Mother Teresa Catholic Primary School

# 1. Overview Mother Teresa Catholic Primary School, Ormeau, is a Catholic private primary school serving families on the Gold Coast in Queensland. The school emphasises faith-informed education within a caring, community-focused environment. As a small-to-medium school, it aims to foster a close-knit, supportive culture where students feel known and valued. Classrooms typically balance academic rigour with pastoral care, helping students grow academically, spiritually, and socially. - School type: Catholic private primary school - School size: small-to-medium - Class size: around 20–25 students per class - Atmosphere/culture: nurturing, inclusive, faith-based, community-focused --- # 2. Academics & Learning The school prioritises strong literacy and numeracy foundations while integrating STEM, digital learning, and faith-based perspectives. There is an emphasis on developing curious, responsible learners who can contribute to their school and wider community. - Academic strengths: literacy and numeracy core competencies, with integrated STEM and digital learning; emphasis on leadership and service - Special programs: faith formation programs; opportunities for enrichment and leadership; potential gifted/talented or enrichment options - NAPLAN trends: ongoing monitoring of NAPLAN results with a focus on year-by-year improvement and consistency in key learning areas - Student-teacher ratios: typically around 1:20–1:25, varying by year level - Support for diverse learners: dedicated support for diverse learners, including interventions, EAL support, and SEN/staff collaboration --- # 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths The school provides a balanced mix of sports, arts, and clubs aimed at developing well-rounded students. Local interschool activities and competitions help children gain teamwork and resilience. - Sports offered: soccer, netball, basketball, athletics, cricket, swimming (varies by year and season) - Strong teams or achievements: participation in local interschool events; recognition at district level varies by year - Music, arts, drama programs: school choir, music lessons, and performing arts opportunities - Clubs: robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other enrichment clubs - Partnerships: connections with local clubs, community programs, and regional competitions --- # 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Wellbeing and pastoral care are central to daily life at the school, with a focus on positive relationships, safety, and resilience. - Anti-bullying approach: clear anti-bullying policies, respectful relationships education, and whole-school commitment to safe environments - House system: a house-based framework supporting competition, belonging, and leadership - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: access to wellbeing staff or school-based counsellors to support students - Transition support: orientation programs and buddy systems to help new students settle in smoothly --- # 5. Facilities The school grounds and facilities are designed to support a broad curriculum with a focus on safety, collaboration, and creativity. - Sports grounds: practical outdoor spaces for physical education and sport - Libraries: well-stocked library with reading areas - Science labs: dedicated science spaces for hands-on learning - Music/performing arts centers: spaces for music, drama, and performances - Tech/innovation labs: areas for hands-on technology and coding activities - Cafeteria: on-site or nearby canteen facilities for meals and snacks - Updated playgrounds: modern, safe play areas --- # 6. School Values & Community Culture Parents look for a school where values, leadership, and culture align with their family priorities. The school emphasises faith-based education, character development, and community involvement. - School values / mission: faith, compassion, service, respect, and responsibility - Leadership style: student leadership opportunities and collaborative teacher/leader approaches - Behaviour expectations: clear behaviour codes with positive reinforcement and restorative practices - Community reputation: family-oriented and supportive, with active parent involvement - Diversity & inclusion: welcoming environment that respects and supports diverse backgrounds --- # 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Clear, predictable routines help families plan around school life. - School hours: typical school day (start and finish times align with Queensland primary schedules) - Before/after school care: options available through on-site or local providers - Uniform requirements: school uniform policy with approved attire and wear - Transport (train/bus routes): access to local bus routes and coordinated drop-off/pick-up arrangements - Canteen availability: canteen or lunch facilities available for students - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): moderate to mid-range fees for an independent Catholic primary school in the region --- # 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Start with an expression of interest or application. - Submit required documents (birth certificate, immunisation record, Catholic parish information if applicable). - Attend any school interviews or information sessions. - Complete enrolment paperwork and confirm placement; participate in orientation if offered. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Waiting lists may apply when cohorts are full. Applications should be submitted early; the school communicates waitlist status and timelines as vacancies arise. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Entry typically involves a family interview and consideration of Catholic enrolment criteria. Some years may require additional information or assessments; provide all requested documentation. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers may be considered if there is vacancy in the relevant year level; families should contact the school early to discuss availability and complete required steps. --- # 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A faith-based, values-driven environment with small-to-medium class sizes and supportive staff that prioritise the whole child. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who respond well to a nurturing, inclusive setting, value faith and service, and enjoy a balanced focus on academics, sport, and arts. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Extensions in literacy and numeracy, STEM activities, robotics, coding, debating, music and drama, and school sport. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular newsletters, parent portals, emails, and scheduled parent-teacher interviews; timely updates on events and student progress. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Student-centred, curriculum-aligned teaching with opportunities for inquiry, collaboration, and a faith-informed perspective. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted interventions, learning support plans, EAL assistance, and SEN support coordinated with classroom teachers. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Differentiated instruction, small-group sessions, and referrals to specialists as needed. - How does the school communicate with parents? - See above: regular communications and open channels for parent inquiries and feedback. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Classes are typically small-to-medium, with teachers able to provide meaningful individual and small-group support. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A range of sports, music and drama programs, and clubs such as robotics, chess, coding, and debating. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, library, science labs, music/arts facilities, tech/innovation labs, canteen, and updated playgrounds. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integrated digital learning with access to devices, coding and computational thinking, and safe online practices. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local bus routes and coordinated drop-off/pick-up arrangements; accessible facilities where applicable. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees are in the moderate range for independent Catholic primary schools in the area; additional costs may include uniforms, excursions, and optional activities. --- # 10. Short Pros & Cons list Pros - Nurturing Catholic environment with strong values - Small-to-medium class sizes enabling individual attention - Solid focus on literacy and numeracy - Positive wellbeing and pastoral care programs - Broad extracurricular options (sports, arts, clubs) Cons - Fees may be higher than public schools (typical for private Catholic schools) - Enrollment may involve a waiting list in peak years - Facilities and resources can vary relative to larger metropolitan schools