Nowra High School has implemented a homework centre once a week to help its year 11 and 12 students.

Initiated by year 11 and 12 advisers Paul Murphy and Deb Ratelli, the new program has proven to be a hit.

“A lot of the students sit and do their homework or help each other,” Mr Murphy said.

“I ask the previous day if there are any students who might have trouble with a particular subject and we get a teacher from that subject to come along and offer help and advice.

“It can be tough sometimes for kids to get that extra bit of help they may need or even if they have a number of brothers and sisters at home just finding somewhere quiet where they can do their work.

“We also want parents to know that this facility is available for students.”

In the first week just two students turned up. That grew to 18 the second week, 27 the third week, while on Tuesday there were 32 students and eight staff. 

As well as helping students complete their studies, assessments and homework ahead of the HSC, Mr Murphy said the program was also designed to instil awareness that help was available if needed.

“A number of staff give up their time each week and just drop in to check with their respective students if they are going all right,” he said.

“Some may only be here for a short time, while some may stay for the whole afternoon.”

The homework centre is held each Tuesday afternoon from 3.30pm to 5pm in the school library.

Mr Murphy said it was hoped the program might even extend to include year 10 students later in the year.