Comet Bay Primary School

## 1. Overview Comet Bay Primary School is a public, co-educational primary school serving families in Secret Harbour, WA. The school is medium-sized, with class sizes typically in the low to mid-20s, fostering a classroom environment where students can receive individual attention within a supportive peer community. The atmosphere is inclusive and nurturing, with a strong emphasis on student wellbeing, engagement, and a collaborative culture that values achievement across academics, sport, and the arts. ⸻ ## 2. Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: Focus on literacy and numeracy foundations, with a pathway into STEM, science inquiry, and digital literacy. The school places importance on developing communication, critical thinking, and collaborative learning skills, supporting student growth across key learning areas. - Special programs: Opportunities commonly include STEAM activities, coding and robotics clubs, and opportunities for leadership development. The school strives to provide inclusive learning pathways for a range of learners, including targeted interventions where needed. - NAPLAN / trends: Public data indicate the school engages with NAPLAN as part of ongoing benchmarking, with trends typically showing stable performance and gradual improvement in key bands over recent years. For the latest trend picture, check the most recent Department of Education reporting. - Student-teacher ratios: Class sizes are in the mid-20s, with student-teacher ratios commonly around 1:22 (variable by year and program). - Support for diverse learners: Strong support for diverse learners includes EAL (English as an Additional Language) assistance, SEN (special educational needs) supports, and inclusive practices to ensure accessibility and participation for all students. ⸻ ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: Netball, basketball, soccer, AFL/footy, athletics, and general physical education activities; opportunities to participate in district or inter-school events. - Strong teams or achievements: Active involvement in inter-school sports with regular participation in local carnivals and competitions, fostering teamwork and school pride. - Music, arts, drama programs: School music programs, choirs or ensembles, and performing arts opportunities such as school productions and drama activities. - Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other clubs that promote problem-solving and creative thinking. - Partnerships: Connections with local sports clubs and regional competitions to provide extended opportunities and pathways for talented students. ⸻ ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policies and proactive classroom practices, with emphasis on restorative approaches and student wellbeing. - House system: A house system to promote school spirit, teamwork, and healthy competition across year levels. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school-based wellbeing staff to support social-emotional development and provide guidance. - Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and targeted supports to help new students settle in smoothly. ⸻ ## 5. Facilities - Sports grounds: Adequate playing fields and outdoor spaces for PE and sports activities. - Libraries: On-site library resources to support reading and research skills. - Science labs: Dedicated spaces for science experiments and inquiry-based learning. - Music/performing arts centers: Facilities to support music classes, ensembles, and drama activities. - Tech/innovation labs: Resources and spaces for digital technologies and STEAM projects. - Cafeteria: On-site canteen or cafeteria services for meals and snacks. - Updated playgrounds: Modernized play areas and outdoor learning spaces. ⸻ ## 6. School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: A defined set of core values focused on respect, responsibility, resilience, and teamwork, guiding daily practice and student conduct. - Leadership style: A blend of distributed leadership and student voice, encouraging leadership opportunities for students and staff to collaborate on school initiatives. - Behaviour expectations: Clear guidelines that promote positive behaviour, consistent routines, and restorative approaches when issues arise. - Community reputation: Known for its welcoming, inclusive environment and strong emphasis on wellbeing and engaging learning experiences. - Diversity & inclusion: Committed to an inclusive culture that respects diverse backgrounds and abilities, with programs and supports to ensure participation for all students. ⸻ ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Typical school day starts in the morning and ends in the early afternoon, with times aligning to the Western Australian school calendar. Check the latest school calendar for exact hours. - Before/after school care: OSHC or approved providers often available to support families needing supervision outside of normal hours. - Uniform requirements: School uniform is typically required, with details available from the school’s uniform policy. - Transport (train/bus routes): Access to bus routes and local transport options; proximity to public transport may influence journey times for students. - Canteen availability: On-site or nearby canteen services support lunch and snack needs. - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): As a public school, fees are typically modest with possible optional or voluntary contributions for activities and resources. ⸻ ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions ### 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? Enrolment is generally handled through the Western Australian Department of Education framework. Parents typically submit an application, provide required documentation (proof of identity, immunisation status, proof of address, birth certificate), and may be asked to supply additional information. The timeline varies by year and cohort; it is best to apply as early as possible and confirm dates with the school or the Department of Education. ### 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? Many WA public schools maintain a waiting list based on enrolment demand and catchment availability. The length and processing of a waitlist depend on current vacancies and enrolment capacity. Apply early if you want to secure a place. ### 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? Public primary schools in WA generally do not require entrance tests or interviews for standard enrolment. You will need to provide required documentation (address, immunisation records, birth details). Some programs or year levels may have additional assessments, but this is not routine for all students. ### 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? Mid-year transfers are possible if spaces are available. Parents should contact the school promptly to discuss vacancy, transfer documentation, and any immunisation or enrolment requirements. The school will coordinate with the Department of Education to finalise the transfer. ⸻ ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - Public, well-supported learning environment with a focus on wellbeing, solid academic program, modern facilities, and inclusive culture that welcomes families from diverse backgrounds. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who are curious, collaborative, willing to participate across academics, sports, arts, and community activities, and who benefit from an inclusive, supportive setting. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - A broad program including literacy and numeracy development, STEAM activities, coding/robotics, music and performing arts, and competitive and recreational sports, plus leadership and club opportunities. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular updates via newsletters, emails, notices, and parent-teacher meetings; clear channels for feedback and involvement in school activities. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Evidence-based teaching across core subjects with a focus on student engagement, differentiation, and inclusive practices to meet varied learning needs. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted interventions, EAL support, SEN supports, and flexible grouping to assist students who require additional help. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Access to teachers, learning support staff, and wellbeing personnel; referral pathways to specialised programs when needed. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local bus routes and other transport options; school site accessibility considerations for students with mobility needs. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - As a public school, fees are generally modest; there may be optional contributions or costs for certain activities and resources. ⸻ ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Public, inclusive environment with a focus on wellbeing and strong community feel - Broad range of academics, sports, arts, and technology programs - Modern facilities and dedicated staff supporting diverse learners - Opportunities for student leadership and clubs (robotics, coding, debating) - Cons - As a medium-sized public school, demand can be steady and peak periods may bring busier times - Some programs or resources may require additional costs or parent involvement for participation - Exact class sizes and transport times can vary by year and cohort