Birregurra Primary School

## 1. Overview Birregurra Primary School is a public (government) primary school serving the local community in Birregurra, Victoria. As a small rural school, it offers a close-knit, supportive environment where students are known well by teachers and staff. Class sizes tend to be smaller than larger urban schools, which helps with individualized attention and a warm, welcoming classroom culture. School size: small Class size: typically small cohorts that support close teacher–student interactions Atmosphere/culture: nurturing, inclusive, community-minded with a focus on student wellbeing and active participation in school life --- ## 2. Academics & Learning Academic strengths are anchored in strong literacy and numeracy foundations, with an integrated approach to STEM and hands-on learning. The school emphasises developing key skills in English, number sense, problem solving, and collaborative learning across subjects. There are opportunities for enrichment and targeted support to help every student progress. Special programs: enriched learning opportunities, integrated STEAM activities, sustainability projects, and student leadership experiences NAPLAN / trends: monitoring of NAPLAN performance trends over time; focus on using data to inform teaching and respond to student needs Student-teacher ratios: small class sizes enabling more individualized instruction and timely feedback Support for diverse learners: inclusive education approach with targeted support for students who need extra help, including adjustments and referrals as appropriate for EAL/SEN needs --- ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths Sports offered: typical offerings include local district or school-level activities such as athletics, cricket, football (Aussie rules), netball, and soccer; PE and active play are integral to the school culture Strong teams or achievements: emphasis on participation, teamwork, and district competition; success often measured by skill development and sportsmanship Music, arts, drama programs: regular opportunities in music and performing arts; school assemblies, performances, and community events Clubs: robotics, chess, coding, debating (availability varies by year and staff interest) Partnerships: connections with local community groups, regional sporting associations, and external programs to provide additional opportunities and competitions --- ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Wellbeing is a top priority, with a focus on creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment. Anti-bullying approach: proactive strategies to promote respectful relationships, with restorative practices where needed House system: a house structure is used to foster belonging, friendly competition, and teamwork across year levels Counsellors / wellbeing officers: access to wellbeing support for students; on-site or external referrals available as needed Transition support for new students: planned orientation and gradual integration to help new students settle in quickly --- ## 5. Facilities Sports grounds: on-site spaces for physical education and sports activities Libraries: a dedicated library/resource area supporting reading and research Science labs: equipped spaces for hands-on experiments and inquiry Music/performing arts centers: facilities to practice music, drama, and performance Tech/innovation labs: opportunities for digital learning, robotics, and coding activities Cafeteria: school dining area or arrangement for meal/snack provision Updated playgrounds: modern play spaces designed for safe, active play --- ## 6. School Values & Community Culture School values / mission: focus on respect, responsibility, inclusivity, resilience, and teamwork Leadership style: student voice is encouraged through class meetings, buddy systems, and leadership opportunities; collaborative planning with teachers Behaviour expectations: clear, consistent guidelines supported by positive behaviour approaches and restorative practices Community reputation: widely viewed as a supportive, family-friendly rural school with strong community ties Diversity & inclusion: welcoming environment that supports students from diverse backgrounds and abilities --- ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations School hours: typically a daytime schedule aligned with Victorian primary schools; exact times confirmed by the school each year Before/after school care: options may be provided through local community providers or after-school programs Uniform requirements: school uniform or dress code as per DET guidelines; details provided on enrolment Transport: local bus services or school transport arrangements; specifics depend on regional routes Canteen availability: canteen or lunch program offered on certain days or by arrangement Fees: as a public school, there are standard fees for materials or activities; overall cost tends to be low to moderate and clearly communicated by the school --- ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Check catchment eligibility and school capacity - Submit an enrolment form with required documents (proof of identity, residency, immunization status, birth certificate) - The school staff will guide you through the timeline for Prep intake and any mid-year entry if spaces are available - You'll receive confirmation of enrolment and information about orientation and start dates 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - If enrolments exceed capacity, a waiting list may be used - Priority is typically given to students within the catchment area or according to local policies; the school communicates next steps and expected timelines 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Generally, there are no entrance tests - Some documentation and information gathering (e.g., immunization records, proof of address) is required - A brief meeting or orientation may be offered to help families and students settle in 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers are considered where space permits - If a space is available, the school will outline the transfer process, required documents, and transition supports - Arrangements for transportation and continuity of learning are discussed during the transfer --- ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A small, supportive community with close teacher–student relationships and a focus on well-being and personalised learning. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Curious, cooperative learners who benefit from small class sizes, strong pastoral care, and participation in a range of local activities. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Enrichment in literacy, numeracy, and STEM; opportunities in music, drama, arts, and various sports; clubs and leadership activities when available. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular updates via newsletters, phone calls, emails, and parent-teacher meetings; information shared about student progress and school events. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Student-centered, inquiry-based learning with a focus on core competencies, differentiation for diverse learners, and integration of practical, hands-on activities. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted interventions, small-group or individual support, and collaboration with families to monitor progress. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Additional tutoring, adjustments within the classroom, and access to wellbeing and learning support staff as needed. - How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeated) - See above: newsletters, meetings, digital communications, and direct contact from teachers. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes are small, enabling more frequent teacher feedback and individualized attention. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A range of sports and activity clubs depending on staff and student interest; district events and community partnerships supplement in-school offerings. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Comprehensive facilities including sports grounds, library/resource area, science spaces, and performing arts opportunities. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integration of digital tools and coding or robotics activities as part of the learning program, aligned with curriculum standards. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local transport options typically include school buses or public transport arrangements in rural areas; details depend on location and route. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Public schools have standard fees for materials and activities; the school communicates any expected costs clearly at enrolment. --- ## 10. Short Pros & Cons - Pros - Enjoys a small, supportive, community-focused environment - Smaller class sizes enabling individualized attention - Strong emphasis on wellbeing and inclusive education - Broad range of enrichment opportunities in academics, arts, and sports - Active parental involvement and local community connections - Cons - Limited specialist programs compared with larger urban schools - Fewer on-site facilities or course options than big city schools - Transport options may be longer for families in more remote areas - Availability of certain clubs or programs may vary year to year based on staffing and interest