Capertee Public School

1. Overview (1–2 paragraphs max) Capertee Public School is a small public primary school serving the Capertee community and surrounding rural area in New South Wales. As a government/government-funded school, it provides Kindergarten to Year 6 education with a strong focus on community involvement and student wellbeing. The small school size supports close teacher–student relationships and a family-like atmosphere. The school emphasises an inclusive, nurturing culture where students are known well by staff and peers. Class sizes are typically small, which helps with individual attention, personalised feedback and fostering a positive learning environment that values effort, cooperation and resilience. ⸻ 2. Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: Strong focus on Australian NSW curriculum with emphasis on literacy and numeracy; opportunities to engage in hands-on, inquiry-based learning in science and STEM contexts; efforts to build foundational skills for sustained learning. - Special programs: Targeted literacy/numeracy support, opportunities for extension and enrichment within the small school setting; emphasis on developing leadership, collaboration and independent learning skills. - NAPLAN trends: Trends for rural NSW primary schools often show stable performance with year-to-year variation; the school monitors progress and uses formative assessments to support growth across literacy and numeracy. - Student-teacher ratios: Small class environments typically enable higher levels of individual attention; student-teacher interactions are frequent and constructive. - Support for diverse learners: Support available for diverse learners, including assistance within the classroom, targeted interventions, and coordination with SEN programs where available; consideration given to EAL needs and inclusive practices. ⸻ 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: Regular PE programs, participation in local district sport events; opportunities for athletics, cricket and other field activities depending on resources and term planning. - Strong teams or achievements: The school participates in regional and local events and celebrates student effort and teamwork in sport; emphasis on sportsmanship and participation. - Music, arts, drama programs: Access to music and performing arts activities, school assemblies, and opportunities to showcase talents through small-scale performances. - Clubs: Possible clubs such as robotics, coding, chess or debating taught through after-school or lunch-time sessions, field trips and project-based activities. - Partnerships: Connections with local community groups and regional competitions help broaden students’ experiences and provide additional pathways in sport, arts and STEM activities. ⸻ 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policies and proactive strategies to create safe, respectful environments; emphasis on empathy, social-emotional learning and positive school culture. - House system: House/group structures may be used to foster belonging, teamwork and healthy competition during events and daily activities. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school wellbeing staff or part-time counsellors to support student resilience, mental health and personal development. - Transition support for new students: Buddy programs, orientation activities, and targeted support to help students settle in smoothly and build social connections. ⸻ 5. Facilities - Sports grounds: Outdoor playing fields or areas suitable for PE and games. - Libraries: On-site library or book-rich space for reading and independent study. - Science labs: Dedicated spaces or flexible learning areas for science and hands-on experiments. - Music/performing arts centers: Music room or performance space used for rehearsals and showcases. - Tech/innovation labs: Computer access and digital learning spaces; opportunities to engage with basic coding and ICT activities. - Cafeteria: On-site canteen or meal arrangements for lunch breaks; facilities to support healthy eating. - Updated playgrounds: Safe outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment and shade. ⸻ 6. School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: Focus on respect, responsibility, cooperation and inclusion; commitment to a safe, supportive learning community. - Leadership style: Student voice and leadership opportunities are encouraged; staff foster a collaborative and responsive approach to school life. - Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct aligned with NSW public school expectations; consistent routines and positive reinforcement. - Community reputation: Strong sense of community pride; families value the close-knit, supportive environment and consistent pastoral care. - Diversity & inclusion: Welcomes students from diverse backgrounds; inclusive practices are embedded in daily routines and learning. ⸻ 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Day typically runs from morning to afternoon with breaks; aligns with NSW public school timetables. - Before/after school care: Availability varies; families may access local OSHC programs or school-run supervision where offered. - Uniform requirements: Uniform policy common across NSW public schools; guidance on acceptable wear and footwear provided by the school. - Transport (train/bus routes): Local transport options may include bus services within the catchment area; check specific routes and timetables with the school. - Canteen availability: Canteen or lunch service available at certain times or on a rotational basis. - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Public schools typically have low to modest voluntary contributions and some activity costs for excursions or materials; specifics provided by the administration. ⸻ 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Enrolment is managed through NSW Department of Education processes. Parents typically submit an enrolment form with required documents (proof of address, birth certificate or equivalent, immunisation records, previous school details if transferring). The school or district will confirm placement and provide transition information. Timelines vary, but families are advised to apply as early as possible, particularly for term starts. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - There can be a waiting list when the school is at capacity or during high-demand periods. Priority is generally given to local catchment families, with space availability determining placement for non-local applicants. The school will advise on the process if a waitlist applies. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - For primary years, entry often does not require entrance tests. An information interview or meeting with the principal may occur to discuss needs, placement and transition planning, especially for newer students or those with additional support requirements. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Yes, subject to space and alignment with NSW DoE guidelines. Families interested in mid-year transfers should contact the school as soon as possible to check space, complete enrolment paperwork, and plan for a smooth transition. ⸻ 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A close-knit, supportive community with small class sizes and strong teacher–student relationships; emphasis on wellbeing, safety and individual progress within a rural setting. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who respond well to a nurturing environment, personalized feedback and collaboration; those who value community involvement and steady progress in core skills often do well here. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Access to literacy and numeracy support, enrichment within the classroom, and participation in local sport, music, arts and after-school clubs or activities; opportunities to engage in leadership and teamwork. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular updates via newsletters, notice boards, school app or emails; frequent parent-teacher meetings and progress discussions; timely information on events and excursions. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Curriculum aligned with NSW standards; emphasis on practical, hands-on learning, student engagement, and feedback-driven progress; focus on building resilience and independent learning skills. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted interventions in literacy and numeracy, small-group or in-class supports, and coordination with additional support staff or specialists where available. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Early identification of needs, individualized learning plans, and stepped support within the classroom; referrals to specialist services if required. - How does the school communicate with parents? (Duplicate question) - See above: regular updates, meetings, and accessible channels for timely information and feedback. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes are typically small in a rural primary setting, enabling frequent teacher–student interaction, personalised feedback and targeted support. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - Local sport participation, PE programs, and opportunities for arts, music and after-school clubs; depending on resources, clubs such as coding, chess or robotics may be offered. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, library, science spaces or dedicated learning areas, music/performing arts facilities, technology/computer access, lunch areas and well-maintained outdoor spaces. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integration of digital tools to support learning; access to computers or devices for classwork, coding or ICT activities within the learning program. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local bus services and school transport options; information provided to families on routes, timings and accessibility. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Public schools generally have low to modest voluntary contributions with potential costs for excursions or materials; specifics are provided by the school. ⸻ 10. Short Pros & Cons list Pros - Small, close-knit community with strong pastoral care - Personalised attention through small class sizes - Focus on wellbeing and inclusive learning - Local engagement and opportunities for leadership - Accessible facilities for core subjects (reading, writing, maths, science) Cons - Limited breadth of specialist programs compared with larger schools - Weekend or term-time travel may be necessary for some activities - Availability of certain clubs or advanced programs may be more limited - Transport options depend on rural routes and schedules ⸻