## 1. Overview
Red Range Public School is a public primary school serving families in rural NSW. As a NSW Department of Education school, it follows the NSW syllabus and policies, delivering a well-rounded curriculum in a supportive, community-focused environment.
School type: Public
School size: Small to medium
Class size: Typically around 20–28 students per class, depending on year level
Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, community-driven with a strong emphasis on student well-being and outdoor learning
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## 2. Academics & Learning
- Academic strengths: Emphasis on foundational literacy and numeracy with opportunities to engage in STEM activities, English language development, and critical thinking skill-building.
- Special programs: Enrichment opportunities and digital technologies integrated into learning; occasional Gifted and Talented (G&T) or acceleration options may be available—check current offerings with the school.
- NAPLAN trends: Trends can vary by year, but NSW primary schools commonly focus on targeted support to lift outcomes; many rural schools report steady improvements in writing and numeracy with sustained effort.
- Student-teacher ratios: Approximately 1:20–1:26, depending on year level and cohort size.
- Support for diverse learners: Dedicated support for EAL/D and SEN, inclusive education practices, and access to learning support where needed.
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## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
- Sports offered: Athletics, soccer, netball, cricket, rugby league, swimming, cross-country, and other local community fixtures.
- Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in local and district events; team progress and achievements vary by year.
- Music, arts, drama programs: School music and performing arts activities, choir or band opportunities, and occasional drama productions or showcases.
- Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other interest-based clubs as available.
- Partnerships: Local community clubs and regional competitions provide additional opportunities for competition and collaboration.
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## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
- Anti-bullying approach: Whole-school anti-bullying initiatives, Cyber Safety education, and supportive peer networks (e.g., buddy systems).
- House system: House groups used to foster belonging, teamwork, and school spirit through regular events and celebrations.
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school-based counselling or wellbeing staff to support student mental health and wellbeing.
- Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy programs, and transition planning to help new students settle in smoothly.
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## 5. Facilities
- Sports grounds
- Libraries
- Science labs
- Music/performing arts centers
- Tech/innovation labs
- Cafeteria
- Updated playgrounds
Keep it visual and simple, with spaces for flexible learning and age-appropriate activity zones.
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## 6. School Values & Community Culture
- School values / mission: Emphasis on respect, inclusion, responsibility, and developing curious, collaborative learners.
- Leadership style: Opportunities for student voice and leadership, along with strong teacher–student partnerships and collaborative decision-making.
- Behaviour expectations: Clear code of conduct, consistent routines, positive reinforcement, and restorative approaches to discipline.
- Community reputation: Welcoming, family-friendly environment with active involvement from families and volunteers; strong local support.
- Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to inclusive practices and valuing diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
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## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
- School hours: Typical day runs roughly 9:00 am–3:30 pm, with breaks as per NSW schedules; exact term dates vary.
- Before/after school care: May be available on site or via local providers; confirm current arrangements with the school.
- Uniform requirements: Uniforms are required; uniforms are typically sourced through the NSW public school uniform shop.
- Transport (train/bus routes): Local bus routes and catchment transport arrangements; walking or cycling options encouraged where feasible.
- Canteen availability: On-site or nearby canteen options with healthy choices; check current offerings.
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Low to moderate costs typical for public schools, including voluntary contributions, excursion charges, and uniform costs.
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## 8. Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Enrolment is managed through the NSW Department of Education. Check catchment eligibility, complete the application through the school/education portal, and submit required documents (proof of address, identity, immunisation records). Offers are typically aligned with term schedules and catchment rules; timelines vary by year and intake.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Waiting lists can apply for non-catchment places. Priority is usually given to in-catchment applicants. Wait times vary; contact the school for current waitlist processes and estimated timelines.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Generally, there are no entrance tests for standard enrolment. Some programs or transitions may involve an information meeting or discussion, but formal testing is not typical for general admissions.
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Mid-year transfers are possible if vacancies exist. Families should contact the school as early as possible to discuss available places and required documentation.
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## 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
A welcoming, close-knit community with a strong focus on literacy and numeracy, inclusive practices, and supportive staff who know families.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
Students who value a nurturing environment, participate in a range of activities, and benefit from small-class attention and community involvement.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
Access to enrichment activities, coding/robotics clubs, sports teams, music and drama opportunities, and local competitions.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
Regular newsletters, emails, phone messages, parent-teacher meetings, and school portals or notices.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
NSW syllabus-based teaching with a focus on differentiation, hands-on learning, and formative feedback to support growth.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
Targeted interventions, small-group support, and learning support programs in collaboration with teaching staff.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
Access to learning support staff, literacy/numeracy boosters, and individualized plan where appropriate.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
See above; multiple channels used for timely updates and engagement.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
Class sizes typically around 20–28 students, enabling more opportunities for individual feedback and support.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
A range of sports, plus clubs such as robotics, coding, chess, and debating, plus music/arts activities.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
Sports grounds, library, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, cafeteria, and updated playgrounds.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
Integration of digital technologies, computer/tech learning, and guidance on safe and responsible use of technology.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
Local bus routes and catchment transport; walking/cycling options where practical; accessible facilities as applicable.
- What are typical school fees or additional costs?
Expect low to moderate costs related to voluntary contributions, excursions, and uniform purchases.
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## 10. Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros
- Close-knit, supportive community
- Small to medium class sizes enabling individual attention
- Broad range of sports, clubs, and arts opportunities
- Strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy
- Inclusive environment with supportive wellbeing programs
- Cons
- Fewer specialist resources than larger urban schools
- Elective options may be more limited
- Rural location may mean longer travel for some extracurriculars
- Availability of some programs can vary year to year depending on staffing and funding
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