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Norfolk Island
By Paul Bacsich for Re.ViCa and VISCED
Norfolk Island (Norfuk: Norfuk Ailen) is a small island in the Pacific Ocean located between Australia, New Zealand and New Caledonia. With two neighbouring islands, it forms one of Australia's external territories.
The Norfolk Island pine, a symbol of the island pictured in its flag, is an evergreen tree native to the island and is quite popular in Australia, where two related species also grow.
The population is just over 2,000.
The capital is Kingston, but the largest city is Burnt Pine.
Education on Norfolk Island
There is one school, Norfolk Island Central School. The school operates under the NSW Department of Education, financed by the Norfolk Island Government.
NICS has approximately 300 students and 24 full time staff members. Teachers are merit selected and seconded to Norfolk Island for a contracted period of time.
The current school site was opened in August 1906 as the Norfolk Island Public School, closed in December 1945 and reopened as Norfolk Island Central School in January 1946.
The grounds are extensive, covering approximately 4.621 hectares. There is a school oval, complete with athletic standard running track, expansive grassed areas, a basketball and netball court and play equipment.
Magnificent views to Phillip Island can be enjoyed from the Library block and distant sea views off Steels Point are seen from the playground.
School buildings include an historic K-2 block which is the original section of the school, 2 primary blocks, science, woodwork and hospitality rooms, three secondary classroom blocks, a visual arts building housed in the historic "Bean Shed", modern toilet blocks and storage areas.
For more details see http://www.school.edu.nf/_/About_NICS.html
For OER policies and projects in Norfolk Island see Norfolk Island/OER