Goulburn South Public School

## 1. Overview Goulburn South Public School is a public, co-educational primary school serving students in the Goulburn area. As part of New South Wales Department of Education, the school offers a supportive, community-focused environment designed for early learning through Year 6. The school is medium-sized, with class sizes typically in the early to mid-20s, fostering a friendly and collaborative atmosphere. The school emphasises an inclusive, nurturing culture where every student is valued. Staff work to create a positive learning environment that supports academic growth, social development and wellbeing, with opportunities for student leadership and active involvement in school life. ⸻ ## 2. Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: The school prioritises strong literacy and numeracy foundations, with opportunities to develop in STEM areas, English literacy, and student leadership. Language programs may be offered depending on staffing and cohort needs. - Special programs: Some ability groups or enrichment options may be available, such as Gifted & Talented or accelerated learning opportunities where appropriate, along with targeted supports for diverse learners. - NAPLAN / trends: NSW public schools monitor NAPLAN performance to track year-to-year progress in reading, writing and numeracy. The school aims for steady improvement and close attention to literacy and numeracy growth across cohorts. - Student-teacher ratios: Class sizes are typically small to medium, supporting active teacher-student interaction and personalised feedback. Support staff may assist within classrooms to boost learning. - Support for diverse learners: Comprehensive support for EAL/D students and students with SEN is commonly available, including targeted interventions, resource teaching, and collaboration with families. ⸻ ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: A range of primary-school sports is commonly available (e.g., soccer, netball, cricket, athletics, swimming, rugby league), with emphasis on participation, teamwork and skill development. - Strong teams or achievements: Students have opportunities to participate in inter-school events and district competitions; success varies by year and cohort, with sport programs highlighting teamwork and personal bests. - Music, arts, drama programs: Music education and performing arts opportunities are typically offered through choir, instrumental activities, and school productions or drama activities. - Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating and other clubs may run as part of the extracurricular program, depending on staff expertise and student interest. - Partnerships: The school may participate in local competitions and partnerships with community groups or regional sports and arts programs to extend learning beyond the classroom. ⸻ ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: The school implements a clear anti-bullying policy with preventative programs, restorative practices and a supportive environment for addressing concerns. - House system: A house or in-house grouping system is often used to foster belonging, leadership, and friendly competition across year levels. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to a school counsellor or wellbeing team supports students’ social-emotional development, with referral pathways for families. - Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy programs and targeted transition supports help new students settle into school life smoothly. ⸻ ## 5. Facilities - Sports grounds: Ample outdoor spaces and playing fields for physical education and sport. - Libraries: A practical library space to support reading and research skills. - Science labs: Dedicated science facilities to support hands-on investigation and inquiry. - Music/performing arts centers: Space for music learning, rehearsals and performances. - Tech/innovation labs: Access to technology and practical learning spaces to support digital literacy and coding. - Cafeteria: A canteen or lunch facilities that offer healthy options. - Updated playgrounds: Modern, well-maintained playground equipment and play areas. ⸻ ## 6. School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: The school promotes values such as respect, responsibility, resilience, inclusion and collaboration, with a shared mission to support each student’s growth. - Leadership style: A student-centered, collaborative leadership approach is commonly encouraged, with opportunities for student voice and involvement in school decisions. - Behaviour expectations: Clear expectations around respectful conduct, safety and responsibility, with consistent routines and restorative practices. - Community reputation: The school strives to maintain a positive reputation as a welcoming, inclusive community hub for families and staff. - Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and ensuring equitable opportunities for participation and achievement. ⸻ ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Standard NSW primary school hours during the school day, with start and finish times aligned to the regional schedule. - Before/after school care: Before and after school care is often available through on-site or local providers, supporting families’ needs around work hours. - Uniform requirements: School uniform expectations are typically in place, with practical, comfortable attire that meets school guidelines. - Transport (train/bus routes): Bus and transport options are available for many families, with school-specific guidance on pick-up and drop-off arrangements. - Canteen availability: Canteen or lunch provisions are commonly available to provide healthy meal options. - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): NSW public schools generally rely on voluntary contributions and cost-sharing for certain activities; overall fees are modest and families are advised to check current details with the administration. ⸻ ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Enrolment is handled through the NSW Department of Education and the school administration. Families typically submit the enrolment form with required documents (proof of address, child’s birth certificate, immunisation status, and any relevant medical or support information). The timeline can vary by year and demand, with confirmation communicated by the school and district processes. There may be information sessions or orientation for new families prior to start. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - If the school is oversubscribed for a given year level, a waiting list may be used. Priority often follows home school zone rules and availability of places. Families on the waiting list are contacted when a place becomes available. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - NSW public schools typically do not require entry tests or interviews for admission. In some cases, schools may hold a brief meeting with families to discuss needs, enrolment details, or support requirements to ensure appropriate placement. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers may be possible if places are available. Families seeking a mid-year transfer should contact the school administrative team to confirm space, complete enrolment paperwork, and arrange any necessary transition planning. ⸻ ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? Families often cite a welcoming community, supportive staff, strong focus on wellbeing and inclusive learning, plus opportunities across academics, sport and the arts. - What type of student thrives at this school? Students who are curious, collaborative, respectful and resilient tend to thrive, particularly those who engage with both classroom learning and extracurricular activities. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? The school offers literacy and numeracy enrichment, STEM activities, leadership opportunities, sport teams and a range of arts and music programs, with clubs such as robotics, coding, chess and debating where available. - How does the school communicate with parents? Communication typically includes newsletters, emails, SMS or school apps, regular parent-teacher meetings, and open days or information evenings. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? Teaching emphasizes differentiated instruction, evidence-based practices, inclusive education, and the use of technology to support learning and digital literacy. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? Targeted interventions, small-group support, reading and numeracy boosters, EAL/D and SEN support services are commonly available, with close collaboration between teachers, specialists and families. - What support is available for academic challenges? Additional tutoring, learning support staff, and tailored intervention plans are used to help students catch up and progress. - How does the school communicate with parents? See above—ongoing, multi-channel communication to keep families informed and engaged. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? Class sizes are typically small to medium, enabling frequent teacher feedback and student support. Individual attention is facilitated by classroom teachers and support staff. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? A range of sports and clubs, including robotics, coding, chess and debating, are available alongside music and arts programs. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? Facilities include sports grounds, a library, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, a canteen, and updated playgrounds. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? Integration of digital tools in teaching, including interactive whiteboards, coding and ICT activities, with emphasis on digital citizenship and safe online practices. - What transport and accessibility options are available? Transport options include local bus services and accessibility features. The school provides guidance on drop-off/pick-up arrangements and routes. - What are typical school fees or additional costs? Public schools in NSW have low to moderate voluntary contributions for certain programs and materials. Families should check current information with the school for a clear breakdown. ⸻ ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Public, inclusive, and supportive learning environment - Medium-sized, community-focused school with approachable staff - Strong emphasis on wellbeing, safety and belonging - Range of academics, sports, arts and extracurricular opportunities - Access to specialist support for diverse learners (EAL/D, SEN) - Cons - Some specialised programs may be limited compared with larger or metropolitan schools - Availability of certain enrichment activities can depend on staff availability and student interest - Transport and travel times can vary for families outside the immediate area - Places in popular year levels may be subject to waiting lists until spaces become available ⸻