## 1. Overview
Mater Christi Catholic Primary School is a Western Australian Catholic primary school committed to faith-based learning within a caring, community-focused environment. It emphasises values-driven education that supports academic growth, spiritual development, and social responsibility for all students.
- School type: Catholic
- School size: Medium
- Class size: approximately 22–28 students per class
- Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, faith-filled
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## 2. Academics & Learning
The school focuses on developing strong literacy and numeracy skills alongside a robust religious education program. It aims to nurture curious, engaged learners who can think critically and act with integrity.
- Academic strengths: English/literacy, numeracy, religious education, and digital literacy; emphasis on thinking skills and student agency
- Special programs: Differentiated learning, targeted interventions, and opportunities for accelerated learning where appropriate
- NAPLAN trends: Steady year-to-year improvement and consistent performance in key literacy and numeracy areas
- Student-teacher ratios: Roughly 1:12–1:25
- Support for diverse learners: EAL support, SEN support, learning support plans, and access to allied professionals as needed
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## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
A broad range of activities supports active, well-rounded development and appeals to boys and girls alike.
- Sports offered: Soccer, netball, basketball, athletics, swimming, cross-country
- Strong teams or achievements: Regular participation in interschool events and competitive house/teams activities
- Music, arts, drama programs: School choir, music education, and drama experiences
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating
- Partnerships: Connections with local clubs and participation in regional competitions and showcases
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## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing is a cornerstone of school life, with programs designed to support every student’s emotional and social development.
- Anti-bullying approach: Clear policies, restorative practices, and proactive wellbeing initiatives
- House system: Yes, with house-based activities and friendly competition
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school wellbeing staff and counsellors
- Transition support for new students: Welcome programs, buddy systems, and parent information sessions
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## 5. Facilities
The school offers a range of modern, well-maintained spaces to support learning across subjects and activities.
- Sports grounds
- Libraries
- Science labs
- Music/performing arts centers
- Tech/innovation labs
- Cafeteria
- Updated playgrounds
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## 6. School Values & Community Culture
The school’s culture centers on Catholic values while welcoming families from diverse backgrounds.
- School values / mission: Respect, compassion, responsibility; service to others within a Catholic framework
- Leadership style: Collaborative and student-centered; opportunities for student leadership
- Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct emphasizing respect and safety
- Community reputation: Family-oriented, supportive, and welcoming to new families
- Diversity & inclusion: Inclusive environment with supports to assist students of varied backgrounds and needs
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## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
Practical, predictable routines help families plan and engage with school life.
- School hours: Approximately 8:30am–3:00pm, Monday to Friday
- Before/after school care: Available via after-school programs and supervision
- Uniform requirements: Full school uniform; correct insignia and neat presentation
- Transport (train/bus routes): Accessible by local bus routes; parking and drop-off zones available
- Canteen availability: On-site canteen offering healthy options
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Medium range; additional costs for uniforms, excursions, and optional activities
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## 8. Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Submit an online application or expression of interest during the school’s open period
- Provide required documents (birth/citizenship/baptism records as applicable, immunisation records, proof of residence)
- Participate in an interview or conversation with parents and student (as part of determining fit)
- Receive offer of placement with completion deadlines; confirm acceptance
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Yes, waiting lists exist. Places are allocated based on priority categories (e.g., siblings, parish affiliation, catchment considerations) and vacancy availability
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Generally no formal entrance test; may include a short interview or discussion to understand the student’s needs and fit
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Yes, subject to vacancy and meeting required documentation; families should apply and discuss timelines with the school
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## 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A faith-based, nurturing community with small-to-medium class sizes, supportive staff, and strong pastoral care.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who value community, consistent routines, and opportunities to grow academically, spiritually, and socially within a Catholic framework.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Enrichment in literacy and numeracy, arts and drama programs, sports, clubs like robotics and coding, debating, and opportunities to participate in regional competitions.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular newsletters, emails, school app/portal updates, and scheduled parent-teacher conferences.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Student-centered, differentiated instruction, high expectations, inclusive education, and integration of faith with everyday learning.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted interventions, reading and numeracy support, EAL assistance, and formal learning support plans as needed.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Ongoing assessment, specialist input when required, and collaboration with families to support progress.
- How does the school communicate with parents? (reiterated)
- See above: newsletters, apps, email, conferences, and notices.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes typically 22–28 students; additional support through aides and targeted small-group instruction.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A broad mix of sports (soccer, netball, basketball, athletics, swimming), music, arts, robotics, chess, coding, and debating clubs.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Modern facilities including sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, and a canteen.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integrated digital literacy with appropriate devices and online safety practices to support learning.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local bus routes and accessible facilities; car drop-off zones and ample parking for families.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Fees fall into a medium range; additional costs for uniforms, excursions, and optional activities; some families may be eligible for concessions or subsidies.
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## 10. Short Pros & Cons list
Pros
- Catholic, values-based education in a nurturing environment
- Medium-sized, manageable class sizes with strong pastoral care
- Broad range of academic, sports, arts, and enrichment opportunities
- supportive wellbeing programs and house-based activities
- Modern facilities and well-maintained learning spaces
Cons
- Uniforms and ongoing costs beyond basic fees
- Admissions may involve waiting lists during high-demand periods
- As a faith-based school, families outside the Catholic community may need to consider alignment with values and community expectations
- Limited to the local catchment, which can affect transfer options during peak times
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