John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School

## Overview John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School is an independent Anglican co-educational school serving students from primary through secondary in Mirrabooka, Western Australia. The school combines a values-based, inclusive culture with a broad academic program and a wide range of co-curricular opportunities. It aims to nurture confident, caring, and capable young people who contribute positively to their communities. - School type: Independent Anglican - School size: Medium-to-large (covers both primary and secondary) - Class size: Typically mid-20s to low-30s per year level, depending on year and subject - Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, nurturing, academically oriented, with opportunities for leadership, service and teamwork ⸻ ## Academics & Learning The school emphasises strong literacy and numeracy foundations, with a clear focus on STEAM, English, and language development, alongside leadership and character education. It offers programs designed to support a range of learners and pathways. - Academic strengths: STEM, English literacy, language learning, and leadership development - Special programs: Gifted and Talented pathways, accelerated learning options, and targeted learning support where needed - NAPLAN / trends: Positive trends in literacy and numeracy over recent years are typically reported by WA independent schools; the school pursues continuous improvement across year levels - Student-teacher ratios: Generally in the lower double digits (roughly 1:12–1:18, varying by campus and year) - Support for diverse learners: EAL support, SEN/Learning support teams, and targeted interventions where appropriate ⸻ ## Sports & Extracurricular Strengths Sports and a broad array of clubs are a strong focus, with many students engaging in inter-school activities and competitions. The school also offers vibrant arts and performance opportunities. - Sports offered: Soccer, basketball, netball, cricket, AFL/footy-style codes, athletics, swimming, tennis, and more - Strong teams or achievements: Competitive school teams with regular participation in inter-school events - Music, arts, drama programs: Comprehensive music program with ensembles, theatre and drama productions - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other academic/interest clubs - Partnerships: Local clubs, community partnerships, and opportunities to compete in regional events and showcases ⸻ ## Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Wellbeing and pastoral care are central to student success, with structures in place to support mental health, safety, and smooth transitions. - Anti-bullying approach: Clear policies, student-led initiatives, advisory support, and a culture of reporting and support - House system: Pastoral houses provide community, belonging, and competition to foster connection - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors and wellbeing staff for student support - Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and gradual integration to ease transitions ⸻ ## Facilities The school provides a range of modern facilities to support learning, activity, and creativity. The environment is designed to be visual, welcoming and functional. - Sports grounds: On-site playing fields and courts - Libraries: Well-resourced libraries with study spaces - Science labs: Modern science laboratories for practical experimentation - Music/performing arts centers: Dedicated spaces for music ensembles and drama - Tech/innovation labs: Dedicated spaces for technology, coding and innovation - Cafeteria: On-site canteen facilities for daily meals and snacks - Updated playgrounds: Age-appropriate and safe outdoor play areas ⸻ ## School Values & Community Culture The school communicates a clear sense of purpose and community, guided by Anglican values and a commitment to inclusive education. - School values / mission: Values-based education centered on respect, responsibility, integrity, and service - Leadership style: Collaborative, with student leadership opportunities and staff mentorship - Behaviour expectations: Positive behavior framework and consistent expectations across year levels - Community reputation: Strong links with families and local communities, emphasising service and mutual respect - Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to an inclusive environment that supports students from diverse backgrounds ⸻ ## School Logistics & Daily Operations Practical day-to-day information helps families plan around schooling. - School hours: Typical school day runs from morning into the afternoon, with year-level variations - Before/after school care: Available to eligible students - Uniform requirements: Formal school uniform with seasonal options; purchasing through the school uniform shop - Transport: Bus routes and general public transport access; school travel planning and drop-off/pick-up arrangements - Canteen availability: On-site canteen or cafeteria services - Fees: Fees fall within the mid-to-high range for WA independent schools; occasional levies and charges for activities and camps; scholarship options may be available ⸻ ## Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Typically starts with an online application and submission of supporting documents, followed by family interviews or information sessions. There is often a multi-stage process including assessment of fit with the school, with offers issued based on vacancy and enrolment policy. Final acceptance confirms placement and orientation details. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Yes, there is often a waiting list. Applications sit in a waiting pool when year-level vacancies are not available, with offers made as spaces open. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Entry may involve an interview and/or assessment tasks, alignment with the school’s values and capacities, and references. Some year levels may require short diagnostic tasks or language/reading assessments as part of placement. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers are possible if there is a suitable vacancy and placement aligns with the current curriculum, timetable and support arrangements. Availability varies by year level and campus. ⸻ ## Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A values-driven, inclusive environment with strong academics, broad co-curriculars, and supportive wellbeing programs that help students grow socially, emotionally and academically. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who engage actively, value collaboration, show curiosity, and are motivated to contribute to school life and the wider community. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Academic extension and leadership programs, high-performance sport pathways, performing arts ensembles, robotics, coding, debating and numerous clubs. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular newsletters, parent portals, emails, and parent-teacher conferences support ongoing dialogue about student progress and school events. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Differentiated instruction, inquiry-based learning, technology-enabled classroom practice, and a focus on literacy, numeracy and critical thinking. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted learning support, EAL assistance, SEN services, and tailored interventions to help students reach their goals. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Access to learning specialists, small-group or one-on-one support, and ongoing monitoring of progress to adjust supports as needed. - How does the school communicate with parents? - See above: regular communications via portals, emails and meetings. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes typically sit in the low to mid-30s for some subjects and mid-20s in others, with teachers providing targeted feedback and opportunities for small-group guidance. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A wide range of sports (team and individual), music and performing arts, robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other clubs. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Modern sports facilities, dedicated libraries, science labs, performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs and a canteen. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integrated digital learning, use of educational platforms, and responsible use of technology in everyday learning and collaboration. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local bus routes, proximity to public transport, and programs to support student travel; accessibility considerations are addressed on campus. - What are typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees fall in the mid-to-high range for WA independent schools, with potential additional costs for uniforms, excursions, camps, materials, and optional activities. ⸻ ## Short Pros & Cons - Pros - Values-based education with a supportive, inclusive culture - Strong academics with opportunities across STEM, English, languages and leadership - Broad co-curriculars including sports, arts, robotics, debating and clubs - Wellbeing and pastoral care with house systems and counselors - Modern facilities across primary and secondary campuses - Cons - Fees are higher than government schools and many private/independent options - Large school environment may feel less personalised for some students - Transport options depend on location and may require planning for worst-case travel times ⸻ If you’d like, I can tailor this draft with more precise details specific to the current year or campus (e.g., exact uniform policies, campus hours, or any unique programs): just share any updates or official notes you have.