Canterbury Bankstown’s fastest growing schools revealed
Lakemba’s Al Hikma College, which started just seven years ago, is now rated among the fastest growing schools in the state.
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Al Hikma College at Lakemba has recorded a phenomenal growth in students to be among the fastest growing schools in western Sydney.
The independent co-ed Islamic school, formed in 2012 with just 68 pupils and now has nearly 370, a 182.9 per cent rise from 2013-2018, according to the latest report released by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA).
These figures are the most up-to-date enrolment numbers that include all state and private schools nationally.
“We had very low numbers when we began and this year we have 379 students,” board member Sadia Anwar said. “We are very happy with the present numbers.”
Principal Alan Khoder said this year enrolments rose to 369 — a massive 443 per cent increase from 2012 with students from more than 25 different nationalities.
“The reasons for the popularity and growth are due to the amazing staff who dedicate endless hours ensuring their students are delivered the best learning opportunities and experiences,” Mr Khoder said.
“My predecessor led Al Hikma College for four consecutive successful years and I am currently upon completion of my second year, wishing to see Al Hikma flourish and develop more over the coming years.
“Our aim and mission is for our students to graduate with a strong presence of Australian and Islamic values and principles, ensuring they are equipped with the essential skills to be successful global citizens.
Director Sadia Anwar said the college takes part in numerous community events, from fundraising to raising awareness about the important issues.
“Al Hikma College is heavily involved in the National Science Week and the National Numeracy and Literacy Week,” she said.
Al Hikma College caters for kindergarten to Year 6 and is a private not-for-profit institution.
Enrolment at Oran Park Anglican College in the Macarthur region has increased by 675.7 per cent, faster than any other school in the region.
According to the latest public data from ACARA that includes public and private schools, student numbers have grown from 70 to 543, the fastest growth in the region.
IN OTHER NEWS
Schools with fastest growth between 2013 and 2018
Oran Park Anglican College: 675.7 per cent change
Irfan College: 490.5 per cent change
Pal Buddhist School: 325.0 per cent change
Western Grammar School: 283.8 per cent change
St Benedict’s Catholic College: 270.5 per cent change
Warakirri College: 261.5 per cent change
Wilton Public School: 230.9 per cent change
Al Hikma College: 182.9 per cent change
Alpha Omega Senior College: 176.1 per cent change
Bellfield College: 157.1 per cent change.