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Conondale State School

With principal Mark Winrow

August 01 2012

Where is the school?

Conondale is a small rural town located in the beautiful Upper Mary Valley, about 20km west of Maleny in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

When did it open?

The school opened in September 1912 making this year our centenary year. We welcome all to our centenary celebrations on 15 September 2012 from 10am-4pm, followed by a centenary dance in the community hall starting at 4pm. We also invite any past families and staff to share stories, photos and other artefacts by contacting us on (07) 5494 4571, or emailing CSS100@conondaless.eq.edu.au or visit our facebook page.

How many students?

Ninety.

How many staff?

Nine professional teaching staff and 10 dedicated support staff.

How long have you been the principal?

While I have only been the principal since January 2012 I hope to stay much longer.

What's the best thing about your school?

Being in a small community we enjoy strong community links. We have partnerships with numerous community groups and welcome extended families into the school daily to help in classrooms, library, garden, kitchen and on other projects. Our whole community places a strong emphasis on sustainability and healthy lifestyles. This family feel contributes to a safe, friendly and productive learning environment that would be the envy of most communities.

Claim to fame?

We have recently established a Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden which has provided our students with a chance to experience sustainability with volunteer community members. We were also the top four school in the state for NAPLAN improvement (Year 5 2009-Year 7 2011) and our Student Leadership Program is widely recognised for developing the leadership capacity in all of our students and directly contributing to our supportive culture.

School motto?

Ours the Future.