## 1. Overview
Ambrose State School is a public (government) primary school serving families in Ambrose, Queensland. It fosters an inclusive, community-centered learning environment with a medium-sized student cohort that supports strong peer connections and close teacher–student relationships.
- School type: Public
- School size: Medium
- Class size: Typically about 20–24 students per class (with some variation by year level)
- Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, nurturing, and community-focused
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## 2. Academics & Learning
Ambrose State School emphasises solid literacy and numeracy foundations while building a broad, future-ready skill set.
- Academic strengths: English and literacy, mathematics, science and STEM inquiry, digital literacy, and opportunities for leadership development
- Special programs: Gifted and Talented/inquiry pathways, accelerated learning options where available, targeted reading and intervention supports, coding and robotics clubs
- NAPLAN trends: Trends over recent years show stability or gradual improvement in reading and numeracy, with performance broadly in line with state averages
- Student-teacher ratios: Approximately 1:20–1:22, with classroom assistants supporting targeted instruction
- Support for diverse learners: EAL support and dedicated SEN/inclusion supports; in-class differentiation and access to specialist staff where available
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## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
Sports and extracurriculars are a strong focus for many families, with a range of activities throughout the year.
- Sports offered: Soccer, netball, cricket, basketball, athletics, and other district-friendly activities
- Strong teams or achievements: Regular participation in district events and athletics carnivals; opportunities to progress to regional competitions
- Music, arts, drama programs: School choir, music ensembles, school musical or drama productions, and arts showcases
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other hobby-based clubs
- Partnerships: Local sports clubs and regional competitions; partnerships with community groups for robotics and coding activities
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## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing is a core priority, with systems in place to support all students.
- Anti-bullying approach: Whole-school policies with restorative approaches and positive behavior guidance
- House system: House groups for events and routines (e.g., Red, Blue, Green, Gold) to foster belonging and healthy competition
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school wellbeing staff and referral pathways to external services when needed
- Transition support for new students: Buddy systems, orientation sessions, and tailored transition plans to help new students settle in
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## 5. Facilities
Facilities are designed to support a variety of learning and activity programs.
- Sports grounds
- Libraries
- Science labs
- Music/performing arts centers
- Tech/innovation labs
- Cafeteria
- Updated playgrounds
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## 6. School Values & Community Culture
The school aims to cultivate responsible and respectful young people who contribute to their communities.
- School values / mission: Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, and Collaboration; a focus on positive character development
- Leadership style: Distributed leadership with student leadership opportunities and teacher collaboration
- Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct and consistent expectations across year levels
- Community reputation: Strong parent involvement and a supportive local network
- Diversity & inclusion: Celebration of cultural diversity with inclusive practices and activities
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## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
Practical details to help families plan their day-to-day activities.
- School hours: Typical day from around 8:30 am to 3:00 pm
- Before/after school care: OSHC or similar arrangements available for families needing before/after care
- Uniform requirements: School uniform is standard; sun-safe hat policy; sports uniform for PE days
- Transport (train/bus routes): Local bus services and approved drop-off/pick-up zones; information on routes available through the school
- Canteen availability: On-site canteen with healthy choices on operating days
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Minimal compulsory costs for uniforms and activities; possible voluntary contributions and excursion charges consistent with state guidelines
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## 8. Enrolment & Admissions
Answers to common enrolment questions help families plan ahead.
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Enrolment is typically handled via the school’s process for catchment families. Start early in the year or ahead of the new term. You’ll generally submit required documents (birth certificate, immunisation status, proof of address) and complete enrolment forms. Orientation or transition activities may be offered for new students.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- If the school reaches capacity, a waiting list may be established. Placement is usually determined by catchment rules, order of application, and vacancies. The school may provide a tentative timeline and contact families as spots become available.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Primary enrolment typically does not require entry tests. There may be a brief intake discussion or information gathering to support placement, particularly for students with additional learning needs or EAL considerations.
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Yes, subject to space in the relevant year level and completion of enrolment requirements. Transfer needs are assessed with consideration for continuity of learning and available staffing.
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## 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- Strong sense of community, supportive staff, balanced focus on academics and wellbeing, and active family involvement.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who are collaborative, curious, engaged in learning, and who benefit from an inclusive, supportive environment.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Advanced literacy/numeracy support, STEM and coding programs, robust sports teams, music and drama programs, and clubs like robotics and debating.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular newsletters, a school app/portal, parent-teacher interviews, and reminders via email or text where available.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Student-centered, evidence-based practices with differentiated instruction to meet diverse needs and a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- In-class differentiation, targeted intervention groups, teacher aides, and access to specialist support as needed.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Early identification, targeted intervention, and ongoing monitoring to help students keep pace with learning goals.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- (Same as above) Through multiple channels including newsletters, portal updates, and scheduled meetings.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes typically around 20–24 students, with teacher and aide support to provide targeted instruction and small-group time.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A range of sports (soccer, netball, cricket, basketball, athletics), music/arts programs, and clubs such as robotics, chess, coding, and debating.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music and performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, a cafeteria, and updated playgrounds.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integrated digital literacy across the curriculum, interactive whiteboards, computer resources, and opportunities for coding and robotics.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local bus routes and car drop-off/pick-up arrangements; accessible facilities where applicable; information available through the school.
- What are typical school fees or additional costs?
- Minimal compulsory costs for uniforms and activities; some elective charges or excursion costs; most supports are aligned with state guidelines.
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## 10. Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros
- Strong sense of community and parent involvement
- Balanced focus on academics, wellbeing, and extracurriculars
- Inclusive environment with support for diverse learners
- Range of clubs and sports, plus arts programs
- Modern facilities and well-maintained grounds
- Cons
- As a medium-sized public school, there may be limited depth in some specialty programs compared to larger campuses
- Transport reliance can vary depending on location and route
- Some costs for uniforms, excursions, and optional activities
- Availability of mid-year transfer spots depends on vacancies
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