Goulburn Valley Grammar School

## 1. Overview Goulburn Valley Grammar School (GVGS) is an independent, co-educational day school serving families in Shepparton and the surrounding regions. The school focuses on a well-rounded education that combines strong academic programs with rich opportunities in sport, the arts, and community leadership. The campus is designed to foster a positive, inclusive culture where students are supported to pursue their individual interests and grow as confident young people. The environment at GVGS is characterized by a nurturing, inclusive atmosphere with an emphasis on academic achievement and personal development. Class sizes are kept intentionally small-to-medium to maximise teacher support and student engagement, and there is a clear focus on building resilience, integrity, and collaborative skills among students. - School type: Independent/private - School size: Medium - Class size: Small-to-medium - Atmosphere/Culture: Nurturing, academic, inclusive --- ## 2. Academics & Learning GVGS offers a strong academic program aimed at developing core knowledge, critical thinking, and lifelong learning habits. The school places emphasis on literacy and numeracy, with robust pathways into senior secondary study and post-school options. - Academic strengths: Focused programs across English, mathematics, sciences, and the humanities, with strong emphasis on literacy, numeracy, and STEM literacy. There are opportunities to develop languages and leadership skills through school activities. - Special programs: Pathways for senior schooling (e.g., VCE-like structures and coordinated pathways), enrichment and advanced learning opportunities, and leadership/service programs to broaden student experience. - NAPLAN trends: Participation in NAPLAN with trends described by the school as steady improvement over time and stable performance across cohorts, with ongoing focus areas identified for development. - Student-teacher ratios: Favourable ratios that support individualized guidance and timely feedback. - Support for diverse learners: Structured support for diverse learners, including language support where needed (EAL) and learning support services (SEN) to help students access the curriculum and achieve their best. --- ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths GVGS provides a broad range of sports and extracurricular activities to complement classroom learning and build teamwork, discipline, and resilience. - Sports offered: A wide variety including team and individual sports such as soccer/football, cricket, tennis, netball, basketball, athletics, swimming, and possibly AFL-related activities, with pathways for representative level participation. - Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in regional inter-school competitions and strong engagement in school-level team sports, with notable performance across age groups. - Music, arts, drama programs: Active music and performing arts programs, school productions, choirs and bands, and opportunities to engage in visual arts and theatre. - Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other STEM and humanities clubs that encourage critical thinking and public speaking. - Partnerships: Connections with local community clubs, regional competitions, and external arts/science partnerships that broaden student opportunities. --- ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Wellbeing and pastoral care are central to GVGS’s approach, helping students feel secure, valued, and ready to learn. - Anti-bullying approach: A proactive, school-wide anti-bullying policy supported by wellbeing staff and restorative practices to address issues and foster a respectful culture. - House system: A house-based pastoral framework that builds belonging, competition, and mentorship among students across year levels. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors and wellbeing staff to support social, emotional, and academic needs. - Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and targeted support to help new students settle in smoothly. --- ## 5. Facilities GVGS highlights facilities that support both academic and co-curricular life, creating an engaging learning environment. - Sports grounds: On-site sporting facilities suitable for training and competition. - Libraries: Well-stocked library suitable for quiet study and collaborative learning. - Science labs: Modern science labs for hands-on experiments and inquiry-based learning. - Music/performing arts centers: Spaces for rehearsals, performances, and events. - Tech/innovation labs: Dedicated spaces for coding, robotics, and digital projects. - Cafeteria: On-site dining facilities with healthy options. - Updated playgrounds: Safe, well-maintained outdoor spaces for recreation and play. --- ## 6. School Values & Community Culture GVGS strives to cultivate a values-based community where students lead by example and contribute positively to their school and wider community. - School values / mission: A commitment to academic excellence, integrity, respect, and service, with a focus on developing responsible, engaged citizens. - Leadership style: Collaborative and student-centered, with opportunities for student voice and leadership through clubs, student councils, and community projects. - Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct emphasizing respect, responsibility, and accountability. - Community reputation: A supportive local reputation built on partnerships with families, local organisations, and a track record of student growth. - Diversity & inclusion: A welcoming environment that values diverse backgrounds and ensures access to participation