International School of Western Australia

1. Overview The International School of WA (ISWA) in Doubleview is an independent, co-educational day school delivering a broad Australian curriculum with additional pathways to support diverse learner needs. The school aims to provide a balanced education that fosters academic curiosity, character development, and global awareness in a supportive community. ISWA is a medium-sized Australian school community that emphasizes strong teacher–student relationships and a welcoming atmosphere. Class sizes are kept purposefully small to support individual attention and active participation, contributing to a nurturing yet academically focused school culture. - School type: Independent/private - School size: Medium - Class size: Approximately 20–25 students per class - Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, nurturing, academically focused, diverse ⸻ 2. Academics & Learning ISWA focuses on delivering solid literacy, numeracy, and core subject strengths while expanding opportunities in STEM, languages, and the arts. A key feature is providing pathways and support to meet varied learner needs, including international and bilingual cohorts. - Academic strengths: English, mathematics, science, and languages; emphasis on critical thinking and global awareness - Special programs: Gifted and Talented initiatives, potential accelerated learning options, and targeted support for international students - NAPLAN / trends: Positive, steady trends in literacy and numeracy improvement over time - Student-teacher ratios: Typically in the low-teens range (roughly 1:8 to 1:12), with smaller classes to maximise individual attention - Support for diverse learners: EAL support, SEN-friendly programs, and inclusive learning adjustments where needed ⸻ 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths ISWA supports a well-rounded student experience with a range of sports and enrichment activities. The school encourages teamwork, discipline, and personal bests through both competition and personal development. - Sports offered: Soccer/futsal, basketball, cricket, swimming, tennis, athletics, netball - Strong teams or achievements: Competitive school-level teams with regular participation in inter-school events - Music, arts, drama programs: Comprehensive music and performing arts opportunities; dramatics and theatre trips/events - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other creative-technology clubs - Partnerships: Local academies and inter-school competitions to broaden access to competitions and professional development ⸻ 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care A strong wellbeing framework supports student resilience, belonging, and safe development. ISWA focuses on positive relationships, clear expectations, and accessible wellbeing resources. - Anti-bullying approach: Proactive policies, clear reporting channels, restorative practices - House system: House-based activities and competitions to foster team spirit and belonging - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: On-site wellbeing staff to support students and families - Transition support: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and ongoing transition assistance for new students ⸻ 5. Facilities ISWA provides facilities designed to support a modern learning environment, with spaces that encourage collaboration, creativity, and physical activity. - Sports grounds: Indoor/outdoor sports facilities and fields - Libraries: Well-stocked library with study zones - Science labs: Well-equipped laboratories for practical experiments - Music/performing arts centers: Dedicated spaces for music, drama, and performances - Tech/innovation labs: Computer and makerspace areas for hands-on learning - Cafeteria: On-site canteen or dining hall - Updated playgrounds: Safe and inviting outdoor play and activity areas ⸻ 6. School Values & Community Culture ISWA aims to cultivate values-driven learners who contribute positively to their communities, both locally and globally. - School values / mission: Respect, integrity, excellence, inclusion, and global-mindedness - Leadership style: Collaborative and distributed leadership with student voice in appropriate contexts - Behaviour expectations: Clear code of conduct with restorative approaches to conflict - Community reputation: Family-oriented, supportive, and community-minded - Diversity & inclusion: Active commitment to inclusion and celebrating cultural diversity ⸻ 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Practical details help families plan around school life. - School hours: Core day aligned with typical WA school hours; start and finish times may vary by stage - Before/after school care: Available - Uniform requirements: School uniform policy enforced - Transport: Bus routes and school transport options available - Canteen availability: Canteen or vending options on site - Fees: Medium to higher range reflecting independent school status ⸻ 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Inquiries and information session - Submission of application with supporting documents (academic records, student information, family details) - Application review and eligibility checks - Offer of place and acceptance, followed by enrollment paperwork and fee payment - Orientation and start-date planning 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Yes, there is typically a waiting list. Applications are prioritized by date of submission and space availability; siblings may receive some priority depending on policy. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Entrance assessment or interview is common to assess readiness and fit - English language assessment for EAL or non-native speakers - Review of academic records and teacher recommendations as part of the process 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers may be possible depending on space and alignment of curriculum; assessments or transitional planning may be required ⸻ 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - What type of student thrives at this school? - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - How does the school communicate with parents? - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - What support is available for academic challenges? - How does the school communicate with parents? (duplicate in list) - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - What transport and accessibility options are available? - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? ⸻ 10. Short Pros & Cons list Pros - Independent/private school environment with tailored learning - Small to medium class sizes for individualized attention - Strong focus on wellbeing, values, and community - Broad extracurricular offerings (sports, arts, robotics, debates) - Integrated support for diverse learners (EAL, SEN) Cons - Tuition and fees are higher than public schools - Competitive admissions process with potential waiting lists - Independent school calendars and policies may differ from public systems - Transport options may be more limited outside major suburbs ⸻