Lisieux Catholic Primary School - Torquay

### 1. Overview (1–2 paragraphs max) Lisieux Catholic Primary School is a Catholic primary school serving families in Torquay and the surrounding area. As a Catholic school, it aims to nurture faith formation alongside a solid academic program, creating a supportive and values-driven learning environment. The school is medium-sized, with class sizes typically in the low 20s, fostering a warm, inclusive atmosphere where students are encouraged to engage, grow and participate in the school community. The atmosphere is generally described as nurturing and inclusive, with an emphasis on respect, empathy and service. Students are encouraged to contribute to a positive school culture through collaborative learning, team activities and a range of school-wide projects and events. ⸻ ### 2. Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: Strong focus on literacy and numeracy, with a well-rounded curriculum that includes science, humanities, arts and religious education. Emphasis on student achievement and ongoing skill development across key learning areas. - Special programs: Opportunities for extension and enrichment, with targeted support for students who need additional help and pathways for gifted/talented learners. - NAPLAN / Ofsted trends (not scores — trends): Historically, learners tend to perform in line with or above state averages in reading and numeracy, with ongoing improvement in key areas year to year. - Student-teacher ratios: Typical classroom ratios in the low to mid-teens per teacher, with small-group support available for targeted learning needs. - Support for diverse learners (EAL, SEN): Inclusive education approach with access to EAL support and SEN specialists or support staff to assist diverse learners and those requiring additional help. ⸻ ### 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: A range of team and individual sports common to Victorian primary schools, including netball, basketball, cricket, soccer/football, AFL-inspired programs and athletics. - Strong teams or achievements: Participation in local interschool sport and district competitions; success varies by year, with opportunities to develop athletic skills and teamwork. - Music, arts, drama programs: Active music and performing arts offerings, including school ensembles, choir or percussion activities and opportunities to participate in school drama and productions. - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating and other interest clubs are available to foster problem-solving and critical thinking. - Partnerships: Connections with local community clubs and opportunities for competition or collaboration in robotics, coding and arts events. ⸻ ### 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policies and programs aimed at creating a safe, respectful environment; emphasis on student wellbeing, inclusion and positive relationships. - House system: House groups used to promote community, belonging and healthy competition across activities and events. - Counselors / wellbeing officers: Access to a wellbeing coordinator or school counsellor to support students’ emotional and social needs. - Transition support for new students: Structured orientation, buddy systems and transitional activities to help new students settle in smoothly. ⸻ ### 5. Facilities - Sports grounds: On-site spaces for physical education and outdoor activities. - Libraries: Library facilities to support reading and research. - Science labs: Dedicated spaces for hands-on science learning. - Music/performing arts centers: Rooms or spaces for music practice and performance. - Tech/innovation labs: Facilities to support digital literacy, coding and STEM activities. - Cafeteria: On-site canteen or dining areas serving healthy options. - Updated playgrounds: Play areas designed for safe, active outdoor play. ⸻ ### 6. School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: Values-based education aligned with Catholic ethos, focusing on faith, compassion, respect, service and personal responsibility. - Leadership style: Collaborative leadership with opportunities for student voice (e.g., student councils) and family involvement in the school community. - Behaviour expectations: Clear behaviour expectations and a consistent code of conduct promoting positive conduct and mutual respect. - Community reputation: Strong, supportive relationships within the local community and parish networks, with emphasis on parental engagement. - Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to an inclusive environment that welcomes families from diverse backgrounds and abilities. ⸻ ### 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Typical school day runs from morning to afternoon standard for primary schools, with start and finish times communicated each year. - Before/after school care: Available options for supervision before and after school hours. - Uniform requirements: School uniform policy in place with appropriate attire for daily wear and special events. - Transport (train/bus routes): Local transport options available; school can assist families with bus or transit information where applicable. - Canteen availability: Canteen or meal program available to support daily nutrition. - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees are positioned in the mid-range spectrum for Australian Catholic primary schools; current costs available through the school office. ⸻ ### 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Submit an enrolment application with required documentation (birth certificate, baptism certificate where applicable, and parish details). - Provide supporting information (past academic records, immunisation). - Attending an information session or interview, if required. - Admissions timeline typically includes an intake cycle for the following year, with offers communicated within a defined period and spaces allocated based on policy and availability. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Yes, there may be a waiting list. Allocations generally follow a priority sequence (e.g., Catholic families from the local parish, siblings of current students, then other applicants) and depend on space availability. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - There may be an information session or interview; formal testing is not always required, but the school may assess readiness or suitability to support learning needs and placement. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers are considered where spaces exist and enrolment policies can be met. Interested families should contact the school to discuss availability and required documentation. ⸻ ### 9. Frequently Ask Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A values-based Catholic education, supportive community, strong literacy and numeracy focus, safe environment and opportunities across academics, sport and arts. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who engage with both faith-based and academic programs, participate in diverse activities, and respond well to a collaborative, inclusive learning environment. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Enrichment in literacy/numeracy, STEM and arts programs, competitive but balanced sport, music and performing arts, and a range of clubs (robotics, coding, chess, debating). - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular newsletters, online portals or communication platforms, parent-teacher meetings and timely updates via email or phone as needed. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Student-centered, differentiated instruction with faith-integrated education, use of technology and data-informed practice to support all learners. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted small-group support, learning support staff, differentiation within classrooms and access to specialist services as needed. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Early intervention through learning support, regular progress monitoring, and collaboration with families to plan appropriate next steps. - How does the school communicate with parents? - (See above) Multichannel updates, parent-teacher meetings and accessible administration staff. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes are typically in the low 20s, with teachers providing targeted feedback and opportunities for small-group or one-to-one support as needed. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A broad range including team sports, arts, music and drama, plus clubs such as robotics, coding, chess and debating. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - On-site sports grounds, library, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, technology labs, canteen and well-equipped playgrounds. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Emphasis on digital literacy, integrated classroom technology, and safe, responsible use of devices to support learning. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local transport options and guidance to families; assistance provided to arrange or understand available routes. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees are mid-range with additional costs for uniforms, excursions and other activities; exact amounts available from the school office. ⸻ ### 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Catholic ethos with a values-driven culture - Supportive, inclusive learning environment - Balanced curriculum with strong literacy and numeracy focus - Wide range of extracurriculars (sports, arts, clubs) - Student-friendly facilities and resources - Cons - Availability of spaces can vary year to year - Uniform requirements and associated costs - Transport options may require planning for families depending on location ⸻