and support for all students. --- ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Practical information to help families plan around the school day and routines. - School hours: Regular daytime hours with start and end times published by the school; typical school-day structure includes morning classes, breaks, and afternoon sessions. - Before/after school care: Availability of supervision or care options outside of standard hours. - Uniform requirements: Set uniform guidelines; specifics provided by the school. - Transport: Bus routes and local transport options, with details available from the school or local transport providers. - Canteen availability: On-site canteen or cafe offering a range of food and drink options. - Fees: Fees are positioned in a mid-range category for the region, with information on what is included and what may be additional. --- ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions 1. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Inquiry and initial information gathering, followed by an application. The school may require supporting documents, an interview or assessment, and submission of any required fees. Following evaluation, families receive a decision and timelines for enrolment, with next steps outlined. 2. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - There is typically a waiting list when spaces are full. The process involves submitting an expression of interest and placing your child on the list, with placement offered as spaces become available and in line with school policy. 3. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Entry may involve an interview for the family and student, and possibly an assessment or test to determine academic placement and readiness for the year level being applied for. 4. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers may be considered if there is space and a smooth transition plan can be arranged; families are advised to contact the admissions team to discuss availability and process. --- ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? GVGS is chosen for its supportive community, balanced academic program, and opportunities across sport, arts, and leadership that help students develop into well-rounded individuals. - What type of student thrives at this school? Students who are motivated, curious, and engaged in both academics and co-curricular activities tend to thrive, with a strong emphasis on participation, teamwork, and personal growth. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? The school offers enriched academic programs, leadership and service opportunities, competitive sport, performing arts, music, and a wide range of clubs such as robotics, coding, chess, and debating. - How does the school communicate with parents? Regular communications include newsletters, parent portals, emails, and diary or calendar updates. Open communication channels with teachers and leadership teams are encouraged. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? A student-centered approach emphasizes inquiry-based learning, collaborative activities, and the development of critical thinking, numeracy, and literacy skills across the curriculum. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? Targeted learning support, EAL assistance, and access to guidance from teachers and specialists help students who require additional help. - What support is available for academic challenges? Individualised support plans, tutoring or in-class accommodations, and referrals to relevant specialists help students manage academic challenges. - How does the school communicate with parents? (duplicate question removed for clarity) See above. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? Class sizes are small-to-medium, enabling frequent teacher check-ins, personalized feedback, and targeted support within lessons. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? A broad range of sports, arts, and clubs are available, including robotics, chess, coding, debating, music, drama, and multiple sports options. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? Facilities include sports grounds, libraries, science labs, performing arts and music spaces, tech/innovation labs, a canteen, and updated outdoor spaces. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? Emphasis on digital literacy and integrated technology in learning, with access to devices and software that support modern teaching methods. - What transport and accessibility options are available? Information on bus routes and accessibility options is provided by the school and local transport providers. - What are typical school fees or additional costs? Fees fall within a mid-range range for the region, with details available through the admissions office and the school’s finance policies. --- ## 10. Short Pros & Cons - Pros - Strong sense of community and supportive environment - Balanced emphasis on academics, sport, and the arts - Small-to-medium class sizes enabling individual attention - Broad extracurricular options and leadership opportunities - Focus on wellbeing and inclusive education - Cons - Fees may be higher than public schooling - Regional location may mean longer travel for families living outside the immediate area - Limited boarding options (if applicable) and regional catchment considerations - Competition for selective programs may exist; space can be limited at peak intake periods --- If you’d like, I can tailor any section with more specific language or adjust the emphasis (e.g., more focus on academics, or more on wellbeing) once you provide or confirm any target data or exact program names used by GVGS.