Matthew Gibney Catholic Primary School - High Wycombe

## 1. Overview Matthew Gibney Catholic Primary School in High Wycombe, WA is a Catholic primary school that focuses on a values-based education within a small to medium community. The school emphasizes a nurturing, inclusive atmosphere where students are encouraged to grow academically and socially with strong support from staff and families. Class sizes are paired with a close-knit culture, helping pupils receive individual attention within a faith-centred environment. - School type: Catholic - School size: small to medium - Class size: typically around 20–25 students per class (varies by year level) - Atmosphere/culture: nurturing, inclusive, values-driven, community-focused --- ## 2. Academics & Learning Matthew Gibney Catholic Primary supports core literacy and numeracy, with a faith-informed curriculum that integrates ICT and across-curriculum skills. The school aims to develop well-rounded learners through engaged teaching and opportunities to explore creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving. - Academic strengths: literacy and numeracy foundations, faith-based curriculum integration, ICT and digital literacy - Special programs: religious education embedded in daily learning; potential gifted/talented or acceleration options may be available depending on year level and cohort needs - NAPLAN / trends: public trend data is typically published separately; check the school’s annual report or WA Department data for year-to-year trends in reading, writing, spelling and numeracy - Student-teacher ratios: typical WA primary ratios; smaller class units with instruction and some learning support available - Support for diverse learners: arrangements for EAL and SEN support; learning support team to assist students needing additional help and targeted interventions --- ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths The school offers a range of sports and extracurricular activities suitable for boys aged 10–14 and beyond, with a focus on participation, teamwork and personal growth. - Sports offered: common WA primary options such as soccer, Australian rules football, basketball, netball, athletics and cricket; involvement in inter-school events - Strong teams or achievements: opportunities to compete in district/inter-school competitions; some year groups may achieve recognition in their respective divisions - Music, arts, drama programs: active music and performing arts offerings; drama and school performances are typical components - Clubs: robotics, coding, chess, debating and other interests may be available - Partnerships: ties with local clubs, associations and inter-school programs for broader competition and development --- ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Wellbeing and pastoral programs are a focus to foster a safe, respectful school community. - Anti-bullying approach: proactive, relationship-focused strategies; codes of conduct aligned with school values - House system: house-based activities and competitions to promote belonging and leadership - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: access to support staff for student wellbeing and transition needs - Transition support: orientation activities, buddy systems and targeted transition programs for new students --- ## 5. Facilities The school’s facilities are designed to support a balanced curriculum and engaging student life, with spaces for learning, recreation and creative expression. - Sports grounds - Libraries - Science labs - Music/performing arts centers - Tech/innovation labs - Canteen - Updated playgrounds --- ## 6. School Values & Community Culture Parents often look for schools with clear values and a strong community. - School values / mission: faith-centered education emphasizing respect, compassion, responsibility and service - Leadership style: collaborative, with opportunities for student voice and leadership in appropriate contexts - Behaviour expectations: positive behaviour framework aligned with school values; consistent, age-appropriate discipline - Community reputation: supportive, welcoming Catholic community with an emphasis on family involvement - Diversity & inclusion: inclusive environment that welcomes families from diverse backgrounds and supports equitable access to learning --- ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Practical daily operations help families plan around school life. - School hours: typical day runs within standard WA primary schedules (e.g., start around morning entry and finish mid-to-late afternoon) - Before/after school care: available or on-site arrangements may exist through approved providers - Uniform requirements: school uniform policy with prescribed attire; details provided by the school - Transport: local bus routes or drop-off/pick-up arrangements; access to public transport options may be available - Canteen availability: on-site canteen or lunch program options - Fees: fees and charges vary; typically mid-range for Catholic primary schools and subject to annual changes --- ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions Enrolment processes are designed to welcome new families while managing seating and community fit. - What is the enrolment process and timeline?: submit an enrolment form and required documents; timelines differ by year and intake periods; may include interviews or information sessions; offers are made subject to availability - Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?: waiting lists are common; priority may be given to local catchment families or sibling applicants; families are kept informed of status - Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?: typically includes documentation (birth certificate, immunisation records); some years may involve conversations or informal discussions rather than formal tests - Does the school accept mid-year transfers?: mid-year transfers may be possible if there is space; processes involve coordination with the school and placement planning --- ## 9. Frequently Ask Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A values-based Catholic environment, supportive community, focus on individual growth, and a nurturing atmosphere that supports both learning and character development. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who value community, respect, and active participation in both academics and school life; those who respond well to a close-knit, faith-informed environment. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Extension in core subjects, involvement in sports teams, music and performing arts, and a range of clubs (robotics, coding, chess, debating) and inter-school competitions. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Through newsletters, emails, school apps or portals, parent-teacher interviews, and regular updates about events and student progress. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - A balanced, inclusive approach with an emphasis on literacy, numeracy, faith-integrated learning, differentiation, and student engagement. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Learning support teams, targeted interventions, small-group assistance, and access to SEN/EAL support as needed. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Individualized plans, ongoing assessment, and collaboration with families to implement suitable supports and adjustments. - How does the school communicate with parents? (duplicate) - See above: newsletters, portals, meetings and timely updates. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes are typically around 20–25 students; teachers provide instruction with some level of individual or small-group attention, supplemented by learning support when available. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A range of sports (e.g., football, basketball, netball, athletics), music and arts programs, and clubs such as robotics, coding, chess and debating; participation often includes inter-school events. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, canteen and updated play areas. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integration of technology across the curriculum, digital literacy and citizenship, potentially computer labs or device-based learning aligned with age-appropriate programs. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local transport options and school-based arrangements, with typical drop-off/pick-up pathways; accessibility considerations guided by school facilities and local arrangements. - What are typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees vary by year and program; families should consult the school’s current fee schedule and uniform costs for accurate budgeting. --- ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Catholic values-based education in a nurturing, close-knit community - Small to medium class sizes with opportunities for individual attention - Range of sports, arts and clubs supporting holistic development - Active wellbeing, pastoral care, and transition support - Strong focus on inclusion, faith, and community involvement - Cons - As a smaller school, the breadth of selective programs or specialist offerings may be more limited than larger campuses - Availability of certain accelerations or niche programs can vary by cohort and year level - Specific facilities and programs may change over time; confirm current offerings with the school - Fees and uniform costs are an ongoing consideration for families; confirm current charges with the school