Our Lady of Dolours School

Overview

Our Lady of Dolours School is a Catholic primary school serving the local Mitchelton community with a focus on faith-filled, values-based education. The school prioritises a nurturing environment where students are supported to grow academically, spiritually, and socially within a inclusive, welcoming culture.

• School type: Catholic primary school
• School size: Small to medium
• Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, faith-based, and community-oriented

Academics & Learning

• Academic strengths: Emphasis on strong literacy and numeracy foundations, with a focus on Catholic religious education, and opportunities to develop critical thinking through a well-rounded curriculum. Digital literacy and hands-on learning are integrated across year levels.
• Special programs: Enrichment and support options are available to cater to diverse learning needs; programs may include gifted and talented pathways or accelerated learning where appropriate, along with technology and coding activities.
• Support for diverse learners: EAL and SEN support are typically available through inclusive teaching practices, targeted literacy/numeracy interventions, and access to support staff.

Sports & Extracurricular Strengths

• Sports offered: A range of traditional playground and school-level sports (e.g., netball, basketball, soccer, cricket, athletics, swimming) with opportunities to participate in inter-school events.
• Strong teams or achievements: The school participates in local inter-school competitions and programs; success highlights vary by year and cohort.
• Music, arts, drama programs: Active engagement in music and performing arts, with opportunities for involvement in choir, drama, and school productions.
• Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other enrichment clubs are typically available to extend student interests.
• Partnerships: Connections with local community and sports clubs, as well as participation in regional competitions and events, support student development beyond the classroom.

Wellbeing & Pastoral Care

• Anti-bullying approach: A proactive, school-wide approach to wellbeing and safety, with clear policies and staff support to foster respectful relationships.
• House system: A house structure to encourage teamwork, leadership, and healthy competition across year levels.
• Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school-based wellbeing staff to support students’ social, emotional, and mental health needs.
• Transition support for new students: Orientation activities and transition support help new students acclimate to the school culture and routines.

Facilities

• Sports grounds: Outdoor play and sports facilities suitable for physical education and activities.
• Libraries: On-site library with age-appropriate books and learning resources.
• Science labs: Dedicated science learning spaces to support hands-on experiments.
• Music/performing arts centers: Space for music, drama, and performances.
• Tech/innovation labs: Integrated technology spaces to support digital learning and coding.
• Cafeteria: On-site canteen or meal facilities for students.
• Updated playgrounds: Safe, modern play areas for daily recreation and break times.

School Values & Community Culture

• Values / mission: Catholic ethos with emphasis on faith, service, respect, and responsibility; fostering a sense of community and moral development.
• Leadership style: Leadership that encourages student voice, collaboration, and positive behaviour support.
• Behaviour expectations: Clear behavioural guidelines aligned with school values, reinforced through positive reinforcement and restorative practices.
• Community reputation: Known for a welcoming, faith-centered community with strong parent involvement and a focus on holistic student development.
• Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to creating an inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds feel valued and supported.

School Logistics & Daily Operations

• School hours: Typical school day structure with start and finish times aligned to local norms (exact times to be confirmed with the school).
• Before/after school care: Availability of before/after school care or supervision options, subject to term scheduling.
• Uniform requirements: School uniform policy in place, with standard attire appropriate for year levels.
• Transport: Access to local transport options; proximity to bus routes or train services may be relevant for families.
• Canteen availability: Canteen or food service available on-site for student lunch and refreshments.
• Fees: Fees fall within a middle range for Catholic primary schools; details and any additional costs (uniforms, excursions) should be confirmed with the school.

Enrolment & Admissions

1. What is the enrolment process and timeline?

• Inquiries typically begin with submitting an application or expression of interest, followed by information sessions or open days, documentation submission, and an enrolment interview/meeting. The timeline varies by intake and year level; check the school’s official communications for current dates.

1. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?

• Waiting lists may apply depending on year level and intake capacity. Prospective families are advised to contact the school to understand current availability and how the waitlist operates.

1. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?

• Typical entry steps may include an interview or conversation with families, and review of documents. Some schools may request information about student needs to better plan support.

1. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?

• Mid-year transfers are generally possible where places are available, subject to enrolment requirements and admission discussions.

Frequently Ask Questions

• Why Parents Choose This School?

- Many families value the Catholic ethos, a caring and inclusive culture, strong literacy and numeracy foundations, and a supportive environment that focuses on the whole child.

• What type of student thrives at this school?

- Students who value community, faith-based learning, positive relationships, and participation in a range of academic, arts, and sports activities tend to thrive.

• What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?

- Enrichment programs, clubs (robotics, coding, debating), sports pathways, and performing arts opportunities help students develop beyond core academics.

• How does the school communicate with parents?

- Regular communications are typically delivered via newsletters, emails, and school apps or portals, with opportunities to meet teachers and attend information sessions.

• What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?

- A student-centered, inclusive approach with a focus on literacy, numeracy, faith education, and real-world applications; integration of technology to support learning.

• How does the school support students who need extra academic help?

- Targeted small-group support, interventions, and access to support staff (SEN/EAL) to help students reach their learning goals.

• What support is available for academic challenges?

- Additional tutoring, differentiated instruction, and collaboration with families to plan appropriate learning goals.

• How does the school communicate with parents? (Note: repeated)

- See above: newsletters, emails, parent portals, and information sessions.

• What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?

- A broad range of sports, music and arts programs, and clubs such as robotics, chess, coding, and debating.

• What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?

- Comprehensive facilities including sports grounds, library, science labs, performing arts spaces, technology labs, and a canteen.

• What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?

- Integration of digital tools and coding in the curriculum; focus on developing digital literacy and responsible technology use.

• What transport and accessibility options are available?

- Information on public transport access and accessibility is typically provided by the school; families should confirm available options for their location.

• What are the typical school fees or additional costs?

- Fees are within a mid-range range for Catholic primary schools; additional costs may include uniforms, outings, and activity levies. Confirm current figures with the school.

Short Pros & Cons list

• Pros

- Catholic, values-based education in a nurturing environment - Broad range of academic, arts, and sports opportunities - Strong wellbeing and pastoral care with house system - Modern facilities across science, technology, and performing arts

• Cons

- As a faith-based school, religious education is central; families seeking non-religious schooling may prefer another option - Exact programs, timelines, and facilities can vary by year and cohort; confirm current offerings with the school - Fee structures and availability of places can fluctuate; check current enrolment capacity and costs

Note: The details above reflect a general profile of a Catholic primary school in this community. For precise, up-to-date information (enrolment timelines, current programs, facilities, and fees), please refer to the school’s official communications and speak directly with the admissions office.