Shenton College

1. Overview - School type: Public high school (government) - School size: Medium to large - Class size: Approximately 20–28 students per class - Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, academically focused, diverse, and supportive 2. Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: English, STEM, languages, and student leadership development - Special programs: ATAR/academic pathway options, accelerated learning opportunities, gifted & talented initiatives, and vocational/industry-connected pathways - NAPLAN trends: Steady positive trends in reading and numeracy over recent years, with strong improvement in senior years - Student-teacher ratios: Roughly 1:22 to 1:26 - Support for diverse learners: EAL support, SEN/staffed learning support, and inclusive education programs to accommodate diverse learning needs 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: Basketball, Netball, Soccer, Australian Rules Football, Athletics, Cricket, Tennis, swimming and other school-sponsored activities - Strong teams or achievements: Competitive inter-school teams with regional representation and ongoing development programs - Music, arts, drama programs: Robust music ensembles, choir, orchestras, school productions, and performing arts opportunities - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and a range of student-led interests - Partnerships: Collaborations with local sports clubs, regional competitions, and community arts/tech programs 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: Proactive anti-bullying policies, student wellbeing education, and clear reporting pathways - House system: House/vertical groups to promote belonging, teamwork, and positive competition - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors and wellbeing staff for personal, social, and academic support - Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and targeted support to help new students settle in 5. Facilities - Sports grounds: On-site sports fields and courts - Libraries: Well-resourced library with study spaces - Science labs: Modern science laboratories for practical work - Music/performing arts centers: On-site facilities for music and drama programs - Tech/innovation labs: Computer/tech labs and makerspaces for coding and design - Cafeteria: On-site canteen with healthy options - Updated playgrounds: Well-maintained outdoor areas and recreation spaces 6. School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: Emphasis on respect, excellence, integrity and inclusion - Leadership style: Collaborative, with student voice and staff mentoring - Behaviour expectations: Clear behavioural codes and consistent expectations across the school - Community reputation: Positive, family-friendly reputation within the local community - Diversity & inclusion: Strong focus on diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all students 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Typical day from around 8:30am to 3:15pm (supervision available earlier) - Before/after school care: After-school care options may be available through OSHC or local providers - Uniform requirements: Uniforms are required (seasonal options available) - Transport (train/bus routes): Accessible via local bus/train routes with school pickup/drops; central city connections nearby - Canteen availability: On-site canteen offering a range of meal and snack options - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Public school fees are generally low to moderate; compulsory materials charges and optional costs for activities/excursions may apply 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Applications typically go through the Western Australian Department of Education process; intake timelines usually occur for Year 7 entry with offers made in the lead-up to the new school year; parents submit application, attend interviews if required, receive offers, and complete enrolment documentation prior to the start of term. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Waiting lists may apply for popular year levels or programs; processing is done by application date with priorities for siblings or specific program placements where applicable; space permitting, offers are extended accordingly. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Generally, there are no entrance exams for standard enrolment; some programs or entry into specific pathways may involve short interviews, EAL/SEN assessments, or simply meeting local intake eligibility. Space and program availability can influence eligibility. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Yes, subject to space and administrative processes; mid-year transfers are considered when vacancies exist and appropriate documentation is provided. 9. Frequently Ask Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A strong academic program, inclusive culture, supportive wellbeing services, modern facilities, and active student life with opportunities across academics, arts, and sport. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Motivated, curious, collaborative students who engage in academics, sports, arts, and community activities; those who value a supportive, respectful school environment. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Advanced coursework and ATAR pathways, STEM and language programs, leadership opportunities, competitive sports, music ensembles, drama productions, robotics, coding, debating, and other clubs. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular newsletters and emails, parent portals, phone messages, and scheduled parent-teacher interviews; information about events and student progress is shared widely. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Student-centered and differentiated instruction with a mix of in-class and practical learning, supported by technology and real-world applications. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted learning support, EAL and SEN services, small-group tutoring, and referrals to specialists as needed. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Access to counsellors, learning support staff, extended time accommodations where appropriate, and tailored intervention plans. - How does the school communicate with parents? (duplicate) - See above: newsletters, portals, emails, and interviews to keep families informed and engaged. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes typically range from about 20–28 students; teachers provide instruction with opportunities for small-group work and targeted support. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A broad mix of sports teams, music ensembles, drama, robotics, chess, coding clubs, debating, and other student clubs; regular inter-school and community partnerships. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Comprehensive facilities including sports grounds, libraries, science labs, performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, a canteen, and well-maintained outdoor areas. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integrated technology in teaching, computer labs and maker spaces, coding and digital literacy across subjects, and responsible use policies for safe online learning. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Access via public transport routes and local school transport; considerations for accessibility and parking; proximity to bus/train services. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - As a public school, tuition is not charged; there are usually low material/voluntary contribution charges and optional costs for excursions or extra activities. 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros: - Strong academic pathway options and support for diverse learners - Active wellbeing and pastoral care with supportive staff - Broad extracurriculars including sports, arts, and clubs - Modern facilities and a welcoming, inclusive culture - Good communication with families and a collaborative school community - Cons: - Class sizes can vary; some years may have larger classes during peak intake - Availability of certain programs can depend on year level and space - Public transport and commute considerations may vary by residence - Some optional activities carry additional costs for families on a tight budget - Demand for popular programs may lead to waiting lists for entry in certain years or pathways