## 1. Overview
Kandos Public School is a NSW public primary school serving the local Kandos community. It offers a co-educational environment for Kindergarten to Year 6 students, with a focus on building confident, capable learners who contribute positively to their community. The school community emphasises a nurturing and inclusive culture, with small to medium class sizes that support individual attention and a supportive atmosphere.
- School type: Public
- School size: Small to medium
- Class size: Generally around 18–24 students per class
- Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, community-focused
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## 2. Academics & Learning
Kandos Public School aims to provide strong foundational learning across core subjects, with opportunities to explore STEM, literacy, and the arts. The school emphasizes high-quality teaching to support student progress and engagement, with a focus on developing key skills in reading, writing, numeracy, and problem-solving.
- Academic strengths: Core literacy and numeracy, STEM activities, opportunities to engage in the arts and leadership
- Special programs: Gifted and talented opportunities where available; targeted programs to support individual learning needs; library and participation in local learning experiences
- NAPLAN / trends: NSW public schools monitor NAPLAN trends; schools typically report on year-to-year progress and overall performance patterns to families
- Student-teacher ratios: Small to moderate ratios, enabling more individual attention
- Support for diverse learners: EAL and SEN support, inclusive education practices, targeted literacy and numeracy intervention as needed
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## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
Kandos Public School supports a balanced program of sports, arts, and enrichment activities, designed to engage students and foster teamwork, discipline, and school spirit.
- Sports offered: A range of team and individual sports common to NSW primary schools (e.g., cricket, soccer/football, netball, athletics, and swimming)
- Strong teams or achievements: Participation in local and regional school activities and competitions
- Music, arts, drama programs: School music and drama opportunities; participation in school productions and performances
- Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other complementary clubs as available
- Partnerships: Local community groups and regional activities that provide enrichment and competition opportunities
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## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing and pastoral support are central to the school environment, helping students feel secure, valued, and ready to learn.
- Anti-bullying approach: Clear expectations and supportive programs to promote respectful behaviour and safe school culture
- House system: House-based activities and competitions to build belonging and teamwork
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school-based wellbeing staff to support students
- Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy systems, and transition planning to help new students settle in
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## 5. Facilities
Kandos Public School provides facilities that support learning, creativity, and physical activity. The environment is designed to be welcoming and functional for students, staff, and families.
- Sports grounds
- Libraries
- Science labs
- Music/performing arts spaces
- Tech/innovation spaces
- Cafeteria or canteen facilities
- Updated playgrounds or outdoor learning areas
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## 6. School Values & Community Culture
The school aims to develop responsible, respectful, and curious students who contribute to the community.
- School values / mission: Focus on respect, integrity, effort, and collaboration
- Leadership style: Collaborative and student-inclusive leadership with teacher and community input
- Behaviour expectations: Clear conduct policies centered on respect, safety, and responsibility
- Community reputation: Positive reputation within the local community for a welcoming and supportive environment
- Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to inclusive practices and celebrating diverse backgrounds
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## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
Clear daily routines help families plan and students thrive.
- School hours: Typical primary schedule with start and end times aligned to NSW norms
- Before/after school care: Availability of before/after school care or activity supervision
- Uniform requirements: NSW public school uniform standards and procurement details
- Transport: Local transport options and bus routes serving the area
- Canteen availability: Canteen or lunch program as part of daily routine
- Fees: Generally low to moderate (uniforms, materials, activities may incur small costs)
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## 8. Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Enrolment is handled through the NSW public school system. Submit the required documents (proof of identity, residency details, and immunisation records) to establish eligibility. The school or local Department of Education office will outline the timeline for enrolment, including any intake windows and orientation activities.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- If enrolments exceed capacity, a waiting list may be established. Placements are determined based on availability, sibling priority, and place allocation rules. Families on the waiting list are kept informed of their status and any new vacancies.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- NSW public primary schools do not typically require entry tests or academic interviews for Kindergarten or primary-year enrolments. Some schools may request basic information to understand student needs and help with transition planning.
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Mid-year transfers are possible if vacancies exist. Parents should coordinate with the school to review documentation, enrolment eligibility, and available places. Transition supports can be arranged to help new students settle in.
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## 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A close-knit, supportive community with a focus on individual student growth and a nurturing learning environment.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Curious, cooperative learners who respond well to small-to-medium class sizes and inclusive teaching approaches.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Core academics with enrichment in STEM, arts, leadership, and sport; clubs and local partnerships provide additional opportunities.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular updates through newsletters, emails, parent meetings, and the school website; open channels for inquiries and feedback.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Student-centered, evidence-informed practices with a focus on literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and creativity; inclusive supports for diverse learners.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted interventions in literacy and numeracy, small-group support, and access to school-based wellbeing staff.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Diagnostic review, personalised learning plans, and targeted supports in collaboration with teachers, specialists, and families.
- How does the school communicate with parents? (repeated)
- See above; ongoing, proactive communication channels are used to keep families informed.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes are small to medium, enabling more teacher-student time and personalised feedback.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A range of sports and clubs (e.g., robotics, coding, chess, debating) with opportunities to participate in local competitions.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Well-equipped facilities including libraries, science labs, arts spaces, sport grounds, and outdoor learning areas.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integration of digital literacy and responsible use of technology to support learning across subjects.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local transport options are described by the school/education department; check with the school for routes and accessibility details.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Basic costs for uniforms and activities may apply; most primary schools aim to keep additional costs reasonable.
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## 10. Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros
- Small to medium school with a warm, inclusive atmosphere
- Strong focus on core literacy and numeracy
- Supportive environment for diverse learners
- Range of clubs and activities; emphasis on wellbeing
- Community-oriented with opportunities for parental involvement
- Cons
- Limited specialist facilities compared to larger schools (typical for a small community school)
- Fewer elective subjects or advanced programs than big-city schools
- Transport options may be limited depending on location and family needs
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