Student opportunities and activities

KHS Show Team

The KHS Show Team is one of our most exciting and proudly celebrated extra-curricular programs. Students have the opportunity to work hands-on with cattle, sheep, and other agricultural projects while developing real industry skills in animal handling, parading, husbandry and judging.

Our team regularly competes at local, regional and state shows, often achieving outstanding results that reflect their hard work, dedication and resilience. Beyond the ribbons and trophies, students build confidence, teamwork, leadership and a strong sense of pride in representing our school.

The Show Team is supported by passionate staff who volunteer countless hours to train, mentor and guide students, early mornings, late nights, weekends and long show days included. Their commitment ensures students can experience opportunities that are unique to schools like ours and deeply connected to the rural character of the Kandos and Rylstone community.

Sport

Sport is an important part of life at Kandos High School, and we are incredibly proud of the opportunities our students have to compete, grow and achieve at the highest levels. Our school offers a wide range of sporting programs, gala days, representative pathways and regular participation in local, regional and state competitions.

Kandos High School has a remarkable record in squash — our NSW Squash Team has won the NSW State Championships for four consecutive years, an outstanding achievement for a small school. We are also proud to celebrate two students who have represented Australia, with one earning the honour of Captain of the Australian Team.

Whether competing at elite levels or participating in weekly sport, our students develop teamwork, determination, resilience and school pride. Our dedicated teachers volunteer countless hours to coach, support and guide our athletes, ensuring every student has the chance to experience the joy and challenge of sport.

Pathways Programs

At Kandos High School, we are committed to helping every student explore their future and develop clear, achievable pathways beyond school. Our pathways programs support students to discover their strengths, gain real-world experience and make informed decisions about their education, training and career goals.

We offer a range of opportunities, including School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs), which allow students to begin industry-recognised training while completing their HSC. These programs give students valuable workplace skills, qualifications and a strong head start in their chosen field.

Students can also access career counselling, work experience placements, subject selection support, university and TAFE pathway guidance, and specialised programs such as Max Potential and HSC pathways planning. Our close community connections help us create meaningful opportunities for students across Kandos, Rylstone and the wider region.

Cultural Programs

At Kandos High School, we are proud to celebrate the rich cultural diversity of our students, families and community. Our cultural programs help students understand, respect and value the many histories, languages and traditions that shape who we are.

We work closely with our Wiradjuri Elders and the Northeast Wiradjuri community to deliver meaningful cultural learning experiences. These include NAIDOC Week celebrations, Reconciliation Day, language activities, storytelling, art, cultural workshops, on-Country learning and programs that strengthen identity and connection for our Aboriginal students.

Our Junior Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (JAECG) plays a vital role in this work. The JAECG provides Aboriginal students with a strong, respected voice in our school. Students meet regularly to share ideas, give feedback, lead cultural initiatives and represent their peers at local events and AECG gatherings. Through the JAECG, students develop confidence, leadership and a deeper connection to culture, Country and community.

Beyond Aboriginal education, we support cultural inclusion through Harmony Day celebrations, culturally inclusive events, EAL/D support for students learning English, and opportunities for students to share and celebrate their own cultural backgrounds.

Our cultural programs help students grow as respectful, informed and connected young people, strengthening pride, belonging and community across Kandos and Rylstone.

Excursions & Incursions

Excursions and incursions are an important part of learning at Kandos High School. They allow students to explore new environments, connect classroom learning to real-world experiences and engage with experts, workplaces and cultural opportunities.

Our excursions range from local community visits to regional and state events, giving students access to hands-on activities, performances, competitions and fieldwork. Incursions bring specialists into the school, offering workshops, cultural programs, wellbeing sessions, science demonstrations and more.

These experiences broaden students’ understanding of the world, spark new interests and strengthen confidence. At our small school, we make every opportunity count, ensuring students can learn, grow and thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Writers Group & Book Club

Our Writers Group and Book Club give students a creative, supportive space to explore their love of reading and writing. In Writers Group, students develop their voice through poetry, stories and creative projects, while Book Club brings readers together to enjoy great books and share thoughtful discussions.

Both programs are supported by dedicated teachers who volunteer their time to create opportunities for students to connect, express themselves and grow as confident, imaginative thinkers.

Chess Club

Kandos High School’s Chess Club is growing rapidly, with more students than ever discovering the strategy, challenge and excitement of competitive chess. What began as a small lunchtime activity has become a vibrant, enthusiastic team that continues to build confidence, problem-solving skills and teamwork.

This year, our students performed exceptionally well in the NSW Junior Chess League, demonstrating impressive skill, focus and sportsmanship. Their success reflects not only their dedication, but also the strong culture of encouragement and curiosity we foster at our small school.

With growing interest and ongoing support from staff, our Chess Club continues to thrive, offering students a welcoming space to think critically, challenge themselves and be part of a supportive team.

Guest Speakers and Expert Presenters

At Kandos High School, we enrich student learning by inviting guest speakers, industry experts and community professionals to share their knowledge and experiences. These visits give students real-world insights, broaden their understanding of different careers and communities, and inspire them to think beyond the classroom.

Guest speakers bring learning to life. Whether they are medical students, authors, artists, tradespeople, representatives from local organisations, or cultural leaders, each speaker offers students a chance to explore new ideas and connect their learning to the world around them. These sessions often spark curiosity, strengthen engagement and open pathways students may not have considered before.

As a small school, we value the strong partnerships we have built with local and regional organisations. Their willingness to share time, expertise and stories helps our students grow as informed, inspired and confident young people.

Community Volunteering

Community volunteering is an important part of who we are at Kandos High School. Our students regularly contribute their time, energy and leadership to support local events, organisations and traditions across Kandos and Rylstone. These experiences help students develop responsibility, empathy and a strong sense of belonging to their community.

Students take part in a wide range of volunteering activities, from assisting at the Rylstone-Kandos Show, StreetFeast and local markets, to supporting cultural events at the North East Wiradjuri Centre. We also work closely with the Kandos RSL Sub-Branch, where students help deliver ANZAC Day ceremonies, Remembrance Day services and honour our veterans by placing flags and poppies at the Rylstone Cemetery.

Through volunteering, students learn the value of service, teamwork and community pride. As a small school with strong local connections, these opportunities allow our young people to make a meaningful difference while gaining skills that stay with them for life.