Baldivis Primary School

## 1. Overview Baldivis Primary School is a public, co-educational primary school serving students in Baldivis and the surrounding area. As a medium-sized public school, it focuses on building a welcoming and inclusive community where students can grow academically, socially and physically. Class sizes are typically in the low-to-mid 20s, supporting close teacher–student contact and targeted support where needed. The atmosphere is generally nurturing and community-minded, with an emphasis on student wellbeing, inclusivity and participation across a range of learning and co-curricular activities. ## 2. Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: Literacy and numeracy are core priorities, with a growing emphasis on STEM activities, digital literacy and creative problem-solving across year levels. The school also provides opportunities in the arts and languages as part of a well-rounded curriculum. - Special programs: Gifted and talented or accelerated learning opportunities may be available in certain cohorts or at the school’s discretion, alongside enrichment programs in STEM and the arts. - NAPLAN trends: Public reporting typically shows stable to improving trends across key learning areas over time, reflecting ongoing emphasis on literacy, numeracy and student growth. - Student-teacher ratios: Generally around 1:22 to 1:24, varying by year level and class. - Support for diverse learners: Strong focus on inclusion with targeted support for students who are English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners and students with additional learning needs (SEN). Access to teaching staff and learning assistance programs is provided to support diverse learners. ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: Common programs include soccer, netball, basketball, AFL/footy, athletics and cricket, with opportunities to represent the school in district events. - Strong teams or achievements: Students participate in inter-school fixtures and district competitions; teams and groups may achieve recognition in local and regional events. - Music, arts, drama programs: Active music and performing arts opportunities, including instrumental music, choir and school productions or drama clubs. - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating and other enrichment clubs commonly available to extend learning beyond the classroom. - Partnerships: Occasionally connects with local community clubs, sporting academies and regional competitions to broaden opportunities for students. ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: Emphasis on a positive school climate with clear anti-bullying policies, student wellbeing programs and restorative practices to resolve conflicts. - House system: House groups contribute to sense of belonging, organising friendly competitions and social activities. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school-based wellbeing support, including a counsellor or wellbeing staff to assist students with social and emotional learning. - Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy programs and targeted support to help new students settle in smoothly. ## 5. Facilities - Sports grounds: Dedicated outdoor play areas and fields for physical activities and team sports. - Libraries: A library that supports reading programs, research and quiet study. - Science labs: Dedicated spaces for hands-on science exploration and experiments. - Music/performing arts centers: Facilities to support music, drama and related performances. - Tech/innovation labs: Access to digital technologies and coding or robotics programs. - Cafeteria: On-site canteen offering a range of healthy meal options. - Updated playgrounds: Modern play spaces designed for safe, engaging outdoor activity. ## 6. School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: Emphasis on respect, responsibility, resilience and inclusivity; a focus on developing well-rounded students who contribute positively to the school and wider community. - Leadership style: Collaborative and student-centred, with opportunities for student voices in school decisions and leadership activities. - Behaviour expectations: Clear behaviour policies and consistent routines to promote a positive learning environment. - Community reputation: Generally viewed as a welcoming, family-friendly school with active parent engagement and a supportive culture. - Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to inclusive education, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and providing support to ensure participation for all. ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Typical start around 8:45 am and finish around 3:15 pm, with variations by year level. - Before/after school care: OSHC or similar arrangements may be available through outside providers for before/after school care. - Uniform requirements: School uniform in place, with guidelines for everyday wear and approved items. - Transport: Bus routes and local transport options serve the area; drop-offs and pick-ups are managed according to school policies and local services. - Canteen availability: Canteen or lunch facilities offering healthy options during the day. - Fees: Public primary schools generally do not charge tuition, but may have Voluntary Contributions and small costs for activities or supplies; overall fee burden is typically low to medium. ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions ### 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Check catchment eligibility and school zone requirements. - Submit the school’s enrolment form with required documents (birth certificate, immunisation records, proof of address, enrolment history, and any specialist reports if applicable). - Provide any additional information requested by the school (e.g., prior assessments, language status). - The timeline varies by year and year level; admissions typically align with the start of the school year, with ongoing enrolments possible as spaces allow. It’s best to contact the school for the current processing timelines. ### 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Some year levels or grades may have waiting lists if demand exceeds available places. Allocation usually prioritises in-zone applicants first, with non-zone places offered where vacancies exist. ### 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Generally, primary-level enrolment does not require entrance tests or interviews. Some programs or assessments may occur if a student has special learning needs or if the school is coordinating placement to balance class composition. Documentation and information about the student’s needs may be requested. ### 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers are possible if vacancies exist. Families should contact the school early to discuss space and the required documentation (including a release letter from the current school, if applicable). ## 9. Frequently Ask Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - What type of student thrives at this school? - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - How does the school communicate with parents? - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - What support is available for academic challenges? - How does the school communicate with parents? - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - What transport and accessibility options are available? - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Public, accessible option with a community-focused culture - Inclusive environment with support for diverse learners - Balanced mix of academics, arts and physical education - Range of extracurricular clubs and activities - Active emphasis on wellbeing and positive student development - Cons - Class sizes vary by year and may be larger during peak entry periods - Availability of certain programs may depend on funding and staffing levels - Transport options can depend on local routes and zones - Some programs (e.g., specialist gifted programs) may have limited places or require waitlists - Fees are generally low-medium for extra activities; availability of subsidised options may vary