The learning program that transformed Granville Boy School's reputation

Ten years ago, Granville Boys High School in Sydney’s West was known for its struggles, with low ATARs and a poor learning culture earning it a “tough school” reputation. Today, the school has transformed its image, with enrolments soaring from 490 to 780 in the past five years and a 200-person waiting list. Local residents are now moving into the area to secure a spot at the school.

"Local residents used to lie about their address to avoid being placed at Granville Boys High. Now the opposite is occurring," said Deputy Principal Fiona Donnelly.

Robotics Program: A Game-Changer

Ms. Donnelly credits the school’s robotics and STEAM program, introduced in 2020, as a key driver of this transformation. Initially funded with a small budget, the program has grown through sponsorship and student demand.

"Where we once had disengaged students, we now have the opposite—students who are keen to learn and come to school each day."

The program features timetabled lessons, dedicated facilities, and a positive school hierarchy where older students mentor younger ones. It has become a hub for STEM skills and prosocial interactions.

International Recognition and Competitions

Granville Boys High now competes internationally in robotics contests, with students flourishing through these experiences:

• Recent Achievements: The school ranked 14th out of 84 teams in a Western Edge competition and has formed alliances with private schools like Scots and King’s.
• Global Exposure: Students recently competed in Long Beach, California, and visited NASA’s space center in Houston, Texas.

"No one would have imagined our students doing that years ago. It’s been great to prove to ourselves and our community what we can achieve with hard work."

Sharing Expertise and Community Outreach

Granville students have also shared their robotics expertise with other schools, including those in regional areas facing challenges:

"Last year, we visited Richmond River High School in Lismore, which was recently flooded. Our students mentored others, teaching coding and robotics skills. Sharing brings out the best in our students."

Academic Improvements and ATAR Success

The robotics program has inspired a positive learning culture that extends beyond STEM:

• Improved Academic Scores: The school’s top ATAR last year was 96.7, achieved by a robotics program participant now studying optometry.
• Student Testimonials: Students have praised the program for preparing them for future success.

Teacher Commitment and Future Plans

Ms. Donnelly acknowledges the extra commitment required from teachers, many of whom sacrifice weekends for competitions:

"This program has given us all a renewed sense of energy and pride. Yes, it takes more commitment, but it pays off dividends."

Looking ahead, Ms. Donnelly plans to expand the program to meet growing student demand.

Join the Discussion

Fiona Donnelly will share more about Granville Boys High’s robotics program at the upcoming STEM Education Conference, hosted by Informa Connect. The event will take place on 30-31 July at the PARKROYAL Darling Harbour, Sydney.

Learn more and register your tickets here.

About Fiona Donnelly

Fiona Donnelly is Deputy Principal of Granville Boys High School in Sydney. Since joining the school in 2013, she has played a pivotal role in improving its reputation and enrolments. Ms. Donnelly coordinates the school’s STEAM and Robotics program, helping students achieve high rankings in global competitions. She is passionate about providing quality public education.