Since opening its doors, the school has grown from a regional secondary school into a vibrant learning community that serves students from Tennant Creek and remote communities across the Barkly.
Over the past 40 years, the school has adapted to changing educational needs while remaining committed to providing quality learning opportunities for young people in one of the Northern Territory's most diverse regions.
Tennant Creek Public School started operating in 1936 and in the 1970s was changed to Tennant Creek Area School.
In 1986, Tennant Creek High School was built and opened at the site it currently sits today.
The site of the Tennant Creek Area School is now the current location of the Tennant Creek Primary School.
In 1983, Diana, Princess of Wales visited Tennant Creek Area School, the predecessor of Tennant Creek High School during a Royal tour of Australia she made with Prince Charles.
In 1985, the school hosted one of the world's most revered humanitarian figures when Mother Teresa visited the town during her Australian travels. Her presence drew residents from across the community and left a lasting impression on many who met her.
Minister for Education and Training, Jo Hersey, congratulated Tennant Creek High School on reaching the 40-year milestone.
"For four decades, Tennant Creek High School has been at the heart of the Barkly, helping generations of young Territorians build the skills, confidence and aspirations to succeed," Minister Hersey said.
"In our year of growth, certainty and security, the Finocchiaro CLP Government is proud to support education in the Barkly, this year beginning construction on a new 40 bed student boarding facility at Tennant Creek High School."
Member for Barkly, Steven Edgington, said Tennant Creek High School has grown from a regional secondary school into a vibrant learning community that serves students from Tennant Creek and remote communities across the Barkly.
"Thank you to the dedication of past and present principals, teachers, support staff, families and community members who have helped shape Tennant Creek High School into the great school it is today.
"Over the past 40 years, the school has adapted to changing educational needs while remaining committed to providing quality learning opportunities for young people in one of the Northern Territory's most diverse regions."
Principal of Tennant Creek High School, Petrina Hayward said: "The anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the school's proud legacy while looking forward to the future.
"For 40 years, Tennant Creek High School has played a vital role in educating and empowering young people across the Barkly. This milestone belongs to every student, teacher, support staff member, parent and community partner who has been part of our journey."
