture your child at Chatham
On any given day, a Chatham student might test an idea in a science laboratory, care for livestock, rehearse for a performance, train with TAP, build a major project in Industrial Technology, meet a local business leader or receive individual support towards their next learning goal.
They might explore academic interests through CHACE, connect with culture through Aboriginal Education, develop leadership through the Junior AECG or take their first step towards university, an apprenticeship or employment.
That breadth of opportunity is what makes Chatham High School special.
Academic Challenge
Extending curious minds through CHACE and real-world learning.
Sporting Development
Supporting talented athletes to train, learn and lead.
Creative and Performing Arts
Inspiring students to create, perform and find confidence.
Practical Learning
Building real skills through agriculture, hospitality and technology.
Culture and Leadership
Strengthening identity, belonging, culture and confident student leadership.
Future Pathways
Connecting students with university, training and meaningful careers.
Learning that stays with students
Some of the most powerful learning happens when students see how their lessons connect with the wider world.
Chatham students have visited Australia’s only nuclear reactor, investigated physics at Luna Park, explored ancient landscapes in Dorrigo, worked with MidCoast Council, participated in UNSW robotics experiences, performed at School Spectacular and experienced university learning through Taree Universities Campus.
These experiences build curiosity, confidence and a deeper understanding of what students are learning.
Known, Supported and Challenged
Every student is expected to grow, but no student is expected to do it alone.
Our teachers work alongside learning support, wellbeing, counselling, Aboriginal Education, Clontarf and Supported Learning staff to understand each student and provide the right support or challenge.
Their progress is noticed, their achievements are celebrated and help is available when they need it.
Support available to students
- Academic extension and high-potential learning
- Targeted literacy and numeracy support
- Student learning support officers
- Personalised learning adjustments
- Dedicated Supported Learning programs
- Wellbeing, counselling and mentoring
- Transition support
- Careers and senior pathway planning
Culture, connection and belonging
On Biripi Country, Aboriginal culture is a valued and meaningful part of everyday school life.
Our Aboriginal Education team works closely with students, families and community to strengthen identity, pride, leadership and connection. Students can participate in cultural programs, Connecting to Country experiences, mentoring, the Junior AECG and learning within our Yarning Circle.
We want every young person and family who enters our school to feel welcomed, respected and proud to be part of the Chatham community.
A strong start
We help every child feel safe, included and confident from their very first day.
Opportunity for every strength
From academic extension and sporting development to creativity, culture and practical learning, students have opportunities to discover and develop their strengths.
Learning Beyond the classroom
University partnerships, industry experiences, excursions and community projects connect classroom learning with the wider world and open new possibilities.
Facilities that bring learning to life
Our specialist laboratories, workshops, kitchens, agricultural areas, creative spaces and sporting facilities give students room to learn by doing.
"The school fosters genuine inclusion and cultural understanding, making every family feel welcomed, supported and truly valued." - A parent of Chatham High School
"Teachers at Chatham have shown a great amount of passion and dedication. Their unique teaching methods have set me up for success at university." - A past student from Chatham High School
What we can offer your child
Student success
Your child will be encouraged to discover their strengths, set meaningful goals and take pride in every step of their progress. Our teachers combine high expectations with individual support, helping students grow academically, socially and personally.
At Chatham, success may be greater confidence in the classroom, sporting or creative achievement, developing a practical skill, taking on leadership or beginning a pathway towards a future career.
Through work experience, vocational education and strong community partnerships, students can explore pathways into university, apprenticeships, further training and employment. In 2025, 85 students completed work-experience placements and 17 were employed through school-based apprenticeships or traineeships, with seven completing and securing full-time employment or offers.
A further 21 students participated in work trials, with 10 offered an SBAT or full-time apprenticeship. All 15 students supported with early university applications received an offer, while 30 achieved White Card certification. These outcomes help students leave Chatham feeling confident, capable and prepared for what comes next.
- participation in a range of competitions
- success in life beyond school
- active community members
- growth through high potential and gifted education
- striving for personal improvement.
Tailored learning support
We know every child learns in their own way. That’s why we provide tailored learning support to help each student do their best. Our programs meet different student needs. This includes high potential and gifted students, students with additional needs or disability, and those who need wellbeing support. At our school, your child will get the support they need to succeed.
A welcoming community
Our school is a place where students from all backgrounds feel safe, respected and part of the community. We value diversity and fairness. Your child will learn and grow in a school that celebrates who they are. We prepare students to be confident, well-rounded global citizens.
Ready to join us?
Start your child’s journey at Chatham High School. Apply online today or visit us in person, we’d love to welcome your family and show you around.
Stories and highlights
Hear about stories, wins and proud moments from our staff and students.
Policies and reports
Discover our local school policies, reports and plans.