Larrakeyah Primary School

## Overview - Type: Public - Size: Medium - Class size: Typically around 20–25 students per class - Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, nurturing, community-focused with a hands-on, student-centred approach This public primary school serves families in the Northern Territory community, offering a welcoming environment that emphasises wellbeing, participation, and strong foundations in literacy and numeracy. ⸻ ## Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: Core literacy and numeracy with integrated STEM and hands-on learning; emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical applications of knowledge - Special programs: Support for diverse learners (EAL/D and SEN as needed); opportunities for enrichment and leadership development; digital literacy integrated across the curriculum - NAPLAN trends: Historically, schools in the region have shown steady progress in reading and numeracy over time with improvements aligned to ongoing teaching strategies; trends are monitored to inform teaching approaches - Student-teacher ratios: Generally within a low-to-mid range for primary schools, allowing meaningful student engagement and teacher support - Support for diverse learners: Explicit support for EAL/D learners, inclusive education practices, and targeted interventions to assist students needing additional help ⸻ ## Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: A range of team and individual sports (e.g., soccer, netball, athletics, cross-country, and fun fitness activities); opportunities for interschool competition - Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in interschool events and local competitions; emphasis on fair play, teamwork, and school spirit - Music, arts, drama programs: School-based music and performing arts activities, opportunities to perform and participate in school productions - Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other ICT/digital clubs; pathways to extend interests beyond the core curriculum - Partnerships: Local community clubs and regional competitions support for sport, coding, robotics, and creative arts; connections with regional programs to broaden opportunities ⸻ ## Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policies with proactive education, student wellbeing programs, and a positive behaviour framework - House system: House-based activities and competitions to foster belonging and leadership opportunities - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school wellbeing staff or a dedicated counsellor to support students and families - Transition support for new students: Orientation for new students and families, buddy programs, and targeted supports to ease transitions between year levels and to/from new schools ⸻ ## Facilities - Sports grounds: Dedicated playing fields and courts for PE and sports - Libraries: Well-stocked library with a reading program and learning resources - Science labs: Practical science spaces to support hands-on experiments - Music/performing arts centers: Practical spaces for music, drama, and performances - Tech/innovation labs: Digital learning spaces and basic robotics/coding resources - Cafeteria: On-site canteen or access to school-supported meal options - Updated playgrounds: Age-appropriate play areas with safe, inviting outdoor spaces ⸻ ## School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: Focus on respect, responsibility, inclusion, and community involvement - Leadership style: Collaborative and student-centred, with opportunities for student voice through committees and leadership roles - Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct and positive behaviour support that rewards constructive actions - Community reputation: Known for a welcoming atmosphere and strong parent–teacher partnerships - Diversity & inclusion: Emphasis on inclusivity and celebrating diverse backgrounds within the school community ⸻ ## School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Typical school day aligned with regional schedules (start around morning bell, finish mid to late afternoon) - Before/after school care: Often coordinated with approved providers or school-approved programs - Uniform requirements: School uniform expected; details provided by the school (and updated each year) - Transport (train/bus routes): Access to local transport options; in-zone students may have priority for transport arrangements - Canteen availability: On-site canteen or school-provided lunch/refreshment options - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Public schooling generally involves no tuition, with voluntary contributions and item charges for resources; some fees may apply for excursions or specific programs ⸻ ## Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Check eligibility (in-zone vs. out-of-zone) - Gather required documents (proof of identity, immunisation records, proof of address) - Submit enrolment application (online or in person) to the school or Department of Education - Provide student information (birth certificate, previous school records if transferring) - Receive offer and complete any new student onboarding (orientation and documentation) - Timeline can vary; start early to ensure placement for the new year or term 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - In-zone prioritises placement; out-of-zone requests may be considered if vacancies exist - Some periods may have waitlists for non-resident placements or popular year levels - The school can provide an estimated wait time and guidance on alternatives if a vacancy is not immediately available 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Generally no entrance exam for primary enrolment - Some out-of-zone or special circumstances may involve a brief discussion or meeting to review student needs and supports - Documentation and immunisation status are typically required 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Yes, subject to vacancy and alignment with term schedules - Prospective mid-year students should contact the school promptly to arrange enrolment, transfer of records, and any necessary supports ⸻ ## Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - Publicly funded, community-focused environment with a supportive staff and emphasis on wellbeing and foundational academic skills. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Curious, cooperative learners who engage in both academic and extracurricular activities and value a supportive, inclusive community. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Access to a broad curriculum with core academics, STEM and digital learning, sports teams, music/theatre programs, and clubs such as robotics, coding, chess, and debating. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular updates via newsletters, emails, the school app/website, and scheduled meetings; open channels for parent feedback and involvement. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Student-centred, evidence-based teaching with a focus on literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, collaboration, and hands-on learning. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted interventions, EAL/D support, inclusive education practices, and access to wellbeing staff. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Additional tutoring or small-group support, accommodation plans where needed, and regular progress monitoring. - How does the school communicate with parents? (repeated) - See above: newsletters, emails, apps, and parent meetings to keep families informed. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes typically around 20–25 students, with ongoing teacher support and opportunities for individual feedback. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - Sports, music/theatre, and clubs like robotics, coding, chess, and debating; participation in interschool events. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, and a canteen area. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integrated digital literacy across the curriculum with access to ICT resources and age-appropriate coding activities. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local transport options; in-zone priority for attendance; information on bus routes and accessibility provided by the school. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - No tuition for public schooling; some voluntary contributions and charges for certain activities or resources; cost details provided by the school. ⸻ ## Short Pros & Cons - Pros - Public, community-focused environment with a strong emphasis on wellbeing and foundational learning - Supportive staff, inclusive practices, and a wide range of extracurricular options - Balanced combination of academics, sports, arts, and technology - Cons - As a public school, some specialized programs may be more limited than private options - Availability of certain clubs or facilities can vary by year and enrolment demand - Space and resources are managed across a growing student population; some programs may have longer wait times for specific activities ⸻