Eleven hundred students. That’s a lot of stories echoing through these halls. Welcome to Norwood Secondary College. Founded in 1958 this institution stands proudly in Ringwood’s heart. It’s a place where generations have learned and grown. Norwood Secondary College is more than just a school. It’s a vibrant community. It’s a single campus co-educational college. Students from year 7 to 12 fill its classrooms.
Imagine the excitement of its 60th anniversary in 2018. Think of the decades of learning. Think of the friendships forged within these walls. The school’s history isn’t just about textbooks and tests. It’s about the unexpected moments. Like the day in 2015 when a wild sambar deer triggered a school lockdown. The deer was injured. It had to be put down. Some students witnessed the event. They received counselling. This unexpected incident became part of Norwood Secondary College’s unique narrative.
Norwood Secondary College wasn’t always as it is today. Significant changes have taken place. In late 2017 a third of its multipurpose courts were demolished. New gymnasium facilities were constructed. The wait for this upgrade had lasted many years. The new gym hosted the college’s first indoor assembly. Special guests attended that momentous occasion. In late 2018 the senior science classrooms made way for a new STEM centre. This centre is a state of the art facility. It includes chemistry biology physics labs. It even boasts a maker space. The building was constructed in modules offsite. It was then transported and assembled at the school. Students have classes in the new building since July 17 2019. The community waited for this upgrade for decades.
There were plans to amalgamate Norwood and Parkwood Secondary Colleges. This would have been on Parkwood’s site. The Norwood site would have become housing. This plan however didn’t happen. The school communities didn’t support it. Vincent Virtue played a key role in that decision. He had been principal of both schools. Thanks to his efforts Norwood Secondary College received government funding. This funding allowed upgrades and new buildings at its current location.
Norwood Secondary College is also known for its notable alumni. Greg Macainsh a musician from the rock band Skyhooks is an alumnus. Neil Robertson the 2010 World Snooker Champion also attended this college. AFL footballers Paul Salmon Gary O’Donnell and Adam Cerra are alumni as well. Shelley O’Donnell a netballer is another notable alumna.
So next time you pass Norwood Secondary College remember more than just bricks and mortar. Remember the stories. Remember the deer. Remember the dreams and the dedication of its students and staff. Remember its impressive history. This is more than just a school. It’s a legacy.