## 1. Overview
Alexandra Bay State School is a public, co-educational primary school serving families in the Alexandra Bay area. The school offers a balanced, community-focused learning environment with a focus on inclusivity, student wellbeing, and high-quality teaching. With a medium-sized student population, the school provides a friendly, supportive atmosphere where students are encouraged to try their best and develop across academics, sport, and the arts.
- School type: Public
- School size: Medium
- Class size: Approximately 20–25 students per class
- Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, nurturing, academically focused with strong emphasis on wellbeing and community
## 2. Academics & Learning
Alexandra Bay State School emphasises core literacy and numeracy while building capabilities in STEM, digital literacy, and creative thinkings. The school offers targeted programs to support gifted and talented learners as well as students who require extra help, ensuring all students can progress at their own pace.
- Academic strengths: Literacy and numeracy excellence, STEM activities, leadership opportunities, and digital learning
- Special programs: Gifted and Talented (G&T) programs, accelerated/extension opportunities, targeted reading and numeracy support, EAL/D programs
- NAPLAN / trends: Steady improvement and positive trends over recent years in reading and numeracy across year levels
- Student-teacher ratios: About 1:20 to 1:25
- Support for diverse learners: EAL/D support, comprehensive SEN support, individual learning plans and inclusive practices
## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
Aussie and UK parents often look for strong sports and activities, and Alexandra Bay State School offers a broad mix of opportunities to suit active students.
- Sports offered: Athletics, cricket, football (soccer), netball, rugby league, swimming, and general fitness activities
- Strong teams or achievements: Participation in local inter-school carnivals and district events; competitive representative squads at appropriate year levels
- Music, arts, drama programs: School choir, instrumental groups, school concerts, and drama activities
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and coding clubs
- Partnerships: Local clubs and community sports programs, opportunities to participate in inter-school events and competitions
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## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing is a top priority, with a proactive approach to creating a safe, respectful school culture and strong support systems for students and families.
- Anti-bullying approach: Whole-school policies, clear reporting pathways, and proactive wellbeing programs
- House system: Four houses that promote belonging, teamwork, and healthy competition
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors or wellbeing staff to support learning and emotional wellbeing
- Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy systems, and targeted transition supports to help new students settle in
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## 5. Facilities
The school’s facilities support a broad curriculum and engaging learning environments.
- Sports grounds: Outdoor playing fields and courts
- Libraries: Well-stocked library with reading programs
- Science labs: Functional science spaces for hands-on experiments
- Music/performing arts centers: Space for music, drama, and performances
- Tech/innovation labs: ICT rooms and makerspace style learning areas
- Cafeteria: On-site canteen offering healthy, kid-friendly options
- Updated playgrounds: Safe play areas with modern equipment
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## 6. School Values & Community Culture
Alexandra Bay State School fosters a respectful, collaborative culture where students are encouraged to lead and contribute.
- School values / mission: Respect, Responsibility, Kindness, Integrity; focus on continual growth and service to the school and community
- Leadership style: Student voice and leadership opportunities supported by teachers; collaborative decision-making culture
- Behaviour expectations: Clear, positive behaviour framework with recognition for success and consequences aligned with school policy
- Community reputation: Known for a warm, welcoming atmosphere and strong home–school partnerships
- Diversity & inclusion: Inclusive practices that celebrate diversity and ensure access to learning for all students
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## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
Practical information to help families plan the school day.
- School hours: Typically 9:00 am–3:00 pm, with supervision before/after school programs available
- Before/after school care: OSHC or school-supported programs available locally for extended care
- Uniform requirements: Official school uniform with seasonal options; sun-safe hat required for outdoor time
- Transport (train/bus routes): Local bus services and school transport options supporting catchment and nearby communities
- Canteen availability: On-site canteen with healthy meal and snack options
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Public school fees are modest; expect costs for uniforms, excursions, and activities; information provided by the school on request
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## 8. Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Start by confirming eligibility within the local catchment area for public schooling.
- Submit enrolment documentation (proof of identity, proof of address, immunisation history, birth certificate, and any required transfer documents) to the school or through the Queensland Department of Education system.
- The school will review documents and may request additional information. An enrolment confirmation is provided once processing is complete.
- Timeline can vary; aim to begin the process several weeks before term starts to ensure placement and orientation can be arranged. Orientation or meet-the-teacher sessions may be scheduled prior to term start.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Some public schools manage limited capacity, especially in popular years or near catchment borders. If a waitlist is in place, it is typically managed by local catchment rules, availability, and priority for local residents. The school will advise expected timelines and next steps if your child is on a waitlist.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Public primary schools generally do not require placement tests or interviews for enrolment. Placement is usually based on age/grade and residence catchment. Some schools may conduct brief orientation or information sessions to support families in initial placement and to gather relevant information (e.g., learning needs, language support). Any formal testing or interviews would be explicitly communicated by the school.
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Yes, mid-year transfers are common in public schools. Transfer documents from the previous school (records, immunisation status, and any relevant learning plans) are required. Availability may depend on current class sizes and staffing, and the school will provide guidance on the transfer process and expected timelines.
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## 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A strong sense of community, supportive staff, inclusive culture, balanced curriculum, and a focus on student wellbeing and individual growth.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who respond well to a caring, collaborative learning environment, who engage in both academics and activities, and who value belonging and support.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- A broad range of opportunities including enrichment programs, G&T opportunities, STEM activities, leadership roles, sports teams, arts and music programs, and clubs such as robotics, coding, chess, and debating.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular newsletters, emails, SMS notices, a student information portal, parent-teacher interviews, and community information evenings.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Student-centered, evidence-based teaching with differentiation to meet diverse needs; emphasis on literacy, numeracy, and digital literacy, plus a well-rounded curriculum.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted intervention and support programs, EAL/D assistance, SEN support, learning plans, and small-group or one-on-one tutoring where appropriate.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Structured learning supports, access to specialist staff, and tailored plans to help students progress at their own pace.
- How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeated)
- See above: newsletters, portals, and direct communication channels including meetings and feedback.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Typical class sizes are around 20–25 students; teachers differentiate instruction to provide targeted support and opportunities for individual feedback.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- Wide range of sports (athletics, team sports), music and drama programs, and clubs such as robotics, coding, chess, and debating.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Sports grounds, library, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, canteen, and modern playgrounds.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integrated ICT across classrooms, use of tablets/Chromebooks or laptops where available, interactive whiteboards, and safe online practices with Digital Learning policies.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local bus routes and transport options, along with defined student drop-off/pick-up areas and accessible facilities.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Public schools have modest fees related to uniforms, suggested voluntary contributions, book supplies, excursions, and activities. Specific costs are provided by the school and updated annually.
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## 10. Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros
- Inclusive, supportive learning environment
- Strong focus on wellbeing and student welfare
- Balanced curriculum with opportunities in academics, sport, and the arts
- Active family and community involvement
- Good student-teacher ratios and targeted support options
- Cons
- As a medium-sized public school, may have fewer elective options than larger urban schools
- Availability of some specialised programs may depend on staffing and funding
- Transport options are dependent on local routes and catchment considerations
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