Hayes Park Public School

Hayes Park Public School is a public primary school serving families in the Kanahooka area. The school aims to provide a welcoming, inclusive environment where students are supported to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

With a medium-sized student body, classes are designed to be manageable and enable positive teacher-student interactions. The atmosphere tends to be nurturing and inclusive, supporting a diverse student population to feel valued and engaged in learning.

• Academic strengths: Emphasis on foundational literacy and numeracy, with opportunities to engage in STEM activities and integrated digital learning. The school prioritises curriculum coverage across core subjects to build strong academic foundations.
• Special programs: Where available, opportunities for accelerated learning or gifted/talented pathways are explored to extend capable learners.
• Support for diverse learners: Programs and supports for EAL and SEN students are provided, including targeted interventions and access to additional support staff where needed.

• Sports offered: A range of team sports commonly available at NSW public primary schools (e.g., soccer, basketball, cricket, athletics, netball) with opportunities to participate in local inter-school events.
• Strong teams or achievements: The school participates in district-level activities and showcases student contributions across sports and tournaments when available.
• Music, arts, drama programs: Performing arts and music opportunities are typically available, including school assemblies, performances, and curricular music experiences.
• Clubs: Coding, robotics, chess, debating, and other enrichment clubs are encouraged where capacity allows.
• Partnerships: The school often engages with local clubs and associations to provide students with additional competition and enrichment opportunities.

• Anti-bullying approach: A clear anti-bullying stance with policies and programs focused on creating a safe, respectful school culture.
• House system: A house structure is used to promote belonging, teamwork, and healthy competition among students.
• Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school wellbeing staff or counsellors to support social and emotional learning.
• Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy programs, and transition support to help new students settle in smoothly.

• Sports grounds: On-site sports fields or courts for outdoor activities and physical education.
• Libraries: A library or learning hub supporting literacy and research.
• Science labs: Basic science facilities to support hands-on experiments and inquiry learning.
• Music/performing arts centers: Space for music, drama, and performances.
• Tech/innovation labs: Learning spaces for digital literacy, coding, and technology-enhanced learning.
• Cafeteria: On-site canteen or meal service options.
• Updated playgrounds: Safe, age-appropriate play areas supporting active breaks and recreation.

• School values / mission: A focus on respect, responsibility, inclusivity, and striving for personal best.
• Leadership style: A collaborative, student-centered approach that encourages student voice and leadership opportunities.
• Behaviour expectations: Clear expectations around respectful behaviour and positive conduct across the school community.
• Community reputation: A welcoming, supportive environment with active family and community involvement.
• Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to an inclusive culture that welcomes students and families from diverse backgrounds.

• School hours: Typical start and finish times align with NSW public primary schedules (commonly around 9:00 am–3:00 pm; exact times may vary).
• Before/after school care: Availability of OSHC or other arrangements through external providers or school programs.
• Uniform requirements: A school uniform policy is in place, with designated attire worn during school hours.
• Transport: Local transport options and bus routes serve the area; arrangements for safe arrival and departure are in place.
• Canteen availability: Canteen or lunch service offered on certain days or as part of the school program.
• Fees: NSW public primary schools have voluntary contributions and other ancillary costs; actual amounts vary by year and activity.

1. What is the enrolment process and timeline?

• Enrolment typically goes through the NSW Department of Education process. Parents submit required documents (proof of address, birth certificate, immunisation, etc.) and receive guidance on timelines, including Kindergarten intake planning for the upcoming year. Exact timelines are published by the school and education department each year.

1. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?

• Waiting lists may apply if the school is at capacity or has more applicants than available places. Priority often follows local boundary rules, with siblings sometimes given preference in line with department policy. The school will provide guidance on current wait times and processes.

1. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?

• NSW public primary schools generally do not require entrance tests or academic interviews for enrolment. An information session or tour may be offered for interested families, and staff may ask about student needs to plan appropriate supports.

1. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?

• Mid-year transfers are possible if space is available. Families should contact the school early to discuss availability, required documentation, and the transfer process.

• Why Parents Choose This School?

- A welcoming, inclusive environment with a focus on core academics, wellbeing, and community involvement.

• What type of student thrives at this school?

- Students who respond well to a supportive, collaborative culture and who benefit from solid literacy/numeracy foundations with opportunities for enrichment.

• What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?

- Access to enrichment in STEM, arts, and sports; clubs such as coding, robotics, chess, and debating; performing arts and community activities.

• How does the school communicate with parents?

- Regular notices through newsletters, email, and the school website; parent-teacher meetings and updates on student progress are common.

• What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?

- A focus on foundational skills, enquiry-based learning, and supportive instruction that addresses diverse learner needs.

• How does the school support students who need extra academic help?

- Targeted interventions, additional classroom support, and access to wellbeing and learning support staff.

• What support is available for academic challenges?

- Differentiated instruction and intervention programs aligned with student needs and departmental guidelines.

• How does the school communicate with parents? (Note: see above)

- See above.

• What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?

- A range of sports, arts, and enrichment clubs; options may include coding, robotics, chess, debating, music, and performing arts.

• What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?

- Sports grounds, library, science facilities, performing arts spaces, technology labs, and a canteen.

• What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?

- Integration of digital tools and resources to support learning, with opportunities for students to engage in coding and digital literacy.

• What transport and accessibility options are available?

- Local transport options and school arrangements to support safe arrivals and departures; details vary by family location.

• What are the typical school fees or additional costs?

- NSW public schools have voluntary contributions and additional costs for activities; exact amounts depend on year level and programs.

• Pros

- Public school with a welcoming, inclusive culture - Focus on core academics with enrichment opportunities - Support for diverse learners (EAL, SEN) - Range of clubs and extracurricular activities - Structured wellbeing and pastoral support

• Cons

- Enrolment availability can be affected by local demand and catchment rules - Specific program availability (e.g., gifted/talented or certain clubs) may depend on staffing and funding in a given year