## 1. Overview
Clarence Valley Anglican School (CVAS) is an independent Anglican school in Grafton, NSW, offering a co-educational pathway from early learning through to senior secondary years. The school emphasises values-based education within a supportive, faith-informed community.
- School type: Independent/private Anglican school
- School size: Medium
- Class size: Typically mid- to upper-teens in primary; secondary classes often in the low-to-mid teens
- Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, academically focused with a strong sense of community and faith
## 2. Academics & Learning
CVAS aims to deliver a well-rounded education that prepares students for post-school pathways while building character and leadership.
- Academic strengths: English and literacy, STEM disciplines (maths, science), opportunities for leadership development, and language study
- Special programs: Leadership and community service pathways; potential for accelerated or gifted/talented programs; curriculum aligned with NSW standards and senior secondary requirements
- NAPLAN / trends: Consistent emphasis on literacy and numeracy; regional independent schools often show stable or improving performance across years, with targeted supports to lift outcomes in key areas
- Student-teacher ratios: Generally in the lower teens to mid-teens, enabling more guided learning and individual support
- Support for diverse learners: EAL (English as an Additional Language) support; targeted SEN (special educational needs) and learning support plans; inclusive education practices
## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
CVAS provides a broad spectrum of sport and extracurricular activities designed to engage students aged 10–14 and beyond.
- Sports offered: Common regional NSW offerings such as rugby, cricket, soccer, netball, basketball, swimming and athletics; opportunities to participate in inter-school and district competition
- Strong teams or achievements: Participation in interschool/state competitions; emphasis on teamwork, sportsmanship and individual improvement
- Music, arts, drama programs: Performing arts and music programs that complement academics; opportunities to participate in school productions and ensembles
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating and other academic or interest-based clubs
- Partnerships: Connections with local clubs and regional competitions to broaden exposure and competition
## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing and pastoral care are central to CVAS’s approach, supporting students academically and personally.
- Anti-bullying approach: Clear policies and proactive programs promoting respectful behaviour and a positive school climate
- House system: House-based activities and competitions to foster belonging and leadership
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors or wellbeing staff to support social, emotional and mental health
- Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems and gradual transition processes to help new students settle in
## 5. Facilities
The school’s facilities are designed to support a diverse range of learning experiences.
- Sports grounds: Multiple outdoor playing fields and courts
- Libraries: Dedicated library spaces supporting reading and research
- Science labs: Modern science facilities for practical experiments
- Music/performing arts centers: Venues for ensembles, concerts and drama
- Tech/innovation labs: Dedicated spaces for digital learning, coding and STEM activity
- Cafeteria: On-site canteen or dining facilities
- Updated playgrounds: Safe, modern play areas for younger students and breaks between classes
## 6. School Values & Community Culture
CVAS emphasizes values-based education and constructive leadership within a community-focused culture.
- School values / mission: Core values such as respect, responsibility, integrity, compassion and service
- Leadership style: Student-centred with opportunities for peer leadership, mentoring and active participation in school life
- Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct aligned with the school's values
- Community reputation: A supportive, faith-informed community with active parent involvement and school partnerships
- Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and ensuring inclusive learning environments
## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
Helpful logistics to plan daily life for families.
- School hours: Typical start and finish times aligned with NSW norms; precise times published by the school each year
- Before/after school care: Availability of extended care options
- Uniform requirements: School uniform policy with required attire for different year levels
- Transport: Local bus routes and options; info on drop-off/pick-up arrangements
- Canteen availability: On-site canteen or lunch facilities
- Fees: Fee ranges typical of NSW independent schools; current annual tuition and any additional costs are published by the school
## 8. Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Enrolment process and timeline: Inquiry → application → supporting documents → assessment/interview (where applicable) → offer of place; timelines vary by year level and space availability
- Waiting list: Some year levels may have a waiting list; position often determined by space, date of application, and placement priorities
- Entry requirements, tests, or interviews: Applications may include interviews or meetings with the Head of Admissions; some year levels may require assessment or documentation to support placement
- Mid-year transfers: Possible subject to space and meeting enrolment criteria; coordination with the school to ensure a smooth transition
## 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A values-driven, supportive environment that focuses on academic growth, character development and community involvement
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who respond well to a nurturing, inclusive setting with opportunities across academics, sport and the arts
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Leadership roles, advanced learning opportunities, diverse clubs and teams, performing arts and competitive sport pathways
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular updates via newsletters, emails, parent portals and student progress reports; events and information evenings
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Curriculum aligned to NSW standards with a focus on literacy, numeracy, critical thinking and real-world application
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted learning support, EAL and SEN services, and individualized learning plans
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Access to tutors, counsellors, and learning support staff; proactive monitoring and intervention when needed
- How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeated)
- See above: newsletters, portals, calls, meetings
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes typically in the low-to-mid-teens in secondary and mid-teens in primary, enabling more targeted guidance
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A broad mix of sports, music, drama, and clubs such as robotics, chess, coding and debating
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts facilities, tech/innovation labs
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integrated ICT in the curriculum, access to digital tools and coding opportunities as part of learning
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local transport routes; accessibility considerations and drop-off/pick-up arrangements
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Fees vary by year level and family circumstances; current details are available from the school’s admissions information
## 10. Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros
- Values-based, inclusive environment with a focus on holistic development
- Medium-sized community that supports personalized learning
- Broad range of academic, sports, arts and leadership opportunities
- Active wellbeing and pastoral care to support students
- Modern facilities and strong community partnerships
- Cons
- Fees reflect the independent school sector and may be higher than public options
- Availability of places can be limited in popular year levels; mid-year transfers subject to space
- As a faith-based school, culture and programs may align closely with Anglican values, which may influence some families differently
Notes
- The content above is a draft designed to help families understand what CVAS typically offers. Please verify exact details (class sizes, trades, facilities, exact programs, entry requirements, current fees) with CVAS’s official admissions materials or by contacting the school directly, as information can change by year and year level.
