Founded in 1912, Orange High School was the first state secondary school to be established in western New South Wales, and is one of two government secondary schools located in the city of Orange, the other being The Canobolas Rural Technology High School. The school's first classes were held in the School of Arts building, now the site of the Police and Community Youth Club in Byng Street. The school then moved to purpose built facilities on the corner of March Street and Sale Street, which are now part of the TAFE complex. Amongst the decisions made in the first year were for the school colours to be black and gold, the design of the school badge and the motto, "Quod Potero Sedulo". Students were housed at the March Street school from 1913 through until 1958, at which time the High School and Rural School were merged. The current school buildings, sited on Woodward Street near the western end of the main street, Summer Street, were opened on 13 November 1959. During the opening ceremony, the Principal, Mr O'Sullivan, stated that in 1913 the total number of students enrolled was 93 with six teachers on staff. Presently the school caters for just under 1,100 students and has 70 teaching staff.
Co-curriculum
Music
The school has a music department and stages frequent concerts. It had a stage band, which was regarded as one of the best in the state. In addition to the stage band, the school had a concert band, a choir, and many other smaller ensembles. The stage band was placed first in division 2, two years running, at the South Australian Mount Gambier Generations in Jazz Festival sometime ago.
Sport
Students of Orange High School may choose to participate in a variety of sporting activities, including cricket, netball, rugby union, rugby league, soccer, softball, aerobics, badminton, and lawn bowls. The School participates in statewide competitions and maintains links with the traditional "Astley Cup", "Malyney Shield" and "McGinniskin Trophy". All students take part in swimming and athletics carnivals, and the school also enters students in weekend competitions, including netball, hockey, softball and triathlon.
House system
As with most Australian schools, Orange High School utilises a house system for sport and administrative purposes. Students are divided into four houses upon their enrolment:
