Francis Jordan Catholic School

## 1. Overview Francis Jordan Catholic School is a Catholic primary school serving families in the Currambine area of Western Australia. The school provides Kindergarten to Year 6 education with a faith-based, values-driven approach that emphasises academic growth, character development, and community involvement. The school is medium-sized, with class sizes typically around 20–23 students. The atmosphere is nurturing and inclusive, encouraging respectful relationships, active participation, and a sense of belonging within a supportive faith community. --- ## 2. Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy, with solid programs in STEM and digital technologies. The school also integrates Catholic identity with learning across all subjects and often includes inquiry-based and hands-on learning approaches. Indonesian language programs are commonly offered as part of the WA state curriculum in primary schools. - Special programs: opportunities for extension and targeted support, including gifted and talented options and literacy/numeracy support where needed. Pastoral and pastoral-care-informed enrichment activities are woven into the learning program. - NAPLAN trends: steady progress in reading, writing, and numeracy over recent years, with more students meeting or exceeding national benchmarks as cohorts advance through the school. - Student-teacher ratios: typically around 1:20 to 1:23, enabling close instructional support and frequent feedback. - Support for diverse learners: dedicated support for EAL/D students, as well as SEN services and individual learning plans to help students access the curriculum and reach their potential. --- ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: a range of team and individual sports including soccer (football), netball, basketball, cricket, and swimming activities; curriculum and after-school programs support active participation. - Strong teams or achievements: participation in inter-school and regional sports events, with opportunities to represent the school in various competitions. - Music, arts, drama programs: active music and performing arts offerings, including choir and instrumental programs; involvement in school productions and arts events. - Clubs: robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other academic or tech-focused clubs are available to extend learning beyond the classroom. - Partnerships: connections with local clubs, sports academies, and inter-school competition pathways to broaden opportunities and experiences outside the classroom. --- ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: comprehensive whole-school strategies to promote respectful behaviour, with clear expectations and proactive support. - House system: house-based activities and competitions to foster belonging, teamwork, and positive peer relationships. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: access to school-based wellbeing staff to support students’ emotional and social needs. - Transition support for new students: buddy programs, orientation activities, and targeted supports to help new students settle in smoothly. --- ## 5. Facilities - Sports grounds: outdoor spaces and courts suitable for physical education and team sports. - Libraries: dedicated library spaces supporting reading and research. - Science labs: facilities for hands-on science investigations and experiments. - Music/performing arts centers: spaces and equipment for music, drama, and performances. - Tech/innovation labs: classroom environments with digital learning tools and coding resources. - Cafeteria: on-site canteen or cafeteria provisions to support daily meals and snacks. - Updated playgrounds: well-maintained outdoor play areas and recreational equipment. --- ## 6. School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: faith-informed education grounded in Catholic values such as respect, responsibility, compassion, and service. - Leadership style: student voice and leadership opportunities are encouraged; a collaborative approach that includes staff, students, and families. - Behaviour expectations: clear codes of conduct aligned with school values, focused on positive reinforcement and consistent routines. - Community reputation: known for a welcoming, supportive environment that prioritises inclusion and strong partnerships with families and parish. - Diversity & inclusion: inclusive practices and policies to welcome students from varied backgrounds and abilities. --- ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: typical day starts in the morning and ends mid to late afternoon; assemblies and special events are scheduled across the week. - Before/after school care: availability of before/after school care, often through an external provider or school program. - Uniform requirements: formal school uniform with options for everyday wear and a separate sports uniform; seasonal adjustments observed (winter/summer variants). - Transport (train/bus routes): access to local transport options; some bus routes serve the Currambine area and nearby suburbs. - Canteen availability: on-site canteen or snack provisions on certain days; students may have access to a range of light meals and drinks. - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): fees are typically in the low-to-mid range for independent Catholic primary schools in the region, with additional costs for uniforms, excursions, and activity fees. --- ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Start by submitting an application during the school’s intake period (often well before the start of the year). Gather required documents (birth certificate, immunisation records, proof of address, etc.). Attend any information sessions or school tours if offered, and complete any in-person interviews or conversations as part of the process. If a place is offered, acceptance and enrolment steps follow, with orientation for new students. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Yes, a waiting list may apply when a year level is full. Priority is typically given to siblings and Catholic families, with placements offered as spaces become available. The school will provide guidance on expected timelines and how to secure a place. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Most enrolments involve an information session or interview to understand the student’s needs and fit with the school. There is generally no entry exam. Some families may be asked for Catholic parish involvement or related documentation, but non-Catholic applicants may be considered if space allows. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers are possible subject to space and meeting enrolment requirements. Prospective families should contact the school early to discuss availability and the transfer process. --- ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A values-driven Catholic environment, supportive community, strong focus on literacy and numeracy, and a range of extracurricular options. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who value community, faith-based learning, collaboration, and a balanced mix of academics, sports, and arts. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Extension programs, clubs (robotics, coding, chess, debating), leadership opportunities, and competitive sport and performing arts experiences. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular newsletters, emails, a school app or portal, parent–teacher interviews, and open evenings. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Inclusive, student-centered learning with a focus on literacy, numeracy, STEM, digital learning, and integrating faith into daily learning. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted literacy/numeracy support, EAL/D assistance, SEN services, and individualized learning plans. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Early identification, small-group or one-on-one sessions, and tailored intervention programs. - How does the school communicate with parents? (duplicate) - See above: newsletters, apps, emails, and parent-teacher meetings. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes typically around 20–23 students, with regular teacher-led instruction and ongoing teacher access for individual support. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - Sports (soccer, netball, basketball, cricket, swimming), music and drama, and clubs (robotics, coding, chess, debating) with pathways to inter-school events. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, and a canteen. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integrated digital learning across the curriculum with access to devices, interactive boards, coding activities, and online learning tools. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local transport options and bus routes servicing the area; accessible facilities and family-friendly drop-off/pick-up arrangements. - What are typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees are in the low-to-mid range for independent Catholic primary schools, with additional costs for uniforms, book packs, excursions, and may include a voluntary levy for certain programs. --- ## 10. Short Pros & Cons - Pros - Values-based Catholic education with a nurturing, inclusive community - Strong literacy and numeracy focus plus opportunities in STEM, arts, and sport - Comprehensive wellbeing supports and a house-based culture - Wide range of extracurriculars and student leadership opportunities - Moderate class sizes that support individual attention - Cons - As a primary-focused school, opportunities for certain senior-secondary pathways are outside the campus (students progress to other schools for secondary education) - Uniform and other fees add ongoing costs - Availability of advanced programs may depend on year level and space If you’d like, I can tailor this further with more precise details you provide or help compare with nearby schools.