Charles Conder Primary School

# Overview Conder Primary School is a public primary school in the ACT serving the local community with a focus on inclusive, quality education. The school is medium-sized, with class sizes typically in the low 20s, supporting a collaborative and supportive learning environment. The atmosphere is nurturing and respectful, emphasising inclusive practices and high expectations for all students. # Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: The school emphasizes literacy and numeracy with integrated STEM and opportunities to develop leadership and language skills. - Special programs: Potential offerings may include Gifted and Talented (G&T) pathways, acceleration options where appropriate, and targeted supports for students who need extra help. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support and SEN support are typically available to diverse learners. - NAPLAN / Ofsted trends: Look for published school reports for trend data; typically, ACT primary schools provide year-over-year trends showing stability or gradual improvement in reading and numeracy, with ongoing focus on growth for all learners. - Student-teacher ratios: Class sizes generally around 20–25 students, with teacher and learning support staff contributing to a lower student-to-teacher ratio in targeted groups. - Support for diverse learners: Programs and staff available for EAL learners and students with additional learning needs, including targeted intervention and inclusive practices. # Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: A range of school sports and physical activities typical for primary schools, including team and individual sports appropriate for different ages. - Strong teams or achievements: Participation in local competitions and school-level sport activities, with emphasis on teamwork, participation and personal bests. - Music, arts, drama programs: Access to music education and opportunities for involvement in performing arts and drama, supporting creative development. - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating and other clubs are commonly offered or available through after-school programs or partnerships. - Partnerships: Connections with local clubs, community programs or regional competitions to broaden opportunities for students. # Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: Whole-school strategies focused on positive behaviour, inclusive culture and proactive anti-bullying practices. - House system: A house or team structure to foster belonging, teamwork and healthy competition. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to wellbeing staff or school counsellors to support students’ emotional and social health. - Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy systems and transition programs to help new students settle in smoothly. # Facilities - Sports grounds: Outdoor spaces for physical education and sport. - Libraries: A library or learning resource space for reading and research. - Science labs: Dedicated spaces to support science learning and hands-on experiments. - Music/performing arts centers: Areas or rooms dedicated to music, drama and performance. - Tech/innovation labs: Spaces for technology and digital learning activities. - Cafeteria: On-site dining or vending/cafeteria facilities. - Updated playgrounds: Modern play areas and equipment supporting active play. # School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: A clear set of values guiding behaviour, learning and community engagement (e.g., respect, responsibility, inclusion, teamwork). - Leadership style: Distributed leadership and collaborative decision-making within school teams. - Behaviour expectations: Positive behaviour expectations tied to a code of conduct and consistent routines. - Community reputation: A welcoming and engaged school community with active parental involvement and partnerships. - Diversity & inclusion: Emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusive practices for all students. # School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Typical start and finish times aligned with ACT term schedules. - Before/after school care: Availability of after-school care or supervision via school or local providers. - Uniform requirements: School uniform policy with specified attire for daily wear and possibly for sports events. - Transport (train/bus routes): Access to bus services or public transport options; details depend on the local network and catchment. - Canteen availability: Canteen or snack provisions available on site or nearby alternatives. - Fees: Public primary schools generally have low to moderate voluntary contributions and charges for some activities or excursions; exact amounts vary by year level and activity. # Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Enrolments are managed through the ACT Department of Education in coordination with the school. Applications typically follow official intake windows with timelines published by the Directorate. An offer of placement, waitlist status, or next steps are communicated after the application is reviewed. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Many public primary schools in ACT use a waitlist system when places are limited or when enrolments exceed capacity. Placement on the waitlist is generally determined by factors such as catchment eligibility, availability, and order of application. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - For most public primary enrolments, there are no entrance tests or formal interviews. The process focuses on eligibility, documentation, and meeting enrolment criteria. Some programs or special arrangements may require additional information. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers are considered where places are available. Parents should contact the school as soon as possible to discuss accommodation, documentation, and transition planning. # Frequently Asked Questions - “Why Parents Choose This School?” A combination of inclusive culture, supportive learning environment, strong community connections and focus on well-rounded development. - “What type of student thrives at this school?” Students who benefit from a collaborative, respectful learning setting, with opportunities in literacy, numeracy, sport, arts and wellbeing. - “What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?” Access to enhanced literacy and numeracy programs, STEM activities, music/arts programs, and after-school clubs such as robotics, coding and debating. - “How does the school communicate with parents?” Regular updates via newsletters, email, the school website or portal, and scheduled parent-teacher meetings or information evenings. - “What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?” Student-centered, inquiry-based learning with a focus on collaboration, critical thinking and practical application of knowledge. - “How does the school support students who need extra academic help?” Targeted interventions, small-group support, and differentiation within the classroom, plus access to specialist staff. - “What support is available for academic challenges?” In-class differentiation, learning support staff and referral processes for additional assessments if needed. - “How does the school communicate with parents?” (Repeated) See above: newsletters, emails, portals, and meetings. - “What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?” Typical class sizes around 20–25, with additional support staff and targeted interventions to provide more focused attention where needed. - “What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?” A range of sports, clubs and arts activities, including robotics, chess, coding and debating, plus music and drama options. - “What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?” Sports grounds, library, science labs, performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, catering facilities and updated play areas. - “What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?” Integration of technology and digital learning into the curriculum through student-centered, age-appropriate use of digital tools and resources. - “What transport and accessibility options are available?” Local bus routes, walking paths and accessible facilities; specifics depend on the school’s catchment and itineraries. - “What are the typical school fees or additional costs?” Low to moderate voluntary contributions; some charges for activities or excursions; exact amounts vary by year and program. # Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Inclusive, nurturing learning environment with a focus on wellbeing and community. - Balanced emphasis on literacy, numeracy, STEM, arts and sport. - Strong support for diverse learners and opportunities for enrichment. - Active clubs and community partnerships that broaden horizons. - Cons - As a public school, enrolment capacity may influence wait times or mid-year transfer options. - Specific programs or extra-curricular activities may vary year to year based on funding and staffing. - Uniform requirements and voluntary contributions may be ongoing considerations for families.