# 1. Overview
Rollins Primary School is a public, co-educational primary school serving families in Bell Post Hill, Victoria. The school fosters a medium-sized, close-knit community where students are supported to thrive across academics, sport, and the arts.
Class sizes are typically around the mid-20s, with a strong emphasis on an inclusive, nurturing atmosphere. The culture is community-focused, balancing high expectations with wellbeing and opportunities for every child to participate and grow.
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# 2. Academics & Learning
- Academic strengths: English literacy and numeracy foundations, with a focus on STEM and digital literacy to develop problem-solving and creative thinking.
- Special programs: opportunities for extension and enrichment, including targeted activities for students who need more challenge.
- NAPLAN trends: steady performance with gradual year-to-year improvements in reading and numeracy; trends generally sit around state averages with positive momentum.
- Student-teacher ratios: typical classroom ratios around 1:12–1:22, depending on year level and grouping.
- Support for diverse learners: robust support for EAL students and students with SEN, including targeted small-group instruction and access to learning support staff.
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# 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
- Sports offered: AFL, soccer, basketball, cricket, netball, athletics, and general fitness activities.
- Strong teams or achievements: active participation in district/interschool events with competitive representation across sports.
- Music, arts, drama programs: school music program and opportunities in performing arts, with regular performances or showcases.
- Clubs: robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other interest-based clubs to develop critical thinking and teamwork.
- Partnerships: connections with local clubs, community organisations, and district competitions to extend opportunities beyond the classroom.
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# 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
- Anti-bullying approach: clear anti-bullying policies, proactive whole-school education, and student wellbeing initiatives.
- House system: house groups to promote belonging, teamwork, and positive competition.
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: dedicated wellbeing staff to support student mental health, resilience, and counsellor-led programs.
- Transition support for new students: orientation activities, buddy systems, and targeted transition planning for a smooth start.
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# 5. Facilities
- Sports grounds: ample outdoor spaces for active play and team sports.
- Libraries: well-stocked library with reading programs and learning resources.
- Science labs: dedicated spaces for hands-on science learning.
- Music/performing arts centers: facilities to support music lessons and drama activities.
- Tech/innovation labs: access to digital learning tools and basic technology spaces.
- Cafeteria: on-site canteen or lunch facilities supporting healthy meal options.
- Updated playgrounds: modern, safe outdoor play areas for different age groups.
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# 6. School Values & Community Culture
- School values / mission: emphasis on respect, responsibility, inclusion, and resilience as core attributes.
- Leadership style: collaborative leadership with opportunities for student voice in appropriate forums.
- Behaviour expectations: clear, respectful behaviour guidelines with restorative practices where needed.
- Community reputation: positive, supportive school community with active parent involvement.
- Diversity & inclusion: strong focus on celebrating diversity and ensuring equitable access to opportunities for all students.
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# 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
- School hours: typical day runs from morning start to mid-afternoon (e.g., 9:00 am–3:30 pm; exact times may vary by year level).
- Before/after school care: available through on-site programs or approved providers.
- Uniform requirements: school uniform policy in place.
- Transport (train/bus routes): local bus services and public transport connections available; information provided by the school and local transport authorities.
- Canteen availability: canteen services operating on certain days or schedules.
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): as a public school, no tuition fees; there may be minimal costs for activities, materials, or excursions.
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# 8. Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Submit an enrolment application through the school (and/or DET portal as applicable).
- Provide required documents (proof of residence, immunisation status, birth certificate, and other DET requirements).
- The school will confirm eligibility, intake timing, and offer placements in line with the catchment and capacity.
- Orientation and transition information are shared after offer.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Catchment-based enrolments may have a waitlist when capacity is limited. Priorities are determined by DET guidelines and the school’s enrolment policy. The school will inform families of expected timelines and how the list is managed.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- For most public primary enrolments, there are no formal entry tests. Some schools may conduct brief information sessions or family interviews to discuss transition needs, but this varies by school.
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Mid-year transfers are possible if there is capacity. Applicants should contact the school’s enrolment office to discuss availability, required documentation, and the transfer timeline.
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# 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- Strong sense of community, supportive staff, inclusive environment, and a balanced focus on academics, wellbeing, and activity participation.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who value collaboration, consistent effort, and a supportive environment that recognizes diverse strengths.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Enrichment programs, clubs (robotics, coding, chess, debating), district sports, music and drama activities, and leadership opportunities.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular newsletters, emails, school app or portal updates, and parent-teacher meetings.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Differentiated instruction with a mix of explicit teaching, hands-on learning, literacy/numeracy focus, and integration of digital tools.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted small-group instruction, EAL support, SEN support, and access to learning assistance staff.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Learning support services, intervention programs, and collaboration with families to plan personalised steps.
- How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeated)
- See above: newsletters, emails, app/portal, and teacher meetings.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Typical class sizes in the low-to-mid 20s, with teachers providing targeted instruction and occasional small-group support.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A range of sports, clubs (robotics, chess, coding, debating), music and drama programs, and interschool activities.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Sports grounds, library, science labs, performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, canteen, and updated playgrounds.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Emphasis on digital literacy across the curriculum, with access to devices and learning platforms to support modern learning.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local bus routes and transport options; consideration for accessibility and parking in daily operations.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- No tuition fees for public schooling; potential costs for excursions, activities, or optional programs.
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# 10. Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros
- Public, inclusive environment with strong wellbeing supports.
- Moderate class sizes and attentive, differentiated teaching.
- Broad range of sports, arts, and clubs to engage diverse interests.
- Active community involvement and parental engagement.
- Cons
- As a public school, capacity and waitlists can vary; mid-year transfers depend on space.
- Some fees may apply for excursions or optional programs.
- Specific specialist programs may vary by year or cohort.
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