## Overview
Forrest Primary School is a public, co-educational primary school serving the Forrest area in Canberra, ACT. The school focuses on providing a nurturing, inclusive learning environment that supports students to grow academically, socially and emotionally.
- School type: public
- School size: small–medium
- Class size: around 20 students per class
- Atmosphere/culture: nurturing, inclusive, community-focused
## Academics & Learning
Forrest Primary aims to deliver solid foundations in literacy and numeracy while offering opportunities to explore STEM, arts and leadership skills. The school supports a well-rounded curriculum and fosters curiosity, creativity and a love of learning.
- Academic strengths: literacy and numeracy, STEM thinking, arts and inquiry-based learning
- Special programs: opportunities for enrichment and extension; Gifted & Talented or accelerated options may be available within the ACT framework; targeted programs for students needing additional support
- NAPLAN / Ofsted trends: consistent performance with gradual improvement trends in reading and numeracy over recent years
- Student-teacher ratios: approximately 1:18 in typical classrooms
- Support for diverse learners: EAL/D support, SEN considerations, inclusive education approaches, additional learning support as needed
## Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
A key area for many families, Forrest Primary offers a balanced mix of sport and enrichment activities, with opportunities to develop both teamwork and individual talents.
- Sports offered: soccer, basketball, athletics, cricket, inclusive playground activities and fitness programs
- Strong teams or achievements: active participation in inter-school events and regional competitions
- Music, arts, drama programs: school ensembles, choir or band, and drama opportunities
- Clubs: robotics, coding, chess, debating and other enrichment clubs
- Partnerships: connections with local clubs and Canberra-based competitions or events to broaden opportunities
## Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing is a central focus, helping students feel safe, supported and engaged at school.
- Anti-bullying approach: whole-school positive behaviour programs and restorative practices
- House system: fosters belonging, teamwork and healthy competition
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: on-site wellbeing support and access to counsellors as needed
- Transition support for new students: buddy programs, orientations and targeted transition activities to help students settle in
## Facilities
Forrest Primary provides a range of modern, student-friendly spaces designed to support learning and creativity.
- Sports grounds
- Libraries
- Science labs
- Music/performing arts centers
- Tech/innovation labs
- Cafeteria
- Updated playgrounds
## School Values & Community Culture
The school emphasises values-based education and a positive, inclusive community culture.
- School values / mission: respect, responsibility, resilience; student-centred learning approach
- Leadership style: distributed leadership with opportunities for student voice and leadership
- Behaviour expectations: clear expectations, consistent routines and restorative approaches
- Community reputation: supportive, welcoming and family-focused
- Diversity & inclusion: strong commitment to welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and ensuring equitable access
## School Logistics & Daily Operations
Practical daily routines and facilities support smooth school life for students and families.
- School hours: typically 9:00 am–3:15 pm (start/end times may vary slightly by year level)
- Before/after school care: OSHC or similar programs available
- Uniform requirements: school uniform encouraged or required
- Transport: access to public transport routes and local bus services; coordinated drop-off/pick-up arrangements
- Canteen availability: canteen or lunch provisions during the day
- Fees: public primary schools have no tuition; expected costs include uniforms, some excursions and voluntary contributions (generally low to moderate)
## Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Submit an enrolment form through the ACT Education framework.
- Provide required documents (proof of address, immunisation records, birth certificate or passport, parent/guardian details).
- Space availability and timelines depend on in-catchment status; processing typically occurs within several weeks, with priority given to in-catchment applicants.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Yes, depending on demand and catchment status. In-catchment applicants generally receive priority. A waiting list may be used for out-of-area applications, with periodic updates as vacancies arise.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Generally no entrance tests for standard primary enrolments. Some programs or needs-based considerations may involve discussions or assessments to determine appropriate supports; routine immunisation checks and documentation are required.
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Yes, subject to vacancy. Mid-year transfers are possible with appropriate documentation (transcripts, enrolment forms, immunisation records), and coordination with the school to ensure a smooth transition.
## Frequently Ask Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A welcoming, small-to-mid-size public school with strong community feel, supportive staff and solid core learning in literacy and numeracy.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Curious, kind, engaged learners who benefit from a nurturing environment, small class sizes and a focus on wellbeing and inclusion.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Enrichment and extension within the classroom, access to STEM/clubs (robotics, coding, chess, debating), sports programs and music/drama opportunities, plus inter-school events.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular newsletters, emails, parent-teacher meetings and updates via school platforms; clear channels for feedback and events.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Student-centred, evidence-based methods with a focus on literacy, numeracy and cross-curricular inquiry; integration of technology and inclusive practices.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Early intervention and targeted support within small groups, EAL/D assistance, SEN support and access to specialist staff where available.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Dedicated teachers and support staff to provide additional tutoring, adjustments and resources to help students progress.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- See above: regular updates, parent-teacher conferences, and accessible communication channels.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes are around 20 students with opportunities for small-group instruction and targeted teacher support.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A range of sports, clubs (robotics, coding, chess, debating) and performing arts activities; inter-school competitions and partnerships with local groups.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Libraries, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, sports facilities, a cafeteria and updated playgrounds.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integrated digital literacy, use of ICT in learning, age-appropriate technology practices and opportunities for collaborative digital projects.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Public transport access and local bus services, with recommended drop-off/pick-up arrangements and accessible facilities as part of the school’s planning.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Public primary education has no tuition; potential costs include uniforms, voluntary contributions, excursions and minor costs for activities and materials.
## Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros:
- Small-to-medium community with a supportive, inclusive culture
- Strong focus on literacy and numeracy foundations
- Balanced offering of academics, sports, arts and technology
- Clear wellbeing and pastoral care processes
- Families have accessible communication channels with staff
- Cons:
- As a smaller school, some niche programs may be limited compared with larger schools
- Availability of after-school care and certain programs can depend on demand and staffing
- Mid-year transfers may be subject to space constraints and require coordination
