## 1. Overview (1–2 paragraphs max)
Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, Trinity Park is a Catholic, co-educational primary school that offers a faith-based learning community for families in the local area. The school emphasises values, inclusion, and continuous growth within a nurturing environment, where students are invited to learn, serve others, and develop as confident individuals.
As a medium-sized, community-focused school, class sizes are designed to support individualized attention and strong pastoral care. The atmosphere is collaborative and welcoming, with students encouraged to participate in a range of activities and build positive relationships with peers, staff, and families.
## 2. Academics & Learning
- Academic strengths: English and literacy, mathematics/numeracy, and foundational STEM experiences are emphasised, alongside programs that support leadership and personal development.
- Special programs: Catholic identity is integrated across learning; enrichment opportunities and targeted literacy/numeracy support are offered. Some cohorts may have acceleration or gifted/talented options depending on year level and need.
- NAPLAN / trends: The school focuses on continual improvement in literacy and numeracy, with positive year-to-year trends in classroom growth and understanding across key subjects.
- Student-teacher ratios: Typical class sizes and support structures aim for a favourable student-teacher ratio to enable individual feedback and small-group instruction.
- Support for diverse learners: EAL support for students new to English; inclusive education pathways and Learning Support programs to assist students with additional learning needs (SEN) through coordinated planning and targeted interventions.
## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
- Sports offered: Soccer, netball, basketball, rugby league, AFL, cricket, swimming and athletics are commonly available; participation in inter-school and district competitions is encouraged.
- Strong teams or achievements: Active involvement in inter-school sport with opportunities to represent the school in local and regional events; teams often achieve at district levels and build consistent programs.
- Music, arts, drama programs: School choirs, ensembles, and general music/theatre activities support creative development and performance opportunities.
- Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating and various STEM or literacy clubs provide additional learning experiences.
- Partnerships: Collaboration with local clubs and associations for coaching, competitions, and enrichment opportunities; participation in community events enhances school connections.
## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
- Anti-bullying approach: A clear, school-wide anti-bullying framework with proactive education, student voice, and inclusive practices.
- House system: A house structure supports teamwork, leadership, and healthy competition, with house events and leadership opportunities for students.
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to wellbeing support, with staff and external partnerships available to assist students and families.
- Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy systems, and targeted onboarding help new students settle academically and socially.
## 5. Facilities
- Sports grounds: Well-maintained outdoor fields and courts for a range of sports and physical activities.
- Libraries: A dedicated library space that supports reading, research, and quiet study.
- Science labs: Access to science learning spaces for hands-on experiments and inquiry-based learning.
- Music/performing arts centers: Rooms and spaces for music practice, rehearsals, and performances.
- Tech/innovation labs: Learning spaces that support digital literacy, coding, and project-based technology learning.
- Cafeteria: On-site dining or canteen facilities to support healthy eating options.
- Updated playgrounds: Modern play areas and outdoor equipment designed for safe, active play.
## 6. School Values & Community Culture
- School values / mission: A faith-centered mission focusing on respect, responsibility, compassion, and service to others.
- Leadership style: Student leadership opportunities (e.g., student council or house leadership) and teacher-led guidance that fosters inquiry, responsibility, and collaboration.
- Behaviour expectations: Clear conduct guidelines rooted in respect, kindness, and accountability, with consistent routines and restorative approaches.
- Community reputation: A welcoming, faith-based community with strong parental involvement and positive relationships among staff, students, and families.
- Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to creating an inclusive environment where differences are respected and every student can participate.
## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
- School hours: Typical school day runs during standard Australian primary hours; precise times vary by year and term.
- Before/after school care: Availability of before/after care or outside-school-hours programs to support working families.
- Uniform requirements: Clear uniform policy with specified items and guidelines; seasonal options may apply.
- Transport (train/bus routes): Access to local transport options; school may provide guidance on bus routes and travel arrangements.
- Canteen availability: Canteen or lunch program options available to students.
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees and levies are in the moderate range for Catholic primary schools and are communicated by the school at enrollment.
## 8. Enrolment & Admissions
- 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Submit an application and required documentation (birth certificate, immunization records, proof of residency, etc.).
- Complete any family or parish information forms and prayer/intention materials as requested.
- Attend any interviews or information sessions if applicable, and meet with enrollment staff to review placement options.
- Receive notification of placement and complete enrollment documentation, orientation details, and fee arrangements.
- 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- If spaces are filled, applicants may be placed on a waitlist. Priority may be given to siblings or local parish families, with regular updates provided by the admissions team.
- 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Entry requirements typically include standard documentation and immunization evidence. Some year levels or circumstances may involve family interviews or assessment discussions; testing is not universally required for all entrants.
- 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Yes, subject to available space. Families considering a mid-year transfer should contact the admissions office early to discuss space, class placement, and transition planning.
## 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A values-based Catholic education with a supportive community, strong pastoral care, and balanced emphasis on academics, sport, and the arts.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who appreciate a faith-informed, inclusive environment, with opportunities to participate in academics, sport, and creative pursuits.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Enrichment in literacy and numeracy, leadership and service opportunities, robust sport programs, music and drama, robotics, coding, chess, and debating clubs.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Through newsletters, emails, a parent portal, phone calls, and regular parent-teacher meetings.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Child-centered, evidence-informed teaching with differentiation, integrated Catholic values, and a focus on literacy, numeracy, and inquiry learning.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted interventions, Learning Support programs, EAL support, and collaboration with families to tailor plans.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Additional tutoring or small-group work, access to learning advisors, and ongoing progress monitoring.
- How does the school communicate with parents? (Yes, repeated)
- See above: newsletters, portals, email, meetings, and direct communication with teachers.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes are designed to be small-to-medium, typically around 20-25 students, with teachers providing differentiated instruction and regular feedback.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A broad range of sports, music, arts, and 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, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, canteen, and modern play areas.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integration of digital tools and resources with a focus on digital citizenship, safety, and practical technology skills.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local transport guidance is available; the school supports families with transport planning and accessibility considerations.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Fees and levies are in the moderate range for Catholic primary schools; information is provided during enrollment discussions and on the school’s official enrolment materials.
## 10. Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros
- Values-based Catholic education with a supportive, inclusive community
- Medium-sized school fostering strong pastoral care and relationships
- Balanced focus on academics, sport, arts, and wellbeing
- Active extracurricular and enrichment opportunities (clubs, music, robotics)
- Clear communication with families and transition support for new students
- Cons
- Fees are associated with non-government Catholic schooling
- Some specialist programs (e.g., IB) are not typically offered at primary levels
- Availability of certain year-level placements may depend on space
- Travel or commute considerations for families outside the immediate area
