Coodanup Community College

## 1. Overview Coodanup Community College is a public, co-educational secondary school serving families in Mandurah and the surrounding area. The college aims to provide a balanced, inclusive learning environment that supports students across academic and practical pathways. - School type: Public - School size: Medium - Class size: Approximately mid-20s to high-20s per class - Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, supportive, with a focus on both academic achievement and student wellbeing ## 2. Academics & Learning Coodanup Community College offers a curriculum designed to meet a range of student goals, from further study to vocational pathways. The school emphasises core literacy and numeracy while also providing opportunities to explore STEM, humanities, languages, and creative subjects. - Academic strengths: Focus on English and Mathematics, with strengths in STEM and humanities through core subjects and project-based learning - Special programs: Pathways for academic, VET and practical learning to suit student goals; opportunities for coursework that aligns with post-school options - NAPLAN / trends: NAPLAN trends are monitored by the school with a view to continuous improvement; results are used to tailor support and interventions - Student-teacher ratios: Comparable to WA public high schools; small to mid-sized classes support access to teachers - Support for diverse learners: EAL support and SEN pathways available; targeted support and intervention programs offered as needed ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths Extracurriculars are important for many families, with options aimed at sport, arts, and clubs. The college participates in regional activities and offers a range of activities to engage students aged 10–14 (and older). - Sports offered: Common secondary-school sports such as basketball, soccer/football, netball, athletics, and swimming; local competition participation - Strong teams or achievements: School-level teams compete in regional events; focus on developing skills and teamwork - Music, arts, drama programs: Opportunities in music and performing arts, with school ensembles and productions where available - Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other interest-based clubs - Partnerships: Local community partnerships and participation in inter-school or regional events and competitions where possible ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Wellbeing and pastoral care are central to student success, with structures to support students across their school journey. - Anti-bullying approach: Positive behaviour support and anti-bullying programs in place - House system: House structures used to foster belonging, leadership, and cross-year activities - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school-based wellbeing staff to support students’ social and emotional needs - Transition support for new students: Orientation and transition programs to help new students settle in and build connections ## 5. Facilities Facilities focus on supporting a well-rounded student experience with spaces for learning, performance, and recreation. - Sports grounds: On-site facilities for physical education and sport - Libraries: A school library for study and research - Science labs: Dedicated science laboratories for practical experiments - Music/performing arts centers: Music spaces and performance areas - Tech/innovation labs: Computer/technology labs for digital learning and projects - Cafeteria: On-site canteen or cafeteria for meals and snacks - Updated playgrounds: Play and social spaces for break times ## 6. School Values & Community Culture The school’s values shape daily life and student conduct, helping to build a respectful and inclusive culture. - School values / mission: Emphasis on respect, responsibility, resilience, and inclusion - Leadership style: Student voice and leadership opportunities alongside staff guidance - Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct linked to positive behaviour support - Community reputation: Built on local involvement, parent engagement, and a focus on student wellbeing - Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to an inclusive environment that supports students from diverse backgrounds ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Practical information helps families plan around the school day and routines. - School hours: Typical day runs during standard WA high school hours; start and finish times align with district norms - Before/after school care: On-site supervision or local community options may be available; check with the school for specifics - Uniform requirements: School uniform is required - Transport (train/bus routes): Access to regional bus services; families may use local transport options and school-based travel information - Canteen availability: Canteen or canteen services on-site or nearby; food provisions during breaks - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Public schools have modest upfront costs with additional charges for activities/excursions; overall fees are on the lower-to-moderate side for public schooling ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions Enrolment details outline how families can secure a place and what to expect during the process. - What is the enrolment process and timeline? Applications are handled through the school with guidance from the Western Australia Department of Education; timelines vary by year level and catchment, with processes typically opening well before the start of the year - Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? There can be waiting lists when demand exceeds capacity; the school will advise on prioritisation and placement when spaces become available - Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? For non-selective public schools, entry generally does not require entrance tests; some schools may request a brief discussion or enrolment interview for transitional support needs - Does the school accept mid-year transfers? Yes, subject to vacancy and capacity; families should contact the school to discuss mid-year transfer options and required documentation ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - Public, inclusive environment with a focus on wellbeing and balanced development; pathways to further study or vocational training - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who value a supportive community, practical as well as academic learning, and a range of extra-curricular options - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Core subject extensions, targeted learning support, and a variety of clubs (robotics, coding, debating) plus sport and arts activities - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular updates through newsletters, email, school portal, and events; opportunities for parent-teacher meetings - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - A balanced approach combining core academics with hands-on, project-based, and inquiry-focused learning - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted intervention programs, tutoring supports, and SEN/EAL assistance as needed - What support is available for academic challenges? - Access to guidance counsellors, learning support staff, and tailored learning plans - How does the school communicate with parents? (Duplicate) - See above; channels include digital platforms, notices, and direct contact with teachers - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes typical of WA public high schools; combined with teacher availability to provide individualized support where needed - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A range of sports, music/arts, and clubs such as robotics, coding, chess, and debating - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, technology labs - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integration of digital tools across subjects and access to computer labs and online learning resources - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local bus routes and regional transport options; information available through school and district transportation guides - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Public schools have modest compulsory costs with additional charges for excursions and optional activities ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Public, inclusive environment with a focus on wellbeing and balanced development - A range of academic and vocational pathways - Diverse extracurricular options (sports, clubs, arts) - Support for diverse learners (EAL, SEN) - Active community involvement and partnerships - Cons - As a medium-sized public school, some specialised programs may have limited capacity - Transport and after-school arrangements may depend on local services - Some extracurricular activities may have limited spots during busy terms - Uniforms and associated costs are required, with additional costs for trips and activities Notes: - This overview provides a structured summary to help families compare options. For enrolment timelines, current programs, and precise facilities, please contact the school directly or check the latest district guidance. The details above are meant to reflect typical features of a WA public high school and may vary by year and cohort.