Whole new world for high school students

That simple motto sums up the extraordinary educational opportunities opened up to hundreds of local high school students through the launch of the e2 educational program yesterday.

The program offers students from Orange High, Blayney High, Canobolas High, Molong Central School and Anson Street School the chance to learn under the broadest subject curriculum in the State - with 55 subjects and 16 TAFE courses on offer.

Students, parents and teachers were given a hands-on demonstration of the benefits of the program yesterday, with Blayney High teacher Mick Sloan conducting a live video-conference geography lesson from Blayney for students at Orange High and Canobolas.

"The benefits of e2 are amazing," Orange High teacher Bill Adams said.

"One of the biggest concerns parents have when selecting a school for their children are the subject choices available to them.

"Now there are over 50 courses, TAFE courses and we're looking at incorporating school-based apprenticeships in the future as well."

Students were able to clearly see and hear Mr Sloan conduct his lesson and were free to ask questions at any time.

But the vital face-to-face contact with teachers will not be lost.

"For subjects that require videoconferencing, teachers will meet students face-to-face every fortnight to tutor them, so they still retain that important aspect of learning," Mr Adams said.

The e2 program's 'Super Wednesday' encompasses synchronised timetables between the schools, with TAFE scheduling specific classes for morning and afternoon, a more streamlined approach to extension subjects and a significant block period where practical subjects like dance and art can be taught.

Which schools specific subjects are taught at will vary from year to year.