Parkhurst State School

## 1. Overview Parkhurst State School is a public primary school serving families in Parkhurst and surrounding communities. As a Queensland government school, it follows the state curriculum with a focus on inclusive, community-based learning that supports students to grow academically, socially and personally. The school offers a medium-sized, close-knit environment where students are known and supported. - School type: Public - School size: Medium - Class size: Typically around 20–25 students per class - Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, nurturing, diverse, and community-oriented ## 2. Academics & Learning Parkhurst State School focuses on providing a strong foundation across core learning areas, with emphasis on literacy, numeracy, and a growing focus on STEM and digital literacy. - Academic strengths: Literacy and numeracy, STEM/screen-time literacies, and hands-on learning across subjects - Special programs: Gifted and talented or enrichment opportunities where available; coding/robotics and STEAM initiatives; EAL/D and inclusive education supports - NAPLAN / trends: Generally stable to improving trends in reading and numeracy over recent years, with variations year to year - Student-teacher ratios: Typical primary school ratios; classes designed to enable some differentiation and targeted support - Support for diverse learners: EAL/D support, SEN support, inclusion practices and targeted intervention where needed ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths A strong emphasis on sport, arts and clubs helps students develop a well-rounded skill set. - Sports offered: A range of team and individual sports (e.g., soccer, cricket, netball, athletics, basketball, swimming, tennis), with opportunities to participate in inter-school events - Strong teams or achievements: Regular participation in district competitions and school-level teams - Music, arts, drama programs: Active music and performing arts programs, choir or instrumental opportunities, school productions - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other STEM or academic clubs - Partnerships: Connections with local clubs and community organizations for activities and competitions ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Wellbeing and safe, supportive school culture are priorities for families. - Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policies, restorative practices, and student well-being supports - House system: House-based activities to foster belonging and positive competition - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school-based wellbeing staff and support services - Transition support for new students: Orientation, buddy systems and targeted support to help with transitions ## 5. Facilities Facilities are designed to provide engaging spaces for learning, creativity and physical activity. - Sports grounds - Libraries - Science labs - Music/performing arts centers - Tech/innovation labs - Cafeteria - Updated playgrounds ## 6. School Values & Community Culture Parkhurst State School aims to cultivate respectful, responsible and resilient students within a values-driven culture. - School values / mission: Focus on respect, responsibility, inclusivity and resilience - Leadership style: Collaborative and student-centered, with teacher and student input on school improvements - Behaviour expectations: Positive behaviour framework emphasizing respect and accountability - Community reputation: Welcomes family involvement and partnerships with the local community - Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to welcoming students from diverse backgrounds ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Practical information to help families plan around school life. - School hours: Aligns with standard Queensland primary school hours; typically start in the morning and finish in the afternoon - Before/after school care: Availability is often provided via external providers or school programs - Uniform requirements: School uniform is required or recommended - Transport (bus routes): Bus services and local transport options available; walking or cycling encouraged where appropriate - Canteen availability: Canteen or canteen services available with healthy options - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Being a public school, fees are generally modest with small contributions for activities and materials; additional costs may apply for excursions or optional programs ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Enrolment typically starts through the school or Queensland Government processes. You’ll need proof of identity, proof of address, birth certificate or passport for the child, and immunisation information. The school will provide timelines and forms, and may require an enrolment interview or information session as part of the process. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - There can be a waiting list, particularly for non-local applicants or specific year levels, depending on space. Local catchment zones generally have priority; out-of-area applications may be considered if places are available. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Generally, primary school enrolment does not require entry tests. The process may include a simple information session or discussion about the student’s needs, with decisions based on space and catchment rules. Proof of immunisation and other documents are typically required. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Yes, mid-year transfers are possible subject to space and administrative requirements. Prospective families should contact the school early to confirm availability and complete the necessary documentation. ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A welcoming, community-focused public school with supportive staff, strong local engagement and a broad offering of programs and activities. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who respond well to a collaborative, inclusive learning environment, value a strong sense of belonging and a well-rounded program. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Extension through enrichment activities, clubs (robotics, coding, debating), school sports teams, and arts programs, plus potential STEM and digital learning initiatives. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Through newsletters, emails, parent portals or apps, parent-teacher interviews, and regular updates via the school website or notice boards. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - A curriculum aligned to the Queensland syllabus with student-centered, differentiated instruction, collaborative learning, and opportunities for inquiry and hands-on activities. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted interventions, small-group support, EAL/D assistance, SEN support, and access to additional resources as needed. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Identification of needs, targeted tutoring or classroom adjustments, and ongoing monitoring of progress with adjustments as required. - How does the school communicate with parents? (Note: repeated question) - See above: newsletters, digital updates, parent-teacher meetings, and ongoing channels for feedback and questions. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes are designed to allow differentiation; teachers provide varying levels of individual attention within the day, with targeted supports available. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A broad range of sports, as well as clubs like robotics, chess, coding, debating, music, and arts activities. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, library, science labs, music/performing arts facilities, technology/innovation spaces, and a canteen, plus updated playgrounds. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integration of digital literacy across the curriculum, access to computer/tech resources, and adoption of age-appropriate technology to support learning. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local bus routes, public transport connections, and safe access to and from school; facilities designed with accessibility in mind. - What are typical school fees or additional costs? - Being a public school, fees are generally modest with common costs for voluntary contributions, excursions, and optional programs. ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Strong sense of community and belonging - Inclusive, student-centered learning environment - Broad range of extracurriculars (sport, arts, clubs) - Supportive wellbeing and pastoral care - Access to modern facilities and resources - Cons - Class sizes comparable to other public primary schools - Some programs or excursions may require additional voluntary costs - Availability of specialised programs can vary by year and space - Mid-year transfer availability depends on vacancies and timing