The school is the product of a merger between the former Swarthmore High School and Nether Providence High School. Pennsylvania state officials determined that Swarthmore's population was too small to support separate middle and high schools. In 1983, the two schools combined to become Strath Haven, based at the newer Nether Providence campus. The school was named after the Thomas Leiper Estate—called Strath Haven—a Registered Historic Place in Nether Providence. This was in turn named after Strathaven, Scotland, where Thomas Leiper was born. It is the sole high school in the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District. The 1984 graduating class was the charter class of Strath Haven High School.
Student performance
The Class of 2003 achieved average SAT scores that were significantly higher than state and national averages. The mean SAT verbal score was 563 and the mean SAT math score was 574. More than 94% of the Class of 2005 participated in college admissions testing; the student body produced 15 National Merit Finalists, 3 Semifinalists, and 17 commended students.
Football
Strath Haven's football team has an overall record of 280–145 overall since 1983. The football team won state titles in 1999 and 2000. with players such as Mark Jones, a former punt returner for the Tennessee Titans, and Dan Connor, an All-American linebacker for Penn State who went on to be drafted by the Carolina Panthers and spent six seasons in the NFL. They also made title game appearances in 2001 and 2002. The Panthers also won eight Central League titles. The school competes in the PIAA's Central League, which consists of twelve teams. Strath Haven's games are broadcast by Havenfootball.net.
Marching Band
Strath Haven's marching has about 400 members. It is the largest band in Pennsylvania, and the second largest in the nation. It is currently under the direction of Mr. Nicholas Pignataro.
Programs
Partnerships have been established with Delaware County area technical schools to make vocational training available for students. Students enrolled in technical school programs spend one-half day at Strath Haven taking a required core curriculum, and one-half day at the technical high school. Special education programs are available for students with special needs. Strath Haven High School is known in the area for its high-quality assistance for hearing-impaired and students with disabilities. All students are required to complete four years of study in major subject areas. A wide variety of electives are available to help students meet the course requirements listed below: Guidance counselors assist in course selection, college and career placement, as well as student support. A full-time psychologist and communications specialist are the core of a Student Assistance Program providing help to students at risk. In addition, Strath Haven maintains a career center for post-secondary advising.
The Five "A's"
Strath Haven operates along the theme of the "Five A's," a phrase used primarily in appearances by administration officials. The "Five A's," according to this system, are academics, arts, athletics, altruism, and activities. The "Five A's" theme was developed by former Principal Al Bichner, during his tenure at Strath Haven. An oft-cited "Five A's" figure is that over 90% of Strath Haven High School students participate in athletics, music, the arts, and a host of extracurricular clubs.
