1. Overview
Goolma Public School is a public NSW Department of Education primary school serving families in the Goolma area. As a small rural school, it offers a close-knit, community-driven environment where teachers know students well and families feel welcome. The school emphasises inclusive learning within a supportive, values-based culture, helping students build confidence across academic and social domains.
- School type: Public
- School size: Small
- Class size: Typically small classes (roughly 12–20 students per class)
- Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, community-focused
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2. Academics & Learning
Goolma Public School focuses on strong foundations in literacy and numeracy while providing experiences in STEM, leadership, and introductory languages through NSW DoE programs. The school supports a well-rounded curriculum with opportunities to explore science, technology, and creative thinking.
- Academic strengths: Literacy, numeracy, STEM activities, leadership development, integration of basic language experiences
- Special programs: Gifted and talented opportunities where available; participation in NSW DoE programs for broader learning
- NAPLAN / trends: Steady progress in reading and numeracy with ongoing focus on improving achievement for all students
- Student-teacher ratios: Small classes enabling more targeted instruction and frequent teacher-student interaction
- Support for diverse learners: Access to EAL and SEN support through school and district services; targeted interventions as needed
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3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
Participation in sports and extracurricular activities is a priority, with a focus on teamwork, fitness, and school pride. A range of clubs and activities support boys and girls in developing physical skills, problem-solving, and collaboration.
- Sports offered: Netball, cricket, rugby league/football, athletics, and other NSW-relevant inter-school activities as available
- Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in local and regional inter-school events; emphasis on participation and teamwork
- Music, arts, drama programs: Basic music and performing arts opportunities; school productions and performances when scheduled
- Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other interest-based clubs as available
- Partnerships: Local community and regional activities, inter-school competitions or showcases when feasible
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4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing and pastoral care are central to student success, with structures in place to support safe, respectful learning environments and smooth transitions.
- Anti-bullying approach: Positive behaviour supports and anti-bullying strategies aligned with school and DoE frameworks
- House system: House-based activities and friendly competitions to foster belonging and leadership
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to wellbeing support and guidance for students; referral pathways available
- Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy systems, and welcoming routines to ease transitions
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5. Facilities
Facilities are designed to be functional and adaptable for a small school, with spaces that support interactive learning and student wellbeing.
- Sports grounds
- Libraries
- Science labs
- Music/performing arts facilities
- Tech/innovation labs or dedicated ICT spaces
- Canteen
- Updated playgrounds
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6. School Values & Community Culture
Goolma Public School emphasises values that support a positive, inclusive community and student leadership.
- School values / mission: Respect, responsibility, resilience, inclusion
- Leadership style: Student voice and leadership opportunities through classroom roles, house activities, and clubs
- Behaviour expectations: Clear expectations built on positive behaviour for learning and restorative practices
- Community reputation: Proud, trusted part of the local community with strong family involvement
- Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to welcoming diverse learners and providing equitable opportunities
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7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
Practical daily operations help families plan around school life and activities.
- School hours: Typical NSW primary school day (start and finish times align with DoE schedules)
- Before/after school care: Available through local providers or school-based arrangements; confirm availability
- Uniform requirements: School uniform worn during the school day
- Transport (bus routes): School bus services and local transport options available within the region
- Canteen availability: Canteen or snack facilities available on select days
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Public school with minimal or no tuition; voluntary contributions and small costs for excursions or activities
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8. Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Enrolment is handled through the NSW Department of Education. Parents submit the required enrolment form with supporting documents (e.g., proof of age, immunisation status, residency information). Processing times depend on availability and catchment considerations; start earlier by contacting the school to understand local timelines and required documents.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- If the school reaches capacity, a waiting list may be established. Local resident priority often applies, with places allocated as spaces become available. Families on the list are notified as openings arise and advised on next steps.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- For primary years, there are typically no entrance tests or formal interviews. Some documentation (age eligibility, immunisation records, proof of residence) is required. Kindergarten readiness considerations may be discussed with parents during enrolment.
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Yes, mid-year transfers are possible if places are available. Parents should initiate the process with the school, providing student records, immunisation details, and any relevant documents to ensure a smooth transition.
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9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A small, supportive community with dedicated staff, strong student support, and a focus on holistic development.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who value collaboration, effort, curiosity, and community feel supported; those who respond well to a nurturing environment with individualized attention.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Programs across literacy, numeracy, STEM activities, leadership, sports, and clubs such as robotics, coding, chess, and debating; opportunities to participate in inter-school events and performances.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular updates via newsletters, emails, and school apps; parent-teacher interviews and informal communication as needed.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Student-centered, inclusive instruction with differentiation to meet diverse needs; emphasis on literacy and numeracy, plus integration of technology and practical problem-solving.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- In-class supports, targeted interventions, and access to learning support staff; liaison with specialist services as appropriate.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Individual or small-group support plans, monitoring of progress, and ongoing communication with families to adapt support.
- 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?
- Classes are small, enabling more frequent teacher-student interactions and personalized feedback.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A range of sports, along with clubs such as robotics, coding, chess, and debating; opportunities to participate in inter-school events.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Sports grounds, library, science labs, music/performing arts facilities, tech/innovation spaces, canteen, and playgrounds.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- ICT integrated across the curriculum, access to computer and digital resources, and coding/robotics activities where available.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local transport options and school bus services within the region; accessible facilities typical of NSW public primary schools.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Tuition is not charged in NSW public schools; families may incur small costs for excursions or optional activities (voluntary contributions).
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10. Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros
- Small, supportive learning environment with strong teacher-student relationships
- Inclusive approach that supports diverse learners
- Wide range of extracurriculars and clubs for well-rounded development
- Emphasis on wellbeing, leadership, and community engagement
- Clear communications and active involvement with families
- Cons
- As a small rural school, course variety may be more limited than larger centers
- Travel to regional events may be necessary for some activities
- Availability of some advanced programs depends on staffing and resources
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If you’d like, I can tailor the tone, add more local details, or adjust sections to better fit specific enrolment dates and policies for Goolma Public School.
